by Ben Almoite
I was privileged to have been chosen to
participate in this year’s AALL Leadership Academy, April 4-5, at the Hyatt
Lodge at McDonald’s Campus, in Oak Brook, Illinois. Yes, that’s THE McDonald’s!
The location of the two-day workshop was in the same grounds that include McDonald’s
Corporate Headquarters, and Hamburger University nearby. If one needed further
proof where you were, the hotel showcased much McDonald’s-themed art throughout
its halls (see accompanying pictures). In addition, the timing of the academy could
not have been any better, as it took place exactly one week before my official succession
as VALL President.
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It was a very intense yet educational
two days. The academy was led by Gail Johnson and Pam Parr, of Face To Face Communications and
Training, Inc. Their presentations were very entertaining and engaging. As participants
we watched PowerPoint slides, took short, interesting tests and played “ice
breakers” and team building games. From all these activities we learned about the
“myths” and definitions of leadership, people’s different styles of communication
and leadership, how to communicate clearly and directly, and how to have the
“tough talk” or difficult conversation with co-workers. In addition, we learned
how one’s values and leadership go hand-in-hand, and how to motivate yourself
and others at the workplace.
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The academy was also notable in that three
VALL members had been selected to participate this year. In addition to me, Debbie
Shrager of George Mason Law Library and Andrew Winston of the University of
Richmond Law Library were in attendance.
All in all, it was a very informative
and productive two days. I am very grateful to have been awarded the VALL grant
that allowed me to participate in such an innovative workshop. I definitely
plan to practice the skills I have learned during this year’s AALL Leadership
Academy - during my coming year as VALL President, and beyond.
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