The second in our Minnesota State leadership competencies is Acts with Integrity. As I was reviewing it and the behaviors that describe it, I was struck by the fact that it’s included under “Leader of Self.” Does that mean that a leader can’t really act with integrity without demonstrating self-awareness and self-control? I think it does.
Some of these behaviors, such as abiding by relevant laws, rules and regulations, might not appear linked to self-awareness. But as I read about some of the public leadership failures we’ve had recently, they seem at least partly driven by a failure to ask the question: “This act seems like it will benefit me, but does it align with my core values?”
This month we’ll look at this competency and how it applies to us as leaders within higher ed.
- Demonstrates honesty
- Abides by all relevant laws, rules and regulations
- Encourages others to do the same
- Gives credit where credit is due
- Delivers what is promised
- Admits and learns from mistakes
- Corrects mistakes to utmost ability
Dee Anne Bonebright
Higher EDge 