“The discussions will help me as a manager, in encouraging my employees to grow and possibly look at things more positively,” says the executive director of enterprise and economic development.
In applying for the UMBrella Coaching Program, I was looking to broaden my network, meet new co-workers, make more connections at UMB, and benefit my career.
The program did allow me to meet new and interesting women. The monthly presentations broadened my outlook on certain topics and increased my awareness, which will enable me to evaluate myself and my career differently and more independently.
The discussions will help me as a manager, in encouraging my employees to grow and possibly look at things more positively.
However, the most surprising and most enjoyable parts of the program were the discussions with my coaching group and how it felt to relate my experience and guidance to others in helping their career growth.
This program has made me look beyond the “singular me” to the “greater we” and how we grow together.
Jane S. Allgair, MBA, is executive director of enterprise and economic development in the Office of Research and Development at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB).
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The UMBrella Group works to support the success of women and those who identify as women at UMB by building community and helping them achieve their personal and professional goals, enhancing their leadership skills, and championing women at all levels of the organization. Learn more at umaryland.edu/umbrella/.