I am grateful to the SLA for equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools, resources, and relationships they will need to move our community forward.
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Our Signature Programs are typically offered at least once a year. These programs offer a deeper dive than you can accomplish in a workshop. Participants receive a badge and certificate after successfully completing each program. Click the links below to learn more.
Members of the Shafer Leadership Academy may attend these programs for free. Non-members may attend by paying a fee.
♦ In-Person Programs | more about in-person
♦ Virtual Programs | more about virtual
July
In Pursuit of Leadership: A Law Enforcement Perspective We will learn and discuss leadership philosophies from a law enforcement perspective from the ground level to the executive level, learning how to
We will learn and discuss leadership philosophies from a law enforcement perspective from the ground level to the executive level, learning how to have better conversations today, and tomorrow. As part of this session, we will learn and understand the importance of details and how the lack of details can derail effective communication, how we get work done, and our overall goals and expectations. Together we will discuss the importance of knowing how others around us react to our leadership style can create a more positive and productive workplace.
Cost: This is a special program that is FREE for all to attend.
Tony Skinner has been a part of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office for nearly 30 years. In his career, he has worked as a correctional officer, narcotics investigator, training director, supervisor on all three shifts and has been elected as the Delaware County Sheriff twice. In 2006, Tony went to Iraq for a year as a civilian contractor. During that time, he was embedded with the U.S. Army and was able to see several different leadership styles throughout the ranks of the military. Tony has been married to April for 22 years. They have two kids, LT and Lauren, and two granddaughters, Layken and Loxley. In his free time, Tony enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting and traveling.
July 31, 2024 8:00 am - 9:30 am
August
How to Build Relationships to Negotiate Anything Negotiation doesn’t have to be a daunting task! This interactive and fun training session is designed to transform negotiation from a challenge into an
Negotiation doesn’t have to be a daunting task! This interactive and fun training session is designed to transform negotiation from a challenge into an opportunity. Get ready to discover and unleash your innate negotiation prowess, turning every interaction into a win-win scenario. Are you ready to transform your negotiation game? Participants will leave this training equipped with practical tools, newfound confidence, and a personalized negotiation toolkit ready for immediate implementation in their professional lives.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $50 non-member. $30 nonprofits. Please NOTE this Early Riser starts at 9 a.m. EST, NOT 8 a.m. EST.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Leah Stallone is an experienced Career Strategist, Leadership Coach, and Trainer with roots in Human Resources. 15+ years of talent management, professional development, and learning & development experience in industries such as litigation consulting, finance, technology, and healthcare influences her hands-on approach. Leah’s experience spans leading global learning & development practice at Charles River Associates to running performance management at William Blair & Company. She currently facilitates corporate training, runs a coaching practice, and teaches management at the University of Denver. As a lifelong “career junkie,” Leah uses an intuitive approach to build customized programs to educate clients on communications, performance management, and leadership. She prides herself in helping clients demystify the complicated. Leah shares the power of storytelling to help clients communicate their meaningful career moments. Professional certifications include BetterUp Coaching, ATD Facilitation, Purpose-driven Leader, and SPHR certifications.
August 8, 2024 9:00 am - 10:30 am
In-Person 3 Hour Session Healthy Conflict in the Workplace is a dynamic and interactive session designed to equip professionals with the essential skills to navigate conflicts constructively within a
Healthy Conflict in the Workplace is a dynamic and interactive session designed to equip professionals with the essential skills to navigate conflicts constructively within a professional setting. Through role-playing, and real-world scenarios, attendees will develop effective communication techniques, active listening skills, and strategies for managing emotions during conflicts. We will delve into the psychology of conflict, emphasizing empathy and understanding diverse perspectives. Let’s learn to together in community as we work towards gaining confidence and proficiency in healthy conflict resolution.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
James Joseph serves as Training Development Specialist for Bank & Consumer Operations, with First Merchants Bank. He is a highly accomplished professional with more than 25 years’ experience in training development and advancing early career professionals. He has developed a deep expertise in coaching and professional development. At First Merchants, his role focuses on procedure and product education and process improvement resulting in updated procedures which minimize risk for the bank and improve culture and employee retention. James has served in the United States Marine Corps, where he received five meritorious promotions, and served in key training development roles at Xfinity and the Turner Mining Group. He has graduated from Shafer Leadership’s Empower & Emergence programs and has led Public Speaking classes for the University of Phoenix. James is a dedicated team player, known for his ability to collaborate effectively and inspire others to achieve their best, and is passionate about leading a life of love and growing a better understanding of people.
August 15, 2024 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Virtual 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, August 21 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session #2: Thursday, August 22 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Discover the transformative power of Core Energy in leadership. This
Session #1:
Wednesday, August 21
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #2:
Thursday, August 22
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Discover the transformative power of Core Energy in leadership. This course delves into the intangible yet essential energy at the core of our thoughts, emotions, and actions, shaping how we lead and influence. Through Core Energy coaching and training, you’ll learn to harness this energy to enhance your personal performance as a leader. Embrace the unknown with confidence, take reasonable risks without fear, and shift your perspective from mere survival to visionary thinking. Join us to unlock your full potential and lead with greater clarity and impact. This session will teach leaders about the seven levels of energy leadership, how they show up in their everyday lives and how to shift their energy.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Julie Sanchez passionately believes in leaning in and working to become the solution to whatever challenges we face in the world today. Sanchez understands the struggles we face as a society are complicated and multi-faceted. She knows that Black professional women and underestimated leaders have real barriers to achieving the American dream. Nonetheless, Sanchez believes the American dream can be realized when people work together. CEO Sanchez is a professional speaker and conducts a variety of team building, and training workshops. Sanchez is an ICF-certified coach who has developed award-winning teams and has been recognized for her work with underestimated entrepreneurs.
August 21, 2024 2:00 pm - August 22, 2024 3:30 pm
Purpose-Driven Organizations: Prioritizing ‘Why’ Over ‘What’ In this session, we will delve into the significance of focusing on your purpose rather than just growing your business. Understanding and embracing the ‘why’
In this session, we will delve into the significance of focusing on your purpose rather than just growing your business. Understanding and embracing the ‘why’ behind your efforts can inspire greater passion and drive, leading to more impactful and sustainable success. Discover how a purpose-driven approach can reshape your business strategy and enhance your overall satisfaction.
Explore the core values of your company and understand how these values influence your work
Create or refine a Purpose Statement to drive organizational focus and motivation
Understand the impact of a Purpose Statement on individual contributors and overall success.
Who should attend:
Cost: FREE for all to attend.
Adam Unger is CEO of Accutech Systems Corporation (ASC) and has been working with ASC since 1999. Prior to becoming CEO in 2010, his roles included: Inside Sales, Director of Marketing, and COO. Adam is responsible for setting the vision for the company and developing long-term strategic initiatives. Adam leads the internal executive team and outside board of advisors. Since becoming CEO, Adam has led a corporate restructuring for growth, increased revenue nearly ten-fold (10x), re-branded ASC internally and externally, launched an innovative browser-based flagship product, and eliminated all debt. Adam graduated magna cum laude from Ball State University in Muncie, IN with a degree in Telecommunications with a Corporate Option. He also holds a Masters Certificate in Business Administration from Ball State University and graduated from Southeastern Trust School at Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC.
August 27, 2024 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
September
Cultivating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace Trans people are increasingly visible yet face significant challenges in almost all aspects of life, including the workplace. 63% of trans people report being discriminated against because
Trans people are increasingly visible yet face significant challenges in almost all aspects of life, including the workplace. 63% of trans people report being discriminated against because of their gender identity, while 49% report being asked unnecessary or invasive questions at work (KFF / The Washington Post).
Through education, compassion, and intentionality, you can build a more inclusive and equitable workplace for trans people. In this session, you’ll learn a variety of practices you can implement to help trans coworkers, customers, and other stakeholders feel like they belong in your organization.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $50 non-member. $30 nonprofits
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Eva Grouling Snider is an Instructional Consultant at Ball State University, where she supports faculty in their teaching. She is a certified Gallup Global Strengths Coach and is passionate about helping people see the best in themselves.
September 5, 2024 8:00 am - 9:30 am
Examining Biases and Stereotypes Stereotypes and biases affect decisions, communication, behavior and determine how we respond to family, friends, co-workers, and the strangers that we interact with on a day-to-day basis.
Stereotypes and biases affect decisions, communication, behavior and determine how we respond to family, friends, co-workers, and the strangers that we interact with on a day-to-day basis. Based on our experiences, real or perceived, the brain creates categories and associations to help us process & organize information that makes sense of the world around us. These associations are influenced by social and cultural factors and are exhibited through behavior and thoughts.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $80 non-member. $60 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Dorica Watson is a Social Worker, certified Life Coach, Community Advocate, Trainer, and Director of Community Engagement at Open Door Health Services. She is a Muncie native who started her higher education journey as a non-traditional student at the local community college. Dorica went on to earn many degrees and professional certifications that have led her to the national stage as a collaborator, speaker, trainer and coach. Dorica is a change agent who brings a unique “relationship- first” perspective to each and every encounter. Her background in community engagement, mindfulness, personal & professional empowerment and poverty alleviation align with her moto “to not only take up space but to create it for other people”. Dorica has been honored with serval awards including, Ivy Tech Alumnus of the Year, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Team Community Award, NASW Region 5 Social Worker of the Year and was the 2019 ATHENA International Leadership Awardee. Dorica is passionate about people having served on many youth and/or family focused boards and committees in Delaware County. She is a member of The Church of the Living God, Co-Chair for Juneteenth Muncie and past Board President of Women In Business Unlimited, WIBU. Additionally, Dorica serves an advisory board member for the Ball State University Social Work Department, Director of Representation Matters, a literacy advocate and a dedicated youth mentor. She is a mother, Gorgeous Grandmother (GG) and wife, three separate but powerful titles that encourage her to be the best version of herself daily.
September 10, 2024 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Finding Flow: A Workshop for Unlocking High Performance & Focus VIrtual 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, September 18 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session #2: Thursday, September 19 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #1:
Wednesday, September 18
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #2:
Thursday, September 19
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Have you ever noticed how there are certain moments when you do your best work? What if you could stack the deck in favor of doing that more consistently? In this interactive workshop, we will look at the science-backed ways of working known as ‘flow’—the state of optimal focus and ‘clutch’ performance—navigating high-pressure situations with finesse. Explore the psychological principles, practical strategies, and experiment with hands-on exercises that can help unlock new ways of showing up for the work that motivates and matters most to you.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Adam Bouse founded Optimistic Coaching to help people overcome challenges, navigate emotions, and live with greater intentionality. He’s an International Coaching Federation-certified coach with more than 15 years of leadership experience and over 1000 hours of coaching experience. With training in emotional intelligence and brain-based coaching, Adam empowers clients to achieve their goals while fostering greater resilience and satisfaction. Optimistic Coaching specializes in coaching and training for emotional intelligence, empathy, difficult conversations, mindfulness, resilience, and, of course, optimism.
September 18, 2024 2:00 pm - September 19, 2024 3:30 pm
2024tue24sep4:00 pmtue5:00 pmOff the Shelf - The Wonder Switch4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Read a book. Lead with inspiration. SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways
SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways from inspirational leadership books. At each event, facilitators will share key leadership development lessons from leadership-focused books. This is not a book club, rather a guided discussion around the key takeaways from each book.
Prior reading of the book is not required but we encourage participants to share about what they learned and check-out one of the books from Muncie Public Library. All participants attending will be entered in a raffle to win a digital copy of one of the books discussed.
All sessions are FREE and open to the public. Registration is required.
September 24, 2024 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Coffee Talks / Early Risers are free for SLA Members, $50 non-members, $30 non-profits
Lunch & Learns are free for SLA Members, $80 non-members, $60 non-profits
Workshops are free for SLA Members, $250 for non-members, $200 for non-profits
Signature Programs are typically more expensive than other program formats.
Special Programs are offered throughout the year and are often free of charge.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Interested in facilitating for Shafer Leadership Academy?
Submit a Proposal or Learn More.
These programs may be offered for free due to the generous support of our sponsors and funding partners.
August
2024wed28aug2:00 pmwed3:00 pmDealing with Difficult People2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Led by: Dorica Watson Learn how to talk with someone that always seems to be difficult. Let’s talk through how you move forward, start the conversation, and get work done. Eastern Indiana
Led by: Dorica Watson
Let’s talk through how you move forward, start the conversation, and get work done.
Eastern Indiana Works provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a free service to our clients. Workshops are designed to enhance your marketability and improve your skill-set.
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time. Panera Lunch will be provided for all who attend.
August 28, 2024 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
September
2024tue24sep4:00 pmtue5:00 pmOff the Shelf - The Wonder Switch4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Read a book. Lead with inspiration. SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways
SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways from inspirational leadership books. At each event, facilitators will share key leadership development lessons from leadership-focused books. This is not a book club, rather a guided discussion around the key takeaways from each book.
Prior reading of the book is not required but we encourage participants to share about what they learned and check-out one of the books from Muncie Public Library. All participants attending will be entered in a raffle to win a digital copy of one of the books discussed.
All sessions are FREE and open to the public. Registration is required.
September 24, 2024 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
I am grateful to the SLA for equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools, resources, and relationships they will need to move our community forward.
I still remember activities that we participated in and utilize the lessons I took away from the program years later.
Confident leaders and engaged board members make our community strong. That’s why it made sense to partner with Shafer Leadership Academy.
Work with a Shafer Leadership Advisor to build a custom program to fit your needs.
Do you need help creating a plan to develop and grow your people? Our leadership assessment will give you clarity about your biggest opportunities and next steps to align your teams.