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.
Associate Vice President for Community Engagement
Ball State University
Signature Programs
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.
Academy Programs
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
Event Details
Practicing Positivity Positivity is a mindset, just as much or maybe even more than an emotional experience. It’s a skill that can be developed. And because our emotions and attitudes are
Event Details
Practicing Positivity
Positivity is a mindset, just as much or maybe even more than an emotional experience. It’s a skill that can be developed. And because our emotions and attitudes are contagious, it’s important that everyone take time to practice and develop these skills.
Practicing positivity is more than feeling good and being nice. It means being able to see what is working, to celebrate success, to offer up encouragement, and to do all of this in the face of an honest assessment of the challenges individuals and organizations are facing.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the difference between positive feelings and a mindset of positivity
- Explore ways to expand your vocabulary around positive mindsets
- Break down the negativity bias and the impact self-protection plays in limiting positive emotions and experiences
- Build a practical plan for authentic positivity that impacts your work, relationships, and stress management
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.
About Our Facilitator
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.
Time
July 15, 2025 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Event Details
Discover the sales skills you didn’t know you already had. Virtual 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, July 23 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session #2: Thursday, July 24 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Are
Event Details
Discover the sales skills you didn’t know you already had.
Virtual 2-Part Series
Session #1:
Wednesday, July 23
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #2:
Thursday, July 24
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Are you looking for the edge in growing your influence in your working relationships or business results? In this two-part workshop, participants will learn more about the day-to-day behaviors they already possess and how they are similar to sales techniques. They will also learn valuable tactics for how and when to “close” – ask for a behavioral change from someone else.
Learning Objectives
- Leave with a new understanding of strengths you already had, but didn’t know about or underestimated how much it applies to sales and other persuasive communication.
- Learn specific tactics to become more persuasive, including how to lead another party to self-realization as opposed to changing their mind.
- Gain actionable techniques for closing for behavior change, as well as clues as to when is the best time to do so.
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.
About Our Facilitator
Matt Dickerson has enjoyed a 20-year career in sales and management that serves as the foundation of his skills for coaching and mentoring. He has worked in multiple industries with the majority of his experience in Pharmaceutical/Vaccines. During his time with a global pharmaceutical company, Matt was instrumental in developing and executing new tools for people development. He coached coaches in how to be more effective people developers and managers. He also created curriculum that supported skill growth in coaching for performance. Matt has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Purdue University and a Master’s in Business Administration from University of Indianapolis. He is recognized as a Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation (ICF). He is the former Board President for Family Promise of Greater Indy and the Immediate Past President of the Indiana Chapter of ICF.
Time
July 23, 2025 2:00 pm - July 24, 2025 3:30 pm
Event Details
Boundaries are not about pushing people away; they are about honoring yourself. Do boundaries feel harsh or foreign to you? Do you struggle to set them, unsure where to begin? Perhaps
Event Details
Boundaries are not about pushing people away; they are about honoring yourself.
Do boundaries feel harsh or foreign to you? Do you struggle to set them, unsure where to begin? Perhaps the word boundary stirs discomfort, either within yourself or in your relationships. But what if boundaries didn’t have to feel rigid or isolating? What if they could feel deeply authentic to you? Through life’s experiences—beliefs, teachings, and external pressures—we often lose sight of our own needs. Yet, we hold the power to decide who we allow into our lives, who we keep close, and who we release with love. Join me on a journey from uncertainty to clarity, from fear to empowerment. This session blends mindful movement to shift stagnant energy, personal reflection to uncover limiting patterns, and practical tools to establish and maintain boundaries that align with your truth.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the purpose and impact of authentic boundaries.
- Identify where you need boundaries in your life.
- Learn tools and techniques to set and sustain healthy boundaries.
- Cultivate self-trust and confidence in holding your boundaries.
About Our Facilitator
Nichole Linebaugh is an Empowerment Coach, 500-hour yoga teacher, and founder of Nurturing Rose Yoga and The Yoga Bin. After over a decade in corporate safety, health, and HR, she left to fully step into her purpose—guiding individuals to reduce stress, reclaim their power, and live in alignment with their true selves. With a deep passion for holistic well-being, Nichole combines mindfulness, movement, and personal empowerment to help clients set healthy boundaries, navigate life’s transitions, and break through limiting beliefs. Through yoga, breathwork, coaching, and leadership development, she provides tools to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. At The Yoga Bin, a unique space dedicated to healing and community, Nichole offers workshops, retreats, and coaching sessions that help individuals reconnect with themselves and create lives filled with softness, grace, and purpose. She lives in Union City, IN, where she enjoys spending time with family, being in nature, and continuing her own journey of self-growth. ✨ “You are worthy of a life that feels truly aligned.” ✨
Time
July 30, 2025 8:00 am - 9:30 am
August
Event Details
When life deals you wild cards, you don’t fold- you reshuffle. At age 30, a cancer diagnosis turned Sara’s world upside down. She was shaken—but not shot down. Now,
Event Details
When life deals you wild cards, you don’t fold- you reshuffle.
At age 30, a cancer diagnosis turned Sara’s world upside down. She was shaken—but not shot down. Now, years removed from that chapter, she’s ready to reflect on the lessons that experience offered.
Unplanned Wisdom is equal parts hard truth and heartfelt encouragement—designed to remind audiences that no matter the hand you’re dealt, you always have the power to reshuffle. This session invites participants to explore what it means to live authentically and unapologetically in the face of fear, change and uncertainty. Through powerful storytelling, grounded insight and a healthy dose of humor, Sara shares lessons learned from the most unexpected path—and how they can help us all better navigate whatever hand life deals us.
Learning Objectives
- Identify mindset shifts that can turn life’s challenges into opportunities for growth, clarity and resilience.
- Apply practical tools for navigating uncertainty with greater confidence and self-compassion.
- Recognize the power of authenticity and humor in facing adversity.
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.
About Our Facilitator
Sara McInerney Hauck is on a mission to encourage others to face fear while living an authentically unapologetic life. She’s a two-time TEDx speaker, self-published author and previous podcast host. Sara works as a communications consultant living in Indianapolis with her husband and dog and is a Ball State University graduate.
Time
August 7, 2025 8:00 am - 9:30 am
Event Details
In-person Lunch & Learn Many leaders report that communication among their team members is strained by unspoken disagreements. This session will explore a dignity and empathy-based approach to help our teams
Event Details
In-person Lunch & Learn
Many leaders report that communication among their team members is strained by unspoken disagreements. This session will explore a dignity and empathy-based approach to help our teams leverage their different perspectives as a way to support and enrich our workplaces and communities. Participants will learn ways to disagree with dignity and break the “cycle of contempt” that prevents teams from coming together productively.
Learning Objectives
- Gain greater familiarity with the “Dignity Index” as a tool for collaboration.
- Be able to identify ways to bring greater dignity to the discourse of their organization and community.
- Practice the application of the dignity and empathy model with real world scenarios.
- Reflect on the “cycles of contempt” that negatively impact their workplace and community collaborations.
About Our Facilitator
Melinda Messineo, PhD is a professor of Sociology and the Distinguished Faculty Fellow for Inclusive Excellence and Community Engagement at Ball State University. She is a nationally recognized award-winning teacher and workshop facilitator. Her research explores representations of individuals in the media and the impact that all media forms have on our understanding of people different from ourselves.
Time
August 14, 2025 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Event Details
In-Person 3 Hour Session Life isn’t just about the finish line…it’s about HOW you run the race. We’ve been taught to measure success by how fast we move, how much
Event Details
In-Person 3 Hour Session
Life isn’t just about the finish line…it’s about HOW you run the race.
We’ve been taught to measure success by how fast we move, how much we accomplish, and how well we keep up. But what if the real win isn’t about running harder—but running smarter? This interactive session is for anyone who’s tired of feeling like they’re on a treadmill with no off-switch.
Through practical tools, unexpected insights, and real talk, we’ll explore how to shift out of autopilot and reclaim control over your time, energy, and outlook. You’ll walk away with new ways to define success that actually fuel you—not drain you. This isn’t about checking out—it’s about tuning in to what really matters so you can lead, live, and work with more clarity and satisfaction.
Learning Objectives
Participants will leave with:
-
- A reset button for their daily mindset—to shift from grind to gain without sacrificing performance.
- A personal playbook for refueling that doesn’t require a two-week vacation or quitting your job.
- A fresh filter for success that balances achievement with meaning, so you can lead with purpose and results.
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.
About Our Facilitator
Erika Bayh stands at the helm of “The Extraordinary In You,” an organization that provides vibrant partnerships and facilitated experiences designed to ignite and unleash the extraordinary in individuals, teams, and projects. She is a master facilitator, inspirational coach, growth trainer, curriculum designer, and strategic partner with over thirty years of expertise in igniting the personal and professional growth in individuals and organizations. Erika recently left her decades-long stead with the NYC-based Leadership Program, where she was responsible for overseeing the programmatic growth of one of the city’s largest afterschool programs, designed ongoing professional development trainings for staff of the NYC DOE as well as educators around the country, and spearheaded the creation of leadership curricula honored by CASEL, OJJDP, SAMHSA, and more.
Erika is also an adjunct professor, currently instructing students at Ball State University in Indiana on an undergraduate course she created, “An Introduction to Youth Work,” designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the diverse realm of youth work. She is the author of the interactive personal growth journal, “On Wings & Whimsy: Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary,” as well as the deck of cards, “52 Ways to Connect,” designed for leaders to strengthen their team time.
Time
August 21, 2025 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Event Details
Virtual 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, August 27th 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST Session #2: Thursday, August 28th 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST This workshop provides an opportunity for leaders to
Event Details
Virtual 2-Part Series
Session #1:
Wednesday, August 27th
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
Session #2:
Thursday, August 28th
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
This workshop provides an opportunity for leaders to learn & practice giving and receiving different types of feedback, keeping in mind the intersection of various inclusion concepts. We utilize the SBI model, elaborating on nuances for positive, negative, and collaborative feedback and we cover concepts such as bias, power, microaggressions, and system. The majority of this session is spent in breakouts, practicing with real life scenarios.
Learning Objectives
- Deploy the SBI model with nuances for different contexts.
- Increase your confidence in delivering positive, corrective, and collaborative feedback.
- Articulate the ways that their feedback will contribute to an inclusive work environment.
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.
About Our Facilitator
Lillian Forsyth is an accomplished coach and workshop facilitator specializing in communication, leadership, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a background in Operations and Human Resources across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Lillian brings a unique perspective shaped by her extensive experience living and working internationally. As a straight white woman, she has dedicated over 20 years to examining her own privileges and biases, critically engaging with the complex role that white women have historically played in justice and equity movements. Lillian is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lead with Equity, where she partners with organizations to foster inclusive cultures. Her work has impacted audiences at prominent corporate entities like Google, Santander US Bank, and RWJBarnabas Health. She has also presented at respected academic institutions, including the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and Barnard College. As a guest on podcasts such as Embrace the Pivot and Agency for Change, and a speaker at conferences like the American Society of Project Management Professionals, Lillian shares insights to support meaningful change in leadership and DEI practices.
Time
August 27, 2025 2:00 pm - August 28, 2025 3:30 pm
September
Event Details
Engage. Connect. Create. The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training,
Event Details
Engage. Connect. Create.
The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training, or group discussion, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques to create meaningful virtual experiences. You’ll explore how to manage energy and attention, use interactive tools with purpose, and show up with presence and confidence in a digital space. *This is workshop number three in our facilitation/speaking series of 2025.
Learning Objectives
1. Learn strategies to increase focus and participation in a group setting
2. Discover how to utilize diverse virtual tools for interactive engagement
3. Boost your presence and savviness as a confident virtual facilitator
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.
About Our Facilitator
Eilis (A-lish) Wasserman is the Program Director at Shafer Leadership Academy focused on overseeing impactful leadership development programming and creating innovative opportunities for Shafer members. She has a background as a career coach and facilitator, dedicated to cultivating confidence and inspiring self-discovery. She is an introvert and early career professional advocate, empowering introverts to hone their unique strengths and develop their own career stories. Eilis believes the most valuable skill that you can learn, and practice is the art of connecting- it’s all about telling our story. Eilis is a freelance coach on The Muse and has worked as a career coach with Ball State University and the University of Michigan. Eilis looks forward to working with you to present your best self wherever you may be in your career journey.
Time
September 4, 2025 8:00 am - 9:30 am
Event Details
In-person Lunch & Learn Today, we are living in a world where disagreement reigns and people are divided. A chasm is widening between us and them, where everyone picks a side
Event Details
In-person Lunch & Learn
Today, we are living in a world where disagreement reigns and people are divided. A chasm is widening between us and them, where everyone picks a side and tries to win at the expense of others. Why is this happening? Too many leaders are taking the low road with others. They do what serves themselves best. They take from others without giving anything back. This workshop will guide you how to avoid the low and middle roads and take the high road in your leadership.
- Recognize and affirm the value of all people
- Learn how to develop humble appreciation for yourself
- Discover how to strengthen your emotional leadership capacity
About Our Facilitator
Casey Ash is a leadership development trainer with 12 years of experience leading team and personal development workshops. She is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team member and Certified Working Genius Facilitator who uses workshops to help people and teams discover their gifts and reach their potential. She also holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University. Personal development has been life-changing for her, and she is passionate about sharing this with others.
Time
September 9, 2025 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
2025tue16sep2:00 pm3:00 pmOff the Shelf- The Let Them TheoryIN-PERSON DISCUSSION2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Event Details
Read a book. Lead with inspiration. SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways
Event Details
Read a book. Lead with inspiration.
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 thanks to our sponsor, eKeeper. Registration is required.
Up Next:
The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can’t Stop Talking About
By Mel Robbins
Discussion facilitated by our very own- Mitch Isaacs
Time
September 16, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location
Muncie Library Kennedy Branch
1700 W McGalliard Rd
Other Events
Event Details
Virtual Workshop 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, September 17 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session #2: Thursday, September 18 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Ever get tired of those around you denying their
Event Details
Virtual Workshop 2-Part Series
Session #1:
Wednesday, September 17
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #2:
Thursday, September 18
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Ever get tired of those around you denying their role in an incident, pointing fingers at others as to why something happened, or feeling people are just waiting to see if someone else will take care of the mess? Learn practical ways to stop these behaviors while holding yourself and others accountable.
Research proves that employers and employees both place a high value on trust. How do you keep yourself, and others, on track? Do you willingly accept responsibility for your actions and decisions? Learn how to articulate expectations and take ownership of how you fulfill them. A team that is accountable, is a team that is high performing.
Learning Objectives
- Understand how to improve performance through accountability.
- Learn to recognize the victim cycle and “Above The Line” behaviors.
- Apply several tools to help you and others remain accountable.
About Our Facilitator
Susan Rozzi (pronounced Row Z) is the president and owner of Rozzi & Associates, a leadership and organizational development firm. She has a passion for unleashing the potential for greatness in good leaders and believes each person has a unique way of leading. Susan is a leadership coach focusing on leadership development, emotional intelligence insight and career management. Each of her programs starts with the premise that great leadership skills are a product of time, practice and focused development. What makes Susan different is her observant approach and ability to speak grace with her candor. Rozzi graduated from DePauw University and earned an MBA from Indiana University. She is certified in EQi-2.0 and EQ 360 (emotional intelligence assessment) and DiSC, a Certified Real Colors (temperament assessment) facilitator, and a Certified John C. Maxwell coach, trainer and speaker.
Time
September 17, 2025 2:00 pm - September 18, 2025 3:30 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.
Community Programs
These programs may be offered for free due to the generous support of our sponsors and funding partners.
September
2025tue16sep2:00 pm3:00 pmOff the Shelf- The Let Them TheoryIN-PERSON DISCUSSION2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Event Details
Read a book. Lead with inspiration. SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways
Event Details
Read a book. Lead with inspiration.
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 thanks to our sponsor, eKeeper. Registration is required.
Up Next:
The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can’t Stop Talking About
By Mel Robbins
Discussion facilitated by our very own- Mitch Isaacs
Time
September 16, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location
Muncie Library Kennedy Branch
1700 W McGalliard Rd
Other Events
I still remember activities that we participated in and utilize the lessons I took away from the program years later.
Lauren Berger
Assistant Dean for Students
UNH School of Law
Confident leaders and engaged board members make our community strong. That’s why it made sense to partner with Shafer Leadership Academy.
Kelly K. Shrock
President
The Community Foundation of
Muncie and Delaware County, Inc.
Muncie and Delaware County, Inc.
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Work with a Shafer Leadership Advisor to build a custom program to fit your needs.
Align your team and increase your success.
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.