A second MTSU professor has completed one of the most intensive leadership development programs in the country.

Dr. Barbara Turnage, interim associate dean in the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences and a professor of social work, joined 68 women from across the country and Canada July 10-22 in finishing the 2017 Higher Education Resource Services Institute at Bryn Mawr College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Barbara Turnage

“I better understand my leadership capacities and how to more effectively use my personal, educational and professional backgrounds, communication skills and leadership style to support the overall success of my … university,” said Turnage of the program’s contribution to her career.

Session topics covered at the institute include reframing organizational cultures, fundraising and philanthropy, communications and negotiation, and managing and leading change.

The HERS Institute has prepared women faculty, staff and administrators for roles in higher education for more than 40 years at the University of Denver, Bryn Mawr College, and Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts.

Turnage received the university’s annual John Pleas Award for teaching, research and service Feb. 21. The Office of the University Provost, the Office for Institutional Equity and Compliance and the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences sponsored her participation in the HERS institute.

“The relationships established through the program will be lasting sources of support,” said Turnage.

Dr. Leah Lyons, director of the Master of Arts degree program and an associate professor of French at MTSU, completed the HERS program at the University of Denver June 19-July 1.

For information on the Higher Education Resources Services Institute, visit its website at https://hersnet.org.

— Gina Logue (gina.logue@mtsu.edu)