Debunking the Myths of Professionalism Today

Historically, higher education embraced an idea of “professionalism” that included standards of professional behaviors, dialect, communication, and even how we dress for work. Many of these aspects are rooted in notions of the dominant culture and excluded, either implicitly or explicitly, other approaches to being a professional, and a leader. Recently, seismic changes in every realm, including education, health, culture, and social and political spheres, have upended the standby definition of professionalism as our working lives moved online. For some leaders in higher education, the belief that professionalism is in alignment with the mission of higher education has been undermined and threatened. Unless we address the changing nature of the expectations of the higher ed professional we’re likely to remain trapped in a construct of today’s leader that is out of step with reality. This webinar will explore these changes through a range of topics, and it will look at how professionalism aligns with calls for higher education to be centered around student success and equity. The panelists will share their perspectives as leaders required to be on the front lines of redefining and reestablishing what professionalism means in today’s higher education landscape. Topics to Explore: • The state of “professionalism” in higher ed • Professionalism in the online environment • Strategies for communicating effectively and authentically, and for building positive relationships • The relationship between DEIB challenges and workplace professionalism • Managing leadership expectations Panelists: Megan Myers (Associate Vice President for Faculty Development and Learning Innovation, Howard Community College) Clayton Steen PhD (Executive Director for World Campus Enrollment Management Services, Penn State) Emily Tipton (Research & Assessment Analyst, Chesapeake College) Moderator and Facilitator: Lawrence (Larry) C. Ragan (Ragan Education Consulting) Chat Moderator: Richard Smith (Instructional Designer, Harford Community College)