The cohort-based program brought together supervisors from across the College for a shared learning experience focused on building core leadership competencies, strengthening cross-campus collaboration, and creating greater consistency in how leadership is practiced throughout the institution.
"Strong leadership has a direct impact on employee engagement, team performance, and ultimately the student experience,” said Kelly Toaston, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. “The Supervisor Foundations Program reflects our commitment to investing in our employees and creating a culture where leaders are equipped to support, develop, and inspire their teams. By strengthening leadership capabilities across campus, we are strengthening the College as a whole.”
Over the course of the program, participants completed seven learning modules covering topics such as the role of a supervisor, building personal credibility, fostering workplace connections, performance management, employee development, hiring practices, and partnering effectively with Human Resources.
Each cohort engages in 14 hours of structured learning and works in small groups between sessions. These collaborative activities encourage participants to apply what they have learned, discuss real-world challenges, and build relationships with colleagues from across campus.
The program was intentionally designed to provide more than just technical management skills. By bringing supervisors from different departments together, Supervisor Foundations helps cultivate a shared leadership culture rooted in communication, trust, and continuous improvement.
“Many supervisors step into leadership roles because they excel in their areas of expertise, but effective supervision requires a unique set of skills,” said Matthew Lusk, Director of Organizational Development & Effectiveness. “This program creates space for supervisors to develop those skills, learn from one another, and build a shared understanding of what leadership looks like at Flagler. Our goal is to help participants leave each session with tools, confidence, and strategies they can put into practice right away.”
Throughout the program, participants received practical resources, including supervisor competency assessments, leadership development tools, performance management guides, interview and onboarding resources, and career conversation frameworks that can be immediately applied within their teams.
The completion of the first cohort marks an important milestone in Flagler’s ongoing commitment to professional development and employee success. College leaders view Supervisor Foundations as the beginning of a broader investment in leadership capability across campus, with future cohorts and additional professional development opportunities planned to support employees at every stage of their careers.
Inaugural Cohort Members
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Adam Vargas, Custodial Services Supervisor
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Annlyn Harvey, Director of Residence Life
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Ashley Rinberger, Student Accounts Counselor and Analyst
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Becky Short, Director of Donor Stewardship
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Beth Sweeny, Director of External and Government Relations
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Bill Bird, Director of Safety and Security
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Carrie Grant, Professor of Mathematics and Department Chair, Mathematics and Technology
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Erin Hutchins, Director of Advancement Operations
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Grant Nielsen, Director of the Ringhaver Student Center
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Josephine Garcia, Senior Director of Advancement Services
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Kassie Stepniak, Assistant Director of Research & Relationship Management
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Lisa Banks, Director of Institutional Research and Effectiveness
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Nick Jobe, College Registrar
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Rick Saunders, Security Sergeant
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Robert Mickey, Mail Services Supervisor
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Tracy Litzinger, Assistant Professor of Psychology and Department Chair, Behavioral Sciences
Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, Human Resources is already planning a second offering of the Supervisor Foundations Program before the end of the year.
While details are still being finalized, leaders interested in participating are encouraged to begin conversations with their division vice president about their professional development goals and readiness for the next cohort. Division vice presidents will play an important role in supporting nominations and ensuring participation aligns with departmental and institutional priorities.
Employees interested in learning more about the program, eligibility considerations, or future opportunities are encouraged to contact Matthew Lusk, Director of Organizational Development and Effectiveness. Additional information, including program dates and the nomination process, will be shared with the Flagler community as plans are finalized.
