Pivotal Leaders Program FAQs

Who Will Participate in the Program?

Q: How many participants will be accepted per cohort?

A. The program’s inaugural cohort will be made up of 20 members. If we receive an overwhelming number of applications, we may consider opening a second cohort.

Q. How many applicants will be accepted per Department?

A. Departments are not limited to a set number of applicants. All qualified Division & Section Chiefs are strongly encouraged to apply. The program will strive for balance across departments within the School of Medicine.

Q. Are there eligibility criteria?

A. Yes! You need to be a current Division Chief or Section Head, have a nomination from your Department Head, and commit to attending all in-person sessions and participating in all associated activities (e.g. the 1:1 coaching, 360 evaluation, between-session readings, etc.).

Q. Is this program geared towards newer leaders?

Your newer leaders will likely get the most out of the program, and/or the program can help them get off to a great start.

Q. Will applications from established leaders who are Division Chiefs and/or Section Heads be considered?

Yes! The program is not restricted based on years of service as a Division Chief or Section Head.

Q. I am not a Division Chief or Section Head. But I am a faculty Program Director and/or Center Director. Am I eligible to apply?

This program is currently limited to faculty who currently hold titles of Division Chief or Section Head. In future years, we may open the eligibility more broadly, but for now we are focused on Division and Section Chiefs.

Q. I am a Vice Chair, but not a Division Chief or Section Head. Am I eligible to apply?

This program is currently limited to faculty who currently hold titles of Division Chief or Section Head. In future years, we may open the eligibility more broadly to other leaders in the School of Medicine.

What Will I Learn?

Q. What specific skills and topics will the program cover?

A. Offerings will target (1) Technical skills and WashU-specific context underlying successful operations; and (2) Leadership skills aimed at developing trust, psychological safety, and effective communication:

  • Self-Leadership
  • Strategic Leadership
  • Finances
  • Faculty & Staff Management
  • Mentorship, Sponsorship, and Coaching Skills
  • Change Management
  • Leading for Diversity and Inclusion
  • 360o Evaluation
  • And more . . .
Q. Does the program utilize any leadership discernment tools like 360-degree evaluation tools or assessments?

A. Yes! We begin with a customized 360o assessment. We will also use the Thomas Kilmann Conflict Assessment (TKI) and Personal Motivation Assessment (PRINT) during the program.

Q. Do I get individual coaching sessions as part of this program?

A. Yes! Each participant will receive six 1:1 executive coaching sessions scheduled at mutually convenient times in between the full-day program sessions. Coaches will work with participants focus on strategic goals, debrief the 360o assessment, develop a tailored personal development plan, and support each leader with specific goals to enhance effectiveness.

How Do I Participate?

Q. Do I have to attend all program dates to participate?

A. Yes. Selected participants must commit to attend and actively participate in all program dates and activities associated with the program. If your schedule does not permit you to attend all of the 2024-2025 program dates, please wait and apply to another year (information forthcoming in Winter/Spring 2025).

Q. Do I have to be a Division Chief or Section Head to participate?

A. Yes. At this time, the Pivotal Leaders Program is limited to Division and Section Chiefs and Head. Visit our Office’s Calendar of Events to learn more about other leadership and career development programs and opportunities open to all ranks and leaders in the School of Medicine.

Q. I haven’t been on faculty very long, but I am a Division Chief and/or Section Head. Is there a required length of service before I can apply to the program?

A. We encourage Division and Section Chiefs of all experience levels to apply. We encourage you to apply if you are new in your role!

Is there a separate application form I need to fill out?

No. The application consists of three documents: 1) Personal Statement, 2) CV, and 3) Chair/Department Head Letter. There is no separate form or process to complete.

How Does My Department Support Me?

Q. What is my Department required to do so I can apply and/or participate?

A. Your department head must provide a letter of support that includes the following statement: “I commit to providing protected time and duty release as needed to allow the applicant to attend all program sessions.” We strongly encourage applicants to speak with their Chairs and heads prior to applying about this commitment.

Q. Does my Department have to pay for me to participate?

A. No. Tuition for the first cohort will be covered by the Office of Faculty Promotions & Career Development.

Q. Are there any requirements for my Chair’s Letter of Support?

A. Yes. The letter must include the following statement: “I commit to providing protected time and duty release as needed to allow the applicant to attend all program sessions.” The letter should also discuss the scope of the applicant’s leadership experience; the potential impact of the individual’s participation as part of the applicant’s career development; and how the applicant’s participation in the program will foster the growth and development of the applicant’s Section or Division.

How Do I Learn More?

Email medfacultyoffice@wustl.edu or contact Amelia Flood at acflood@wustl.edu.