Four MPHI employees from the Center for Racial and Social Justice (CRSJ) recently completed a Servant Leadership Certification course at Viterbo University. Dr. Shondra Marshall (Director), Ward Beard (Advance Peace Peacekeeper), Victoria Key-Walker (Reentry Supervisor), and Ellen Satterlee (Program Assistant), participated in the six-week certificate program. This program teaches individuals how to succeed as servant leaders, engaging their skills in leadership, ethical decision-making and fostering a servant mindset.

Servant leadership is one of MPHI’s core values. At MPHI, all employees are leaders who work together to ensure the success and well-being of others. MPHI’s leadership style is based on Robert Greenleaf’s theory of leadership described in his book, Servant Leadership. His theory asserts that leaders that are proven and trusted servants of the community are freely accepted as leaders by those they serve. As a public health organization, MPHI prioritizes serving communities and that commitment starts within. MPHI strives to create an environment where relationship building and community development drive team functions and processes.

Servant leadership is a leadership theory centered around developing a mindset beyond personal interests. The theory proposes that leaders are responsible for aiding in the well-being and development of team members. Further, the trusting relationships built through serving others lead to respect for the leader and empowerment through collaboration. These principles align with the values of public health. Servant leadership emphasizes helping others, community building, and approaching situations with empathy and understanding. These concepts are also present in the field of public health. Tulane University described effective public health leadership as being inclusive, collaborative, and empowering. Under the principles of servant leadership, all organizational members are empowered to be leaders and should strive to uphold the well-being of others and aid in their success.

Ten characteristics have been identified by Larry Spears, former CEO of the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership:

  • Listening.
  • Empathy.
  • Healing.
  • Persuasion.
  • Awareness.
  • Foresight.
  • Conceptualization.
  • Commitment to growth.
  • Stewardship.
  • Focus on community.

Viterbo University described the benefits of utilizing Servant Leadership Theory in organizations. “Operating from a servant leadership theory framework, you will foster a work culture that values positivity, encourages employee engagement and satisfaction, and enhances teamwork and collaboration,” reads Viterbo University’s website. “By prioritizing the needs of others, servant leaders inspire trust, foster strong relationships, and empower their team members to reach their maximum potential.”

MPHI commends these servant leaders from CRSJ for their commitment to MPHI’s core values. Congratulations to Ward Beard, Victoria Key-Walker, Dr. Shondra Marshall, and Ellen Satterlee!

For more information, visit:
Servant Leadership Certificate | Viterbo University
Effective Leadership in Public Health: Essential Skills – Tulane University
Ten Characteristics of a Servant Leader – Spears Center