Challenges to Leadership in a Transitioning Environment

Authors

  • Merydawilda Colón, PhD Merydawilda Colón, L.S.W., Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Social Work at the The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (609-652-4412; colonm@stockton.edu)
  • Sharon Hines Smith Sharon Hines Smith, L.C.S.W., Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Social Work at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (609-626-6837; sharon.hinessmith@stockton.edu)

Abstract

This narrative reflects on the role of the authors in the leadership of an undergraduate social work field education program transitioning to a competency-based curriculum while seeking reaffirmation under the
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) 2008 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) and incorporating a master of social work (MSW) program under the 2001 EPAS. Drawing on contingency theories
of leadership, the process described required continuous communication and negotiation with administrators, field agencies, instructors, faculty, and students. Frequently these stakeholders held vested interests, conflicting
priorities, and differing decision-making styles that demanded attention. We had to maximize opportunities for the field program to guide and assist field instructors and students on a path to achieve curriculum
competencies while meeting college expectations for faculty performance. Budget parameters and CSWE standards for field education and administrative leadership also demanded attention. Contingency theory
provided a guide and framework to navigate the transition. This narrative describes that experience and discusses strategies employed in light of power, authority, diversity, and decision-making themes.

Author Biographies

Merydawilda Colón, PhD, Merydawilda Colón, L.S.W., Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Social Work at the The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (609-652-4412; colonm@stockton.edu)

Merydawilda Colón, L.S.W., Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Social Work at the The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (609-652-4412; colonm@stockton.edu)

Sharon Hines Smith, Sharon Hines Smith, L.C.S.W., Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Social Work at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (609-626-6837; sharon.hinessmith@stockton.edu)

Sharon Hines Smith, L.C.S.W., Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Social Work at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (609-626-6837; sharon.hinessmith@stockton.edu)

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Published

2013-10-09

How to Cite

Colón, PhD, M., & Hines Smith, S. (2013). Challenges to Leadership in a Transitioning Environment. Reflections: Narratives of Professional Helping, 18(2), 77–81. Retrieved from https://reflectionsnarrativesofprofessionalhelping.org/index.php/Reflections/article/view/41