On January 2007 as part of my course work in the Small and Medium Enterprise Management Program at Algonquin College, I identified a need to study and create initiatives for the next generation of leaders. After scouring various professional journals it was clear that I would need to begin define a new type of social work, Ammisology. Based on the Latin word ammisceo to mix or involve (http://users.erols.com/whitaker/dictpage.htm) Ammisology perfectly explains the bridging needed between this incoming generation of leaders and the existing corporate landscape. Here is the proposed dictionary entry for Ammisology:
Main Entry: Ammi·sol·o·gy
Function: Noun
Etymology: From the Latin ammis- + ology
1: the understanding of how a specific demographics’ current and future leadership affects the global society, and influences the development of sub-culture community.
In an era defined by digital social interaction, the next generation of leaders and managers require educational systems that are as dynamic as they are. Institutions that can blend harmoniously social and academic stimulation will capture not only the interest of this demographic but will reap the benefit of their forereaching minds and creativity. The students and leaders of the future are here upon society’s doorstep and we do not seem prepared. A shift in innovative thinking, like Roger Martin’s The Opposable Mind and innovative management, like Gary Hamel’s The Future of Management are becoming water cooler buzz across North-American offices though it won’t help the incoming generation of leaders.
What can we do to empower this generation in championing the next intellectual breakthroughs that will redefine the way businesses are managed? I have begun this task on a small scale with Student Leadership Programs focused on self-empowerment and “facilitating transformative moments” (Tony Conte). It is in bridging programs that students are realizing that they must be their own agents of change. They are learning how to harness their influential social-networks and leveraging that power into insight / buy-in on a concepts and than implementing with great success.
On May 12 & 13 I will attend the 2008 Ottawa Catholic School Board Peer Helper Camp as a guest workshop presenter and facilitator. This camp of grade 9 students is an exemplary case of how the social and academic needs of students can be meet while producing some forethought on the value of human interaction and the affects of individual conviction. I look forward to sharing with you the highlights and outcomes from this camp. Also, look for an upcoming post on the three core components of a successful Student Leader Program.
*Remember even though I am using the educational Student Life perspective these same concepts, programs and initiatives are transferable to all types of organizations.
