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SUMMARY

How can you harness the power of organizational culture to drive optimal performance in your nonprofit? In episode 260 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Dr. Will Sparks, an expert in leadership and organizational culture, delves deep into the dynamics of culture, leadership, and team performance. Drawing from his extensive research and experience, Will unpacks the nuances of leadership influence and the role of executive tenure in shaping organizational culture. He explores the challenges and opportunities for new leaders in transforming established cultures, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and candid communication. From navigating board dynamics to founding the Center for Human and Organizational Potential (CHOP), Will offers actionable strategies and valuable insights for nonprofit leaders seeking to cultivate a culture of excellence.

ABOUT WILL

Will Sparks is the Dennis Thompson Chair & Professor of Leadership at the McColl School of Business at Queens University - Charlotte, where he also serves as the Director of the Office of Leadership Initiatives. In 2008, he founded the McColl School’s M.S. in Organization Development (MSOD) Program and served as Director until 2013. Will serves as the Managing Director for William L. Sparks & Associates, LLC, and as a Partner with Peter Browning Partners, LLC, a consulting firm providing board governance and executive coaching. His Ted Talk: The Power of Self Awareness released in 2018. He is the author of Actualized Leadership and Actualized Teamwork, and co-authored The Director’s Manual with Peter Browning. He completed his Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and Development under the direction of Dr. Jerry B. Harvey from The George Washington University’s School of Business and Public Management, where his research focused on group dynamics, organizational culture, and leadership.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Center for Human and Organizational Potential (CHOP)‍
• Queens University - Charlotte‍
• McColl School’s M.S. in Organization Development (MSOD) Program‍
• William L. Sparks & Associates, LLC‍
• ‍Will Sparks on LinkedIn
• Ted Talk: The Power of Self Awareness ‍
• Book: Actualized Leadership by Will Sparks
• Book: Actualized Teamwork by Will Sparks
• Book: The Director’s Manual by Will Sparks & Peter Browning
• Hear more from Will on Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership in episode 14.‍
• Have you read Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership?