Congratulations to Duke Management Academy Graduate and Featured Speaker Tawana Reed

On Wednesday, December 12, the Duke Management Academy celebrated the remarkable achievements of its 2024 cohort, marking the successful completion of a year-long professional growth and leadership development journey. Among the outstanding graduates was Tawana Reed, the operations manager of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Division and HR support for the Orthopaedic Surgery department. Tawana’s dedication exemplifies this, and her journey through Duke's prestigious program is an inspiring example of leadership in action.

The Duke Management Academy is an immersive program designed to enhance the leadership skills of mid-level managers at Duke. Over the year, participants engage in various developmental activities, including self-assessments, leadership talks with seasoned executives, and coursework on critical topics such as emotional intelligence, change management, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The program culminates in group projects that foster collaboration and hands-on learning.

Tawana's commitment to her professional growth began even before she participated in the Duke Management Academy. She actively sought opportunities for training and development after being offered her first supervisory role at Duke. Tawana recalls her initial steps, “I was always seeking growth opportunities. When offered my first supervisory position, I looked for internal training to help me succeed. I discovered the Guide to Managing at Duke, which led me to the Front-Line Supervisor Program and, ultimately, the Duke Management Academy.” She completed the Front-Line Supervisor Program in 2022, and by August of that year, Tawana had transitioned into her role with the Doctor of Physical Therapy Division. The Duke Management Academy, she notes, was the next logical step in her career development journey.

Tawana found the Academy experience to be enriching, both professionally and personally. “The Academy was a great experience,” she reflects. “It allowed me to network and collaborate with colleagues from different departments, strengthening my professional connections. I also returned to a classroom setting, re-engaging in a structured learning environment that pushed me to grow further.” The Academy’s curriculum offered a deep dive into critical areas of leadership, including diversity and inclusion, emotional intelligence, situational leadership, finance, and presentation skills. Tawana was particularly drawn to the group exercises that made the learning process dynamic and engaging.

Leadership training was one of the most impactful aspects of the program for Tawana. She gained valuable insights into the principles of Situational Leadership and how to adjust her leadership style to meet the diverse needs of her team. “I’ve already started implementing what I’ve learned,” Tawana shares. “The four leadership styles—Directing, Coaching, Supporting, and Delegating—have been invaluable. I’ve learned to flex my leadership approach based on the situation and the individual needs of my team. Before, I tended to over-rely on the Supporting style, not realizing it wasn’t always the most appropriate approach. Now, I’m able to be more flexible and effective.”

Beyond her leadership development, Tawana is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. She plans to continue encouraging her team members to pursue professional development opportunities while creating a space where everyone feels valued and heard. Her dedication to her personal growth and her team’s development underscores her belief that effective leadership is an ongoing journey.

As Tawana looks ahead, she is already setting sights on the next chapter in her leadership journey. “It feels great to have completed the program,” she says. “Now, I’m focused on setting and working towards new goals. I highly recommend the Duke Management Academy to anyone seeking to grow as a leader. Go in with an open mind and be prepared to engage fully. While the content is the same for everyone, the impact of the experience will be uniquely valuable to each individual.”

Tawana’s success story is a testament to the power of ongoing learning and self-improvement. Her experience at the Duke Management Academy enhanced her leadership skills and reinforced her dedication to creating an environment where her team can thrive.

Congratulations, Tawana, on this incredible achievement! Your commitment to growth, both for yourself and your team, is truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing all the great things you will continue to accomplish in your leadership journey.

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