In August, Brooke Clemons of the Parasitology Laboratory and Kiran Mall of the Protein Expression and Biochemistry Core Laboratories graduated from the Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) Emerging Leader Program (ELP), Cohort 18.
They were selected as two of 25 participants nationwide for this yearlong program designed to cultivate leadership skills among laboratory professionals from state and local public health laboratories.
ELP combines in-person trainings at state laboratories across the U.S. with virtual interactive sessions covering communication, leadership presence, team management, conflict resolution, self-awareness, and strategic planning. The program empowers participants to develop as high-performing leaders capable of advancing public health laboratory missions.
Brooke said of this experience:
“The experience I gained through the ELP has been invaluable, with both my professional and personal life impacted positively in many ways. The program has provided me with a strong basis on the fundamentals of leadership while creating a supportive environment to practice the tools learned. My time in the ELP has inspired me and provided the necessary skills to form a team to institute the first ever Wadsworth Center specific New Employee Orientation Program. I am so proud of this team! I’m excited to continue my leadership journey here at our Center where I look to advocate for positive changes at all levels while supporting my incredible peers.”
Kiran said of this experience:
“ELP has been the most impactful learning experience in my career, offering a wealth of knowledge, opportunity to reflect, learn, and genuinely have fun even in the rigorous aspects of learning. This transformative year has enhanced my leadership capabilities and professional growth, allowing me to make meaningful contributions to my laboratory, division, and the broader New York State public health community.”
Their completion of ELP highlights the Wadsworth Center’s commitment to investing in the development of its next generation of public health laboratory leaders.
Emerging Leader Program, Cohort 18 Graduates: Left to right: Brooke Clemons, Kiran Mall