Transformational Leadership in Sustainable Food and Fiber

leadership incubatorThe Transformational Leadership in Sustainable Food and Fiber team, supported by the USDA-NIFA-HSI, supports leadership development through both curricular and co-curricular activities. Three leadership courses, coupled with co-curricular activities, serve as a leadership laboratory that engages theory with practical application and puts students in positions to affect positive change in the food and fiber industries. Students can build their leadership story by engaging in one or all of the courses/programs below:

  • The Seminar in Leadership (CMHT 4801) course examines leadership theory within the context of the retail and hospitality industries. Students learn how to manage change, deal with conflict and effectively build and lead teams through active learning and industry engagement. Harvard Business Publishing case studies and online simulations provide students with practical training for resolving stakeholder conflicts and team building around sustainability issues.
  • The Effective Leadership Communication (CMHT 3450) course uses innovative pedagogy to teach effective business communication models. Embedded projects require students to develop and deliver both ‘pep talks’ and ‘pitches’ to specific audiences. Whether creating sustainable textile products or creating resilient food systems, the course equips students with communication tools to transform systems and inspire communities.
  • Workforce Dynamics in a Global Business Environment (CMHT 4750) investigates the concepts, policies, and practices facing professionals in the global workplace. Focus of this course is to cultivate leadership mindset that nurtures effective and inclusive workplace environment in the local setting as well as in the global context. Students propose solutions in the food and fiber related industries through case studies, discussions and projects.
  • The CMHT Leadership Academy bridges the gap between the classroom and corporate boardroom through leadership coaching, mentor networks, workshops, leadership summits, and service learning/community engagement. Students accepted into the cohort-based program can customize their experience by selecting the Leadership Champion or Leadership Scholar pathway. Learn more by visiting the CMHT Leadership Academy website.
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Christy Crutsinger, Ph.D.
Christy Crutsinger
Professor
Distinguished Teaching Professor