Bellevue University’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership remains relevant and cutting-edge with its focus on the evolving nature of leadership, which emphasizes transparency, open communication and relationship-building.
It’s no surprise the program’s curriculum mirrors what members of the College of Business Advisory Board – which plays a major role in the development of all COB programs – see as leadership trends within their own organizations and across all industries.
“As the workforce evolves so does the way leaders need to lead – through healthy and positive relationships,” said Margie Huff, director of human resources at ALFF Construction. “I believe leadership is transforming into employees having a relationship with work, versus work being viewed as being a contract.”
Advisory Board member Marsha Graesser said her organization, WoodmenLife, has experienced a similar evolution in how it views leadership. “Decision-making, collaboration and transparency are now represented in our leadership and individual contributor competencies. And I would say the most important is transparency,” said Graesser, who is WoodmenLife’s director of talent development and culture.
Advisory Board member Rodney Rahl, marketing technology strategist at NFM, said modern organizations are witnessing a departure from traditional corporate hierarchies toward a model that values partnership and collaborative leadership.
“The old ‘I’m the boss’ mentality is fading, replaced by a collective spirit of ‘we’re in this together, and we’ll succeed as a team,’” Rahl said. “This transition hasn’t been smooth for everyone, especially managers accustomed to traditional methods.”
Graduates of the MS in Organizational Leadership are well prepared for this new reality.“The university does a great job reaching out to leaders in the community to understand what we are looking for in leaders and building curriculum around those needs,” Huff said.