Participant Outcomes of a Leadership Development Initiative in Eight Human Service Organizations

A leadership development initiative for managers in eight county human service organizations is described, followed by evaluation results from an ongoing study with six years of data. Multiple methods included surveys of participants and their supervisors using a time series design with post-program and 12-month follow-ups. Factors measured included program satisfaction, the acquisition of skills, and improved functioning in terms of leadership and management performance. Program graduates and their supervisors were asked the same questions regarding changes in the graduates’ performance as managers. Results show high participant satisfaction, numerous opportunities to apply new knowledge, and improved on-the-job performance.