Submitted by Denise Rotavera-Krain, rotavera-krain.1@osu.edu
“The things that change people's lives are usually an accumulation of small acts.” – Tom Rath
Here are just a few small anecdotes that have been collected from various parts of campus. What are some of the small acts you do on a daily basis to make ATI a better place to work and learn?
“Remember that a person's name is to that person, the sweetest and most important sound in any language” – Dale Carnegie. A number of ATI professors learn all of their students’ names by asking them to write their names on tent cards. Believe it or not, this means a great deal to students. Bravo!
“If you want people to understand that you value their contributions and that they are important, the recognition and praise you provide must have meaning that is specific to each individual.” – Tom Rath. Students were recognized by administrators of their success in moving off probation, boosting their confidence and sense of accomplishment. Faculty and staff were also recognized for their role in guiding and mentoring those students, leading to a sense of being appreciated and the notion that collaboration leads to better outcomes with students.
“You can never do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” -- Ralph Waldo Emerson. Many staff and faculty greet visitors in the hallways and ask if they need assistance. In addition, many greet others with a welcoming smile regardless of how they are feeling that day. This builds community and a sense of belonging; no one is a stranger at ATI.
“We never know which lives we influence, or when, or why.” Stephen King. A student recently reported that his professors mentioned how impressed they were about his academic turnaround. While we may not ever see the fruits of these comments, that student will remember them for a long time. Positive or negative, we do not know the impact of what we say. Aim for positive and encouraging.