As we begin the next school year, we have a lot to be thankful for. We are safe and sound. I hope all made it safely through the fires and the earthquake we had recently. We have approval as non-profit status from the federal government and are anxiously awaiting the approval status from the state.

Our fall conference will relate to leadership and ethics. This reminds us as educators, we are all leaders and role models for our students. Some of the leadership traits or attributes are intelligence, self-confidence, determination, integrity, and sociability. Intelligence refers to both general intelligence and that which is acquired through experience. One needs motivation or the willingness to tackle complex problems, express dominance, and a commitment to the social good of our educational institutions and our organization. Career experiences and environmental influences have an impact on individual attributes and competencies.

Individual competencies deal with problem-solving skills, social skills and knowledge. Problem solving is the key to effective leadership. Good problem-solving skills entail creating logical, effective and unique solutions that think outside of the box. Social judgment skills demonstrate the capacity to understand both people and social systems. One with social judgment skills has the knowledge and ability to work with others in solving problems.

Knowledge positively impacts the problem solving process of leaders. Knowledge and the expertise we have as educators assists us in processing complex system issues and identifying strategies to implement change. In addition, knowledge permits one to use the past to positively impact the future.

There are five principles of ethical behavior consisting of respect and serving others, building community, honesty, and justice. Respect embraces others ideas and recognizes others as individuals. In entails listening to subordinates and is tolerant to others viewpoints, beliefs, attitudes and values. Leaders have the responsibility to serve others. Service means to listen to others, be of service to them and make decisions that are in the best interest and not harmful to the well-being of others. An ethical leader is fair and just treating all equally. Fairness influences decision-making in the ethical leader. Honesty involves truth, authenticity and sensitivity to attitudes and feelings of others. To build community leaders influence others to reach common goals. In the process of reaching the common goal, a leader will take into account their own and others goals and objectives, not forcing the leaders will on others.

Let us have an exciting new year as we demonstrate quality leadership skills to our students. Educators with the ethical qualities of a transformational leader will positively affect student outcomes. So, as we embark on this next year with our students, our goal is to impart the desire in the students to become not just leaders, but ethical leaders that will transform nursing into the next generation.