SMITHFIELD – Bryant University has created the “Institute for Public Leadership” to help provide public officials with the skills they need to govern effectively, the school announced in a news release on Thursday.
Angel Taveras, Providence mayor-elect, and Don Grebien, Pawtucket mayor-elect, will attend the inaugural session scheduled for Dec. 18 and 19 along with members of their transition team.
Six faculty members – five of them from Bryant – will conduct seminars on leadership, conflict resolution, team-based decision making, economics, and the use of power and influence, Bryant said. After the inaugural session, Bryant will offer the Institute’s seminars to other elected public officials.
“Professors and content have been carefully chosen based upon analysis of similar programs around the country and subject matter that is most important for any governing team,” said Bryant University President Ronald K. Machtley.
The courses will include “Making the transition from campaigning to governing,” “Economics and fiscal policy,” and “Leadership, negotiation and public engagement.”
The five Bryant faculty taking part are: Rich Holtzman, assistant professor of political science, Michael A. Roberto, trustee professor of management, James Segovis, executive in residence, and Edinaldo Tebaldi, assistant professor of economics and Lori A. Coakley, associate professor of management. Gary S. Sasse, a Rhode Island College distinguished visiting professor of public policy, will also join.
