(430) Keeping Our School Hoppy: A Culture of Development and Kudos at UMKC

Keeping Our School Hoppy: A Culture of Kudos at the University of Missouri-Kansas City
Cameron C. Lindsey, Paul Gubbins, Gerald Wyckoff, Valerie Ruehter, Steven Stoner, Erica Ottis, Maqual Graham, Katelyn Chapin, Russell Melchert, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Pharmacy.

Objective: To describe the cultures of value and appreciation at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Pharmacy.

Methods: Executive Committee leaders met to discuss the ways that the UMKC School of Pharmacy creates a culture of shared values and appreciation among our faculty and staff across our three locations. Activities were organized by theme to illustrate their impact.

Results: The intentional interactions of our faculty and staff on all sites foster seamless collaboration across our strategic plan pillars of student success, research, statewide engagement, and inclusion. To create a culture where employees feel valued, the school invests in start-up packages, developmental stipends, career coaches, and leadership development support. Recognition thrives through deliberate nominations for staff and faculty awards at the School, University, and professional levels; alumni and preceptor accolades are highlighted at alumni events modeling our values to those in addition to our employees; and, individual student and organizational awards are announced and applauded at each faculty meeting illustrating the value we place on our students’ achievements and the faculty role as mentors in this important work. Promotion for employees and faculty adjuncts is fostered and successful across staff titles and faculty tracks. Lastly, appreciation is demonstrated through activities including gifts of gratitude, potlucks, Kasey Kudos, and faculty highlights.

Conclusion: The UMKC School of Pharmacy has a strong legacy of investing in its people to create a culture of mutual respect and appreciation.