Debbie Payne - MA in Leadership (MAL)

I wanted to spend time learning about leadership so that I could pursue my passion of working in the field of leadership. For me, the MAL program (formerly MALT) was an amazing, connecting, intense experience that centred and transformed me.

I gained the confidence to go through a major career transition from a college department head of a health program to an organizational development consultant at a mid-sized utility company. Now, several years later I find myself transitioning to my own full-time consulting company, DP Leadership Associates. My degree provided me with the capacity and confidence to break the pattern and venture into these new territories.

I sensed the faculty were really flexible and willing to adapt to the needs of the learners—they listened to us—this was a surprising change from other adult education programs.

My fellow learners were outstanding in their diversity and the richness of their knowledge base. It was affirming to learn accountability within a group. We motivated each other during the program and we stay in touch to continue the support. In my work I continue to look for diversity because I reach better decisions based on varied input.

One benefit I wasn’t expecting is my ongoing appreciation of literature. I really value the guidance I received—it has broadened and enriched my research base.

My final project "Creating Community through Collaboration and Technology", explored a collaborative group process of a small group of college department heads working on a system curriculum project.

I will be eternally grateful for the way the MAL program has changed my life and provided me with the confidence to initiate my own change.

Debbie Payne, MAL (formerly MALT - MA in Leadership and Training), Senior Principal Associate, DP Leadership Associates. Partner, Deberna Coaching International. Creator co-author Tri-namics Coaching Triangle System.