Facilities Leaders Grow Through FSU's Leaders in Training Program

Date - July 24, 2026 

Leadership is a verb at Florida State University. It is not just an idea or title, but something you do daily. The Leaders in Training (LIT) program, hosted by the FSU Office of Human Resources, runs an annual cohort-based learning opportunity where faculty and staff develop a personal leadership vision, identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and apply their learning in real-world situations.   

This summer, Facilities staff members, including Paint Shop Supervisor Rufus Borders, Communications Manager Chelsey Falb, and Zone A/B Area Manager Greg Proctor, had the opportunity to collaborate with leaders from various university departments and academic units by participating in FSU LIT Cohort #7. This eight-week program provided attendees with a chance to connect with and learn from leaders across the University. Despite the diverse roles and functions represented, participants discovered that their challenges and opportunities shared a common thread. 

 

"My favorite part was doing group and table exercises and learning about other coworkers at FSU that we didn't know until the LIT training, said Proctor. "Listening to their stories about their leadership role and getting different opinions. I enjoyed connecting and hearing about their situations at FSU. It makes you realize that every leader has situations dealing with staff, whether it's young students or older adults. It will help you realize that this isn't about you — it's about your position as a leader and dealing with staff members and their concerns."  

The training balances interactive exercises to build leadership skills and discover your leadership style with practical FSU-related training that assists those in supervisory roles in providing better guidance to their staff. The intensive leadership skills days explored communication and leadership styles, giving feedback, leading meetings, and coaching effectively. FSU training days cover topics such as performance management and the Employee Assistance Program.   

"I really enjoyed the variety of topics presented at LIT. It was an introspective experience that allowed me to understand not only my own views on leadership and communication but also those of the people around me. Additionally, I appreciated the opportunity to learn about all the HR resources available at the University. Knowing the amount of support we have gives me greater confidence as a leader," said Falb. 

The LIT cohort runs through the end of spring and into the summer semester. It includes in-person and online training, as well as breakout group opportunities, and is open to faculty and staff across the University. Borders encourage other employees to take advantage of the opportunity. "My advice is to take LIT classes. They're helpful for your own growth and for your future at the University," he said. 

LIT concludes with an Implementation Lab, where participants share how they have applied their new skills in a project worked on throughout LIT that they will take back to enhance their department. Having staff members like Borders, Falb, and Proctor complete the program significantly enhances the Facilities' ability to provide excellent service to the university community. Each graduate not only brings technical expertise but also improved leadership skills. This ensures that FSU's buildings, grounds, and systems are maintained by teams that feel supported, motivated, and empowered.