​The Andrews University Leadership Department advances a set of leadership competencies, which require students to have “theoretical knowledge and practical application” within a set of “core [leadership] competencies” of which the “leadership of others” is one group of competencies (Leadership Handbook, 2011, p. 36). This second group of leadership competencies addresses “the interpersonal aspects of leadership,” along with the “growth and development of others,” which is integral to the leadership function (Leadership Handbook, 2011, p. 36). Regarding the competency of effective communication, “Leadership fosters effective communication in all internal and external interactions, to establish and maintain cooperative relationships” (Leadership Handbook, 2011, p. 36).

Through this competency I wanted to develop effective and appropriate communication skills for myself along with developing internal and external communications for the organization that I lead, 

​My reflection paper will examine my communication's journey from a photojournalist to that of the leader of TMF. I will examine basic communication theory; however, due to the nature of TMF's work among Jews and Christians, I will concentrate more heavily on cross-cultural communication theory.

I will also consider how TMF developed and deployed its media strategy, its growth, and its use of various social media platforms. Finally, I will look at a few public speaking events and demonstrate what I, along with TMF, have learned through our communication endeavors.

​​I would like to clear this competency at the ​​Proficient Level.

You may read my reflection paper by following the link for Competency 2a: Effective Communication. It is also available below for you to view or download. Use the rubric on the ParticipantHub - Steven Reece to guide you in reaching your score for the desired level of competence. ​