In our book, Generative Leadership/Shaping New Futures for Today’s Schools we define generativity as “…the capacity or ability to create, produce, or give rise to new constructs, new possibilities.”  Generative leadership is a way of being dynamic, of thinking systemically and of acknowledging natural learning.  The Generative Leadership Initiative, in the beginning, provides opportunities for conversations, either individually or with others, that release talents and create the capacity to see new perspectives, experience renewed energy and develop deep knowledge that can impact leadership practice. As ideas emerge and work develops, there is a constructive spirit that carries concepts to action in ways that seem quite different from the typical “machine model” that we have come to know and accept.  The leader who seems very traditional can become pragmatic, explorative and generative if she is willing to grow and think differently.  While there is no magic wand, we help leaders discover ideas and offer processes and tools that can initiate and support personal and organizational movement toward new solutions.  Taking the initiative to begin is often the most difficult step.  The Generative Leadership Initiative, under the direction of Elsie Ritzenhein, a practicing generative leader and facilitator, provides the beginning, the support and the follow-up for new possibilities in educational and community organizations.

“THINK OF IT AS A MULTIPLIER…”

Generative leadership helps us create dynamic ecosystems where every individual is an integral part of that system.  We develop the capacity to create the shift to a school and organizational environment that embodies creativity, adaptability, resilience and curiosity.  Those who practice generative leadership challenge assumptions, raise fundamental questions, reconsider what is taken for granted and think outside supposed limits of a problem to identify new alternatives for action and new prospects for the future.

WHAT POSSIBLE FUTURES DO YOU SEE FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR SCHOOL, DISTRICT OR ORGANIZATION?

HOW MIGHT YOU BEGIN TO THINK IN A GENERATIVE WAY ABOUT DESIGING AND IMPLEMENTING THOSE FUTURES?

The Generative Leadership Initiative will help set you on your path to the future.