[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Winona State University (WSU) partnered with the Madonna Towers leadership team and consultant Julie Zaruba-Fountaine to deliver a “Building Your Strengths” training program designed to enhance communication skills, build trust, and strengthen teamwork among leaders.<\/p>\n
By analyzing pre-surveys, participants provided valuable insights into their challenges and opportunities for continued improvement.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/blogs.winona.edu\/academics\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/04\/ACE-in-the-Community-Madonna-Towers-1280.jpg” alt=”ACE training group from Madonna Towers.” title_text=”ACE-in-the-Community-Madonna-Towers-1280″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
During an Exploratory pre-session, leaders at Madonna Towers recognized the importance of open communication and expressed the need to enhance team unity.<\/p>\n
Participants aimed to improve communication efficiency, build trust, and address conflict resolution. This sentiment underscored the need for targeted training that addressed the importance of open communication.<\/p>\n
WSU contracted with Julie Zaruba-Fountaine, a Well-Being Specialist and Change Management expert with a passion for empowering individuals to overcome these challenges.<\/p>\n
Following the training series, participants noted that their understanding of active listening and communication strategies had expanded. Many had not fully appreciated the scope of these concepts before the training.<\/p>\n
\nA respondent shared, “<\/em>I learned that I need to be more open to others’ ideas and opinions. I need to listen more and talk less.“<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
For some leaders, the training sparked a newfound motivation to engage in meaningful communication and foster a more inclusive workplace culture.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Brad Boatright” job_title=”Executive Director” company_name=”Madonna Towers” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The course was something that our leaders can apply on a daily basis. By identifying and learning about each team member’s communication style, we have improved our communication methods and it triggered us to be more self-aware in our interactions. The instructor did well at engaging the audience, keeping the session interesting and fun, while also teaching through example.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_testimonial author=”Julie Zaruba-Fountain” job_title=”Well-Being Specialist & Change Management Expert” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”10px||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
I witnessed a transformation in the leadership team’s dynamics. The pre- and post-surveys revealed significant growth in understanding diverse communication styles and leveraging individual strengths, with participants expressing increased confidence in open communication practices.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
\nAnother participant noted, “<\/em>I have a better understanding of how to communicate with different personality types and how to leverage individual strengths to benefit the organization as a whole.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
The “Building Your Strengths” training at Madonna Towers has already made a meaningful impact, improving communication practices, strengthening team unity, and boosting leaders’ confidence. While challenges remain, the program has laid a strong foundation for continued growth.<\/p>\n
By implementing regular follow-ups, fostering communication champions, and addressing systemic barriers, Madonna Towers can sustain and enhance this progress, creating a workplace where open and effective communication thrives.<\/p>\n
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