More voices Ascension programs deepen connections, grow understanding
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wo Ascension programs are bringing diverse voices and experiences to the future of the ministry’s leadership. The programs, ASPIRE and GROW in Ascension, part of Ascension’s Leader Institute, are designed to foster new levels of connectedness and understanding among an inclusive group of colleagues and communities. ASPIRE is aimed at emerging, high-potential leaders representing diverse backgrounds and experiences. GROW in Ascension is designed to support the personal and professional growth, development and connectedness of Ascension’s women associates and leaders, beginning with those in St. Louis.
ASPIRE Herb Vallier
Carol Whittington
Joe Impicciche
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ASPIRE, an Ascension program for developing leaders, is designed to expand associate capabilities through hands-on, practical experiences as well as spiritually formative growth. It stands for Accessibility, Sponsorship, Preparation, Integration, Results and Experience. A key component of ASPIRE is to provide opportunities for the developing leader to gain a deeper understanding of the community he or she serves through the lens of a healthcare consumer. “The highest goal of ASPIRE is to accelerate the sponsorship and development of high-potential emerging leaders across our national health ministry who represent the diverse communities we serve,” said Herb Vallier, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Ascension. Practical experiences include learning about consumerism and understanding the business operations of a Catholic entity. Participants also have opportunities to lead key Ascension projects. The ASPIRE curriculum integrates mind, body and spirit considerations as well as transforma-
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tive change knowledge and skills. Additionally, participants benefit from executive sponsorship and shadowing. “Our associates seek multifaceted career experiences that extend beyond a classroom or online learning activity. They want to acquire new skills and knowledge in a holistic learning environment that encourages curiosity and exploration, and where their many gifts can contribute to our Mission in the process,” said Carol Whittington, Senior Vice President and Chief Talent Development Officer and Executive Director for Ascension’s Leader Institute. Participants get an individual learning plan based on the associate’s strengths and interests. They will spend, on average, eight to 10 hours a week engaged in career shadowing, project work and other development activities. Associates experience the majority of the program in their own work environment through projects and online, virtual activities.
GROW IN ASCENSION Comprising 80.5% of the Ascension workforce, women are key contributors. Additionally, women lead healthcare consumer decision-making within their homes and communities. President and CEO Joe Impicciche realized that this dynamic presents an opportunity to create an environment within Ascension that both supports the unique needs of women within the workforce and explores their insights, experiences and perspectives as consumers. GROW in Ascension — GROW stands for Growth, Relationships and Opportunities for Women — is a women’s affinity group launched initially in St. Louis to provide a platform for the women of Ascension to connect. GROW in Ascension is an unconventional offering of the Ascension Leader Institute in that it is more of a
