We recently connected with Dr. A. Cathleen Greiner, Phd and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Dr. A. Cathleen thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
My parents were cattle and wheat ranchers in very rural Eastern Oregon. What they taught has impacted my career, both in terms of practical knowledge and characater. In 10 years of 4-H I learned clear eyed cost accounting for a total cost of operation perspective; regarding character, it is essentail in a small town that community and engagement are practiced in tough and good situations. These two elements have been impactful as an executive leader in higher education, especially in working with students and their future as small business owners and contributers to their families and communities.
Dr. A. Cathleen, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I have long supported education as a key to make progress, personally and for others. There is a theme now that higher education is not needed to succeed. For me, it has been the key to moving from a very small community to gaining a PhD and making a difference in serving students from across a broad spectrum of learners. I support combining career and technical know how with broad and deep learning in entrepreneurship and other skills essential in a changing and creative economy. Learning, staying current, gaining new skills and seeking education as all critial success factors.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Authentic connections. I am known for being a connector or networker. This skill is absolutely critical for small business owners, which is a group that I work with on a daily basis. I can often put someone in touch with someone else to seek information, resources, support and funding.
Any advice for managing a team?
The main characteristic I bring to maintain a sense of team and connection/morale is being genuine in every interaction and managing situations, from celebrating super wins to delivering really tough news, such as layoffs.
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Dr. A. Cathleen Greiner