As we gear up for another installment of Elevating Cougs, our largest internal employee development event, I want to extend an invitation to every one of you to consider stepping onto the stage and sharing your expertise with our community. Elevating Cougs isn’t just about showcasing knowledge; it’s about fostering growth, both personally and professionally, and sharing the expertise that we know exists throughout all levels of our organization.

Why Present?

You might be wondering, “Why should I present at Elevating Cougs?” Well, the answer lies in the countless benefits that come from taking the stage. Firstly, presenting is an invaluable opportunity for personal development. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or new to the stage, the act of preparing and delivering a presentation forces you to refine your communication skills, organize your thoughts, and engage with your audience—all crucial skills that transcend the boundaries of any single topic.

Secondly, presenting offers a unique chance to showcase your expertise and establish yourself as a thought leader within our organization. It’s a chance to share your insights, experiences, and innovative ideas with your colleagues, all while bolstering your credibility and influence.

Lastly, presenting at Elevating Cougs provides a fantastic platform for networking within our university. By sharing your knowledge with colleagues from different departments and disciplines, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, forge new collaborations, and broaden your professional network—all of which can have far-reaching benefits for your career.

Sample Topics

Now, you might be wondering what kind of topics you could present. The beauty of Elevating Cougs is its diversity, both in terms of subject matter and expertise. With four tracks being offered this year, the opportunities are even more broad.  The four tracks are Developing as a Coug, Leading as a Coug, WellCoug, and Workday Success Stories.  Here are just a few sample topics to get your creative juices flowing:

Soft Skills:

  • Effective Communication Strategies in the Digital Age
  • Building Resilience: Thriving in Times of Change
  • The Power of Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace
  • Mastering Time Management and Productivity Techniques
  • Navigating Difficult Conversations with Confidence

Technical Skills:

  • Introduction to Data Analysis: From Excel to Advanced Analytics
  • Demystifying Coding: A Beginner’s Guide to Python
  • Cybersecurity Essentials for Every Employee
  • Project Management Fundamentals: From Concept to Completion
  • Design Thinking: Innovate Your Way to Success

Remember, these are just a few examples, and the possibilities are endless. Whether your expertise lies in project management, graphic design, financial analysis, or customer service, there’s a place for you at Elevating Cougs.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved is easy. Simply submit a proposal outlining your proposed topic, a brief overview of your presentation, and what attendees can expect to learn.  The link to submit a proposal can be found here:  https://wsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4YF43UmTYEXKeqi. Don’t worry if you’ve never presented before—we’re here to support you every step of the way, from brainstorming ideas to refining your delivery.

Together, let’s make Elevating Cougs 2024 the best one yet. Let’s inspire, educate, and elevate one another as we continue on our journey of growth and development.

We look forward to seeing you on stage!

Elevating Cougs Organizing Committee

Content Credit: Laura Hamilton, Manager, Learning & Organizational Development