Released - March 29, 2010

Challenges of leadership in international environment topic of Presentation

Dr. Thurwanger, presenter

Eureka College communication professor and director of the Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program Michael Thurwanger will present “Leadership in the Global Environment: Cross-Cultural Challenges and Perspectives” at 7:30 p.m. April 8 in the Cerf Center at Eureka College.  

The presentation will offer an overview of leadership theories and cultural variables to pose questions that might prove fruitful in developing models for more effective leadership in cross-cultural contexts, Thurwanger said.

“As organizations grow to cross national boundaries and encompass an increasingly diverse workforce, leaders must evaluate the applicability of traditional leadership models and modes of communication,” Thurwanger said. “From my observations, the international and cross-cultural environment presents unique challenges to effective leadership. I’m interested in exploring whether current models and theories spanning the study of leadership and communication can provide answers to ease those challenges.”

Thurwanger will use Geerte Hofstede’s “Five Dimensions of Culture” as a central framework in exploring whether cultural trends might serve as useful predictors in the context of accommodation leadership models.   

Thurwanger retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years, including more than 15 years as a public affairs officer. His responsibilities included directing public relations support for high-profile international events for the Third Fleet and developing communication strategies for the Secretary of Defense. Other responsibilities included media relations, production of Navy publications and developing curriculum for and instructing at Department of Defense Information schools. 

Thurwanger received a bachelor’s degree in Far Eastern studies from the U.S. Naval Academy, a master’s degree in public relations from Ball State University and a doctorate in journalism from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He formerly taught communication at Bradley University, Peoria.

The presentation is the final of four Clarence R. Noe Dean’s Lectures by Eureka College faculty members this academic year. The series is named in honor of the late Dr. Clarence R. Noe, who was a 1938 alumnus and served as academic dean of the college from 1955 to 1977. The series, in its 28th year, is designed to stimulate discussion among faculty and offer enrichment to students and the greater community.

The free, public presentation will be followed by a reception. For more information, call the Eureka College provost’s office at 467-6301.

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Contact:

Michele Lehman

Media Relations Coordinator

mlehman@eureka.edu

(309) 467-6318