Professional Development Institute (PDI)

The Upstate Cerebral Palsy Professional Development Institute (PDI) is managed by the Workforce Engagement and Organization Performance department. The primary objective of the Institute is to develop the leadership skills/behaviors of staff comprising the leadership structure of Upstate Cerebral Palsy. The development of leaders is focused on staff currently in leadership positions and staff aspiring to a leadership role in the future. The Professional Development Institute offers a series of leadership development opportunities ranging from basic to advanced leadership skills. Basic leadership development (Leadership I) focuses on introduction of the leadership attributes determined to be the core skill set for excellence in leadership at Upstate Cerebral Palsy. These attributes include: communication, relationship building, coaching, role of professional, ownership, accountability and execution.

Advanced leadership development (Leadership II) continues development of the leadership attributes with an emphasis on developing new behaviors to effectively manage programs and lead staff. Through interactive discussion, active learning approaches and guidance from faculty, participants engage in new leadership behaviors and continue to understand the impact of their leadership styles on staff performance.

Upstate Cerebral Palsy has recently begun to teach the Professional Development Institute at businesses and organizations throughout New York State. The training, adapted to fit the needs of all organizations, is called the Leadership Development Series. Click here for more information or call Dr. Thomas Curnow at (315) 724-6907 ext. 2233.