Srini Medi Senior Vice President and General Counsel | University of Phoenix
Srini Medi Senior Vice President and General Counsel | University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies has unveiled a new white paper titled "Optimism: A Value-Added Requirement for 21st Century Organizations." The document is authored by Julie A. Overbey, Ph.D., and Pamela Ann Gordon, Ph.D., both affiliated with the University's Center for Leadership and Entrepreneurial Research.
"Optimism is an active rather than passive attitude. Optimistic workers consistently strive for positive outcomes," states Overbey. She further notes that "organizational environments that encourage positive thinking, growth, and adaptability increase the chances that employees will thrive when faced with dynamic change."
The paper examines how optimism among workers and organizations can mitigate uncertainty. It incorporates findings from the University’s Career Institute 2024 Career Optimism Index study. The authors argue that fostering an optimistic work culture is crucial for innovation within organizations.
Julie A. Overbey serves as staff faculty at the University of Phoenix, where she mentors doctoral students and teaches leadership and management courses. Her background includes roles such as Lead Faculty Area Chair for the Doctor of Management program and Campus Faculty Assessment Liaison. Overbey holds a doctorate in Business Administration with a specialization in Organizational Leadership from Northcentral University and has over two decades of experience in commercial contract management.
Pamela Ann Gordon also instructs doctoral students at the University of Phoenix, bringing nearly 22 years of online teaching experience to her role. Her research spans management, organizational behavior, marketing, and human resource management. Gordon's career includes significant time in corporate management within the pharmaceutical industry at GlaxoSmithKline. She earned her doctorate in Business Administration specializing in Management from Northcentral University.
The full white paper can be accessed through the College Research Hub or via a direct link provided by the university.
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