KAI Instrument: These three sessions are to be taken together and require pre-registration. Attendees will engage with key questions about leadership, differing viewpoints, conflict resolution, and the impact of cognitive diversity on teamwork. Why do we disagree, and how can we navigate differing perspectives to achieve shared goals? Participants will be introduced to Kirton’s Adaptation-Innovation (KAI) theory and take the KAI instrument to gain insights into their own problem-solving styles and those of others.

Through this framework, we will examine how diverse thinking influences change, decision-making, and communication within volunteer programs. https://kai.foundation/ By understanding cognitive diversity and its role in group dynamics, we can improve collaboration, reduce conflict, and create stronger, more effective teams. This session provides practical strategies for leveraging differences to enhance leadership, problem-solving, and overall program success.

David Close is the Volunteer Specialist with The University of Tennessee Extension. Prior to beginning his new role with UT Extension on August 1 of 2024, Dave spent 20 years serving in multiple roles with Virginia Tech and Virginia Cooperative Extension and most recently as their Volunteer Engagement Specialist. He received an M.S. degree in Forest Ecology from Southern Illinois University and has post-masters course work in Botany, Environmental Resources and Policy, Kirton’s Adaption-Innovation theory and measure, and Leadership. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education at Virginia Tech focusing on volunteer leadership.