Sheila Trapp

S. Renae Consultant Group, United States

Title: Spiritual Intelligence (SQ) and Public Servant Leadership

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Biography

Sheila R. Trapp has been in management and leadership roles for over 32 years, ranging from fresh out of college Program Director to Executive Director. She is a writer, business owner, book consultant, and educator. You can find her most days at a desk on her laptop, writing a grant or book, or at a podium with a microphone in hand. She has three key assignments in life: (1) to touch the world through writing, (2) to teach what she has learned, and (3) to serve as a Conductor— coordinating the efforts and expertise of others. Her life is defined by service. Dr. Trapp obtained a Doctorate in Management specializing in Organizational Leadership in 2009 from the University of Phoenix and earned master’s degrees in organizational management (2002) and Theology (2015). She is a Certified Public Manager and a published author of 10 books, including her dissertation on Spiritual Intelligence & Public Servant Leadership. She is a sought-after, dynamic international speaker known for highly authentic and passionate presentations. Dr. Trapp has served as a Leadership Coach at Rutgers University and a Doctoral Mentor at the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies. She is a board member for several non-profits and a NJ Governor-appointed board of trustees member for Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women. Dr. Trapp is available for workshops, seminars, and retreats based on her books, experience, and expertise. She can be contacted at [email protected] or on LinkedIn: Sheila-R-Trapp. Her books can be found on the Amazon marketplace under Dr. Sheila Trapp.

Abstract

Spiritual Intelligence (SQ) represents a transformative framework for leadership, where ethical, empathetic, and visionary decision-making is paramount. Originating from the work of Danah Zohar and Ian Marshall, SQ integrates the deepest dimensions of human consciousness into leadership practices, fostering a sense of purpose, interconnectedness, and higher moral reasoning. This presentation explores how SQ can enrich leadership by aligning individual purpose with collective welfare.

A central focus will be the 16 principles of Spiritual Intelligence identified by Zohar and Marshall, which serve as a cornerstone for cultivating enhanced leadership capacities. These principles include:

• Self-awareness: Understanding one's values, emotions, and motivations.

• Spontaneity: Responding authentically and creatively to situations.

• Being vision- and value-led: Guiding decisions through clear ethical values and overarching vision.

• Holism: Recognizing interconnections and embracing a systems perspective.

• Compassion: Demonstrating empathy and kindness in interactions and decision-making.

• Celebration of diversity: Valuing different perspectives and fostering inclusivity.

• Field independence: Maintaining integrity and making decisions beyond external pressures.

• Humility: Understanding one's place in the larger context and being open to learning.

• Tendency to ask fundamental "Why?" questions: Reflecting deeply on meanings and motives.

• Ability to reframe: Viewing challenges through constructive, positive lenses.

• Positive use of adversity: Transforming difficulties into opportunities for growth and innovation.

• Sense of vocation: Pursuing work with a sense of higher purpose and service.

Public servant leadership is a model of leadership rooted in the principles of service, SQ, accountability, and ethical governance. It emphasizes prioritizing the needs of the community and the institution over personal interests, striving for decisions that balance fairness, equity, and justice. Leaders in this domain are characterized by their ability to inspire trust, facilitate collaboration, and cultivate environments that value transparency and inclusiveness. This approach demands a deep commitment to understanding societal challenges, coupled with the resilience to address them innovatively while upholding the highest standards of integrity. Public servant leadership sets a foundation for transformative change that benefits all stakeholders through its focus on collective well-being and sustainable impact.

By delving into these principles, this presentation aims to highlight their practical application in shaping leadership that is intentional, compassionate, and adaptive to challenges. Examples from real-world public administration scenarios will illustrate how SQ-driven leadership creates environments of trust, collaboration, and shared purpose.

Participants will leave with actionable insights into fostering their own SQ, enhancing their capacity to lead with integrity, wisdom, and a profound sense of service to their communities and institutions.