Facilities Staff Complete Leadership in Training Program

09/23/2025

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Florida State University’s Leaders in Training (LIT) Program is designed to enhance leadership potential, build community, and empower employees to create positive change within their organizations. Through eight weeks of blended learning, including intensive workshops, interactive activities, and real-world application, the program challenges participants to develop a personal leadership vision, build community and networks, and sharpen communication and problem-solving skills.

This summer, three members of FSU Facilities, Preventative Maintenance Tech 3 Joseph Cosenza , Grounds Arboriculture Superintendent Matthew Lindsey, and Zone Maintenance C/D Area Manager Don Pagel completed the program, joining a growing network of campus leaders equipped to guide and inspire others.

In Grounds, Matthew Lindsey saw the program as an avenue to strengthen connections and communication across campus. “I really enjoyed spending time with such wonderful people—connecting with colleagues from across campus, especially those outside of Facilities who we don’t often see. It was a great opportunity to build relationships and expand my network.”

For Don Pagel, Zone Maintenance applies skills learned in his daily functions as a manager. “I learned about the Color Me Wheel, which breaks personalities into four groups. It’s a tool I can use in different situations to better communicate with people. I even had my team take a learning assessment, which helped us understand how each person learns best, which has been valuable for team development and even when assigning work orders.”

For Joseph Cosenza, the program provided a similar experience and a chance to reflect on his leadership style. “I really enjoyed both the Color Wheel activity and the chance to meet people from different backgrounds and divisions. Now, when I see those same people around campus, it feels more connected—like we’re part of a tighter, stronger community.”

The impact of the LIT program goes beyond the training. Participants engage in transfer activities, receive training in leadership styles and conflict resolution, and culminate their experience with an Implementation Lab, where they share how they’ve applied their new skills on the job.

For Facilities, having staff like Cosenza, Lindsey, and Pagel complete the program strengthens the department’s ability to provide excellent service to the university community. Each graduate brings not only technical expertise but also enhanced leadership skills that help ensure FSU’s buildings, grounds, and systems are maintained by teams who feel supported, motivated, and empowered.

Facilities is proud to celebrate Cosenza, Lindsey, and Pagel for their commitment to growth and their outstanding representation of the department in the LIT program. Their success reflects the dedication and resilience that keeps Florida State running smoothly every day.