GSJ: Learning by Leading™
Georgia Science Junction – Learning by Leading™: Preparing the Future Workforce by Cultivating Confidence, Curiosity, and Competence
Thursday, September 24th, 7-8:30 pm
In-Person and Streaming
Location: Wild Heaven – Toco Hills, 2935B N Druid Hills Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Featured Speaker: Cora Keber, Ph.D.
Learning by Leading™: Preparing the Future Workforce by Cultivating Confidence, Curiosity, and Competence
Since 2018, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia has adapted and implemented the Learning by Leading™ program, originally developed by the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, to provide students with hands-on leadership development through real-world environmental and sustainability projects. Through mentorship, experiential learning, and team-based problem-solving, students gain valuable professional experience while developing critical career-readiness competencies such as communication, adaptability, leadership, collaboration, and project management.
This presentation examines how Learning by Leading™ prepares students for success in an evolving workforce, drawing on findings from Dr. Cora Keber’s dissertation research exploring the factors that contribute to career competency development. Attendees will learn about the Competency-Based Model for Student Development and hear firsthand perspectives from student participants and staff mentors. The session will provide practical insights for educators, supervisors, and organizations seeking to effectively engage, develop, and retain the next generation of talent.
Speaker Name: Cora Keber, Ph.D
Speaker Bio:Cora Keber, Ph.D. (B.S., University of Kentucky, 2001; M.A., University of Georgia, 2019; Ph.D., University of Georgia, 2025), is Director of Education at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, where she leads the development, coordination, and evaluation of educational programs for diverse audiences, including children, families, and university students. Her work spans Pre-K–12th grade field trips, summer camps, family festivals, the Certificate in Native Plants, symposia, and experiential learning initiatives. She also directs the Learning by Leading™ at UGA program, advancing student career readiness through applied learning. Keber has contributed to major initiatives such as the Alice H. Richards Children’s Garden and Meet Me at the Garden.
