Jhenise Cochran

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.

A: My name is Jhenise Cochrane, and I am a proud alumna of the CUNY School of Professional Studies, where I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business and a minor in the Psychology of Management & Organizations in 2022. I continued my education at Southern New Hampshire University, earning an MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Management in December 2023. As a first-generation learner, I am dedicated to lifelong learning and am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration at Capella University.

I am also the author of Becoming an Effective Leader and its companion Leadership Journal, and I hold certifications in Advanced and Executive Leadership from the National Society of Leadership and Success. With over 15 years of professional experience, I have worked as a systems analyst, senior strategy analyst, and a business & management consultant.

Q: Why did you choose CUNY SPS, and what was your program here?

A: A relative highly recommended CUNY SPS to me after being encouraged to attend due to its top-ranked online programs, affordability, and career-focused approach. These qualities make CUNY SPS an excellent choice for professionals seeking to upskill or transition into new careers.

Q: Please tell us a bit about your book. What is it about?

A: Becoming an Effective Leader and its companion Leadership Journal are designed to help individuals develop strong leadership skills through self-awareness, practical strategies, and intentional growth. The book explores key leadership principles, including communication, decision-making, emotional intelligence, and team development, providing actionable insights for both aspiring and experienced leaders.

The Leadership Journal serves as a guided tool to help readers reflect on their leadership journey, set goals, and track progress. Together, they offer a comprehensive approach to leadership development, empowering individuals to enhance their effectiveness, inspire others, and navigate challenges with confidence.

Q: What inspired you to write it?

A: Becoming an Effective Leader and its companion Leadership Journal were inspired by my personal and professional growth journey. My father, a leader in the political arena, was my first mentor and coach, and I wrote this book in his honor as a tribute to his legacy, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic. Additionally, I wanted to share my knowledge and experiences to empower others around the world.

Throughout my career, I’ve encountered both exceptional leaders and leadership challenges, which have deeply influenced my understanding of what it takes to be an effective leader. My goal is to create a resource that not only conveys essential leadership principles but also offers practical guidance for those looking to cultivate and enhance their leadership abilities.

As a first-generation learner and professional, I understand firsthand the importance of mentorship, self-reflection, and continuous growth. I aim to provide a book that empowers individuals, whether they are new to leadership or seasoned professionals to lead with confidence, authenticity, and impact. The Leadership Journal complements this journey by encouraging self-reflection, goal-setting, and continuous improvement, making leadership development a purposeful and personal experience.

Q: What do you hope readers will learn from it?

A: I hope readers of Becoming an Effective Leader and its companion Leadership Journal gain a deeper understanding of what it truly means to lead with purpose, integrity, and confidence. My goal is to equip them with practical strategies to enhance their leadership skills, whether they are just starting their journey or looking to refine their approach.

I want readers to recognize that leadership is not just about authority, it’s about influence, emotional intelligence, and continuous growth. Through self-reflection, goal-setting, and intentional action, they can develop the skills needed to inspire, empower, and create a lasting impact in their personal and professional lives.

Q: How did your work at CUNY SPS prepare you for the rigors of writing and then publishing your book?

A: My experience at CUNY SPS played a significant role in preparing me for the challenges of writing and publishing Becoming an Effective Leader. The rigorous academic environment, particularly in business and management courses, sharpened my critical thinking, research, and communication skills, essential components for writing a well-structured and impactful book.

Additionally, CUNY SPS emphasized time management, strategic planning, and adaptability, all of which were crucial throughout the writing and publishing process. The program’s focus on leadership and organizational psychology also deepened my understanding of the key concepts I explore in my book, allowing me to provide readers with practical, real-world insights.

Overall, the education and discipline I gained at CUNY SPS not only strengthened my ability to write but also gave me the confidence and resilience to navigate the publishing journey successfully.

Q: Do you plan to write another book?

A: Becoming an Effective Leader and its companion Leadership Journal are just the beginning of my journey. Leadership and personal development are ongoing processes, and I want to continue providing valuable resources that help individuals grow both professionally and personally.

I am exploring future educational, management, and advisory services that delve deeper into leadership across various industries, along with topics such as organizational culture, strategic management, and personal success. My goal is to inspire and empower individuals with practical tools to navigate their careers and leadership roles with confidence. Stay tuned, there’s much more ahead!

Q: Please share your fondest memory of CUNY SPS.

A: One of my fondest memories of CUNY SPS was the sense of community and support I felt throughout my time there. As a first-generation learner, it was both challenging and rewarding, but the faculty, staff, and fellow students made the experience unforgettable. I remember a specific moment when I completed a major project for one of my courses, and the feedback I received from my professor not only boosted my confidence but also reinforced my passion for leadership and personal development.

The encouragement and constructive feedback from my professors and peers created an environment where I felt supported and motivated to push myself further. That sense of camaraderie and shared growth was something I’ll always cherish and carry with me in both my career and personal life.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

A: In five years, I see myself continuing to grow both as a leader and an author, expanding my impact through my books, educational programs, management and advisory services. I hope to have developed a strong platform that offers resources and mentorship to professionals across various industries, helping them enhance their leadership skills and achieve their personal and career goals.

I also envision myself further advancing my career, by pivoting into management & administration in the healthcare industry, perhaps in a leadership role that allows me to guide organizations in navigating change, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable growth. My passion for continuous learning will remain central to my journey, and I look forward to furthering my education while helping others do the same. Ultimately, I aim to create a lasting legacy of empowering individuals to lead with purpose and confidence.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to highlight?

A: I’d like to highlight the importance of intentional leadership and lifelong learning. The journey to becoming an effective leader is ongoing, and the book emphasizes the value of self-awareness, adaptability, and resilience. It’s not just about acquiring skills, it’s about continually evolving, learning from experiences, and leading with authenticity.

Another key point is the role of mentorship, both in receiving and providing it. Throughout my career, I’ve benefited from the guidance of great mentors, and I’ve worked to pass that wisdom forward, which is why mentorship is woven into the fabric of the book.

Ultimately, my goal is to inspire readers to take charge of their leadership journey and realize their full potential, no matter where they are in their career. Every leader can grow, and every challenge is an opportunity to become even more effective.