The 2025 Mortenson Associates Program officially began with a warm and collegial welcome at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Associates were guided to the university library by Dr. Nzomo, where a continental breakfast and library tour provided an opportunity to connect and explore the vibrant learning environment.

Welcome and University Overview

The formal program commenced with an insightful overview of the university by Prof. Clara M. Chu, who emphasized the institution’s legacy as a land-grant university committed to public access, community engagement, and research excellence. Prof. Chu also introduced the Mortenson Center team and welcomed the 2025 cohort of 16 associates from across the globe, each bringing diverse perspectives and expertise.

Program Orientation

The orientation session covered essential logistics including travel, accommodation, meals, transportation, and safety. Prof. Chu outlined program expectations such as active participation, professionalism, reflective engagement, and punctuality. She emphasized that the program is intentionally designed around shared learning goals, the development of a community of practice, and collaborative engagement.

A shared digital repository has been established for program resources, documents, and reflections, encouraging openness and collaboration throughout the experience. Associates also had the opportunity to introduce themselves and share their motivations for joining the program.

Theme of the Day: Libraries Unbound

The theme for Day 1, “Libraries Unbound: Open, Inclusive, and Engaged,” set the tone for thoughtful group discussion. Our group explored the concept of the engaged university library, a library that is not just a physical space for study, but a strategic and responsive partner in the academic mission of the university.

The reflection prompt encouraged us to think critically:
How can we, as librarians and information professionals, position libraries as vital drivers of engagement?

Afternoon Session: Everything DiSC® Workshop

In the afternoon, we were introduced to Everything DiSC®, a behavioral assessment tool designed to enhance communication, self-awareness, and teamwork. Each participant explored their DiSC personality style:

• The D style is results-oriented, direct, and confident
• The i style is people-focused, enthusiastic, and persuasive
• The S style is cooperative, patient, and dependable
• The C style is analytical, precise, and quality-focused

The session laid the groundwork for effective team collaboration throughout the program and offered valuable tools for professional development.

Looking Ahead

Day 1 established a strong foundation for the weeks ahead filled with learning, reflection, and international collaboration. We look forward to deepening our engagement with peers, exploring the evolving role of libraries, and contributing meaningfully to the global information profession.