Building Community and a Positive Work Culture

Based in Austin, Texas, Dr. Hind Louali began her career in medicine, working in various teaching hospitals before going into education administration. As founder of Ecole Jean-Jacques Rousseau (French School of Austin), Dr. Hind Louali oversees all operations of the school.

While medicine and educational leadership require very distinct skills, the professions share common activities such as building community through a positive work culture. Studying to work in education leadership (administrator) and training for a medical degree involve very different activities, but because of the high-profile nature of both occupations, understanding the complexities of work culture as it relates to building community is integral to working in both areas.

Building community at work begins with establishing a positive work culture. This includes modeling, which is manifested through behavior, language, actions, and expectations. Because leaders typically set the example for workers, their attitudes can affect those of subordinates and other employees.

A positive work culture translates into healthy communities in both instances. In education, these communities contribute to sustainable family and community partnerships. Furthermore, these communities establish a sense of transparency and trust among stakeholders (teachers, students, and families) that plays a great role in promoting positive student outcomes.

In health care, a positive work culture makes for team building. This team building facilitates the many processes involved with health care that ensure patients receive the care they need. Ultimately, while education and medicine are two different fields, building community through a positive work culture is a common duty both professions share.