Third Floor Research studies how to develop better leaders who can solve tough community problems. This research group is a partnership between the Kansas Leadership Center and Kansas State University. They work with other universities and organizations across the country to understand what makes leadership work.
Their research looks at how leadership training affects individuals, organizations, and whole communities. They study programs that teach people skills like listening to different viewpoints, managing conflict, and trying new solutions. Recent studies show that when organizations train many employees in leadership skills, they make more progress on difficult challenges.
They also research how Latino communities in Kansas view leadership and how businesses adapted during financial crises. The research helps improve leadership programs that teach people to work together on problems like public health, economic development, and community engagement. Their findings help make leadership training more effective for solving real-world challenges.