1. Running Head: NEUMANN UNIVERSITY GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION 1
Capstone:
Neumann University GSA Proposal
May 12, 2011
Nolan L. Fontaine
Michelle Hart
Pleasantte T. Kinsler-Johnson
Claudinia D. Lowe
Thomas M. Matys
Neumann University
Table of Contents

2. Running Head: NEUMANN UNIVERSITY GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION 1
Page
Abstract..................................................................................................3
The Capstone Project............................................................................ 4
Purpose of the Project................................................................4
Research Questions....................................................................8
The Framework..........................................................................9
Literature Review.................................................................................10
Needs Assessment of Graduate Students.................................10
Challenges of Online Knowledge Sharing...............................12
Knowledge Management.........................................................12
Servant Leadership...................................................................15
Moral Leadership and Social Responsibility..........................18
Green Initiatives.......................................................................20
Research Methodology........................................................................21
Data Analysis and Results...................................................................24
GSA Governance.................................................................................33
Conclusion...........................................................................................35
Recommendations................................................................................36
Lessons Learned...................................................................................38
References............................................................................................41
Appendices...........................................................................................44
Abstract

3. Running Head: NEUMANN UNIVERSITY GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION 1
This Capstone project demonstrates how the idea for a Graduate Student Association
(GSA) was developed and recommends a GSA advocacy group that can hopefully
become a reality at Neumann University. The proposed GSA will provide a consistent
and continuous channel of communication, knowledge, and support between faculty and
current and future students enrolled in all graduate programs and emphasize continuous
knowledge management and servant leadership between each cohort within a specific
graduate program. The Graduate Student Association will be constant, reliable, and
focused on the needs of its members and advocate for positive outcomes between
Neumann University and its affiliates.
“We must become the change we want to see.” Mahatma Gandhi
“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Proverbs 29:18
Capstone: Neumann University GSA Proposal
The Capstone Project

4. Running Head: NEUMANN UNIVERSITY GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION 1
As Neumann University graduate students, we have been provided with many
excellent learning opportunities. Our studies in strategic leadership are concluding, but
this study will show that our projected journey is just beginning. We are 5 students
fulfilling the requirements for graduation by completing our Capstone project. At the
base of our commitment is a shared sense of humility and a willingness to serve others.
These concepts are at the very foundation of our Franciscan traditions. Neumann
University stands firmly on these practices, and so does this academic team of graduate
students.
The proposed GSA will provide a channel for communication, knowledge, and
support for all graduate students, faculty, and mentors. We hope that each succeeding
graduating class of the Strategic Leadership Program at Neumann University will be
attracted—and encouraged—to join the GSA. After going through the necessary
university channels for the initial approvals (a process that has already begun), this
proposed GSA will be the first association developed for graduate students at Neumann
University. Based on our experiences, we feel that the proposed GSA could also serve
incoming graduate students who are planning to earn master’s degrees; this GSA would
be able to assist graduate students to anticipate conflicts ahead of time, and identify
adaptive changes as their curriculum progresses.
This proposed GSA will also serve as a clearinghouse for disputes or hardships
pertaining to the students’ ability to fulfill their educational goals at Neumann. The
proposed GSA will strive to communicate and assemble a core group of alumni as
advisors and to share knowledge with incoming cohorts. The association will help polish
and cultivate members to be leaders in the secular statistical subpopulation by sponsoring