[Flagstaff] Deadline or Guideline? Cracking the Cultural Code of Project Management

Why do some teams expect strict hierarchy while others thrive on shared decision-making? Why are deadlines treated as immovable in one environment but flexible in another? These differences aren’t just about personalities, they’re about culture.

Join us in Flagstaff, where we’ll unpack the hidden rules that shape teams. You’ll learn how cultural values influence project decisions and outcomes, and how to adapt as a team member or leader when working across different perspectives.

Whether you’re just starting out or bringing years of experience, you’ll leave with practical tools to build cultural intelligence, reduce friction, and turn differences into strengths that drive project success.

• Thursday, October 9
• Northern Arizona University | W.A. Franke College of Business
  • Room 436 - located on the 4th floor
  • Building 81 - located off McConnell Dr
  • Parking - P45, P48, P64, P66
• 5:30-6:00 pm Networking and Snacks
• 6:00-7:00 pm Deadline or Guideline? Cracking the Cultural Code of Project Management presented by Dr. Nicole B. Dhanraj

About the Speaker 

Dr. Nicole B. Dhanraj is a distinguished professional with extensive expertise in radiology, business operations, and project management. Her career began as a diagnostic imaging and CT technologist in the U.S. Army, and she has since become a recognized authority in diverse fields, including Human Resources, Business Management, Education, Quality and Efficiency, and Project Management. She has held multiple leadership roles and is the founder/cofounder of several successful businesses.

Dr. Dhanraj’s expertise in project management is demonstrated through her leadership in complex healthcare and business operations, where she has successfully driven efficiency, process improvement, and strategic growth. As a certified PMP, she has led cross-functional teams, managed large-scale initiatives, and implemented best practices in agile and traditional project management methodologies. Her ability to navigate project lifecycles, optimize workflows, and deliver high-impact results has positioned her as a sought-after consultant in both corporate and nonprofit sectors.

As a passionate educator, Dr. Dhanraj serves on two nonprofits—one dedicated to supporting military members and their families, and the other to providing radiology career opportunities to underserved populations. She is also a highly sought-after business coach, dissertation mentor, and adjunct professor. Her teaching portfolio spans a wide range of topics, including Organizational Development, Organizational Behavior and Transformation, Strategic Operations, Human Resource Management, Project Management, and Healthcare Leadership.

Dr. Dhanraj’s excellence in education has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Stanley Drazek Teaching Excellence Award from the University of Maryland and two awards for excellence from the Association for Medical Imaging Management. She has also been featured on the cover of ASRT Scanner magazine and honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteering.

Her academic achievements include a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from St. Martin’s University, a Master’s in International Relations from Troy State University, and a Doctorate in Organizational Management from Capella University. She has also completed Appreciative Inquiry training at Case Western Reserve University and holds a multitude of certifications spanning various industries, including project management.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Dhanraj is deeply committed to addressing critical global issues, including poverty, education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and women’s empowerment. She is a prolific writer, blog contributor, and speaker on these topics and more, sharing insights to inspire change and drive impactful solutions. Dr. Dhanraj actively volunteers with organizations supporting the U.S. military, radiology, human resources, project management, and education, and was notably appointed to the Guam Green Initiative by the Governor of Guam.

Dr. Dhanraj’s boundless energy and passion extend to her personal pursuits, where she thrives as a creative problem-solver and multitasker, tackling challenges with the same precision and dedication she applies to her professional endeavors. Whether she’s advancing radiology, leading strategic projects, shaping future leaders, or championing community causes, Dr. Nicole B. Dhanraj exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and impact.