As your City Manager, I believe that successful leadership is built upon the foundations of compassion, making a difference, and teamwork.

COMPASSION

“Not all of us can do great things.  But we can do small things with great love.” –Mother Teresa

As a member of the human race, I believe that one of the greatest callings we have is to show compassion and support for those around us.  People are uniquely created with qualities, skills, and talents that can only be magnified in the work with others.  I have a personal background that will vary from others.  I have personally benefited from certain social advantages in my lifetime while also being at a disadvantage in some areas.  I believe that leaders are responsible to meet people where they are, understand that everyone is different, and not allow differences to determine the ceiling of success for those entrusted in that leadership space.  Compassion dictates that we actively listen, show empathy, look for opportunities of equity, and work to lift everyone in our care.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” –Warren Buffet

There are no accidents as to where we are at in life.  Decisions, some internal and some outside of our control, place us in our current circumstances.  I believe we have a responsibility in the place we are to leave it better than we found it.  Every life leaves a fingerprint behind.  Those fingerprints can show care, love, and optimism, or they can portray carelessness, anger, and pessimism.  The difference we make is up to us.  I believe leaders will have an impact, but the trajectory of that impact on others is determined by the heart of the leader.

TEAMWORK

“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” –Michael Jordan

Leadership requires the presence of others.  We do not always choose our team, but a leader is responsible to make sure the team works for a greater purpose.  Accomplishing goals requires planning, organizing, executing, and reflecting.  Leadership will be impactful when all those on the team are involved in this process.  Each member of the team brings a different point of view, a set of talents, and an opportunity to power the organization to a higher level of achievement.  Leadership that harnesses these individual offerings into a defined course will bring success to the organization.