Wednesday, June 01, 2011

Last week I had the chance to conduct a portion of the pre-conference for the annual conference of the Center for Research on Adult Learning (CRAL) as well as making a presentation in the conference itself.  I renewed friendships with colleagues I have met from other schools over the years and started some new friendships.  Probably the best part of the conference was the chance to spend significant time with Dave Phillips.  Dave is like my brother.  We met at a conference in Chicago several years ago and rarely see each other more than a few days once a year at conferences, yet there is always the sense that we have known each other forever.  Dave is a leader.  His contributions to NBC will be recorded in the history books as the prime factor in the longevity of that institution and it's impact upon the Nazarene denomination through online education.  He is a leader, yet he is quiet, unassuming and gracious.  He truly exemplifies the level 5 leader that Jim Collins talks about in Good to Great.  I know others who are touted as leaders who are pompous, obnoxious, and overbearing.  Their very demeanor is offensive and yet they are perceived as leaders because who else would have the audacity to give orders, make decisions, or make rude behavior their norm.  When will we say enough is enough?  The ends do NOT justify the means.