Winners

There is always a good feeling about winning something, no matter the size of the reward. We’re all taught to be winners. It’s somewhat part of our culture. Today, more than ever, there are rankings: the number one auto dealer on the East coast, the number one travel destination, the best restaurant. Rankings and ratings are everywhere. Please do not allow me to pontificate on the BCS standings or on college football ranking. This is just not the season to discuss it, purely for personal reasons.

So how does an organization or a segment of the organization become recognized? Typically, there is some type of nomination process. To win the coveted Malcolm Baldridge quality award there is a huge qualification process. Those who have become involved in that process contend it is as beneficial to participate in the process as it is to win the actual top recognition. I like that. We could extend that same conversation to the academic accreditation process. In that spirit, I’m glad we recognize winning.

Today, we recognize winners at TCL. Our organization is very proud of our PILAU team. Take a look at the TCL website (www.tcl.edu) for the complete story. This group of committed leaders was recognized nationally by winning an award at a conference in Denver. What everyone does not know about this program, and perhaps others, is that there are a host of planned initiatives that led to the recognition and the reality of how this program is making a difference by encouraging African-American men to graduate from an academic program of study. Sounds simple. It’s not, and hence the deserved recognition.

The winners in this program are our students, and students are the core of our enterprise on which all activities are focused. Thank you, PILAU team, for your daily work which is now recognized by the world. We’re all proud of you for making TCL special and for reminding us why we are here: to build a better community through learning.

Dedication

Leaders matter. That’s a fact I consider every day. Leaders maintain an external focus and they constantly look for change opportunities that make a difference.

I watched how a dedicated group of leaders helped shape an institution’s focus this past week when TCL’s Commissioners assembled for their annual planning retreat. Leaders do matter, and in fact the dedication and commitment originates out of a heartfelt desire to serve.

Not long ago I was participating in a group activity with several international students and I had to depart due to a community obligation. Several students questioned me, and I had to explain that a large part of our American community-success model is heavily dependent on volunteer efforts. Some had difficulty grasping that concept.

America is filled with generosity. Teaching benevolence is something we all need to practice. I’m reminded of this, particularly during this time of year when some major community campaigns are in full swing. Giving of one’s time and money are important to many community agencies, including TCL. As I write this note, I am humbled by servant leaders who dedicate resources to community advancement. At the root of all success is an educated polity, and our collective aim is to dedicate to making sure we improve our standing through leadership efforts that keep us focused on the greater good. Thanks to all dedicated leaders who practice benevolence for the powerful leadership example it displays to the world.