Leadership

Growing up in western Pennsylvania, in Dormont, a borough adjacent to Pittsburgh, a city legendary for big steel and heavy industry, I relished the fall evenings my then-bachelor uncle would chariot my Mom, Grandma, and me to a gravel lot in Connellsville that was hastily arranged each season for sales of farm-fresh produce. There were Seckel pears, squashes of every variety, rutabagas, and apples. My special feelings for those moments are evident in what I learned from my Grandma at those farm-stand fall apple markets.

Learn the essential leadership skills for designing effective change. Discover how to build strong teams, co-create a shared purpose, and solve big problems systemically.

As Q4 2025 unfolds and 2026 approaches, I find myself reflecting on what it truly means to make a difference at scale, especially for leaders tasked with guiding genuine, lasting transformation. Each year brings renewed urgency, but the arrival of fall is always a reminder that more can be achieved (I attribute this to the start of every fall term in education). More people can be supported, more organizations can thrive, and more purposeful change is within reach. The months ahead represent a remarkable opportunity to increase our impact before another year ends.

Leading with intention is more than just setting goals. It's the deliberate choice to lead with clarity and purpose. When your personal values align with your organization's mission, you project a sense of consistency that inspires your team.

Leadership isn’t just about achieving goals; it’s about doing so in a way that aligns with your values and builds trust. Authentic leadership starts with intentionality and self-reflection, two practices that allow leaders to remain true to themselves while empowering those they lead.

Few qualities in leadership hold as much transformative power as authenticity. It shapes how we connect, communicate, and inspire, serving as both a moral compass and a foundation for trust. Yet, authenticity often demands courage—a deliberate choice to show up as your true self, even in the face of challenges, criticism, or uncertainty.