Leadership Philosophy

Leadership is..

By Nina Gibbs

Leadership has a plethora of definitions. Webster defines leadership as the “capacity to lead” (Webster Inc.). This definition, while vague is pertinent to the foundation of my definition of leadership. To me, leadership is a trait that we all have. However, coming into college, I did not have that mindset. I believed that only certain people had the capacity to lead others and I did not possess such trait. After a semester of doubting myself, I attended a speech where the former president, Dr. Ben Hancock Jr. said that he wished for every student to find their ‘one thing’ at Methodist University. That day, I began my journey to find mine.

I sought out as many opportunities to grow as a leader. I have played roles of influence in 12 clubs, committees, and teams. From being the captain of the cheer team to hosting the first Oxfam Hunger Banquet my class had ever seen, I had finally discovered my own capacity to lead. Through my role in the Student Philanthropy Committee, I met Dr. Ziegler, who insisted I become a leadership fellow. As a second semester sophomore, I had my own doubts that I will be able to successfully compete the program at the time of matriculation. Despite my doubts, I have successfully completed the requirements of the program due to hard work and dedication. This is what I believe the very core of effective leadership is. There is not perfect scenario for every person to display their capabilities but there are opportunities for you to say yes. To say yes to hard work and perseverance. To dedication to the greater good. Through these conscious and ever-present choices we make, we become effective leaders.