I give the credit (or blame) to Leadership Detroit for being one of the key reasons I decided to run for public office. Twelve years ago, LD XIX pushed me to take risks, to realize that we are put on this earth to serve, that "back-benching" your way through life wastes your talent and does nothing for the world. The ropes course, the purposely thought-provoking subjects, the team exercises - all helped to reinforce my determination to serve.

Every single session provided delicious "aha" moments for me; I hungrily ate it all up. From the first session where we had to describe a defining moment, to the session on personality types through Myers-Briggs (I'm an ENTJ), to the diversity session where we saw through another's eyes - all of these were "aha" moments that have been continually reinforced through the challenges of exercising leadership in times of crisis.

I use the lessons of LD daily. Especially in these years of economic transformation for Michigan - leading from below, leading by empowering others, leading through a shared vision, encouraging the heart of those on your team, including all voices, telling the truth - you name it, I use every tool in the LD toolbox. I also use the support of friendship from the great members of my class, many of whom I still see regularly. And many of whom are leading in absolutely heroic ways. To my noble classmates - thank you for being role models to me. Thank you for choosing to continue to lead in this fantastic, down-but-not-out, fighting state; thank you for helping to build the Next Michigan.


You can learn more about the Detroit Regional Chamber's Leadership Detroit program and how to apply by visiting the program's web page.