The Coastal Carolina University Leaders in Training Institute has been established to build leadership capacity to strengthen the people within the organizations and businesses that serve our area, region and beyond. In turn, the University is strengthened by the collaboration among those participants whose collective experiences enrich this program and possibilities ahead as all of us work together to build our communities.

I truly believe that we are all stewards of someplace for a very short period of time, and the best thing that we can do is to leave a place better when we leave than when we found it. Effective leadership is the key.

Leaders are found at all levels of all organizations. To be the most effective leader that you can be you have to have one thing – followers. If you don’t have people that follow you, no matter how good you think you are, you are not a leader. Effective leadership also requires integrity, which must be practiced every day, all day. If you have the respect from others, there is nothing that is impossible to accomplish.

It is my hope that the Leaders in Training Institute will challenge you to reflect upon our leadership style and discover the ways all of us – emerging and seasoned leaders alike – will be able to generate the respect and impact that will better serve our organizations and communities.

As the second year of the Coastal Carolina University Leaders in Training Institute takes shape, I hope that you will discover this opportunity to be a valuable part of your professional development.

Sincerely,

David A. DeCenzo

President, Coastal Carolina University