Page 35 - The EDGE Winter 2025

In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, taking the had a rare gift for making people feel supported and
initiative is more critical than ever. It sets individuals valued. His presence filled every room with warmth
apart from the rest and is a vital trait to possess as and encouragement, and I know I am not alone in
a leader to achieve personal or professional success. feeling the deep void he leaves behind. His impact
Great leaders are aware of this and are fearless in remains, and his legacy will live on forever."
stepping forward and taking action, even when no -Courtney Pina, Buckeye Elementary School
one else is. District
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M. Ed.

"Brian’s impact on AASBO and school finance was
undeniable. He had a remarkable ability to put those
around him at ease, no matter the challenges ahead.
Many of us saw Brian as a legend during his time
at Pendergast. His dedication and leadership set a
standard we all admired and aspired to emulate.
He deeply cared about developing others, always
striving to guide and mentor future leaders. His
influence shaped countless careers, and his passion
for fostering strong, capable school business officials
was evident in everything he did.
Brian was the driving force behind rebuilding the
professional development program, Brian created Ref lections on Leadership

a partnership with Heinfeld Meech, Karin Smith to April 15, 2024
modernize and enhance the curriculum. His vision "Character makes trust possible, and trust is the foundation
extended even further—he established a partnership of leadership." John C. Maxwell
with The Trust, creating a two-part leadership This quote from John Maxwell emphasizes the crucial
program that continues to benefit our members role of character in building and maintaining trust
today. His commitment to education and professional within a leadership role. A strong character makes it
growth has left a lasting mark on me and on all who easier to establish trust with others, as one’s actions
had the privilege of learning from him. and words should always align with their values and
Kindness and faith were at the core of who Brian was. promises.
He was deeply devoted—not only to his beliefs and Trust is the essential element that binds teams
his family but to every member he served. Whenever together in any organization. It is the cornerstone of
I had doubts, Brian was the one who reminded me successful leadership because it establishes a sense
to stay positive, trust the process, and keep moving of security and reliability within a group. Leaders
forward. His words were never empty; they carried with solid character act with honesty, transparency,
wisdom, experience, and a genuine sense of care. I and consistency, which fosters trust among their
will always remember his optimism and words he team members. In return, team members feel more
often said, “don’t worry, everything will work out.” connected and motivated to achieve a common goal.
No matter how serious the situation, his unwavering Trust within an organization also directly impacts
faith and positive outlook never wavered. decision-making and problem-solving processes.
More than anything, I will truly miss his constant When trust is present, team members feel
reassurance, his ability to lift others up, and his belief comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas openly
that, no matter what, things would work out. Brian
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