Page 36 - The EDGE Winter 2025

and contributing to decision-making. This sense of "Brian was a mentor, college and a friend to me.
trust speeds up the ability to make quick decisions, He led me down my current path in AASBO and
as there is no hesitation or second-guessing among within Arizona school finance. Working with him for
team members. In contrast, lacking trust can lead to AASBO conferences and events, he always was able
an unhealthy work environment, with individuals to keep me calm and made me feel like everything is
feeling uncertain and hesitant to take risks or share ok even though there a million things to be done. He
their opinions. This can hinder the decision-making was always a calm voice in a sea of craziness. I will
and problem-solving processes, resulting in delays miss you, Brian.
and roadblocks in achieving organizational goals. Thank you for everything"
Just as character forms the foundation of leadership, -Erik Hackenschmidt, Deer Valley Unified School
trust within an organization allows for effective District
problem-solving. When individuals trust their leaders
and colleagues, they are likelier to be honest when
discussing challenges. This enables leaders to address
problems efficiently and collaboratively, leading to
better and more effective solutions.
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.

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36 THE EDGE WINTER 2025