Page 40 - The EDGE Winter 2025

Ref lections on Leadership

May 6, 2024
"Leadership is hard to define and good leadership is even
harder. But if you can get people to follow you to the ends of
the earth, you are a great leader." -Indra Nooyl
Defining leadership can be complex, and discerning
what constitutes effective leadership is even more
challenging. However, one measure of a truly great
leader is their ability to inspire unwavering loyalty
and dedication among their followers. Such leaders
possess an uncanny ability to evoke a deep sense
of purpose and direction, motivating individuals to "Kindness, compassion and ethics. These are a
go above and beyond what they initially thought few words that come to mind when I think of our
possible. They create an environment where people late Director, Brian Mee. He was a skilled and well
feel valued, respected, and empowered, fostering a respected professional, but what stood out about
shared vision that transcends individual aspirations. Brian was his care for his staff and for the mission
Great leaders possess the capability to rally individuals of AASBO. His leadership style fostered a sense
behind their cause, the wisdom to navigate complex of family within our team. He knew investing in
challenges, and the resilience to overcome adversity. people and relationships yielded the best results for
They are not content with merely maintaining the our organization, though anyone who knew Brian
status quo but strive to push boundaries and create knows this wasn’t his secret motive for success but
a lasting legacy. Their followers are not mere simply his nature. From taking staff input, treating us
subordinates but active participants in a collective to Barbecue lunches and his genuine interest in our
journey, united by a common purpose and driven by lives, Brian was a wonderful person to work for and
an unwavering belief in the goal. collaborate with. He is certainly missed."
By embodying integrity, empathy, and authenticity, -Katie Link, AASBO
great leaders earn the trust and admiration of those
they lead, creating a bond that endures through
adversity and triumphs. Ultimately, the ability to
inspire such unwavering loyalty is a testament to
the profound effect a leader can have on the lives of
others, shaping not only their present but also their
future endeavors.
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.

"Brian possessed a steadfast ability to support
AASBO, peers, friends, and family but his ability
to blend seriousness with levity was ever-present.
He truly mixed the responsibility of service with
enjoying the company of everyone around him."
-Russell Deneault, Creighton School District &
Past President

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40 THE EDGE WINTER 2025