Page 41 - The EDGE Winter 2025

"Brian was one of the first people I met when I integrity, his warmth, his joy—will always remain in
began my journey in school finance over 18 years my heart. Rest in peace, Brian. You were a friend, a
ago, attending AASBO sessions. He was always mentor, and an irreplaceable part of my journey.
a guide—teaching us about ethics and leadership Lizette Huie, Sahuarita Unified School District
with a passion that shone through every lesson and #30 & Past President
how he lived his life. But it wasn’t until we worked
together on Forecast 5 that we truly became close.
He was the kind of person who knew school finance
inside and out, yet still approached every challenge
with patience and a smile. Through that work, I saw
a side of Brian that radiated integrity, grace, fun, and
a unique light that touched everyone he encountered.
Our paths continued to cross, and when I was on
the AASBO Executive Committee to hire the next
Executive Director, it became crystal clear to me &
the rest of the Board that Brian was the perfect person
for the role. I had the distinct pleasure of working
closely with him during my four of six years on the
AASBO Executive Board, and during that time, we
faced the unique challenge of hosting our first and Ref lections on Leadership
only AASBO Summer Conference online in 2020.
What could have been a daunting experience became May 20, 2024
something far more manageable because I knew "Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well
Brian & the AASBO team was right there with me, enough so they don't want to." -Richard Branson
leading the way. As a leader, establishing a workplace culture that
Even when everything seemed uncertain and the fosters motivation and a sense of value among
world around us grew darker and challenging, employees is essential to cultivating a positive
Brian’s optimism, faith, and grace were a constant work environment. By investing in comprehensive
source of comfort. He didn’t just keep us going; he training programs, organizations empower their
found innovative ways to engage our members and workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge
keep their spirits high. That strength and leadership to excel in their roles. This enhances productivity
were more than impressive—they were a gift. and boosts employees’ confidence and sense of
More recently, when I faced my own health scare accomplishment. Simultaneously, treating employees
with a brain aneurysm, Brian was one of the first with respect, fairness, and respect creates a positive
of many to reach out with true comfort and genuine work atmosphere where they feel appreciated and
concern. His empathy was palpable, and he guided supported. Leaders will foster this sense of belonging
me through a difficult time, sharing his own similar and reduce employee turnover by prioritizing
experiences with health challenges. Together, we employees’ well-being and providing opportunities
talked about the power of faith, family, and friends— for growth and development.
the very things that always grounded him. He was This quote also emphasizes that great leaders balance
always my biggest supporter, someone I could talk employee empowerment and retention, ensuring
to about anything, and someone whose wisdom and employees have the skills to leave if necessary while
kindness will stay with me forever. maintaining a work environment that promotes
I’ll miss our talks, our visits at AASBO events, loyalty and dedication. At the same time, when
and his presence in my life. But Brian’s spirit—his CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

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