Wow, what an experience: Reflections on LeadershipLink 2011

By Dr. Jimmy Arthur Atkins

I attended the first annual LeadershipLink conference in the spring of 2009 at Mountain State University in Beckley, WV. In fact, I still have the T-shirt that came with the registration. Although the T-shirt is a little faded now, my experience at the conference is still fresh in my mind. LeadershipLink, now in its third year, continues to provide rich opportunities for scholars, practitioners, and students to contribute to new and emerging paradigms of leadership. 

This year's conference focused on leading self with character. The opening keynote address by Dr. Glenda Simms on women and leadership caused moments of reflection as I considered the many important women in my life — my wife, mother, sisters, and grandmother who have encouraged me to pursue my dreams.

The conference offered diverse sessions related to leading self with character including emotional intelligence, integrity, ethical decision making, leading with purpose, and personal brand loyalty. A consistent thread of discussion that ran through each session was the need for leaders to be true to themselves and others. Moreover, it was clear from the onset that leadership is inside out rather than outside in, a view of leadership that I find consistent with my own values and beliefs.

On the last day of the conference, I had the opportunity to present on the importance of courage and resiliency for leaders. In my mind, the two are not mutually exclusive. I also discussed the "f" word — failure — and what we can learn from it. It takes resiliency and courage to bounce back from disappointment, pain, and feelings of inadequacy.

On the drive back to Charlotte along the picturesque mountains of West Virginia on I-77, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and passion. The conference helped me to refocus on two important questions: Who am I, and for what purpose was I created? I am looking forward to participating in LeadershipLink 2012. A special thank you to everyone who participated and shared presentations, ideas, gifts, and talents to make the conference a success. 

Dr. Jimmy Arthur Atkins is an Associate Professor in MSU's Charles H. Polk School of Leadership and Professional Development and is based at MSU's center in Hickory, N.C. He is the founder and managing partner of The Atkins Leadership Group and speaks regularly on the topic of leadership with corporate, non-profit, and faith-based groups.