JFK’s Visionary Leadership
One of the most impactful sessions centered on the leadership of John F. Kennedy. Through video clips, we explored how JFK’s rise in popularity coincided with the growing influence of technology.
The debate between Kennedy and Nixon was the first presidential debate that voters could watch on television, giving visual perception a new role in political engagement. Kennedy masterfully utilized this emerging medium throughout his campaign and presidency. His poise during debates and addresses, paired with his calm and confident demeanor, helped shape public perception of him as a competent and visionary leader.
JFK inspired others through his vision, clarity, and confidence, as powerfully demonstrated by his “Moon speech.” He didn’t merely announce a policy goal to put a man on the Moon; he issued a bold, inspiring challenge for the American people to rally around.
No one is perfect, and we will all make mistakes, but when we stumble, we should “fail forward.”
The Power of Emotional Intelligence
We also examined emotional quotient (EQ), or emotional intelligence, and how it has emerged as a critical trait for effective leadership. Through self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management, emotional intelligence enables leaders to build strong relationships, manage conflict, demonstrate empathy, and thoughtfully navigate interpersonal relationships.
JFK’s emotional intelligence was reflected in his ability to empathize, connect with people, and remain composed under pressure.
Lessons from the U.S. Coast Guard
We learned about the history of the U.S. Coast Guard and the importance of connecting, communicating, and collaborating.
How we communicate matters.
We were challenged to choose the most appropriate communication mode, recognizing that multi-modal messaging may be more effective than a single email.
Effective leadership recognizes the importance of meeting people where they are and ensuring that communication is intentional and received. The practice of “leadership by walking around” was emphasized as a way to be more visible, not just to our direct reports but across the organization.
Even with our best efforts, setbacks are inevitable. No one is perfect, and we will all make mistakes, but when we stumble, we should “fail forward.” When we fail forward, we learn from mistakes, analyze what went wrong, adjust, and apply these lessons moving forward.
Reflecting on Leadership
As I reflect on the Eagle Institute, I find myself thinking more intentionally about my leadership skills — how I communicate at all levels of the organization, how well I listen and observe before acting, how I might improve self-reflection, and how to inspire people to want to do something.
I also plan to look more closely at and reflect on projects, asking the following questions: What did we want to happen? What did happen? What was the difference, and why? And how can we improve in the future?
Gratitude and Looking Forward
The Eagle Institute was filled with history, vision, and ways to improve. Thank you to the ASBO International staff and our presenters: Jeffrey D. McCausland, PhD, founder and CEO of Diamond6 Leadership and Strategy LLC; Steve Riccio, PhD, SPHR, PCC senior lecturer at Dickinson College; and Jody Maisano, Coast Guard officer (ret.) and president of Always Ready Consulting.
I also want to express our deep appreciation to our friends at Equitable. Without their generous support, this event would not be possible.
Leadership is a journey rooted in the lessons of the past, informed by present challenges, and inspired by the promise of the future. The Eagle Institute reignited that vision. I encourage you to join us in New Orleans next January to continue that journey together.