Joyce R. Gaufin
President-Elect, American Public Health Association
On July 29 we had Joyce R. Gaufin as our guest speaker. She talked on the importance of nurturing leaders for tomorrow. Quoting a 1989 report she said, “today, the need for leadership is too important to leave its emergence to chance.” She added that the next generation is ready to be a leader now, at a very young age. “The challenge is that they have the right mentors and coaches.”
She also emphasized on the importance of relationships, which, she said, is most fundamental of all human needs. To become a good leader, you have to learn to reach out to those who do not think and feel the same way as you do. “Good relationships help build trust, a very important ingredient for effective leadership,” she said.
Good leaders nurture their passion. “Only a small group of thoughtful and passionate people can change the world,” she added.
Leaders must also have vision as a good vision takes us forward. She gave the example of Walt Disney who went bankrupt several times before his idea of Disneyland actually fructified.
Ms Gaufin also emphasized on developing critical thinking abilities and having an open mind.
Leaders also have to be tough. “Leadership is not for the timid,” she added. And, one needs to keep it in mind that leadership is a journey and not destination.
Ms Joyce R. Gaufin was introduced by PP Man Mohan Singh Kohli. Rtn Ranjit Powar presented her a memento. The vote of thanks was proposed by PE Prof Paramjit Singh.
