The Great Toledo Convention

I reflect back several weeks to a great event in my doctoral learning process.

It took place in Toledo, Ohio. Based on my leadership cohort being located in various parts of the northeast, we decided Toledo was central, and Rupert Loyd and his lovely wife opened their home to our group for the weekend.

The topic was “Chapter Three” of a book titled Practicing Leadership, written by our professor, Dr. Art Shriberg. For a group project, we decided to re-write parts of the chapter for the re-release of a new edition. Although so much of what we do or can do collaboratively can be done remotely, being together physically was essential to getting the job done. After spending the entire day together on Saturday, we defined what would turn out as a great revision to an already great book.

Sunday was a day on learning, too. Although we didn’t open the laptops, we had a just as enriching experience hosted by Rev. Rupert Loyd at his church, Mayfair-Plymouth Church. We worshiped with the congregation, and the topic for the day’s sermon was racism and how it faces our society today. Rev Charles Montgomery proved that he can indeed speak 17 languages, and we learned that the Rev. Rupert Loyd could give Sinatra a run for his money. All joking aside, these two men, my colleagues and friends, put on what I might consider the most powerful discussion about leadership and racism I have ever heard. Thunderous applause was the result of their sermons; I still have goosebumps thinking about it.

Also in attendance at the service were Dr. Larry Preston and Dr. Art Shriberg. Their commitment to our group and the program is unparallel from any college or university I have ever attended. Showing their support means more to our cohort than they will ever know. Following a great lunch gathering, the group separated again to our respective cities in the northeast. Spending time together with the people that I have grown to love is truly priceless.

What an event……. Check it out here on the UI&U site

-j-