New York Times Bestselling Author Stedman Graham visited Nashville this past week conducting presentations at two community leadership events sponsored by American Baptist College (ABC). Speaking on his 12th book, ‘Identity Leadership’ he gave sound, life-lived advice concerning a nine-step
process to becoming a “passionate, purposeful, and meaningful leader through identifying who you are, your strengths, and your skills.” The nine-step process for development highlighted in the book are: (1) Check Your ID, (2) Create Your Vision (3) Develop Your Travel Plan (4) Master the Rules of the Road (5) Step into the Outer Limits (6) Pilot the Seasons of Change (7) Build Your Dream Team (8) Win by a Decision and (9) Commit to your Vision.
“We were honored to partner with American Baptist College to host this significant discussion on Identity Leadership,” said Dr. Harold Love, Jr. Pastor of Lee Chapel A.M. E. Church.
The ABC Presidential Light the Flame Lectures provided an experience of teaching beyond the classroom with a Master Instructor. Mr. Graham engaged the ABC Community on thought provoking perspectives.
“Hosting Mr. Graham in Nashville to support ABC’s outreach in the community was a great opportunity, as well as having a one-on-one session with our students,” said Dr. Forrest Harris, President of ABC.
This ABC learning experience was special for students, faculty and staff. ABC’s SGA president, Doncor Archie said, “Mr. Graham’s nine-steps for Identity Leadership can help you prepare for the future.” Mondale Smiley, a freshman from Detroit Michigan said “To hear Mr. Graham speak up-close and personal helped me understand the type of things my school is doing to ensure I have the best learning experiences at ABC.”
Mr. Graham’s lecture provided exposure to help students pursue goals and
effect change with a clear and concise plan. It also provided a unique perspective for learning, believing and doing. Both events were free and open to the public gaining the attention of many noticeable community members such as Rep. Harold Love, Deputy Mayor Brenda Haywood, Pastor Howard Jones, and many more. Mr. Graham’s book, speaks of his philosophy “To lead others you must first lead yourself.”
The events were held Thursday at Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church and Friday at American Baptist College.
Sponsors included Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church, The Tennessee Tribune, Kingdom Café, Southwestern Speakers, and American Baptist College.
For more information, contact Dr. Phyllis Qualls at American Baptist College, 615.687.6921 or pqualls@abcnash.edu.