The Observer, January 27, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 14
Cleveland on Fire: The best leaders take a hands-on approach
Guides to success will tell any reader that there are a variety of strategies that leaders employ based on constituencies, personal preference, and desired outcome. Cleveland Mayor Jackson has definitely been schooled in "hands-on" methodology and has proven in his first three weeks in office that he is a typical citizen who expects "great things" – his main campaign slogan. In that short time, Jackson has addressed community grief, opened his doors to the city, and went out into the neighborhoods to help out.
Four years ago, Jane Campbell threw a soiree fit for any royalty that Cleveland may have had or will have – a black tie evening for those invited and billed to the city. Frank Jackson, on the other hand, opened up his celebration to the entire city. On a Saturday night, the Wolstein Center at Cleveland State University hosted the free-and-open-to-the-public party. Stressing the invitation of 'coming as you are,' Jackson strolled in mostly unnoticed but a line quickly formed to greet, congratulate, or share with the mayor.
The first part of Jackson's administration has shown his desire to connect with the fabric of Cleveland. In an act that could have been mocked as superhero-esque, Jackson took part in a prostitution crackdown on the city's west side. That night, he went with the police in attempt to reconnect with the city and show that this administration will not ignore the everyday matters of life that are important to citizens. While I acknowledge the political motivation behind this action, I also feel the great consequences as a citizen of the city. Does this action mean that prostitution will stop in the area? No. Does that matter? No. What does matter, and what could possibly be Frank Jackson's strongest trait as a mayor, is that he seems to support everyone in the city. He is not consumed by photo-ops, grand plans, or rankings.
Across town, a different leader is using the same strategy – Ursuline College President Sister Diana Stano will be moving into the dorms in Pepper Pike this semester. She hopes both to teach the students and learn from them as well – her "hands-on" approach is what seems most unique. Even though she will have a very different lifestyle than the average student, she will become a part of the community and reach a greater understanding with the other residents. Most likely, Sister Stano will gain respect from the women living there as well.
Both of these Northeast Ohio leaders are making an effort to understand their constituents – the best leaders are not only great speakers but stronger listeners. Jackson and Stano are very different people in opposite situations but they have both reached out into their community to become a part of what gives them power. This is a lesson that can be transferred to most leaders – including the administration at Case.
Anyone can tell you how positively I feel about this university, but that sentiment does not stretch across a strong percentage of the students – one of the reasons is the lack of connection between the administrators and the rest of the student body. That being said, I challenge an administrator or a member from their staffs to spend a semester in the residence halls. I understand that most of the staff members have families and I would not expect someone to give up their life, but if there were to be a representative from Adelbert Hall living next to the first-year class, a huge statement would be made. This action would prove to disenchanted students that they are important and it would provide a perfect soundboard for open communication; a level that cannot be reached through committees or open office hours. However, by completely immersing yourself in what is truly a different culture, lessons are bound to be learned by both student and mentor. Those lessons alone could help shape a better future for this university.
