As we prepare for Christmas, the Authentic Leadership Foundation reflects on a year of growth and progress. From launching our first high school program to developing AI tools for leadership training, we are excited for what’s ahead in 2025. Wishing you a blessed Christmas filled with hope and peace.
The Authentic Leadership Foundation is excited to announce that five-time MLB All-Star and Kansas City Royals Hall of Famer Mike Sweeney will be the keynote speaker at our Bring Out the Greatness 2024! event on December 9. Known for his integrity and dedication both on and off the field, Sweeney embodies authentic leadership, mentoring young athletes as a special assistant to the Royals’ GM and inspiring others through his work with the San Diego Saints and the Mike and Shara Sweeney Family Foundation. Join us for an evening of inspiration as Mike shares his insights on leading with humility, integrity, and purpose, helping all of us bring out our own greatness.
Admiral Patrick M. Walsh, honored with the 2024 Authentic Leader Award, exemplifies authentic leadership through decades of service. His journey spans distinguished roles in the U.S. Navy, including Vice Chief of Naval Operations and Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, marked by ethical decision-making and compassionate leadership during crises like the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake. Transitioning to the private sector, Walsh continued to champion integrity and mission-driven results at Boeing and iSIGHT Partners. His commitment to education at Cristo Rey Dallas reflects his belief in nurturing future leaders, underscoring his legacy of service and community impact.
Making principled decisions can be challenging, especially when conflicting priorities arise. The Dignity Chart provides a structured, people-centered approach to navigate these dilemmas, balancing personal integrity with the common good. Discover how this tool can guide you to ethical, sustainable choices in even the toughest situations.
Where we stand today is the cumulative result of the decisions we’ve made throughout our lives. It’s rarely about quick fixes; habits formed over time require steady and intentional effort to change. Just as with exercise and healthy eating, a single attempt won’t show immediate results. But when practiced consistently over time, whether three, six, or twelve months—the transformation becomes undeniable.
The image you see is a rendition of a famous, possibly mythical, ad from explorer Ernest Shackleton. It sought men for a hazardous Antarctic journey, offering ‘small wages, bitter cold, and constant danger.’ While the ad’s authenticity remains uncertain, its message symbolizes authentic leadership—honesty, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness. This parallels what may be the most successful ‘sales pitch’ in history, when Christ said, “Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Me.”
Mike Sweeney’s leadership transcends the baseball field, embodying the virtues of integrity, service, and humility that the Authentic Leadership Foundation strives to instill in leaders. From his outstanding MLB career to his work with San Diego Saints Baseball, Sweeney leads by example, shaping both athletes and communities. We are thrilled to feature him as our keynote at Bring Out the Greatness 2024! Learn how Sweeney’s life and mission reflect the timeless principles of authentic leadership.
In today’s culture, many shy away from truth when it contradicts personal desires. However, true freedom comes from surrendering to God’s design, particularly in the marital vocation. Research shows couples who conform to this truth—living chastely before marriage—experience greater stability and joy. The path is clear: surrender first, conform next, and the embracing of truth will follow, leading to lasting fulfillment.
At the Authentic Leadership Foundation, every contribution on North Texas Giving Day—whether $1 or $1 million—is a testament to the importance of Truth and our mission to cultivate ethical leaders. By giving and sharing our message, you’ll help us build new relationships and spread the word about our transformative work. Add the event to your calendar and join us in making a big impact with even the smallest gift.
Join us in shaping the future by sponsoring a student through the “Sponsor a Student for GREATNESS!” program. Your contribution empowers young leaders with essential skills and character education. Don’t miss the chance to double your impact by donating on North Texas Giving Day, where matching funds can help your support reach even more students. Together, we can create a legacy of positive change.
Is there a difference between a change of heart and a conversion? The Beauty and the Beast offers a timeless lesson on the power of true transformation. While a change of heart might be temporary, a conversion is a permanent shift, impacting all future decisions. Consider the profound change that comes with becoming a parent for the first time—it’s not just a new role, but a complete transformation that reshapes your entire perspective.