Great leadership is not an accident.
In my own journey, I’ve experienced firsthand how structured leadership development can make a difference. This past year, I had the privilege of participating in the Aspen College Excellence Program as part of their College Presidents Fellowship. Spending time with 24 other community college presidents absolutely helped me to become a better leader. Having the ability to share ideas, discuss challenges and learn what has worked – or hasn’t – for others provided insights I could bring back to Coconino Community College. Opportunities like this aren’t limited to college presidents. They exist in many fields, but they require intention and support. If my board hadn’t believed in my own professional development, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity.
Great leadership is not an accident. It’s the result of education, experience and intentional investment. If we want Coconino County to continue to thrive, we must commit to developing leaders who can meet the challenges of today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Too often, organizations assume that someone who excels at their job will naturally excel at leading others. But leadership is a distinct skill set, one that requires training, mentorship and ongoing support. Without it, even the most talented individuals can struggle when asked to step into leadership roles. With it, they can become the kind of leaders who transform teams, businesses and communities.
I’ve witnessed both outcomes. I’ve seen promising new leaders falter when they weren’t supported, and I’ve seen others flourish when their growth was nurtured through professional development. The difference is not chance. It’s education.
That’s why higher education plays such a crucial role. From community colleges to universities, our responsibility is not only to provide degrees and certificates but also to create the space for leadership to grow. The lessons learned in classrooms, professional workshops and mentorship programs equip emerging leaders with resilience, vision and the ability to inspire others.
Strong leaders don’t just benefit their own organizations. They drive innovation in business, expand the reach of nonprofits and ensure our communities can adapt and thrive. At Coconino Community College, we see this every day. When we invest in leadership, we invest in the future of Northern Arizona.
Raising up leaders takes intention. It requires us – educators, employers and community members alike – to believe in people and to provide them with the tools they need. Leadership development is education. And if we are serious about building a vibrant future for Coconino County, it’s an education we cannot afford to neglect. FBN
By Eric A. Heiser
Eric A. Heiser, Ph.D., is the president of Coconino Community College.
