Developing leadership skills is one of the key challenges facing the workforce today. Leaders are expected to be emotionally intelligent, savvy business people with a certain amount of global expertise and strategic thinking ability. They are called to be proactive, innovative, business developers and deal makers. Their roles include managing change and diversity, inspiring and motivating others and initiating their own professional development strategies. Additionally, as the current workforce matures, they are called to understand and embrace the basic tenets of leadership in a multigenerational workplace.

      We generally think of leaders as those occupying high levels of authority and having such titles as CEO, CFO, CIO, Directors, etc. In the Information Technology world, leaders are needed at all levels - from multiple-member teams to single member projects working with a user or client. As a boss, whom do you promote? The person you have to kick to get started, or the go-getter? Leadership skills are important at all levels, even if you are working by yourself.          

      Our September speaker is Brenda McCoy Hunter, President of B. Hunter Associates, a Nashville based management training and professional development organization. Brenda will discuss what leaders really do and how to develop those skills. She will also discuss effective team leadership. Prior to starting B. Hunter Associates, Brenda was the Director of the National Extension Leadership Development Program at Tennessee State University. Brenda has more than 25 years experience in helping people develop their leadership skills and personal growth. She is a dynamic internationally recognized trainer and speaker who has traveled the road from survival to success. Her thought-provoking presentations are delivered with energy and enthusiasm. Internationally, Brenda has directed leadership activities in Japan, China, and New Zealand.

      Brenda McCoy Hunter is a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro. At Tennessee State University, she earned the master of Arts Degree in Adult Education and Psychology. Ms Hunter participated in doctoral studies at Peabody College and Tennessee State University. Residing in Nashville since 1973, Brenda is a graduate of the leadership Nashville Class of 1991.

      Brenda has published a book, “Answering the Call,” which is a practical guide for achieving inner success in order to gain outer mobility.

      Brenda is married to Al Hunter and they have two adult children, LaVonne and Nathan. In her free time, Brenda loves to cook and travel.

      Come to our September meeting and learn about the secrets of good leadership skills. You could also ask Brenda about where she has traveled.