Faces of Leadership
Ron Becker Anna Capaldi Mark ShafferA Leadership Conversation - Ron Becker, 20th Class
Ron Becker, CEO, Hilscher-Clarke Electric provides insight about his participation in the 20th Class:
You have just finished the 'class portion' of your Leadership experience. Tell us about your motivation.
As an engineer with 22 years in that field, I was aware that I should be 'better rounded' in my role as CEO. Arts and Culture experiences would take me 'out of my box' and I wanted to give those areas a try. My family couldn't believe it when I told them how I played the drums (as part of the Cultural Diversity Day with Massillon musician/artist Fred Goodnight)! That was great!
What parts of the program had the most effect on your role as CEO?
The TANF Town simulation* at Human Services Day left a lasting impression. I was so moved by the experience, that I tied it in to Hilscher-Clark's role as a good corporate citizen. During the Christmas season, I shared my experiences with our employees and I believe that it reinforced Hilscher-Clarke's involvement in our 'adopt-a-family' efforts.
Did Leadership Stark County meet your expectations?
When I started the program, I had different expectations, but not many stones were left unturned . . . and I enjoyed each day.
Any surprises as you conclude the program?
Our offices are in Canton and Coshocton, and I live in Bolivar. As I've gotten to know more and have become more involved, I have the desire to move to Canton! That was totally unexpected!
* TANF Town simulation refers to the 'month in poverty' based on U.S. Temporary Aid to Needy Families. The simulation, now produced by the Missouri Association for Community Action, has received national acclaim as a model for teaching community leaders. It has been a component of the Leadership curriculum since 1990.
The second in our series of interviews with Leadership alumni is a conversation with Anna Capaldi (16th), conducted by Scott Haws (20th), of Diebold, Inc.
Scott: As a volunteer you are Leadership Stark County's Board of Trustees chair, you serve as a Perry Township Trustee and work full time as a senior tax manager at Bruner-Cox. From a leadership viewpoint, how do you accomplish all that?
Anna: It all comes down to prioritizing, organizational skills and focus. I also have a good support system that helps in every activity I'm involved with.
Scott: Looking back, what was the greatest benefit of your participation as a member of LSC's 16th Signature Class?
Anna: The personal relationships that I have developed from the program have been priceless. Also, an almost equal benefit is the awareness of all the community assets that exist in Stark County and can be tapped into.
Scott: As board chair for LSC's Board of Trustees, you have overseen an update of the by-laws, and implementation of the Spotlight program for young professionals. LSC has expanded greatly in the last 5 years; tell us about the current board focus.
Anna: Current board focus is on updating the strategic plan. By doing so the board is able to ensure the infrastructure is in place to support program growth at the level of excellence that Leadership Stark County is committed to.
Scott: What's been the driving force behind your community involvement?
Anna: My driving force is a passion for community involvement. While in college I was heavily involved in different organizations, such as president of my sorority, and treasurer of various organizations, while also holding down a part-time job. After graduation I focused on obtaining my CPA and Master of Taxation, and was then able to turn back to community involvement.
Scott: What was your goal in becoming Perry Township Trustee?
Anna: My goal is to obtain for the community that which it deserves and not just which it is given.
Scott: What are the keys to being successful as a Trustee?
Anna: Remembering that we are there to serve the people, showing consideration to them and to my fellow elected officials and employees. In addition, the use of conflict resolution management.
Scott: How are you able to keep your responsibilities at Bruner Cox and as Perry Township trustee separate?
Anna: Community involvement and commitment are very much valued at Bruner-Cox LLP and the partners there are supportive of my community involvement. I strive to prioritize and structure my work so that neither responsibility will interfere with the other. In many ways, the different jobs compliment each other.
Scott: Anna it's obvious you're always on the go, how do you find a way to relax and clear your mind?
Anna: Spending time with my pets provides great peace. When I'm exhausted from an active week I like to kick back and watch some TV.
Nineteenth Class graduate, Mark Shaffer, manager of customer care at Time Warner Cable, explains what the Signature program did for him:
"Today my mindset has shifted. If I feel strongly enough about something needing to change I am more apt to become involved in making that change happen instead of assuming someone else is going to do it. My Leadership Stark County experience went well beyond learning more about my community and this region. Both personally and professionally LSC has quickly opened doors and communication channels that would otherwise have taken years for me to accomplish building on my own. At the end of the day I'll take away from the program a more focused "doing something about it" mindset."
If you would like to be part of these conversations, either as interviewer or interviewee, please call the LSC office at 330-458-2094