Chamber luncheon offers leadership insight

Dr. Randy Garner, professor of behavioral sciences and former associate dean in the College of Criminal Justice at Sam Houston State University, will present “Legacy Leadership - The Legacy You Leave Is the Life You Lead” at Fourth Friday Luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Aug. 28, at Hotel Fredonia.

Pictured is Dr. Randy Garner.

"I attended Dr. Garner's presentation on Legacy Leadership several months ago, and you will find his comments motivational and uplifting," said City Manager Jim Jeffers.

During the luncheon, guests will also hear a brief energy update from Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams prior to Garner’s presentation.

“Great leadership is really focused on what you contribute, not what you take,” Garner said. “This session examines some of the characteristics of leaders who were able to leave a lasting and positive legacy. Removing some of the mystique from the leadership hype, this session focuses on realizing that the best leaders are those who serve and sacrifice for the followers with whom they work. Leadership is not some amorphous goal; it is personal, involving and focused on helping others. This course has provided life-changing moments for many participants.”

Garner has authored books and professional publications with particular emphasis in the areas of social influence, persuasion and leadership including Criticism Management: How to More Effectively Give, Receive, and Seek Criticism in Our Lives.

Prior to moving to academia, Garner began his 30 years of law enforcement service in 1976 and has worked in all divisions and levels of command. He was appointed as the Chief of Police for a Houston-area agency in the mid 1980s where he was active in a variety of national, state and local law enforcement organizations. Garner has taught with or is a graduate of all of the major police command colleges in the country, including the F.B.I. National Academy, the Graduate Management Institute, the Leadership and Command College (LEMIT), the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration and the Southern Police Institute, University of Louisville.

Luncheon reservations are required. RSVP by contacting the chamber, 936-560-5533, or download, complete and return a registration form. Lunch is $16, and the deadline for reservations is Aug. 27. All attendees will be entered in a $50 cash drawing, and every Chamber member is entered in a $250 drawing, but you must be present to win. Both drawings are sponsored by First Bank & Trust East Texas.