MCA President’s Perspective

Leadership on Display

It has been a year since the COVID-19 pandemic brought meetings, events and normal business functions to a halt. However, I am here to tell you that our association is kicked into high gear, encouraging each of us to be engaged leaders for the beef industry.

Every Wednesday, cattlemen and cattlewomen from all regions of our state put boots on the ground at the capitol. There is nothing more powerful in Jefferson City than the voices of constituents advocating for MCA’s priority issues. I encourage each of you to contact your regional vice president to sign up for an opportunity to have input on critical issues impacting the cattle industry. Together we have a stronger voice.

The MCA County Leadership Conference and first session of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Leadership College 2021 took place in March. Our staff did an amazing job of organizing sessions focusing on building leadership qualities. It was rewarding for me to be involved at the two-day event with these members as they learned tools to enhance their county organizations as well as engaging in the political process at the capitol.

As I go around the state meeting with our affiliates, I am inspired by the leaders, that means YOU, making a difference. When most of us think of leaders, we focus on individuals who stand out as popular, powerful or highly influential. But true leadership isn’t defined by those qualities. It is in each of us through our actions, by demonstrating values such as honesty and respect, inspiring trust and loyalty through integrity, and leading by example. in their own work and lives, a strong leader strives always to demonstrate and model these qualities. I am encouraged by our members as they conduct themselves in a manner that they expect others in the organization to follow, including striving for excellence. Integrity comes from knowing who you are, being clear on your core values and what you stand for, and then behaving and speaking in line with all of that.

With a shared vision, leaders work with others in the organization to envision the possibilities of what the organization can become and do. I am energized by our members in their commitment to having and attending regular meetings, educational opportunities, community beef promotion events and celebrating accomplishments. As advocates for the beef industry, continue to share your story and your passion.

In my leadership role as your president, I am inspired to lead by example. “Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.” I want you to become more passionate, more hopeful, more inspired. I want you to feel empowered, equipped and on fire. I want you to believe in yourself because I believe in YOU!