Fascinating Leader

Thanks to the Connecticut Association of Nonprofits, I addressed the state conference Monday. The keynote address was delivered by Bill Strickland, who, like me is a jazz lover and LP record collector.

He gave an inspiring address, woven with stories from his remarkable background from at-risk youth to 1996 MacArthur "Genius" grant recipient and visionary social change leader.

As President and CEO of Manchester Bidwell Corporation and its subsidiaries, Manchester Craftsmen's Guild (MCG), and Bidwell Training Center (BTC, Bill has turned his centers into a national model for education, culture and hope.

Here's (a paraphrase from my memory) a comment he made. "I would never send my child to a school where the students have to pass through a metal detector. This is not a place that respects the pupils."

I was impressed by his vision to create what one reporter called an "oasis in depressed Manchester, a refuge with a door that opens on a better future." He had world-class artists and architects create phenomenal surroundings since he believes that "environment drives behavior."

His education and training centers have remarkable results - here are a few examples: "students at the greenhouse are learning skills that will land them real jobs in horticulture/agricultural industries, and there is a byproduct: The prize-winning orchids they grow are sold to local florists and Giant Eagle and Whole Foods stores. MCG Jazz has released three DVDs and 32 jazz CDs, four of which won Grammy Awards. These products don't just generate income and public relations benefits; they engender pride in the students, young and old.

Of course, I loved the stories about the jazz musicians who have visited his studio and concert hall; Dizzy Gillespie recorded a song and then gave the rights to the school!

Now, Bill and a team are replicating these centers around the county and around the world! As a father, whose son just finished high school in a good district outside Los Angeles, I believe that providing quality education is the only way this nation will succeed on a global basis. There are too many hidden, talented students being ignored by the current system where they get lost.

Bill's success has been driven by his ability to build relationships with people from all walks of life. His philosophy mirrors mine - for instance he says, “You go to a community's business leaders and speak their language. You don't go in asking for a sponsorship. You explain, 'This is what I can do for you.' You offer a partnership."

Thanks Bill, for a great experience. To read more click here