Leadership That Inspires: The Traits that Define Exemplary Leaders

Leadership That Inspires: The Traits that Define Exemplary Leaders - Led by Steve Gfell

Grounded in over 40 years of evidence-based research, Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner have found that the most admired leaders aren’t those in high-profile roles, but the people closest to us—teachers, mentors, coaches, and colleagues. Their work highlights that leadership is not about position or authority, but about behavior.

Through decades of global surveys, they identified the key traits people value most in leaders, such as honesty, competence, and the ability to inspire. Most importantly, their research proves that leadership can be learned. It’s not a trait you’re born with, but a set of skills and actions that anyone can develop. Leadership, at its core, is a relationship—one built on trust, credibility, and shared purpose.

Join us for networking at 7:30 a.m., followed by the program at 9:00 a.m.