Category Archives: Animal Health

This month, a dear friend and colleague is retiring after 28 years with our organization. The impact she has had on our organization and the Kansas City region is immeasurable. At her retirement celebration, she shared a simple but powerful reflection: “I tried to lead with heart, not numbers.” Anyone who has worked alongside her knows how true that is. She built relationships, invested in people, and made others feel valued. She especially took great pride in lifting up other women in the industry.

At the other end of the career spectrum, we are welcoming new team members and summer interns. As they begin their professional journeys, they will observe many examples of leadership: how people contribute in meetings, collaborate with colleagues, and support their teams.

That reality serves as an important reminder: leadership is always on display. For those of us further along in our careers, the example we set helps shape the next generation of professionals.

A few reminders worth keeping top of mind:

• Make space for every voice and perspective. Encourage discussion, even when viewpoints differ.
• Be open and transparent. Share information that can help the team succeed.
• Pay attention to your tone. Often, how something is said matters as much as the words used.
• Stay creative in your approach to problem solving. Curiosity and innovation are contagious.
• Bring the same enthusiasm and energy you had early in your career.
• Invest in the growth of others and proactively contribute your expertise.
• Show up for team events and meetings, even when schedules are busy. Your presence demonstrates commitment to the team and its mission.

As leaders, our words, actions, and energy shape culture every day. The way we show up influences how others collaborate, serve customers, and support one another. Never lose the passion that inspired you at the start of your career and remember that the most lasting legacy is often built by leading with heart.