Front & Center

Dr. Pamela Lightsey didn’t learn how to be a leader by reading a book –
she learned by doing and sharing
Dr. Lightsey, Dean of Students at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL, has led a busy and inspiring life. But no matter how busy she’s been serving in the Army, working as an insurance agent, becoming a pastor, earning a doctorate degree, and raising two children, she’s always had time to share her love of life with others. Motivating and inspiring students, colleagues, and friends have helped her become the leader she is today. As she shared her wisdom and optimistic outlook on life during an event sponsored by The Women’s Connection in Davenport, IA, she mesmerized and encouraged her audience with grace and humor.

Q: How do you define leadership?
A: Leadership happens in the immediacy of the moment. It’s the ability to carry out a vision in various and sundry circumstances. I believe leaders must seize the opportunity during seasons of tremendous pressure to take the small lessons of life and use them as growing edges to greater goals.

Q: Do you have a particular style of leadership?
A: I’m enthusiastic and optimistic. If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, others will catch your enthusiasm and get involved.

Q: What has been one of your biggest challenges?
A: As they were growing up, I didn’t spend as much time with my son and daughter as I would have liked. After my divorce, I wanted the same standard of living for them that they were used to, so I had to work more. And I wanted more education because I equated education with my ability to raise my children.

Q: How did you begin to accomplish your goals?
A: I won the favor of one of my first supervisors because she respected toughness and I portrayed that trait. I told her I needed flex time to be with my children and we negotiated my work schedule. I also had the support of my church members. They helped tutor me in Algebra and we traded babysitting hours. Leaders can’t survive without a support system and mentors.

Q: Who are your mentors and what makes them special?
A: Dr. Jacquelyn Grant has been key in my success because of her pioneering efforts in womanist theology. Dr. Philip Amerson, the President of Garrett, is another mentor. When I go to him with an idea, he looks at it and asks what I need from him to make it happen. He personally invests in people. And Bishop James Swanson of the United Methodist Church speaks things into people’s lives that don’t seem to exist. He places confidence in you in areas you may not have thought about.

Q: How have you made a difference by mentoring?
A: I’ve given people a thirst to better themselves with learning. I listen well and I look for the best in people and affirm and elevate them through positive strokes. It’s about teaching people how to be who they really are, to define what their giftedness is, not about making someone a carbon copy of yourself. It’s a wonderful experience for both parties.

Q: With whom would you like to have dinner?
A: I’d like to sit at the table with Jesus and ask if everything in the Bible is true and why aren’t there any of his quotes in there! And I’d like to sit with President Bush – eyeball to eyeball – and learn the true character of the man beyond the sound bites and prepared speeches. To find out his gut feelings about being our leader during this time and what’s good about it and what cuts him to the core.

Q: We’re in the middle of the holiday season. What makes the holidays special for you?
A: For our family, it’s a time for reconnecting. I meet my children and we throw away our schedules, relax, and spend quality time together. We talk and laugh and just enjoy each other. Through the years, they have taught me some of life’s greatest lessons.

Q: What have you taught your children?
A: I sat them down at the kitchen table and said “I birthed you for greatness. Always do the best you can do; there is no excuse for not accomplishing what you set out to do. And, never be anything less than wonderful human beings.” I’ve also reminded them that “to whom much has been given, much is required.” Which is why my daughter volunteers at a nursing home by taking her dog to visit with the residents. They really enjoy it. We have a heavy responsibility to give back because we have the opportunity to do things our ancestors couldn’t do.

Q: What advice would you give women today?
A: Be true to what you’re sensing inwardly and stand for a particular principle. Always be gracious.

Go and go boldly. Look the part and stand tall. Nobody follows a leader who does not exude confidence. Handle your business like a woman!

“I once sold insurance as a side job. One of my saddest, but proudest, moments was when I gave a check to a friend’s spouse. That insurance money helped him raise his two sons. I saw insurance at its best that day.”