Leadership That Lifts Us

Elizabeth Shea, September 11, 2025

Today, as we’re honoring the memory of 9/11, and simultaneously processing the latest in what is starting to feel like a never-ending breakdown in our country's ability to have civil discourse, I am thinking a lot about what true leadership looks like in difficult times.

For me, it comes down to two very basic things: respect and responsibility.

Respect has to come first. In moments of crisis and even in the everyday work of leading, respect means listening, valuing different perspectives, and treating people with dignity. Sadly, this foundational value is something clearly missing with our current political leaders. This needs to change because, without respect, there can be no trust, and without trust, there can be no progress.

But real leadership doesn't end there. Respect is only the beginning. Equally essential to the equation is responsibility. Leaders have an obligation to create systems and communities where no one is excluded or overlooked, and to set an example of inclusion (all of us) instead of exclusion ("us" v. "them"). Part of the responsibility of good leadership is about continually asking: Who needs to be included, and how do we make sure they are?

Leadership isn’t just about vision — it’s about ensuring that no one is left out or left behind.