Tim Abraham
COO, Department of Administration
West Virginia
1. What do you think is the key to effective leadership?
Inspiring others through personal example. A leader lives in a fishbowl: he or she sets the tone as his or her values, work ethic, and vision are communicated and filtered to followers throughout the organization. People follow those they trust, which heightens the importance of a leader's integrity. Effective leaders understand that their mistakes can hurt many.
2. What is your favorite leadership quote?
"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." - John F. Kennedy
3. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
"Focus on what you can control."
We can control ourselves - our beliefs, attitudes, thoughts, and actions. To lead others, we must first lead ourselves by focusing on what is right and continually working to be a better person. As public officials, we must focus on and take great pains to preserve and maintain our integrity. How we make decisions and handle the public funds that are entrusted to us should reflect our integrity.
4. What do you hope to get out of your Toll Fellows experience?
I am excited and humbled to know that the Toll Fellows experience will provide me with a deeper understanding of myself, a broader perspective of government and its challenges, and a robust network of bright and innovative individuals ready and willing to help. Together, each of these benefits will enhance my ability to serve as a leader in West Virginia for many years to come.
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