The American Association of Blacks in Higher Education (AABHE) has served as my executive leadership training home since 2017, when I first attended the Leadership & Mentorship Institute in Alabama. This is where I first met Dr. Roland B. Smith II, who served as a faculty member and has ever since served as a mentor. One day after class, Dr. Smith took me to a mirror and taught me how to tie a bow tie, and I’ve been wearing bow ties ever since.
It was a tearful surprise to receive the Dr. Roland B. Smith Board Leadership Award this week. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for your investment in my executive leadership development. It is because of his sacrifices, boycotting, marching, and civil rights efforts, as well as so many others that I can serve in my capacity today. ❤️ - Dr. Mordecai
