Charleston Reporter

On Wednesday, March 27th, Tonya McIntyre, Director of Community Outreach for the Charleston County School District, shared her insights on leadership, learning, and impact with the 2024 Spring Class of Leadership Discovery. McIntyre emphasized the importance of continuous growth and learning, stating, "learning is the only thing the mind never exhausts, never fears and never regrets."

Throughout her presentation, McIntyre highlighted the significance of mentorship in her own journey, crediting her mentors for creating spaces and opportunities for her to develop as a leader. She stressed the value of passing on knowledge and investing in others, stating, "Leadership is more than a title but more of a feeling. It is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence."

McIntyre also touched on the importance of humility in leadership, emphasizing the need for leaders to recognize gaps and inconsistencies in their work. She noted that cultivating environments where individuals and teams thrive requires a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to acknowledge areas for growth.

In addition to reflecting on her own leadership style, McIntyre prompted the audience to consider the type of leader they aspire to be. She posed the question, "Are you an influencer, relationship builder, executor, or a strategic planner?" encouraging listeners to assess their current approach to leadership and identify areas for development.

As a participant in the session, Kecia Bradley-Gadsden expressed gratitude for McIntyre's insights, stating, "Tonya was huge in making me think through what kind of leader I want to be." McIntyre's guidance served as a reminder to invest in personal and professional growth, and to prioritize building meaningful relationships with others.

In conclusion, McIntyre's message resonated with attendees, reminding them of the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, humility, and self-improvement in the journey of leadership. Her words serve as a source of inspiration for individuals striving to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.