Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson was the featured speaker at this week’s Leadership Oakland Breakfast of Champions event. While Patterson typically is in the public eye discussing his views on governmental issues, Over 100 participants at the event heard about the personal side of this well known and sometimes controversial leader. In a candid interview with Leadership Oakland Executive Director, Chris Scharrer, Brooks talked about his years before politics, hurts and losses in his life including the tragic death of his son, and some of his career highlights. With a catch in his voice Patterson noted, “I have learned that sometimes good can come after even losses that are so hard I still can’t talk about it without getting choked up.” He then described the origins of the successful Rainbow Connection and The Brooksie-Way Half Marathon. He also commented on regional and state issues including his belief that Southeast Michigan will benefit from leadership changes that are currently underway in Wayne and Macomb Counties. As one participant shared following the presentation, “ I have always admired Brooks Patterson as a leader. Now I appreciate him as a sensitive and caring man. It makes you feel good to know we have leaders that are genuine.”
Following the interview style presentation, Carla Gribbs, Regional Manager of DTE Energy and President of the Leadership Oakland Board of Directors presented a Distinguished Leadership Award and honorary Leadership Oakland Alumni membership to Patterson. “We recognize the deep commitment Brooks has for making our communities better places to live and work” stated Gribbs in her comments. This is the first ever Honorary Alumni Membership, and one of only a few Distinguished Leader Awards granted by the organization. Gribbs closed the morning session joking with Patterson that he will get an invoice for his membership dues in the mail.
For more information about Leadership Oakland or the Breakfast of Champions series please visit www.leadershipoakland.com.
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Established in 1990, Leadership Oakland is a 501 (c)(3) organization focused on business and community leadership development. Leadership Oakland is a member of The Community Leadership Association. The organization provides a nine-month community leadership Cornerstone Program to participants from businesses, organizations and governmental agencies that are selected based on an application process. The organization continues to provide educational and networking opportunities to alumni after graduation from the Cornerstone Program. Leadership Oakland graduates are key business and community leaders serving as catalysts on boards of various organizations throughout the region.
