Today, Mount Zion Illinois CEO welcomed Illinois State Representative Regan Deering of the 88th District. Regan brings a unique perspective as an elected official, business owner, and member of the Mount Zion School Board.
She encouraged our students to get outside of academics and be intentional about understanding the world around them. Know who represents you, understand how local and state government work, ask questions, and use your voice.
She also shared a great business lesson about the difference between signing the back of a check and signing the front of one - and the responsibility that comes with being a business owner.
CEO isn’t just about learning how businesses work, it’s about learning how communities work. Who are the people and organizations that make our communities run? How do they work together? What opportunities and resources are available? And how can we get involved?
Regan also spoke about the importance of civil discourse and respectful debate. We may approach issues differently, but often we want many of the same things. Learning to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and respectfully engage with different perspectives is an important leadership skill.
Our students had LOTS of great questions about elected officials, committees, the legislative process, and how government works behind the scenes.
Thank you, Representative Deering, for spending the morning with our CEO students and helping them better understand their community and the role they can play in it!
