Do Good By Leading With Authenticity

The season of gratitude and reflection will soon be upon us. It’s a time when many of us look for ways to give back, uplift others, and, as the theme of this month’s magazine suggests, “Do good.” While there are many ways to perform acts of kindness, I’d like to highlight a specific path to making a difference in peoples’ lives: Authentic leadership.  

Leadership isn’t about a title or a position. It’s not reserved for people with an office in City Hall or an executive suite. Leadership is about the ability to influence and to serve as an example to others, whether in our communities, our families, or our workplaces. It is about cultivating a mindset of positive change, instead of settling for or complaining about the status quo. I believe that leadership begins by asking, “What can I do to help?”  

Being an authentic leader means showing up as your true self — embracing your strengths, admitting your limitations, and acting with integrity. Authenticity fosters trust and genuine connections, allowing people to feel seen and valued. An authentic leader will be the first to admit they do not have all the answers but should strive to find solutions by collaborating with others. When we lead authentically, we inspire others to bring their whole selves to the table, creating a ripple effect of honesty and collaboration.  

Serving as mayor, I hear from people who are passionate about making Columbia a better place, and I listen as they describe the challenges that they encounter as they try to create lasting change. While it’s easy to point out problems that we face, like climate change, affordable housing, and unequal access to upward mobility, it is much harder to become part of the solution. That is where authentic leadership becomes critical.  

Columbia has a long history of citizens stepping up to provide that leadership and I’d like to highlight two past mayors. First, Mayor Darwin Hindman was a prime example of authentic leadership. His genuine passion for enhancing the quality of life in the community was evident throughout his tenure. Hindman was a relentless advocate for active transportation, dedicating much of his time to making Columbia more walkable and bike-friendly. Hindman’s authenticity came through in his hands-on approach — he was known to bike around the city, embodying the values he championed. His deep commitment to the environment, healthy living, and community well-being was not just a political stance; it was a reflection of who he truly was.  

Second, Mary Anne McCollum, Columbia’s first female mayor, also exemplified authentic leadership through her compassionate and community-centered approach. During her time in office, McCollum worked to strengthen community partnerships and enhance social services, particularly for housing. Her authenticity was rooted in her belief that leadership meant being a voice for the entire community, not just a select few. McCollum’s leadership style was characterized by humility, empathy, and a deep sense of responsibility.  

Often, the answer to a problem is not easy to come by. In my experience, the most effective leaders practice empathy and humility. They take a genuine interest in other peoples’ problems, and they acknowledge that they don’t have all the answers. When I approach a problem as mayor, I pull together people with the kind of expertise and lived experience needed to find an answer. In the end, it’s not about personal recognition or getting my way – it’s about putting the spotlight on the solution.  

Doing good shouldn’t be a theme of the month, but a way of life. Let’s continue to lead with authenticity, kindness, and a shared commitment to building a Columbia that’s the best place for everyone to live, work, learn, and play.