In our increasingly interconnected world, the role of leadership and the values they uphold play a crucial role in shaping the collective values of a community. One individual who has witnessed this firsthand is Steven Delios, a city planner and educator who has worked extensively in both the public and private sectors. Throughout his career, he has observed the impact of leadership and values on various communities, and these experiences form the basis of his latest novel.
Delios firmly believes in the power of a liberal arts education in supporting the importance of the arts in shaping the character of a community. The arts have a unique ability to foster creativity, inclusivity, and a sense of identity among community members. However, in the real world, challenges often arise.
One of the core themes of Delios’s novel is the betrayal of an original agreement aimed at advancing the goal of anti-racism in a community. The story sheds light on the complexities and tensions that can emerge when leadership values clash with the needs and expectations of the community. It underscores the critical role of individuals who champion values that support diversity and inclusion, as well as the need for honest and open communication to bridge gaps and build stronger communities.