Taking the Long View

Dr. Roger Parrott pt 1

Each of us has a calling by God. Each of us has our own path we need to follow, designed by God. Each of us needs to understand that unique calling and strive to serve the Lord as best we can and to impact as many people with the Gospel as we can – no matter the calling. To help folks in fulfilling their calling, we often pursue higher education in the process. Our guest today is Dr. Roger Parrott, President of Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi, one of the fastest growing and most innovative colleges, serving over 5,000 students. Dr. Parrott was named among the 10 Most Visionary Education Leaders of 2021 by the Education Magazine. As one of the longest serving college presidents in America, Dr. Parrott is a fountain of knowledge for Christian parents and business leaders alike. He is also the author of a couple of books, the latest release is titled, “The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders.” First question I always ask is this. Other than that very brief information I just provided, can you tell us in your own words, “Who is Roger Parrott?” Dr. Parrott, there are a couple of things I would like to talk with you about today. The first question I have, we see a lot of push going on right now in trying to provide free college for those that want to pursue further education. The reason is because graduating students are entering the workforce with a ton of student debt.  What is the reason college tuition costs are so high? Where would the money come from to pay the expenses if you cannot obtain the tuition from students? You are not only one of the longest serving college presidents, but you were also one of the youngest when you first started at about the ripe old age of 34, correct? How did you handle the job of leading faculty members who probably had been at the university for decades and you were probably younger than most of them? Again, in your book, “The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders,” why did you write this book at this time in your career? I loved the part where you said that Toyota had implemented a long term plan over 50 years ago what is now being realized today: they surpassed GM and other US automakers. You also referenced that employees with the Japanese automakers are there for the long haul.  We have shifted away from the “30 years with a pension and a gold watch” standard here in America. Is it too late for the culture of this country to shift and embrace the long term approach to anything? But if there are changes that need to be implemented, how do you recommend a new leader proceed that would motivate the unofficial chain of command to accept the changes. Belhaven University is one of only 35 schools in the world that has earned accreditation in all four of the primary Arts – Theatre, Music, Visual Art and Dance. In addition, other majors of Creative Writing, Graphic Design, Arts Administration and Film Production. These things can be obtained at many colleges or universities. What is the value of a Christian college education? Why should parents – and, of course – students, consider a Christian University? Some people do not understand what that accreditation really means. Can you explain that for us please? In your book, “The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders,” you discuss how, over the last 30 years or so, the expectation of business leaders has been short term profitability instead of the long term growth. You reference things like the dot-com bubble and the Mc-mansions that fueled the housing crisis. This type of short term success driven policies has even influenced ministries and churches, correct? I would venture to say that God had the “long term view” in mind when it came to spreading the Gospel around the world in the lead up for the return of the Lord. I highly recommend Dr. Roger Parrott’s book, “The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders” to you. You can go down into the show notes and order your copy today. Do it right now, while you are thinking about it. In fact, this would make a great gift for your pastor or a Christian who is operating a business. Praise God. Order two or three of Dr. Parrott’s book, “The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders,” and sow them into their life. Amen!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

  Email:   president@belhaven.edu (do not share)   Contact Website:  https://belhaven.edu Book Website:  https://longview2020.com Book:  “The Longview: Lasting Strategies for Rising Leaders” – on Amazon Book:  “Opportunity Leadership: Stop Planning and Start Getting Results” – on Amazon

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