Black MBA - Winter 2007/2008 - (Page 106) LEADERSHIP Profile Catalyst for Change Stedman Graham on How to Make it Happen By Temple Hemphill STEDMAN GRAHAM is in the building, working on what his people call a typical day, from his downtown Chicago office in the NBC Tower, also home to “The Jerry Springer Show.” I walk into Graham’s inner sanctum and am greeted at the door by signed sports paraphernalia and framed motivational sayings, as well as by a friendly woman munching on an apple. Another equally casual employee takes me to Graham’s conference room overlooking Lake Michigan and Navy Pier. Graham walks in with a purposeful stride, having just completed an hourlong talk with an aspiring motivational speaker. Not one to sugarcoat, Graham says that he reminded her of the “process for achievement,” which for him includes such unusual points as traveling extensively and being mindful of social graces and image. Much of what he now shares comes from his New York Times bestseller, You Can Make It Happen: A Nine-Step Plan for Success. A decade after the book’s publication, Graham says the book continues to define him as “Mr. Education” and “Mr. NineStep Plan Man.” The author of several motivational books, Graham also has taught as an adjunct faculty member at the Northwestern University Kellogg Graduate School of Management. He travels frequently to talk about AAD Education, Health and Sports, formerly known as Athletes Against Drugs. A basketball player during his years in the U.S. Army, Graham founded the nonprofit organization in 1985 to unite professional athletes and civic leaders in the development of underserved youth. He also is the chairman and CEO of S. Graham & Associates (SGA), a management and marketing consulting firm. turn to page 88 106 BlackMBA • Winter 2007/2008 • www.nbmbaa.org “It really comes down to service, and what can you build in your own life that allows you to serve more. That’s really the key to success.” ©Neal Preston/Corbis http://www.nbmbaa.org
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