Bill Sullivan, MBA ’07, has been a leader in so many different ways that I found it hard to pinpoint an exact example.  Bill truly embodies leading others towards excellence, demonstrating leadership through collaboration and recognizing the importance of ethics.

“Last year, Bill Sullivan was asked to TA (be a teaching assistant for) Macroeconomics for the following year.  At the time, he was juggling the responsibilities of being on the Admissions Committee, volunteering with El Campito, leading School Inc., assisting with a financial report for the Executive Director of Notre Dame, and running his father’s reelection campaign!

I distinctly remember Bill struggling with decision.  Talking to him, I could see that he was proud of the recognition from the professor, and hopeful that he would find a way to accept the position.  However, after a few days of personal reflection he decided to turn down the opportunity.

To me, his decision embodied ND leadership skills.  First, he was honest with himself and recognized that there were limits to his time.  Second, he trusted other people’s counsel when making decisions.  Third, he helped find another candidate.  He ultimately chose to make the decision that would benefit all parties.  Although it wasn’t what he wanted to do, he knew that it was the right thing to do.”

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