Colin Wright’s Post

Over the weekend, I was able to celebrate the work of the Indiana University Dance Marathon in 2023 ahead of Indiana’s clash against Penn State at Simon Skojdt Assembly Hall. While I have been transitioning out of my post as the Director of Corporate Relations over the past few months, I wanted to reflect on some of the lessons I learned from my tenure. 1. Relationships Matter - Establishing and nurturing robust connections is essential for effective leadership, especially when working collaboratively with a diverse set of individuals. In my role, this involved 22 other student leaders on the executive council, 7 chairpersons and 60+ committee members on my committee, and a portfolio of numerous businesses from across the nation. Fostering positive relationships with each of these groups is crucial, as it plays a vital role in achieving our common goal of contributing to lifesaving efforts for kids in need at Riley Hospital for Children. The utilization of authentic connections served as a pivotal factor in attaining shared objectives between stakeholders. 2. Be Decisive - Being decisive entails not only making informed and timely choices but also acting proactively based on data. Striking a balance between gathering sufficient information and avoiding prolonged decision-making processes is essential for progress. A decisive leader showcases confidence and clarity in their choices, fostering momentum and direction for the team. This approach not only instills a sense of purpose but also encourages proactive decision-making among team members. 3. Keep The Faith - Maintaining a positive and optimistic mindset, especially during challenging times, is crucial for leadership. Believing in the mission and vision of your organization can inspire others and help overcome obstacles. Acknowledging the highest of highs and the lowest of lows over the course of my tenure on the executive council added depth to this perspective. It was a year filled with both triumphs and tribulations. The journey, however, became meaningful through the unwavering support of my colleagues. Standing by each other during tough times and celebrating victories together forged a strong sense of camaraderie. While the frustrations of unproductive efforts were present, this collective perseverance made every endeavor worthwhile. In the end, the elation of celebrating the accomplishment of raising over $3 million for lifesaving healthcare with my best friends eclipsed everything, making the entire experience incredibly fulfilling. My time in IUDM was truly the best thing that has ever happened to me. It made me a better marketer, better leader, and most importantly, a better man. I will always look fondly at my time in the organization and I am incredibly grateful to FORVIS, Allied Solutions LLC, Solution Tree, Graduate Hotels, Mom Water, HospitalRecruiting, Papa Johns, and countless other partners for their generous support over the years. Go Hoosiers and FTK!