2007 Most Influential Women Honoree: Shirley Lawler

Those who observe Shirley Lawler, Ed. D., can see instantly that she is a leader.

Lawler is an associate vice president for academic affairs and work force development at Ozarks Technical Community College. The administration there cites her positive attitude and cooperative style as a source of members’ respect and admiration of her.

For Lawler, it is the quest to be the best that drives her leadership style.

“I believe the journey to become best is what creates team pride and a sense of accomplishment,” Lawler said. “I have been insightful enough to recognize that a leader alone cannot accomplish greatness. Instead, a good leader cultivates a team and is the first to begin the hard work of pushing forward.”

In addition to many contributions in civic life, Lawler gets a great sense of accomplishment from her job.

“The lifeblood of an educator is the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a student,” Lawler said. “The first time that happens, you are hooked. It provides meaning for everything else that you do.”

One student in particular stands out for Lawler: a young man with political aspirations and a tour of duty aboard the U.S.S. Wasp. Lawler encouraged this young man to enter a state-level speaking competition for the Future Business Leaders of America. He took first place in both the state and national competitions, eventually traveling to Washington, D.C., where he was accepted at the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis.

“It serves as a reminder to me that I can be the spark that starts the fire,” Lawler said. “I try to apply this philosophy to my dealings with instructors and others I work with.”

Lawler also works with the Dogwood Trails Girl Scout Council, Workforce Investment Board, Springfield Public Schools and the Educational Community Credit Union.

Despite all of her professional contributions, Lawler still ranks her family as one of her greatest achievements.“I have two grown daughters that inherited my love for education, both of whom pursued careers in teaching,” Lawler said. “I think if there is some small role that I played in who they are today, this is certainly my proudest accomplishment to date.”

One-on-one with Shirley A. Lawler

What advice do you have for young women preparing to enter the work force?

Young women today need to have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. How effectively you communicate with others will determine how successful you are in the workplace. (Also) be empathetic. This is the most important quality a person can possess. When you can perceive how it feels to stand in someone else’s place, then you can put your heart into your work, your mission in life.

Beyond the Golden Rule, what philosophy guides you?

No matter what, family comes first. Jacqueline Kennedy once said, “If you don’t succeed at raising your children, then nothing else you do in life really matters very much.”

Please tell me about your family.

I have two daughters, Amy and Alyssa, and as adults, they have become my best friends. I am extremely proud of the fact that both followed me into education.

I have two wonderful sons-in-law, George and Wes, and I have the two most beautiful grandchildren – Samuel and Grace.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.[[In-content Ad]]