Post by Shaniece Criss

A fifth-grade election, a pocket-sized coin, and county operations reveal meaningful lessons about leadership. In the newest episode of Civically Grown, I have a conversation with Ken Roper, County Administrator for Pickens County, to explore leadership, public service, and the experiences that shape how we show up for our communities. Ken’s leadership story began long before his current role. He shares how early experiences in student leadership taught him an important lesson: leadership is not about recognition, titles, or being the person who wins. It is about service. Our conversation explores: • Why great leaders must move beyond ego • How leadership is not a zero-sum game and communities thrive when we create shared wins • The important role local government plays in people’s everyday lives • How intentional practices can help leaders stay grounded through challenges One of my favorite parts of our conversation was hearing about Ken’s leadership coins. Each morning, he chooses a coin that represents his intention for the day, creating a tangible reminder of the values and mindset he wants to carry into every interaction. Ken also shares his personal motto, Fabula Vera Fit, which means “the story becomes true,” and reflects on how the stories we tell about ourselves and others can shape the future we create. We closed with a reflection on leadership as an Eastern Red Cedar tree: resilient, adaptable, and capable of growing even in difficult conditions. This conversation is a reminder that leadership is not just about the positions we hold. It is about how we serve, connect, and create impact. This episode: https://lnkd.in/e-q6-Avu ______________ About The Podcast: From youth leadership to enduring community impact, Civically Grown highlights changemakers who have turned early civic action into meaningful legacies. A new episode is released monthly on YouTube and all major podcast platforms: https://lnkd.in/eZY4Fe8S. #CivicallyGrown #Leadership #Pickens #CountyAdministrator #Intentions