Hello Friends,

I’ve spoken to many friends in these tough economic times and heard many stories. Some friends have lost jobs, others fear that they will some time soon, and some are just holding on tight and hoping for the best. These discussions have led me to think deeply about what caused this mess and how we as an American society will pull out of it. I think it will come down to three key things: effective leadership, principled innovation and working closely as a team. These precepts are not new – their importance was poignantly expressed by Peter Drucker many years ago. So, I’m inspired to organize others that believe in the importance of effective leadership, principled innovation and effective teams. Regardless of political beliefs, President Obama, is correct in saying that it will not be a president or a Congress that will fix this mess. It will take each and every individual coming together, thinking deeply about the issues, discussing and debating solutions, rolling up sleeves and ACTING.

With these thoughts in mind, I’m starting a Drucker Society (for more info visit: http://www.druckerinstitute.com/CreatingChange.aspx )here in Philadelphia to promote effective and ethical organizational leadership in this tough economic time. Drucker Socities are forming in different cities globally, and are working to promote Peter’s teachings of the importance of principled, effective and responsible organizational leadership and management. The Societies meet to discuss leadership challenges and use Peter’s texts to provide context for discussion. Also, Societies work to put Peter’s teachings into practice in the workplace and broader community. Society members have the opportunity to step back from their day-to-day problems, critically examine them, get a diverse set of feedback and opinions and feel more prepared to tackle them.

The Philadelphia Society will focus on bringing together leaders from all different industries and backgrounds – for-profit, non-profit, education, government, entrepreneurs, etc. We will discuss current events, tough organizational problems, share stories, food, friendship and build a community of effective leaders. We will roll up our sleeves, act on our convictions and lead organizations that will fundamentally transform society in the near and longer-terms. Please let me know if you are interested in getting involved.

Anthony Shapella
ashapella@gmail.com