Eugene B. Habecker holds degrees from Taylor University (BA), Ball State University (MA), and the University of Michigan (PhD); a law degree (JD) from Temple University; a certificate from the Institute for Educational Management (IEM) at Harvard University; and nine honorary degrees. He is an author, speaker, and educator and has served for thirty-five years in presidential/CEO leadership roles. Gene and his wife, Marylou, have been blessed with three married children and seven grandchildren. Marylou Habecker has spent thirty-five years in ministry leadership roles as an educator, writer, speaker, and artist. She holds degrees from Taylor University (BS and LHD) and Ball State University (MAE). She and her husband, Eugene, have been blessed with three married children and seven grandchildren.
"""Gene Habecker gifts readers a salient reflection on what matters most in leadership. He pushes back against the common cultural view of leadership that exalts power, authority, busyness, and yes . . . even competence. Instead, he highlights the importance of the many soft skills and character traits that prove foundational for leadership that is deeply rooted, impactful, and timeless."" -- Shirley V. Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities ""This book will go with me when I travel and stay on my desk when I am at home. It will be a resource to me and one to share with others working to combine the soft and hard skills required for effective leadership. . . . This is not a casual read. It will require reflection, and this will require time, or as Gene writes, some sacred space. A commitment to finding such space is important, and reading this book will make this worth the effort."" -- R. Dale Lefever, organizational consultant and emeritus faculty at the University of Michigan Medical School ""What a good book! I was really challenged by it. It represents a holistic approach to leadership and provides practical ideas on the behaviors, habits, disciplines, and attitudes that leaders must learn and develop that ultimately lead to organizational transformation. Dr. Habecker's style will keep you engaged by providing constructive and relevant examples from more than thirty years as president/CEO. Prepare to be challenged, empowered, and motivated to cultivate the softer side of leadership."" -- Manuel Rosado, president of Spectrum Investment Advisors, Inc. ""While there are religious examples in this book, it has invaluable information for anyone who reads it. . . . This book is good for potential leaders as well as for those who want to be more successful in their leadership positions."" -- Rhonda Jeter, professor and dean of the College of Education at Bowie State University ""There are many good business books that answer the question, How is great leadership experienced? Topics range from how to build a great team, to the importance of clear strategic direction, to operational excellence, to a myriad of like topics. The Softer Side of Leadership addresses a different issue: How is mature leadership developed? The book is a robust exploration of the deep interior work necessary to be a leader of substance. . . . We need this brand of leadership. We need this book."" -- Thomas Addington, cofounder and chair of Givington's ""The Softer Side of Leadership . . . is an excellent resource to master relationships and culture, critical components to effectively lead organizational change."" -- Albert Reyes, president of Buckner International ""I needed this book. I needed the vivid reminders, the fresh insights, and the compelling perspectives. Frankly, I don't ever remember reading a book on leadership that I didn't want to put down. Until this one. One chapter after another provided conviction, grace, and hope. They were a magnet to my heart, water to a thirsty soul. Gene Habecker has been a leader I've respected for many years. His insights are tested and true. Honesty, humility, and wisdom mark each page. Prepare to be inspired."" -- Dan Wolgemuth, president emeritus of Youth for Christ"