Leadership Made the Difference

From what he observed across the years, Harley shares several examples of successful endeavors that have had a significant impact on Methodism in Western North Carolina. These pieces of history provide important and helpful information, and are well worth reading. More important than that, his years of experience with the Reynolds leadership ministries allow him to reflect on leadership qualities that enabled these projects to achieve success—to move from vision to reality. He focuses on three simple but profound principles of leadership apparent in each of his examples: Vision, Plan, and Implementation. He describes this as the “VPI Factor.” Whatever the project, when all three are present, success is virtually assured. When any one is missing nothing happens. His insights on leadership are priceless.

Harley’s words are gleaned from a long and varied career. First came a brief but meaningful time as a building contractor. Forty-six years in pastoral ministry followed, as local church pastor, District Superintendent, and President of the United Methodist Foundation of Western North Carolina. For twelve post-retirement years he chaired the committees responsible for oversight of the Royce and Jane Reynolds leadership ministries.