READ TO LEAD A Preview of CCOSA Conference Keynote Books

This year’s CCOSA Conference brings together two recognized voices in leadership.

To help attendees prepare for these impactful sessions, we’re highlighting the books behind the keynotes. Every registered attendee will also receive a copy of Trust & Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others.

By Madeline Pollard, Marketing, Events & Corporate Partner Services Specialist

Trust & Inspire by Stephen

M. R. Covey

Opening Keynote Speaker: Stephen M. R. Covey

This powerful leadership book challenges the outdated “Command & Control” model and introduces a transformative approach: Trust & Inspire. Rather than motivating through rules, compliance, and control, Covey calls leaders to unlock potential through trust, purpose, and partnership.

Key takeaways:

■ Leadership is not about position – it’s about influence and inspiration.

■ Trust is the new currency of leadership; it must be given to be earned.

■ Inspire by modeling authenticity, clarity of purpose, and care for people.

Stephen M. R. Covey, an expert on trust in leadership, will open the CCOSA Conference by expanding on these principles and how they apply in today’s schools and systems.

The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change by Jon Gordon & Damon West

Closing Keynote Speaker: Damon West

In this short, impactful book, Damon West shares a simple but powerful message: When facing pressure, you have a choice – be changed by your environment or change it.

The metaphor:

■ Carrot = softened by adversity

■ Egg = hardened by it

■ Coffee Bean = transforms the environment West draws from his personal story of struggle, incarceration, and redemption to emphasize resilience, ownership, and positive influence. His closing keynote will challenge attendees to lead change by becoming the “coffee bean” in their schools and communities. ■