Global Strike commander challenges scholars to lead in times of change

Published April 26, 2011
By Megan Meyer
Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs

SHREVEPORT, La. -- The commander of Air Force Global Strike Command recently spoke at a scholarship banquet honoring high school students planning careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and information technology.

"Our modern world is characterized by change," Lt. Gen. Jim Kowalski said in front of almost 400 military and community leaders. "The challenge is how we adapt to those changes."

Also in attendance at the annual scholarship awards ceremony April 21 were the scholarship winners, their families and members of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association.

Ten scholarships were awarded to local high school students based on recommendations from teachers, community leaders and employers. Scholarship decisions included consideration of applicants' participation in school and community, their commitment to university-level technical studies, and their ability to maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average.

"This scholarship makes a big difference in my life," said Ms. Sylvia Lemley, winner of the AFCEA General Dynamics Diamond Partner Scholarship and corps commander of the Air Force Junior ROTC program at Parkway High School in Bossier City. "Six months ago I didn't know if I was going to be able to afford to go to college, but with this scholarship, I can."

Sylvia plans to attend the University of Louisiana-Monroe in the fall, and gave credit to her ROTC instructor, Lt. Col. Dave Hadden, for suggesting she apply for the scholarship.

General Kowalski offered three pieces of advice to the scholars.

First, he challenged them to build character. "All of you are architects of your own character," General Kowalski said. The strength of one's character helps an individual to deal with rapid changes, he said.

Second, General Kowalski told the scholars it is important to think for themselves. Experts often provide an "illusion of certainty," the general said. "Take their information, but don't shut off your own brain as you live your life...you are accountable for your own decisions," he said.

Finally, leadership is about change, the general said. "Part of what you have to do as a leader is to recognize the face of change and take your people to the next level."

AFCEA members and community leaders from across Shreveport-Bossier City sponsored the scholarships and the event.

Mr. John Hubbard, manager of external affairs for Southwestern Electric Power Company, said "there is no better relationship" than the one that exists between Barksdale and the Shreveport-Bossier City community.

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