Where's Woodward: September
Where’s Woodward?
Things have ramped up quite a bit since my last email. Here’s a look at some of what’s been going on.
August 16: Board of Regents
The Texas A&M System Board of Regents met in August on a variety of topics, including approval of a few employment contracts. In addition to the business at hand, I always look forward to observing the Board at work in this setting. They have an amazing commitment to our institution and our System at large.
Late August: Media Spotlight
Over the last month, I’ve conducted several interviews with various media outlets. Brent Zwerneman of the Houston Chronicle interviewed me for an article in which we discussed a variety of subjects. In the week leading up to the season opening football game I had the chance to visit with Gabe Bock on TexAgs Radio. We discussed the excitement around the program and a variety of topics related to Aggie football and Texas A&M Athletics, in general. I also spent some time with 12th Man Productions on their weekly radio show, Studio 12, to join with Game Day Experience Task Force Chair Sam Torn in talking about this season’s football game day enhancements per the Game Day Experience Task Force. Will Johnson’s interview with us is just the latest example to me of what Sam’s commitment to our program is. On the day of our season opening football game, I spent some time with our old friend Paul Finebaum.
August 27: Jon Gordon
Leadership expert Jon Gordon paid a visit to College Station to talk with our staff, as well as with our student-athletes. In the morning, he met with many of our staff for about an hour. That evening, after spending the day in multiple discussions, he conducted a session with our student-athletes focusing on vital aspects of team building, self-awareness and collaboration – all within the framework of positive leadership. If you’ve been around Jon for any time at all, you realize what a tremendous person he is, and how special his mission in life is. We are privileged to have had him visit us.
September 7-8: ESPN and Capital One Orange Bowl
Last Friday night I enjoyed dinner here in College Station with representatives of ESPN and some of the College Game Day staff. That’s always an important opportunity to share with them so much of what makes this place unique, while developing closer relationships that can add value for both A&M and ESPN. The next morning, I had a nice breakfast with two members of the Capital One Orange Bowl Committee (Sean Pittman and Wayne Schuchts). As you may know, one of the College Football Playoff Semifinal games will be hosted by the Capital One Orange Bowl, so I would love to be seeing these folks again later this fall!
September 11: Lunch with President Young
Each fall, President Young hosts a luncheon for all of our head coaches and deans from all over campus. It’s one of my favorite events of the year, bringing leaders from very different realms together in a relaxed environment. It speaks well to President Young’s excellent perspective and ability to unify leadership to the benefit of everyone here. It’s a great relationship that continues to grow.
