Aleron transforms and strengthens workplaces around the world by providing dynamic talent, processes and solutions.
Scott’s family business has called Western New York home since its inception in 1957. Driven by his desire to see the region thrive, he’s calling on his peers to take up the charge of cultivating a sense of civic responsibility and desire to be part of the community’s next generation of leaders.
Why now?
There’s a generational change occurring with community leadership and business ownership, and I fear that there will not be a seamless handoff to the next class of leadership. I want to avoid that unfortunate circumstance. As leaders, I feel we need to instill a sense of responsibility in others to serve as community stewards.
Any hindsight perspective?
One thing that my generation has not done a good job of is creating an inclusive and accessible forum for sharing ideas. Thinking big requires looking at all possibilities and creating opportunities for people’s voices to be heard. This is an increasingly diverse and international community, so how we approach charting the direction of this community must include representatives that reflect everyone.
Hopes for the next wave of leaders?
I’d like to see greater consensus and collaboration, from the public sector to the private sector, and from the not-for-profit sector to community neighborhoods. This region has a history of working in a very siloed fashion, and I think some of the results of our community planning show that. We are one region, and we must start thinking that way to ensure that our collaborative efforts genuinely represent and include every segment of our community.
Advice to make things happen?
I think that if we can inspire individuals to abandon this mindset of, “The probability that we can’t,” but rather, adopt a mindset of, “The possibility that we can,” our big and moderate ideas will naturally be better supported by the efforts necessary to generate the best results.
How do you foster a greater interest in community investment?
I can’t rewrite the history, but I can change the trajectory. People who feel the same way I do need to get involved and better engage the next generation of leadership through meaningful discussion, mentorship and – yes – action. We want people to feel passionate about engaging because the result will be a thriving community, a robust economy and a fun and interesting place to live.
