Coronavirus crisis creating new models of leadership, kindness for the future | Opinion
AMELIORATING CAPITALISM 
Shalom Saada Saar, Miami Herald•March 30, 2020


Coronavirus crisis creating new models of leadership, kindness for the future | Opinion

Crisis tends to produce more compelling leaders than do peaceful times. No wonder that, in ancient China, crises were always synonymous with opportunities. The current coronavirus pandemic is a case in point. In China, President Xi Jinping inspired a despaired nation by stating that the role of his government is “to do whatever it takes to save lives.”

It was a simple and authentic statement that spread hope. As a result, the Chinese people have followed the tough measures that the government put in place without panic despite the heavy loss of lives. Today by all accounts, China has contained the virus and slowly makes its way to normalcy.

Likewise, President Trump, for the first time since he took office, appears to be less self-centered, less critical and more sensitive to the growing pain and suffering of small business owners and the working people who live from one payroll to another. His more-humble demeanor and words, as well as his actions, are inspiring a nation to come together regardless of party affiliation. Not surprisingly, his public rating stands at an all-time high.

Effective leaders also are surfacing throughout the nation at all levels, from Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York to Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis. Mayors and other leaders such as Miami-Dade public schools chief Alberto M. Carvalho more than ever are demonstrating effective leadership.

Clearly, this is no time for politics. We must work together and collaborate across all groups and all states to get through this challenging phase’.

Chief executive officers of national companies are extending the utmost respect to employees, urging them to weather the storm and not worry about their future employment. Leaders of health services are working relentlessly, assuring medical services to all residents. University presidents communicate constantly with thousands of students, reducing their anxieties and assuring them that they will graduate despite the interruption.

Faculty throughout the country continue to teach over the internet, warming students’ hearts by showing empathy and concern.

Our revitalized leaders from all walks of life are balancing command and control with compassion and caring. They communicate consistently and, most of all, appear humble and more human. Hence, we are willing to follow their advice and appreciate their counsel and guidance.

This stands as a critical moment in our history. We have come to learn the power of unity and cohesiveness. When we get through this trying moment, lessons will have been learned and what seem to be destructive winds will be transformed into better organizations and a better society. We are in the midst of a fundamental social revolution that will affect the way we learn, work and treat each other.

I am witnessing a more mature, considerate and kinder nation. All of us are experiencing the beauty of spending more time with our families. We are calling our friends and loved ones to make sure that they are OK.

Unlike during previous epidemics and fuel shortages, we are demonstrating our true values as a great nation. The virus that knows no boundaries, in many ways, has brought out the best in us. May we sustain such attributes for many years to come and serve as role models and a shining beacon of light for future generations to see.



Shalom S. Saar is associate dean of executive education at the University of Miami Herbert Business School.