Collaboration, Community, and Common Ground - Methodologies for Moving to Action vs. Reaction

Lew Montgomery 

This presentation underscores the importance of proactive engagement over passive reaction in achieving societal wins. These wins are defined as educational success for children, financial stability for families, and overall health for individuals. The session will delve into the role of non-profit advocacy and the significance of forging strong community partnerships. A methodology for community development will be explored, highlighting the need for diverse leadership, focused partnerships, and a pluralistic reward system that honors authenticity. As we strive for a brighter future, a people-centric approach is paramount, especially in supporting marginzlized groups. The lecture will inspire hope and belief in charge, advocating for a unified community that cherishes each person's true self. Participants will gain insights into the vital roles of problem-solvers, service-minded individuals, and volunteers in enhancing the quality of life localls. Together, we aim to force a stronger, more prosperous tomorrow.

Lew's Bio:

Lew Montgomery is a legend on and off the field. With over 30 years of experience in leadership, human resources, diversity, and community relations, he has made a lasting impact in various sectors and organizations. From Coca-Cola to ACT Testing, from Alliant Energy to the University of Iowa, he has brought his vision, passion, and expertise to every role he has held. He is currently the Senior Human Resources Director & DE&I Office at The University and serves as the Big 10 Advisory Representative for the University and served as Interim Associate Athletics Director for the University of Iowa Athletic department. He is also the Founder & CEO of Lucas Gear, LLC, an e-commerce business, and Gridiron Solutions Consulting, LLC, both of which are extremely successful businesses. Lew graduated with a degree in Communication Studies and has mastered his profession to become one of the leading professionals in Leadership, Human Resources management and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

But Lew is not just a leader in the boardroom. He was also a leader on the gridiron. A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Lew was a star athlete at Waterloo East High School, where he earned multiple honors and awards as a running-back and a defensive back. He was High School All-American, two-time 1st Team All-Stater and inducted into the Iowa High School Athletic Association Football Players' Hall of Fame in 2007. He continued his football career at the University of Iowa, where he was 4-year letter-winner and All-Big Ten running-back and co-captain on teams that made it to three bowl games (Peach Bowl, Rose Bowl, and Holiday Bowl) under coach Hayden Fry from 1877-1992.

Lew is also a respected community leader, a motivational speaker, and a philanthropist. He has received recognition for his involvement with underserved youth, his support for high school sports serving as an analyst for KCRG 9.2 television, his advocacy of Sanfilippo Syndrome research, a rare genetic disorder that affected his late son Lucas who transcended in July of 2017. He has lectured at the local and national level and delivered the commencement speech for the University of Iowa College of Education in 2019, lectured on DE&I at The Men of Color Summit at Clemson University and Leadership at The University of Cal Berkely Summit on Education.

Lew is a proud husband, father, and grandfather. He and his wife, Stacey, have four children and six grandchildren. He is a lifetime member of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, and part of the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources. He enjoys producing music, kickboxing, golf, and relaxing with this family in his spare time.

Lew Montgomery is a man of many talents, achievements, and inspirations. He is a Hawkeye, a Titan, and a Sigma. He is a leader, an athlete, and a hero to many in our community.

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