Georgia State basketball player James Fields was chosen to attend the Falcons University Leadership and Business Summit, a two-day leadership and business program on June 9-10 to gain valuable knowledge about leadership skills necessary to be an active leader in sports environments and corporate businesses.
The audience of the program consisted of about 50 veteran Atlanta Falcons football players as well as selected students from local universities.
"I had the opportunity to meet and talk with NFL quarterback Matt Ryan as well as Warrick Dunn and Harry Douglas," said Fields, a rising junior on the GSU squad.
Presenters who spoke discussed important issues to consider when starting up or investing in a business. Speakers included:
Arthur Blank, Owner and CEO of the Atlanta Falcons
Clark Howard, The Clark Howard Show
Brian Billick, Former Head Coach of the Baltimore Ravens and Fox Sports Commentator
Don Lemon, CNN Newsroom anchor
Tom Noonan, Former Chairman of Internet Security Systems, Inc
Brent Ragsdale, Chick-fil-a executive
David Ratcliffe, CEO of the Southern Company
"My favorite speaker was Clark Howard. Howard talked about smart ways to invest your money. He goes to every Falcons game, but he sits in the nose bleeds and never buys concessions," Fields said.
The owner of the Falcons, Arthur Blank, spoke about the organization of the Falcons and how they are like a family.
"Leadership among NFL players is critical because so many people, including children look up to them. How they carry themselves is a big part of being a team player because they inspire so many," Fields said.
CNN Newsroom anchor Don Noonan talked about Twitter accounts and how influential they can be to young children.
"If Michael Jordan had a Twitter account, imagine how many followers he would have. If he said he was reading a book, that might inspire kids to read one, too," Fields said.
David Ratcliffe, CEO of the Southern Company, emphasized the importance of safety and teamwork among his employees.
"When teammates look out for each other to make sure everyone is doing the right thing, everything is more in sync. Next year when the season starts, I will know more about how to be a leader on and off the court" said Fields, a native of Savannah, Ga.
Fields is a public policy major at Georgia State, and he earned Dean's List recognition this spring. Once he graduates, he hopes to invest in an organization that helps less fortunate children.
