Becoming an Invitational Leader: A New Approach to Professional and Personal Success

Invitational Leadership is a fresh and innovative model based on a single theoretical framework. The model shifts from emphasizing control and dominance to one that focuses on connectedness, cooperation, and communication.

Based on sound philosophical and psychological assumptions, Invitational Leadership has been tested and successfully applied by leaders in numerous fields, including administration, business, nursing, dentistry, counseling, and other professions. Invitational Leadership is the basis for the International Alliance for Invitational Education, a network of over a thousand professionals from all 50 states as well as Great Britain, Canada, China, South Africa, and countries throughout Central and South America.

William Purkey and Betty Siegel have written much more than a guidebook to becoming a healthier and more effective leader; they proffer a radically profound, compelling argument that it is time for people in positions of authority to forge a new kind of relationship with others based on dialogue, respect, and collaboration. This insightful work is long overdue in an age of “might makes right,” and contains great wisdom in promoting solid values found in various democratic and spiritual organizations. Supervisors and coaches, CEO’s and shop stewards, managers and parents — anyone and everyone who deals with others, take notice.

This is a truly inspirational book in its invitation for all people to join together in a shared vision of promise and greatness.

William W Purkey: William Purkey, Ed.D.,(Greensboro, NC) began his career as a public school teacher, rising to a fully tenured position at the University of Florida, and finally as Professor Emeritus of Counselor Education at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. His passion has earned him various awards of excellence in his field. He is co-founder of the International Alliance for Invitational Education. A noted writer, researcher, speaker, and leader, Purkey has authored nearly 100 articles and more than a dozen books.

Betty L Siegel: Betty L. Siegel, Ph.D. (Kennesaw, GA) served as President of Kennesaw State University for 25 years, and at the time of her retirement in 2006, was believed to be the longest serving woman president of a public college in the United States. Recipient of numerous awards for teaching, service, and leadership, including the University of North Carolina's coveted Peabody Award, she has been named Georgia Woman of the Year, and co-founder of the International Alliance for Invitational Education.