Leona Davis-Daniels

When I reflect on my success, what stands out the most is my faith and my commitment to staying within my anointed abilities. I concentrate on what I believe God has chosen me to do. Simply put, if I try to operate outside of that calling, I am likely to fail. While I may not be skilled in areas beyond my anointing, I am confident that focusing on what I know I can do successfully is where I should direct my efforts. Throughout my career, I have always viewed every moment as a teachable opportunity. Even during my challenging doctoral program at St. Leo University, where I faced some difficulties as a student while also a faculty member, I did not let the setbacks defeat or discourage me. Instead, I saw my challenges as stepping stones to accelerate my progress, rather than obstacles that could drag me down or stop me. My classmates often thought I had it easier because I maintained an optimistic attitude, but they were unaware of the struggles I faced behind the scenes. The key for me was enjoying every moment and viewing each challenge as a teachable moment. I also attribute my success to being authentic and pursuing my passions. I make it a point to relax, stay true to myself, and engage in what I love. When you love what you do, it does not feel like work. As a child, my great-grandmother prophetically referred to me as her 'little school teacher.' Although I resisted this notion at the time, teaching has ultimately become my greatest passion and ministry. Finally, my commitment to paying it forward drives everything I do. I believe we must be the generation that not only performs the work but also sets an example for those who will follow. If we don’t make an effort to open doors for others, they won’t have the opportunity to participate. This commitment is why I completed my doctoral program and why I mentor so many individuals through my businesses. It’s always about creating new opportunities and being a leader and role model for the next generation coming up behind me.

Be the leader you wish to see in others, influencing the world. Remember that managers tell people what to do, while leaders inspire them to act.

First and foremost, relax and be authentic. Do what you love, because when you do what you love, it doesn’t feel like work. Strive to be the most genuine person possible in everything you do, as that is the only way to truly succeed. Stay in your lane and focus on what you know you are meant to do. If you try to branch out beyond that, you’re likely to make mistakes. Seriously, I can’t do what I’m not called to do, but what I know I’m capable of doing is what makes things work. Additionally, it’s important to recognize that we must put in the effort ourselves. While leadership is essential, it’s up to us to take action. We often discuss the kind of legacy we leave behind, but what are we actually doing to prepare the country for the next generation? If we fail to set a positive example, we won’t create the standard we expect from those coming after us. In the field of education, I have learned that if I do not make myself available to create opportunities for the next generation, I have not fulfilled my responsibility to set an example for the progress I wish to see in the industry. It’s always about paving the way, paying it forward, and being a leader who exemplifies the values I wish to see in future generations. Remember, it may require a lot of work, but someone has to take on that responsibility.

The biggest challenge in the accounting field has been addressing individuals who believe they can engage in unethical practices without consequences. Fortunately, with various regulations in place, it seems we are moving past these issues, and I hope that the law is effectively holding accountable those who thought they could evade responsibility. Additionally, significant challenges exist within higher education, particularly concerning the structural limitations on faculty advancement. Many people do not fully understand how the educational system operates. Faculty members typically do not advance in their careers unless they pursue further education or someone else moves up within the organization. As a result, those who remain in their positions can limit opportunities for newcomers to the educational field. For instance, we have teachers' aides, teachers, adjunct faculty, and professors; the expansion of our adjunct faculty base relies on individuals pursuing advanced degrees, such as doctoral programs. To grow a program, we need strong leadership in place. Many individuals complete one degree and decide against pursuing further education due to the challenges they faced. However, if they do not continue their studies, they inadvertently limit the opportunities for others who wish to follow in their footsteps. To ensure that the industry is compensated fairly, we must excel in our profession, which in turn helps create opportunities for others. The potential for growth lies in our willingness to undertake that challenging work required to open doors for the next generation.

The core values that guide my work and personal life are authenticity, faith, and service. Authenticity is extremely important to me. Teaching is my primary passion and what I consider my ministry. My younger sister often jokes that I care too much, and I can’t even imagine turning that off. When I have information that can help others, it feels natural to share it. That's why instruction is one of the most vital aspects of what I do. My objective is to provide new opportunities and lead by example for the next generation that follows me. Community service and supporting other organizations remain essential to my mission. I'm actively involved with local nonprofits, including HER Shelter, Disabled Veterans, and the Urban League. Additionally, I work with the American Institute of CPAs, Financial Accounting Standards Board, and the Accounting & Financial Women’s Alliance.