In this new four-part blog series, we’re diving deep into the Rockefeller Ethic — our guiding process inspired by the life and leadership of Winthrop Rockefeller. Each post will explore one of the essential principles that define this equation.
Up next is Diversity of Opinion. In this piece, Shana Chaplin, our chief program officer, considers the profound impact of inviting diverse opinions, both as a guiding value of the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute and as a personal and professional influence in her life.
I craft this message as I come upon the third anniversary of the death of my most treasured mentor, Carolyn Pollan, who served 24 years in the Arkansas House of Representatives. Carolyn listened intently to her constituents, especially women and children, and always made time to share her wisdom with me. She included me in her work, modeling respectful dialogue and showing me the importance of seeking diverse perspectives when striving for systemic change.
She introduced me to others she believed could teach me and demonstrate exemplary leadership, one such introduction being Lt. Governor Winthrop Paul Rockefeller. Like Carolyn, Lt. Governor Rockefeller took the time to coach me, share his wisdom, and invite me into spaces where he thoughtfully and respectfully sought out diverse opinions. He fostered conversations that helped others find common ground and work toward real solutions.
I now have the privilege of serving as chief program officer at the Institute. Daily, I walk the halls of Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller’s former farm and homestead, read about his legacy, see the impact of his accomplishments, and promote the rich work of the Institute as we seek to continue that legacy. Looking back, I can clearly see the imprint of Governor Rockefeller’s values on his son, Winthrop Paul Rockefeller — especially his deep respect for diverse voices.
Leadership is most often about recognizing what we do not know and being open to learning from others. Authentic leadership requires humility — a willingness to seek out diverse voices. Transformational leaders like Gov. Rockefeller understand that embracing a range of viewpoints leads to better outcomes. Diversity of opinion goes beyond ethnic or racial differences and isn’t limited to dialogue; it involves the complex, collaborative work of finding common ground through genuine deliberation. Being open to diverse opinions doesn’t mean compromising one’s values. Instead, it reflects a willingness to acknowledge the humanity of those on the other side of the table (or the aisle) and learn from their experiences with empathy, free from assumptions or judgment.
What I learned from Carolyn Pollan and Lt. Governor Rockefeller, and what our guests now learn from us, was that good leaders seek to expose themselves to diversity of opinion through people, thoughts, and spaces. They make intentional decisions to be in and connect with diverse communities while also building a base of thought leaders who bring new and different perspectives about the problems being faced. Transformational leaders accept responsibility for how they show up, how they engage, and how they respond. Transformational leaders build relationships with integrity, honesty, and mutual commitment. Transformational leaders respect the humanity of others and create respectful interactions and environments. Each of these values is necessary to embrace the importance of diversity of opinion.
The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute envisions a future where every person is empowered to bring their unique perspective to bear on the most monumental of challenges and participate in the search for solutions. This vision is grounded in the values of Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller, who believed “joy and satisfaction come through knowing the people around you — people in every position in life — and understanding and appreciating their strength and weakness.” This empowerment and understanding bring us diversity of opinion.
Shana Chaplin
Chief Program Officerschaplin@rockefellerinstitute.orgThe Institute creates programs to promote sustainable, positive change for all Arkansans. Our trained staff leads issue-focused meetings, encouraging collaborative problem solving through exercises and dialogues that help participants achieve their goals. Click here to learn more.