TRAVERSE CITY -- Former Senator Jason Allen knows a lot about leading the community. The Traverse City native was recently appointed the top official in the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs.
Now he wants to share his experience with the future leaders of our state. 7&4's Kate Fox was there as he inspired a group of northern Michigan students.
Top official in the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs says, "Soon they’re going to be in charge and so we better make sure they have an understanding of what their responsibility is."
Leadership is something that was instilled in Jason Allen at a very young age and the catalyst to what he's accomplished for the community. The former State Senator and now head of the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs feels the responsibility to coach the next generation of leaders on how to be successful.
Allen says, "Northern Michigan is a very special place, the quality of the individuals developed in this area is a great legacy, our goal is to make sure the next generation is prepared to move forward."
Friday he spoke with students at Traverse City College Prep Academy.
Traverse City College Prep Academy Teacher Michael Rutledge says, "By him allowing them to have a voice in the conversation when he's here, the inspiration for them going out in the world whether if it's at the end of the day or after graduation, they understand that there not just a face in the crowd."
Allen focused on the importance that stewardship plays in reaching goals and offered advice as to how to choose the right field in today's trying economy.
Allen says, "Whether you're a tool maker, housekeeper or a CEO, that you're good stewards and that means you're active in our communities and trying to make things better for the next generation."
Students say that his message will leave a lasting impression.
Traverse City College Prep Academy Senior Coty Mendenhall says, "He's always been a part of the community and how it's really important for us to give back because our cities growing so much."
"Senator Allen didn't get to where he was by just sitting around; I mean you have to really push your self hard enough to achieve what you set your mind to. If the whole community comes together we can achieve more than just one person alone."
Allen says even though his new position has him quite busy he'll continue to speak with students in the area about their responsibility as the future generation of leaders.
