Alumni

Copy the Leader: Frank White III
Frank White III, c’93, is the chief executive officer of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.

Powered by

Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.

What do you do in your work?

As the CEO of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, I am responsible for advancing public transportation options throughout the bi-state region. This includes short- and long-term planning to meet the mobility needs of residents in the metropolitan area, as well as planning and executing mobility for special events, such as Super Bowl parades, the NFL Draft and World Cup games.

What are the qualities of a good leader?

Good leaders lead by example. They are self-aware and have great clarity around the mission. They understand that authenticity builds credibility internally and externally. Good leaders understand the value of building strong relationships.

How do you practice leadership at your job?

I never ask anyone to do anything I am not willing to do myself. I try to be authentic, consistent and transparent. I empower employees to perform their jobs and then stay out of their way!

What makes a team or group successful?

Teams that share mutual respect and a common goal are destined for greatness. Add to that diversity of skills, personalities, experience and demographics and you have the formula to ensure associate buy-in. Successful teams understand they play a critical role in the success of the organization, no matter their position.

How can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?

First and foremost, by listening more than talking; helping employees understand that change is inevitable in our world today; humbly acknowledging that the CEO doesn’t have all the answers, and that teams are critical to the organization’s evolution to meet the shifting demands of our industry.

More Headlines

Career
Get connected at Kyou Networking Week

Connect with Jayhawks locally and around the globe with career-focused events August 4-8.

Career
Copy the Leader: Jessica Sheahon

Jessica Sheahon, b'12 g'13, works in Asset Management in New York City. We sat down with Jessica to learn what leadership means to her.

Jayhawks Give Back
From Campus to the Colorado Rockies: A Jayhawk’s Lifelong Commitment to Giving Back

After decades of leadership at KU, Diane Goddard carried her passion for service into retirement—this time, among the peaks of the Colorado Rockies and beyond.

Career
Copy the Leader: Laura O'Neill

Laura O'Neill works in Public Relations in New York City. We sat down with Laura to learn what leadership means to her.

Driving with Jayhawks
Driving with Jayhawks: School of Business centennial

Kristen Helling from the KU School of Business discusses the school's 100th anniversary celebration.

Career
Copy the Leader: Austin Harris

Austin Harris is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at the KU Alumni Association. We sat down with Austin to learn what leadership means to him.

Driving with Jayhawks
Driving with Jayhawks: Sexual Assault Prevention Month

Taylor Jones from the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention Education Center joins Driving with Jayhawks.

Career
Copy the Leader: Jonathan Ng

Jonathan Ng, c'03 j'03, is a foreign service lawyer with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) currently posted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We sat down with Jonathan to learn what leadership means to him.

Driving with Jayhawks
Driving with Jayhawks: Oread Angel Investors

Jayhawks investing in Jayhawks: The Oread Angel Investors network is supporting high-growth startups associated with KU. Learn more on this episode of Driving with Jayhawks!

Welcome to KU Alumni

Your gift to KU Alumni is the single most powerful way to make all of KU stronger, including the value of your own degree. Through your support, KU Alumni:

KU Alumni