Bill Shannon
Auburn University
Auburn, AL USA
"The best teams always begin with a set of beliefs."
Career Roadmap
Bill's work combines: Education, Sports, and Teaching / Mentoring
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Huntington Park High School
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Director of Human Resource Development:
Bachelor's Degree: CSUF English Language and Literature, General
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Life & Career Milestones
I've taken a lot of twists and turns
1.
I never met my real father and was also an only child. I really only had my mother until my stepfather came and took the role of my father.
2.
I went to school in a community of mostly minorities. Here, I was one of the only "white guys." Of course, this can be discouraging but I saw it as a gift that taught me to not stereotype others.
3.
I have moved around a lot. Worked in multiple states, so I have met a lot of different people. Some not always the nicest.
4.
Always moved or changed jobs because it was best for my family. Best places and schools for my sons.
5.
Kept in mind my true calling—no matter the job title—that I am a teacher first and a builder of teams second.
6.
My first book, A Great Organization Made Simply(c) shows the how behind what makes a great company, organization or team—that is, the best always begin with a set of beliefs.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Friends:
My basketball teammates would find it weird that I always had a book in hand. They did not understand why I'd do so much to get good grades, as most college athletes focus more on their sports. This made me feel like an outsider.
How I responded:
I did not let it get to me. I always remembered why I was doing it and remained passionate about my education and the career I wanted for himself. Despite any negative attitudes or comments, I kept pushing.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
Once leaving Cal State Fullerton, I had to compete for and keep jobs I got. I did so by finding mentors, taking extra classes and working two or three jobs while teaching.
I was the only white kid in the league in basketball and baseball. I was in danger at times, and sports got me respected and past it.