Our second class had two very special guests. Brad Tilden CEO of Alaska Air Group and Phyllis Campbell Chair of JP Morgan N.W.
Brad of course gave the class a short overview of Alaska Airlines but quickly jumped into the CEO’s leadership role with a board, role of Lead Director, and talked briefly about the boards role in the successful acquisition of Virgin America. The students then launched into a barrage of interesting questions which were huge teaching moments.
Phyllis Campbell Chair of JP Morgan NW was our next speaker and it was by totally happenstance and fortuitous luck that Phyllis is long time member of the Alaska Board. It was the perfect storm in such a positive way. Phyllis covered the role of the Lead Director as she just recently stepped down from that role with Alaska and is chair of Governance/Nominating Committee. Her discussion of board culture and diversity were absolutely special as she brought years of experience to the students around these topics. The students raved about her experience and knowledge in post speaker discussions. Her 3 tips for board members were very informative and clearly usable by any good board member.
Thanks to Brad and Phyllis you both are special people.