Theodore M. Hesburgh

Theodore M. Hesburgh (1917–2015) served as president of the University of Notre Dame from 1952 to 1987 and was a Catholic priest and civil rights advocate. He advised multiple U.S. presidents, chaired national commissions on civil rights and education, and was a prominent voice on social justice and higher education.

Quotes by Theodore M. Hesburgh

Quotes: 1

The very essence of leadership is that you have to have vision. You can't blow an uncertain trumpet. — Theodore M. Hesburgh

The Imperative of Vision in True Leadership

Finally, recognizing the need for vision, current and aspiring leaders must invest in cultivating it. This includes embracing lifelong learning, exposing themselves to diverse perspectives, and engaging in reflective thinking. By sharpening their ability to see beyond the immediate horizon, leaders ensure their ‘trumpet call’ is both certain and inspiring, empowering their followers to embark confidently on shared endeavors, just as Hesburgh prescribes. [...]

Created on: 6/26/2025