Deans Discuss a Life of Consequence
Sheppard, Wells hold forum on accounting for the value of your life
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Durham, NC -- In addressing the topic of "living lives of consequence," Fuqua School Dean Blair Sheppard told his audience that, when tallying up the value of your life, "be careful how you keep score."
Sheppard's comment came during a public conversation with Duke Chapel Dean Sam Wells Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Geneen Auditorium at the Fuqua School of Business. More than 60 people attended the discussion.
The conversation was part of the Chapel's Deans' Dialogues series, where Wells interviews fellow deans about major life issues. This year’s theme is “Living Lives of Consequence.” The next Deans’ Dialogue is with Medical School Dean Nancy Andrews at 5:15 p.m. Jan. 20 in room 3031 Duke Clinics.
In tackling how to measure a life, Sheppard used as a touchstone the dying days of his mother. He recalled his own son asking her on her death bed, "How would you know how good you did?"
"Put yourself in her shoes and ask yourself that question," Sheppard said.
Sheppard said business should always be understood in connection with its consequences on communities, countries and the wider world.
“You can’t be consequential if you are parochial and self absorbed,” he said.
As dean of a business school, Sheppard said he wants to see students conceiving of business endeavors in the context of their societal concerns and personal passions.
“It’s not my job to tell you what you should care about; it’s my job to connect you to what you care about,” he said.
Students are responding, he said. Sheppard cited larger numbers of Fuqua students participating in clubs with social missions and taking jobs in non-profit organizations.
Wells mostly posed questions during the conversation; however, in responding to a question from the audience, he said people interested in pressing the limits of charitable work should considering stepping out of their professional roles when dealing with people in need.
“Beyond charity is friendship,” he said.
