On Tuesday, November 10, Storm King student-leaders had the chance to ask questions and discuss leadership with a distinguished SKS alumnus. Major General William S. Chen, SKS class of ’56, spoke to members of the Student Council, National Honor Society, Student Government, Model UN, and Mr. Gillett’s International Relations class via Zoom. Maj. Gen. Chen’s speech was the first in the 2020-2021 Roy Leadership Speaker Series.

Mr. Gillett, the meeting’s moderator, kicked off the discussion by introducing Mr. Chen and talking about his background, education, and decorated career in the U.S. Army. During his speech, Mr. Chen covered many aspects of leadership which he developed and practiced throughout his life and career.

“Leadership skills can be developed. It takes study, hard work, and practice. Learn how to take initiative, be proactive, and put yourselves in positions to practice leadership,” Mr. Chen told the students. “Interpersonal relationships and the ability to work with people are very important and influencing others to do work is an art,” he continued.

In addition, Mr. Chen emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence, and encouraged the students to learn through observation and find good role models: “Emulate leaders you respect, not leaders that you don’t.” He also shared some personal notes with the students that helped him become a better leader. “Understand the culture you are in and blend in while standing out,” he advised when speaking about his experience as a Chinese-American.

Following his talk, the students asked questions and received further feedback from Mr. Chen in various areas of interest including careers in the military, Engineering, Economics, international relations, and general questions about leadership.

For example, juniors Zoe B. of West Point, NY, and Scout Z. of Beacon, NY, were interested in Mr. Chen’s experience at Storm King and how it helped him prepare for his career in terms of both academics and leadership. Senior and aspiring engineer Dias A. from Astana, Kazakhstan, inquired about Mr. Chen’s technical education in Engineering. Fellow senior Chengrong Y. from Xiamen, China, who is also interested in Engineering, wondered what career Mr. Chen would have chosen if he didn’t serve in the military.

“I’m very pleased with my students’ active participation in this event,” explained Mr. Gillett. “Each one of them presented thoughtful questions and listened intently to Mr. Chen’s answers, and I believe everyone gained something from his insights and experience. They are already asking who the next speaker in the series will be.”

 

 

About Major General William S. Chen ‘56

Major General William S. Chen is a member of the SKS Class of 1956. Graduating at age 16, he was the recipient of the School’s highest honors that year – The Headmaster’s Cup and the Storm King Cup. His civilian education consists of a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Mathematics and a Master of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, both from the University of Michigan.  Mr. Chen also holds a Master of Business Administration from Auburn University.

Major General Chen is a graduate of the U.S. Army Air Defense School, U.S. Army Ordnance School, U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Air Command and Staff College, Defense Systems Management College, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.  His copious list of career awards and decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Joint Services Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and Vietnamese Armed Forces Honor Medal First Class.

The Roy Leadership Speaker Series

This series is named after Patrick Roy ‘99, a Storm King alumnus who was killed while serving in the Navy during a terrorist attack on the USS Cole in Yemen less than a year and a half after graduating. He was only 19 years old at the time of his death. A leader by nature, Storm King commemorates the life of Roy each year on October 12– the day of his passing.

This year, the Roy Leadership Series will feature virtual speakers, discussions, and presentations designed to develop a strong value for leadership in students’ daily lives. Students who attend at least three of the talks will receive SKS leadership pins.