This is for real...

We're preparing for our last PASC board meeting prior to hosting our conference... and none of us can really believe we're here. Our vision for this conference began so long ago when measured by a calendar, but it feels like last week when we were preparing for the bid. This is a true collaborative vision that has been refined over the many months of planning. During that time, I have witnessed such strength in the character of our students and advisors involved with the conference. I get the greatest satisfaction out of a relationship when I can trust someone completely... I have placed my complete trust in these three in the picture. You'd be amazed at how strong they are and how much they have each grown in their own way. Lastly, this conference is about change. We want to change what the experience is about... we want delegates to learn to lead with both heart and head, with both intellect and passion, with both conscience and inspiration. We've added content, switched schedules, raised expectations, shifted responsibilities, and so much more... to produce the change we hope will make a real difference. Tradition and building upon the past are important, but I'm always asking WHY? --- seriously, always asking why? And when the answer doesn't make sense, change is essential. Vision, Character, and Change is a powerful sequence that has gotten us to this point and will serve as the Origin of a journey for 1000 others.

My boys

This was during the 2008 NASC National Student Council Conference when we were invited into the community for dinner and entertainment. South Western was invited to a small but prosperous community to have dinner prepared by the "Holy Smokers". It was an incredibly warm welcome and the food was incredible. Once the tables were cleared, the dancing began. As usual, the South Western crew went to work on having fun and inspiring others to do the same. This picture shows what happens when an advisor sitting off to the side, decides to encourage the boys... she ends up with a special dance, just for her. 

Danc'n

PASC Executive Director

During the 2008 PASC trip to the NASC national conference in Texas, we enjoyed some authentic Tex-Mex food. While there, our Executive Director had his "birthday" recognized. This is actually symbolic of another year of PASC (76 years young).

Texas

Where does greatness begin?

I have witnessed greatness. She is amazing, beyond description and is deserving of greater praise than she'll ever receive. Where does greatness begin? And perhaps, more importantly, why are we so reluctant to recognize greatness?

There seems to be an effort underway to hide away the fact that some have achieved greatness while others exist. Being extraordinary should not be liability. Yet it seems as if the ambition of all too may has become the pursuit of mediocrity. Just enough, good enough, it will do, that's fine, etc...

For America to be great, we must accept that there are great leaders who deserve our admiration, support, and full commitment. Elite is a perfectly acceptable word to use in describing athletes, artists, and institutions... but not our leaders. Political figures who are perceived as elitist can be obliterated by public opinion. In our schools, teachers or students who strive for excellence can be shunned for their quest to be better than they were, than others will be. The journey to greatness can be completed with tremendous humility, but we should never deny the purpose of the journey.

I have witnessed greatness. And for that, I am grateful.

Buble

In an industry overwhelmed with insincerity, Buble brings a raw honesty that is both refreshing and entertaining. Vocally amazing, Buble understands his craft on a deeper level. 

Brave - Idina Menzel

There is something very special about Idina's voice, so distinctive and yet beautifully subtle. This song connects me to so many people, so many moments, where I've witnessed a willingness to go against convention. Bravery is not always about facing the end - but most often about facing the beginning.

Defying Gravity

An absolutely fantastic song with powerful vocals to match the powerful message. The song is about choice and about a willingness to accept the consequences. Through this acceptance, greatness is possible and everyone is giving the chance to fly (even if you're flying solo).

Crayon Physics Deluxe

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