Stephen Lakis
President
Nothing gives me more professional satisfaction than bringing people together to find common purpose. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing new friendships develop between politicians who often don’t even speak the same language–and I’m not just talking about Northerners and Southerners! It’s when a conservative Republican and a liberal Democrat share an idea, have a good conversation about an important issue, and then go on to develop a lasting friendship. It happens often at SLLF programs and that’s what makes me feel like we’re doing a good job.
I’ve been here almost from the start. My career began with SLLF in 1972. Yikes! Over the years I’ve worked with some pretty amazing men and women and I’ve seen a lot of things. Through it all, I’ve developed an abiding respect for these regular people who take on the heavy responsibility of public servant and legislative leader. These are good people doing a tough job in often difficult times. I get inspired by them.
I am a lucky man. I have a great family, a few good friends, and a job I love. And did I mention Hope, Hadley, and Sophia? And the young prince, Hayden? My Perfect grandchildren!
I have a BA in Political Science and I studied for a year towards a Master’s Degree (that I never completed). I’m what you call an autodidactic!
