Veronica Coleman- "If you want to be a good leader, be a follower of the BEST leader."

Few students brighten the College of the Ozarks campus like Veronica Coleman. With her bright smile, contagious laughter, and positive demeanor, students and faculty alike know who she is. Although people may initially be drawn to her outward charm, it is her compassion and selfless love for those around her that make Veronica an exemplary leader.

We found Veronica in the Christian Ministries building, where she spends much of her time studying and volunteering. Whether she is stacking boxes for Operation Christmas Child, preparing a message for small groups, or discussing details of an upcoming community service project, Veronica has a clear passion for serving others. She says that all she has been involved in is an example of C of O’s ability to empower student leaders.

“I have been so blessed by the opportunities here at the college. We hear about service and helping people all the time, but at C of O the students are challenged to practice and live out servant hood. It has truly influenced me as a leader.”

It would be easy to assume that Veronica was a docile during her childhood years. In actuality, however, nothing could be further from the truth.

“I guess you could say that I went through a very long, childhood rebellion stage. The best way to describe it was that I was just extremely strong willed, but that manifested itself in some very negative ways. I eventually learned and grew through it, which I thank God for.”

Veronica’s passion for missions is evident in the way she lives her life. She says that an influential youth pastor first drew her focus to the service mentality she now lives out.

“He always emphasized the importance of being missional, telling us to be aware of people beyond our immediate groups. ‘Bring them in’. That is what he would always encourage us to do. It really made me aware of how many people groups are overlooked in our world.”

For Veronica, there has always been an obvious connection between leadership and faith. However, she admits that living it out can be complicated.

“The connection between leadership and my relationship with God is so obvious in my mind, but daily walking it out can be such a challenge. Even still, it is always in those challenging moments when He shows me the importance of resting in the truth of who He is. I have learned that being vulnerable in the midst of my struggles is not a weakness. It is being the kind of leader that God has called me to be.”

As a senior studying Sociology, Veronica has had many opportunities to practice the leadership teachings she has learned at College of the Ozarks.

“People will surprise you. That is one of the biggest things I have learned during my time here at C of O. Do not just sum people up before you first give them a chance. If God gives us a chance, then who are we to withhold that from others?”

Looking to the future, Veronica is trusting the Lord to lead her path, excited about the direction for her life.

“I could see myself working with a ministry, maybe teaching, grad school even, but I am just not sure quite yet on the next step. For some, that could be a scary thought and it is kind of intimidating. But I have faith that things will work out!”

With her zest for life and commitment to servant leadership, Veronica Coleman is a 417 Leader we will surely see more of in the future. But in spite of the impressive leadership opportunities she has already received, she is careful to not take credit herself.

“The foundational truths that we hold about leadership are exhibited by the God we serve. It makes sense to look to Him for guidance! After all, if you want to be a good leader, be a follower of the BEST leader.”

For more information about Veronica's work with Operation Christmas Child and their organization, check out their official website.

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/