In the early 60s, I was appointed National Sales Manager at ECPI. I was proud, but also stunned—no Black man had ever held that role in an all-white company. The president told me, “Don’t blame me for the hell you’re about to encounter. Be strong and trust your instincts.”
Sep 16, 2025 21:21He warned I’d have no true friends in that position, just those who wanted something. His words stayed with me: “You must be strong, and you must stand alone.” Then he wished me good luck. That advice carried me through some of the hardest times in my career.
With determination, I went on to help build 37 to 40 new ECPI schools, each with their own sales team. It was a challenge, but also an accomplishment that proved what’s possible when you trust yourself and keep moving forward, even against the odds.
