As a Modern Woodmen leader, you can be proud of the role you play and the impact you have on others’ lives. Here’s what being a leader means to these Modern Woodmen leaders across the country.

Josh Jones
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Modern Woodmen managing partner since September 2004

“I am honored and proud to be a leader for such an awesome organization. I have a sincere passion for Modern Woodmen and helping others achieve their dreams and goals. I feel it’s my duty as a leader to help Modern Woodmen grow throughout the communities here in Alabama. It feels great to be able to wake up each day and know I have the opportunity to help change someone’s life forever!”


Jeff Sowards
Denton, Texas
Modern Woodmen regional director since March 2005

“As far as my leadership role is concerned, the first word that comes to mind is responsibility. Responsibility to my family, to include them in my career and always have balance in my life. Responsibility to hold the Modern Woodmen name to a high standard and to make Modern Woodmen proud of my agency. I also have a responsibility to our financial representatives and managing partners, to help them be successful in life and their careers. I always try to make relationships the top priority in the region.” 


Sone Phrakousonh
Milwaukee, Wis.
Modern Woodmen managing partner since January 2006

“To me, being a Modern Woodmen leader means being able to impact the community in a positive way. By helping the community, in turn, the community really helps me. Being a leader also means helping others succeed … helping others find their potential.” 


Lana Karstens
Chamberlain, S.D.
Modern Woodmen regional director since July 2007

"Through the leadership development provided by Modern Woodmen, I've learned that a true leader never stops learning and growing. I choose to maintain this insight as a personal and professional goal for myself. In addition, I've discovered that true leadership is not barking orders down to others. I appreciate a quote by Robert Townsend, who states: 'A leader is not an administrator who loves to run others, but rather someone who carries water for their people so they can get on with their jobs.' That to me is leadership."


Albert Hurst
Little Rock, Ark.
Modern Woodmen regional director since January 1987

“Leadership at Modern Woodmen teaches you how to become the CEO of your own profitable business, whether you choose to develop a personal practice or grow your own sales organization as a managing partner or regional director. We are also taught that effective leadership starts on the inside with a servant heart, then moves outward to serve others. As leaders, I believe our responsibility is to inspire people. We have to be able to see through their eyes. We have to help them see the future and see the potential that lies within them.” 


Mickey Shields
Meridian, Idaho
Modern Woodmen regional director since July 2000

"Leadership at Modern Woodmen is trust. This is an organization built on character and integrity. To be entrusted with leadership here is the highest compliment a person can receive."