Go to 
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Two of our Mr. Cooper Group team members in Longview, Texas, participated in “Leadership Longview,” a leadership development program put on by the Longview Chamber of Commerce each year. The program’s goal is to provide the city with a source of diverse leaders who are prepared and committed to serve as sustainers of positive change for the quality of life in the Longview community.
Sylvia Williams and Braunda Chaney share their thoughts below on being a part of the program on behalf of Mr. Cooper Group.
Sylvia Williams – Customer Service Manager, Mr. Cooper
I have learned many new things through this program about the City of Longview and its leaders, industry, criminal justice & public safety efforts, and health & emergency services. My biggest lesson from participating came through the City’s “Quality of Life Poverty Simulation.” It opened my eyes to things that I take for granted and allowed me to personally experience how some people struggle to have basic needs in life met.
We also met with a motivational speaker—John Grubbs—monthly. As a result of these sessions, I have learned to be a more effective leader, to lead with my strengths, and to step out of my comfort zone with confidence.
When I applied for Leadership Longview, I didn’t know that Mr. Cooper would sponsor me, and I was prepared to pay the fee—that’s how anxious I was to be a part of this legacy. And I was excited to learn it would be a company-sponsored program. It is an honor to work for a company that believes in giving back to the community, developing their leaders, has a positive impact on the community, and supports this program financially.
Braunda Chaney – AVP Collections/Customer Service, Mr. Cooper
I got involved in Leadership Longview through speaking with Chamber of Commerce leaders and learning about the city and a ton of volunteer opportunities, like working on a project for a nonprofit organization and helping them build a courtyard to reach the neighborhood. Through the program, I was able to network and learn from leaders in various industries and see where I can give back and how Mr. Cooper can get involved.
I was overwhelmed with excitement and appreciation for the involvement and support I received from Mr. Cooper during the 9-month commitment to this exciting volunteer opportunity. I was able to grow as a leader and as an individual, learning not only more about the city and opportunities to volunteer, but learning how to be a better leader.
