The leadership philosophy of the President, American University of Nigeria (AUN), Prof. DeWayne Frazier, has received national literary recognition following the publication of his poem, “The Servant Leader Who Brings Us All Along,” in Colours of Leadership and Inequalities, a poetry anthology by the Creative Writers Association of Nigeria (CWAN).
The poem presents a reflective, values-driven portrayal of leadership, positioning Prof. Frazier not as a distant authority figure but as a servant leader who leads “not above, but among us all.” Through accessible language and rhythmic couplets, the work captures a leadership style grounded in humility, integrity, inclusiveness, and compassion, qualities that resonate within and beyond the AUN community.
A recurring theme in the poem is participatory leadership. Lines such as “Hearing each voice, both great and small” and “No one is left behind and no dreams denied” emphasize a governance approach that prioritizes consultation, equity, and shared purpose. The President is depicted as a steward of trust who values ethical decision-making over convenience and optimism over intimidation, even when confronted with institutional challenges.
The poem also reflects elements of transformational leadership, highlighting the leader’s role in developing the capacity of others. In the lines, “Competency shines in the ones he leads, / He can quickly change challenges into seeds,” leadership is framed as an enabler of growth, turning obstacles into opportunities and uniting diverse stakeholders around collective goals.
Beyond campus administration, the poem extends Prof. Frazier’s leadership influence into the wider society. Imagery of children smiling and compassion flowing “far beyond the campus gates” portrays a socially responsive leader who views education as a tool for social healing and leadership as a moral responsibility to humanity.
Reacting to the poem, the editor of the anthology and President of CWAN, Adjekpagbon Blessed Mudiaga, described it as a rare and timely representation of authentic leadership in Nigeria. “Dr. DeWayne’s poem captures what true leadership entails, humility, friendliness, kindness, love, and the ability to listen to subordinates’ opinions to enhance institutional development,” Mudiaga said.
He noted that such qualities are often lacking in many public and private institutions, where leadership is frequently misapplied. “The poem is very relevant as an example of good leadership traits that other leaders should emulate for institutional peace, cooperation, and progress,” he added.
Speaking on his motivation for writing the poem, Prof. Frazier emphasized the role of poetry as an effective leadership communication tool. “Writing poetry is an excellent way to convey emotions, feelings, and thoughts,” he said. “The poem I submitted was inspired by the leadership style I strive to practice during my tenure at the American University of Nigeria. I am honored that it was selected alongside works by other outstanding contributors for publication by the Creative Writers Association of Nigeria.”
The inclusion of “The Servant Leader Who Brings Us All Along” in Colours of Leadership and Inequalities not only highlights Prof. Frazier’s personal leadership philosophy but also reflects AUN’s commitment to ethical leadership, community engagement, and values-based education.
The anthology, COLOURS OF LEADERSHIP AND INEQUALITIES, is available on the Selar platform, offering readers, scholars, and leadership practitioners access to poetic reflections on leadership and social realities. https://selar.com/1h72b3571b