Building Bridges: Leadership, Faith, and the Golden Rule
Joe DeLong
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at Connecticut Conference of Municipalities
In this episode of Anchoring Hope, we speak with Joe DeLong, an exceptional leader dedicated to impacting local governments across Connecticut. As the Executive Director and CEO of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, Joe shares his journey, his unique leadership philosophy, and the role his faith plays in his personal and professional life. Prepare to be inspired as we uncover insights about fostering unity, leading with compassion, and living by the timeless wisdom of the Golden Rule.
From Football Fields to Public Service
Joe DeLong’s journey is as unique as it is inspiring. Raised in a family that valued education and discipline, Joe’s early days were shaped by his passion for football, which eventually led him to a Division I college athletic career. Through sports, he learned teamwork, resilience, and the importance of collective success—principles that have stayed with him throughout his career.
After college, Joe explored various professional paths before stepping into the world of public service. He served as the youngest State House Majority Leader in West Virginia history, tackling challenges head-on and crafting a leadership style rooted in collaboration and integrity. His transition from managing high-end salons and spas to overseeing a jail and prison system exemplifies his adaptability and dedication to serving others in meaningful ways.
Joe’s ability to navigate these contrasting worlds speaks volumes about his capacity for growth and his unwavering commitment to making a difference. These experiences prepared him for his current role at CCM, where he continues to lead with purpose and conviction.
The Mission of CCM
As the Executive Director of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, Joe leads an organization that advocates for 169 cities and towns in Connecticut. CCM provides services ranging from state and federal lobbying to training elected officials, offering joint purchasing programs, and managing workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
What sets CCM apart is its ability to unify municipalities of all sizes and political affiliations under one umbrella. Joe credits the success of CCM to a dedicated team and a robust vision for supporting local governments. His approach emphasizes collaboration over competition, fostering a culture where diverse voices are heard, and innovative solutions thrive.
“Our work is deeply rewarding because it’s rooted in building stronger communities,” says Joe. “We’re not just solving problems; we’re creating opportunities for municipalities to flourish.”
Faith as a Guiding Principle
Joe’s leadership philosophy is deeply influenced by his faith and the teachings of Jesus Christ. A pivotal moment in his childhood involved creating a simple art project at church camp based on Matthew 7:12: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This principle became a cornerstone of his life and leadership.
“In the political world, it’s easy to define relationships by who your friends and enemies are,” Joe reflects. “But Christ’s message of love reminds me to approach every interaction with compassion and fairness.”
Joe’s commitment to the Golden Rule has helped him navigate challenges in his career, including balancing personal convictions with professional responsibilities. By leading through example, he has created a workplace culture that prioritizes respect, growth, and mutual support.
A Leadership Style Rooted in Care
Joe believes that the most effective leaders are those who genuinely care about the people they lead. Whether managing inmates in a correctional facility or mentoring staff at CCM, he emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where people feel valued and supported.
“People don’t expect perfection from their leaders,” Joe explains. “They expect authenticity and a commitment to their success. When your team knows you care, they’ll go above and beyond to achieve shared goals.”
This philosophy extends to how Joe handles challenges. He’s learned the value of pausing before reacting, allowing time for reflection and a thoughtful response. For Joe, leadership is about providing tools, clearing barriers, and empowering others to succeed while maintaining accountability and discipline.
Lessons for Life and Leadership
Joe’s insights extend beyond the workplace. As a husband and father, he applies the same principles of care, discipline, and faith to his family life. He cherishes the opportunity to guide his daughters and sees every interaction as a chance to instill values that will shape their futures.
For aspiring leaders, Joe offers this advice: surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Hire individuals who are smarter than you in specific areas, and don’t shy away from investing in their growth, even if it means they eventually leave for other opportunities. “Leadership is about building bridges, not walls,” he says. “When you invest in others, you’re investing in a better future for everyone.”
Conclusion
Joe’s billboard message for the world reflects the essence of his life and leadership: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This timeless wisdom serves as a reminder that compassion, respect, and fairness can transform not just individual lives, but entire communities.
As Joe continues to lead CCM with integrity and purpose, his story inspires us to embrace our own journeys with faith and courage. Let’s strive to live out the Golden Rule in our daily lives, building a brighter, more unified world for generations to come.
Written by Dhan Ababa
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
