Starbucks former executive encourages leaders to put people first

Former president of Starbucks International Howard Behar recently visited Walla Walla to discuss leadership strategies with educational leaders. Behar helped Starbucks grow from a small regional company to an international powerhouse. He said the success of Starbucks is largely due to how it treats its employees and customers. School district leaders from throughout the region flocked to hear his presentation arranged by district Equity and Access coordinator Sergio Hernandez. Hernandez and Behar are brother-in-laws. Behar stressed the importance of meeting the needs of others as the first priority of any organization and business.

PHOTO L-R: Superintendent Dr. Bill Jordan, Howard Behar and Sergio Hernandez