1. How would you describe Betty Ford's leadership? In what ways could her leadership be described as authentic?

2. How did critical life events play a role in the development of her leadership?

3. Is there a clear moral dimension to Betty Ford's leadership? In what way is her leadership about serving the common good? Discuss.

4. As we discussed in the chapter, self-awareness and transparency are associated with authentic leadership. How does Betty Ford exhibit these qualities?

This case study portrays Betty Ford, former First Lady of the United States who had numerous personal struggles but was largely seen as a brave and heroic figure. Betty Ford used her position in the White House to garner support for causes that were important to her. She lobbied for equal rights for women and spoke out in support of abortion rights. After leaving the White House, Betty shared her personal struggle with addiction publicly and built the Betty Ford Center to help treat others suffering from addiction. She earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1991 and theCongressional Gold Medal in 1999.

This case study portrays a strong public leader who had keen self-awareness and transparency that helped her causes. She was a passionate woman and a determined authentic leader.