I love this discussion! I'm working on my doctorate in Education Leadership and am enjoying the emerging emphasis on character in leadership as an important theme and topic.  I've been conducting training on character development for communities, schools and non-profit organizations throughout the country for the last 13 years.  The one thing most adults forget is that you can't develop character in young people or your employees if you haven't invested in reflecting on and developing your own first.  Modeling that you are worthy of trust and respect; showing that you accept not only a personal responsibility but a collective responsibility to the whole, while being fair and exhibiting a strong penchant for authentic compassion is vital to establishing a thriving work (or school or home) environment.

I love the term "moral courage"--the absolute basic ingredient for living in today's society--having the courage to do the right thing even when it isn't easy or isn't in our own best interest.

I also believe that a key to being a leader is knowing how to "lead from behind"--you never stop leading, but you reposition yourself to support, encourage and nurture the leadership of others and let go of the "out front" position.  I personally experienced this empowerment from a dear mentor and have used the technique with both colleagues and youth.  I believe it is important that we teach this as a leadership technique as it is the way we grow and develop future leaders and leave our personal, professional and organizational legacies.

Thanks for the forum for discussion!
Kay