Building Leaders and Community Rev. Geoffrey Rose on Education, Service, and the Power of Connection

Great leaders understand that success is rarely achieved alone. It comes through relationships, collaboration, and a commitment to helping others grow. In this episode of Taylor Community Connection, Tom Cole sits down with Rev. Geoffrey N. Rose, O.S.F.S., President of St. Francis de Sales School, to reflect on leadership, education, community, and the lessons learned during his remarkable tenure.

For more than 13 years, Father Rose has helped shape St. Francis de Sales through a leadership style centered on bringing people together. He shares that much of his approach comes from being a natural coalition builder and from the teachings of St. Francis de Sales, whose spirituality emphasizes unity, gentleness, humility, and building relationships across differences. Whether working with public schools, private schools, community leaders, or local organizations, Father Rose believes lasting success happens when people focus on shared goals rather than divisions.

Throughout the conversation, Father Rose explains why he has always viewed education as a community effort. Rather than seeing schools as competitors, he sees every successful school as a benefit to the entire region. This philosophy helped inspire initiatives like the Global Leadership Symposium, which began as a program for St. Francis students but quickly expanded to include schools from across Northwest Ohio. The event brings young leaders together to learn, collaborate, and explore solutions to real world challenges.

One of Father Rose’s proudest accomplishments is the development of the school's Leadership Initiative, which focuses on the values of humble confidence, authentic relationships, and servant leadership. Over time, these principles have become part of the culture at St. Francis, helping students develop not only academically but also as leaders and community members.

The discussion also explores the importance of mentorship and learning through adversity. Father Rose reflects on the influence mentors had in his own life following the loss of his father during high school and explains why setbacks often become our greatest teachers. Success may feel rewarding, but growth frequently comes from challenges, failures, and the lessons learned along the way.

As he prepares to transition from his role as president, Father Rose shares that he will remain connected to the school through leadership initiatives, mission work, and special programs while also taking time for research and reflection. While his title may change, his commitment to the St. Francis community remains as strong as ever.

Perhaps the most powerful theme throughout the conversation is Father Rose’s belief in investing in young people. He encourages adults to engage with the next generation, offer encouragement, and create opportunities for meaningful connection. Small moments of support can have a lasting impact on a young person's life.

This episode is a reminder that leadership is not about individual achievement. It is about building others up, creating opportunities, and leaving a lasting impact through service and connection.

👉 Watch now to hear how Rev. Geoffrey Rose has spent more than a decade building leaders, strengthening community, and helping young people discover their purpose.