2011-12 Optimist International President
Jack Creswell
Optimist International
President
2011-12
Optimist Jack Creswell
Member (date joined): Optimist Club of Daniel Boone-Douglassville, Pennsylvania (1970)
Occupation: Retired
Optimist Club Service: Club President - 1973-1974 (Honor);
Optimist Zone Service: Lt. Governor, Delaware-Eastern Pennsylvania District - 1974-1975;
Optimist District Service: Governor, Pennsylvania-Upper Delaware District - 1976-1977
(Distinguished & Outstanding) and 2005-2006 (Distinguished & Outstanding);
Optimist International Service: Member, International Leadership Development
Committee - 1977-1980; Member, International Membership
Committee - 1981-1984; Member, International Activities
Committee - 1989-1990; Member, International Audit &
Finance Committee - 2008-2009; Chair, International Activities
Committee - 1990-1991; Chair, OIJGC Committee - 1995-1997;
Chair, International Leadership Development Committee -
1995-1997 and 2006-2008; International Vice President - 1980-
1981;
Optimist Certifications: International Certified Trainer
What is your vision for the future of the organization?
Vision, to me, means looking forward. From that perspective, I can only see a growing need for an organization with our dynamics. From a history of "Friend of the Boy" to today's direction of covering all youth, I see a field of service opportunities which is unlimited. In a world of increasing electronics usage, our role will become one of guide, friend and mentor. I feel that with Optimist Members to guide and support our youth, their tomorrow will quickly become one of light and progress.
What specific things will you strive to accomplish during your tenure as International President?
I hope to bring the Optimists into the world of electronics and communications. Today we only see the tip of the
iceberg. The opportunities are boundless for us; new levels of membership, a new concept for Clubs, one that
will allow service to be directed by needs and resources. All the while adhering to our vision statement of being
recognized worldwide as the premier volunteer organization that values all children and helps them develop to their
full potential.
What management and leadership skills will you use to lead the organization?
Leadership is truly the key to reaching one's goals. Strong leadership requires that one have a clear vision. My vision
is clear. Next, a leader needs to understand what resources are available and how to use them. I have worked, for
years, with our membership and its leaders. I feel comfortable with my ability to bring out the best in all. The final
part of the picture is having goals that can and will be shared by all. I have the vision. I understand our resources. I
am goal oriented. So I invite you to "come with me" - "viens avec moi."