"Our task is not to put the greatness back into humanity, but to elicit it, for the greatness is there already"
- John Buchan
the columban code of responsible leadership
The Columban Code of Responsible Leadership was created by Columba 1400's first Chief Executive, Ian Chisholm, distilled from his unique experiences and research over a decade in North America with senior management practitioners and young people from "tough realities". Described by Chisholm as "the essential qualities that others need to see in any leader during those critical moments that will make or break a community" - the principles of "The Columban Code" have been used as the scaffolding of every Columba 1400 experience since opening in 2000.
Six principles, in particular, have held fast - validated over time in the words of those who have faced the challenge of leading communities of people. Regardless of sector, field or discipline, those that lead know and understand the value of six timeless themes that are intimately tied to creating community and moving that community more masterfully from intent to results. In real and simple language, "The Columban Code" challenges participants, facilitators and centre staff alike to engage challenging situations and adverse conditions that otherwise they may be avoided.
All six principles are positive, and yet unattainable in any absolute sense. Each requires a lifetime of refinement and enhancement. All are present in the actions and communications of those leaders who have served as responsible players in the unfolding human story.
By connecting those from “tough realities” with these leadership truths, and providing a scaffolding for understanding leadership, we have tapped into a tremendous potential for good. Most importantly, we have opened people's eyes to their own capacity to make a meaningful difference around them. It is our belief that this Columban Code represents the essence of responsible leadership - distilled from history, from reality, and from humanity.
Knowing and understanding yourself, other people and your environment
Recognising and concentrating on critical and essential information.
Seeing and implementing solutions, ideas and initiatives.
Being reliable and trustworthy, remaining whole and true to your potential.
Enduring and remaining strong when faced with complication, tragedy and resistance.
Sharing resources selflessly and effectively, using your strengths and experience to take meaningful action and contribute to the greater good
With the help of local Skye designer Phil Slater of Pelican Design - “the code” was translated into six simple but powerful icons - soon after carved in the glass at the heart of the Columba 1400 centre on Skye.
The Columban Code of Responsible Leadership was trademarked by Columba 1400 in 2001 - and has become central to the organisation's brand and identity, serving to underpin not only each and every programme experience delivered by the Centre but the heart of Columba 1400’s leadership philosophy.
ian chisholm
columban fellow
Originally hailing from Saskatchewan, Ian guided the operational start-up of Columba 1400 between 2000 and 2004 as Chief Executive. Ian introduced The Columban Code of Responsible Leadership® as the core philosophy, integrated brand and intellectual property of the organisation. In his four years at the helm of Columba 1400, Ian and the team made a marked impact on modern Scotland with its perspective on leadership and quality of delivery.