The room was filled with guests from all around the community. Most of the guests were dressed up in tuxedos, waiting patiently and talking to one another. As time was getting closer to start the event, guests were beginning to get anxious to see what would take place. 

  Lyle D. Martin, adjunct professor of psychology at CSU Bakersfield and chief of the Bakersfield Police Department, stepped on stage to speak at a panel interview about ethical leadership that took place on CSUB’s campus on Wednesday, Feb. 12. 

 “Well first of all, leadership is getting people to move in a positive direction towards a goal. Ethical is a little more complex, based on a person’s background, education, and experience they are tasked with making valued decisions regarding right and wrong. So, ethical leadership is about balancing the values and needs of others towards achieving that goal,” said Martin.    

 Throughout the panel, Martin explained that he had a lot of individuals who inspired him to be a role model in leadership, and he feels grateful for that opportunity. 

  CSUB student Cobrin Harrison said he felt it was beneficial to come to the panel because he learned things about ethical leadership that he didn’t know before.  

  “The chief is really personal, giving experience both from life experience and work experience. He really knows how to explain specific scenarios and always emphasizes followers and leadership roles,” said Harrison.  

  “I’m in the military, so I have a leadership role, so it’s always good to hear about the top leaders’ perspectives and their journeys,” said Harrison. 

 Event attendee Amanda Nyack said, “I do think it is important to learn about ethical leadership because the people here have gone through life and they are sharing their wisdom with us. Especially Lyle D. Martin, because we learned about his personal life and values.” 

 Nyack explains that ethical leadership is important to learn because all of us at some point in our lives have experienced personal problems, and if we share these experiences with others, they can learn what to do or expect from others. 

   Martin said, “I feel that it is important for me to give back to my community every day, and the students of this campus are the future of our community, so this is a quality and personal investment bottom line. I love my community and that’s why I am here.”