LEAD BY…A FRAMEWORK FOR AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP

Dr. Christie Whitbeck-Lazenby’s leadership journey spans from the classroom to the superintendent’s office, and now to mentoring and consulting leaders across the state and beyond. Along the way, she has developed a personal philosophy she calls Lead By… — a framework rooted in authenticity, resilience, faith, and the belief that leadership is about bringing out the best in others.

  • Everyone wants to be heard. True leadership begins by making space for every voice, even when outcomes can’t always align with every request. Christie has built a reputation for listening deeply, creating systems for feedback, and ensuring stakeholders know their perspectives matter.

  • Leaders are called to be an inspiration, offering encouragement and recognition in both small and significant ways. Christie believes in expecting the best from those she leads — and celebrating it when she sees it.

  • Passion fuels purpose. For Christie, leadership in education is anchored in compassion and care for people. She helps others rediscover their “why” when passion wavers, guiding educators and leaders to find joy in their calling.

  • A confident leader surrounds themselves with talent. Christie embraces hiring and developing people who are even stronger in certain areas, knowing that when those around her succeed, the whole organization thrives.

  • In today’s world, Christie believes public schools work best when the focus stays on students, families, and staff. She emphasizes teamwork, respect, and clear communication—building trust through shared goals and school pride.

  • Great leaders see the big picture — but also help others understand the “why” behind decisions. Christie is known for communicating the rationale behind choices, building buy-in and team spirit.

  • Excellence today shapes opportunity tomorrow. Christie models loyalty, teamwork, and consistency, reminding leaders that their current role is the foundation for future impact.

  • At the heart of Christie’s philosophy is a guiding question: Did I do my best, and did I make a difference? Her leadership is informed by resilience, faith, and her belief in post-traumatic growth — shaped by personal loss but carried forward with purpose. She encourages leaders to live and lead with no regrets, leaving each place better than they found it.

  • "Dr. Christie Whitbeck exemplifies a transformative leadership style characterized by servitude and collaboration. From first hand experience, I’ve witnessed Christie empowering her team by fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and capable of contributing their best. Her ability to build capacity within a team not only enhances their skills but also encourages a culture of continuous improvement. Proven in her approach, Dr. Whitbeck is not just an accomplished administrator; she is a leader’s leader, inspiring others to follow her example and cultivate their own leadership potential. Her dedication to servant leadership ensures that the needs of her team come first, driving collective success and innovation. I am fortunate to have worked for her in two school districts."

    Ginger Carrabine, Superintendent, Bryan Independent School District 

  • "I highly recommend Dr. Christie Whitbeck for her outstanding leadership, dedication to education, and unwavering commitment to students, families, and the community. Dr. Whitbeck is a passionate and visionary educator who leads with integrity, compassion, and excellence. Her ability to inspire growth, foster educational innovation, and advocate for the success and well-being of others reflects her deep commitment to transformative education and servant leadership. It is an honor to support and recommend her professional work and impact in the field of education."

     Pastor David L. Sincere Jr., BCPC, BCMMHC
    Senior Pastor, Fort Bend Transformation Church
    Founder & Lead Coach, Sincere Consulting and Life Coaching

  • “An exceptional educational leader, Dr. Christie Whitbeck—former school district superintendent and current Executive Director of the Texas Council of Women School Executives—brings vision to life by developing people and systems that endure. She leads with both expertise and heart, drawing on her experience at the district level to guide others through complex challenges with clarity and confidence. Her coaching inspires growth, builds leadership capacity, and empowers educators to take bold, student-centered action. Through her work, she not only strengthens individual leaders but also advances the profession, creating meaningful and lasting impact in schools and communities across Texas.”

    Martha Salazar-Zamora, Tomball ISD superintendent, National Superintendent of the Year Finalist, TCWSE Past-President and TASA Past-President

  • “Dr. Whitbeck is one of those rare educators whose influence reaches far beyond the classroom and school administration. During a critical season of my childhood, long before her roles as principal and superintendent, she was my first-grade elementary school teacher. She saw potential in me and offered encouragement that stayed with me for life. Her kindness and belief in me became part of my story, and I am grateful for the lasting impact she made on my journey.”

    Verdis Wilson, MBA, CPM