The Built From Crisis Tour commenced successfully in Troy on March 3, 2024, celebrating the launch of Shawn Maldon‘s new book, Lessons in Leadership, Loyalty & Loss. The event drew a diverse crowd, including family, friends, educators, and community members, all eager to support Maldon during this significant milestone. Despite a rainy start, the weather cleared, allowing guests to enjoy a warm afternoon filled with conversation, food, and camaraderie.
The launch event was organized by a dedicated host committee, with Sheila Fayson Jackson serving as chair. Her leadership, alongside committee members Tonya Terry, Glenda Kelly, Sheila Deveridge, Brandon McClure, and Makelia “Mz FedUp” Wingard, was instrumental in creating a welcoming atmosphere for attendees. The event highlighted the vital role the Troy community has played in shaping Maldon’s journey, with several influential educators from his past in attendance.
Among the notable guests was Señora Pamela Merkel, who taught Maldon Spanish for four years. She expressed pride in his accomplishments and highlighted the strong bonds formed between educators and students. Her presence underscored the lasting impact of Maldon’s education on his life. Dr. Linda Felton Smith, Maldon’s former principal at Charles Henderson High School, also attended, sharing her admiration for his character and leadership.
The event featured an engaging interview conducted by Tonya Terry, a former WSFA news anchor. Terry’s thoughtful questions invited Maldon to discuss the inspiration behind his book and the lessons learned through challenging experiences. The audience participated actively, with questions that enriched the conversation and made the event interactive.
A strong representation from St. Paul AME Church, where Maldon grew up, added another layer of significance to the gathering. Catherine Jordan, speaking on behalf of the church, emphasized the foundational role it played in Maldon’s faith journey and personal development, illustrating the deep connections between faith, family, and community.
The momentum from the launch continued on March 5, 2024, when the tour moved to Georgiana. Mayor Nina Jones Bonner hosted a pop-up book signing at Mary Ruth’s Restaurant, which attracted many community members interested in meeting the author and purchasing copies of his book. The restaurant owners welcomed guests and contributed to the positive atmosphere of the event.
For those unable to attend the signings, Lessons in Leadership, Loyalty & Loss is available for purchase at www.ShawnMaldonBooks.com and on Amazon. The successful kickoff of the Built From Crisis Tour not only celebrated Maldon’s achievements but also reinforced the bonds of community and shared values that have shaped his journey.
