In the late 20th century, the German-based chemical company Badische Anilin und Soda Fabrik (BASF), used as its marketing tagline: “We don’t make a lot of the products you buy; we make a lot of the products you buy better.” This is a resounding truth to the life of Dr. Mary J. Goodwin-Clinkscale, who has always recognized a need to do better, to make better, to live better; not only for herself, but for anyone or anything that needed improvement. Her story is one of development—of advancement—of betterment. Dr. C is always looking for ways to improve.

The seven life skills described in this book were employed in the church environment and later implemented with the launch of the GBT (Growing and Building Together) visual and performing Arts Academy, a nonprofit, community-based organization. These skills include administration, organization, leadership, listening, communication, presentations, and teamwork. Although these skills were primarily used in a church setting, they can be applied to any area of life or type of organization.