Profiles in Leadership: Joe T. May on the Courage to Do What's Right

What does it take to make the right decision when the path forward isn't easy?

In the latest installment of the Marshall Center's Profiles in Leadership series, The Honorable Joe T. May reflects on the enduring leadership lessons of General George C. Marshall and why his example continues to inspire leaders today.

An engineer, entrepreneur, inventor and former Virginia legislator, May shares how Marshall's commitment to doing what was right—even when it came with personal sacrifice—shaped his own approach to leadership in business and public service.

"Marshall was a man for all years because he had the ability and the courage to do what was right, regardless of how painful it might be for him," says May, who served as a member of the Marshall Center Board for more than a decade.

May also discusses how he approached difficult decisions throughout his career, guided by a simple principle: choose the ethical path, even when it's the harder one.

Watch the full video to hear why May believes General Marshall's legacy of selfless service, unwavering integrity and visionary leadership remains a timeless example for leaders in every generation.