In Lead Anyway: Finding Humor, Grace, and Grit Along the Leadership Journey, a seasoned educator-turned-superintendent offers a heartfelt and practical account of his decades-long experience navigating the highs and lows of educational leadership. Blending personal anecdotes, hard-earned wisdom, and insightful reflections, the book takes readers behind the scenes of the school system-from the classroom to the boardroom. Through pivotal moments of failure, resilience, and self-discovery, he reveals the transformative power of humility, humor, and perseverance in confronting the challenges of leadership.

Dr. Eric J. McFee was a seasoned educational leader with over 35 years of experience driving student success in both Georgia and Florida. He served as Superintendent of Grady County Public Schools, where he led with a strong commitment to equity, innovation, and excellence. Holding a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Grand Canyon University and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University, Dr. McFee guided districts through transformative initiatives-ranging from district-wide literacy rollouts to strategic intervention programs and accreditation processes. His leadership was rooted in research-based strategies, operational expertise, and a deep belief in empowering others through collaboration and clear communication. Fluent in Spanish and actively engaged in professional and community organizations, Dr. McFee was dedicated to developing emerging leaders and ensuring every student had the opportunity to thrive.