Powell speaks about leadership

Former Federal Communications Commission Chairman Michael Powell said he watched the 2004 Super Bowl with his family, only to be horrified by the wardrobe malfunction during the halftime show.

"I didn't know the next day would be the worst day of my life," Powell said. "It was."

Powell was the keynote speaker Thursday for this year's Hatton W. Sumners Undergraduate Student Leadership Conference. The conference is a four-day leadership and service convention, said public affairs graduate student Greg Campion. The program will bring more than 200 leaders from 30 different universities to UT for the convention this weekend. The Center for Ethical Leadership at the LBJ School of Public Affairs organizes the conference.

Janet Jackson's exposed breast was one of Powell's most well-known violations he encountered as FCC chair, a job Powell said alternated between the high-profile and the mundane.

"Janet and I are now friends," Powell said. "But with the FCC, one day you're worried about Janet, and the next day you're making policies and enforcing regime and regulating communications."

Powell's public life started as an armed cavalry officer in the U.S. Army, until his duty was shortened by a jeep accident that crushed his middle body and left him with no choice but to retire after one year of service. He was appointed to the FCC by former President Bill Clinton and named chairman under President George Bush in 2001.

Raised by his father, four-star general and former Secretary of State Colin Powell, Michael is considered a compelling speaker because of his particular paths in life, Campion said.

"He's so tremendous and strong," Campion said. "I feel like his personal ethics could and should emulate with the audiences."

Powell spoke of leadership qualities taught by his father, which have resonated with him throughout his life.

"You have to be a person of principles," Powell said. "Every human being should have 10 principles that they won't compromise for absolutely anyone - not a friend, girlfriend, wife, anyone."

Powell finished the speech with some inside wisdom on being involved in politics.

"Don't ever hang your ego on your profession," Powell said. "You can't need this stuff. Don't let politics feed your family."

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