“Don [Samuel] sets the example. He puts in the work, the effort and the ethics and makes you want to work harder and better. That’s the best leadership,” said Manny Arora (J.D. '94).
Profiles in leadership
What makes a great leader? We asked several leaders in the Georgia State Law community to share their thoughts on others who exhibit leadership qualities worth modeling.
“Don sets the example,” Arora said. “He puts in the work, the effort and the ethics and makes you want to work harder and better. That’s the best leadership.”
Judges and other lawyers trust Samuel, even if they disagree with him, because they know his credibility and integrity, Arora said. “He doesn’t stretch facts to win, never takes shortcuts. You never question whether you can believe him.”
Samuel knows the law and communicates it well. Arora likens him to an encyclopedia: “He can immediately recite what needs to be done. You can have an intellectual discussion with Don at the drop of a hat and walk away wishing you’d thought of that. It’s just natural to him. That’s an enjoyable part of working with him.”
Samuel’s persistence ensures he solves an issue. “He doesn’t nag. He is thorough and works as hard as anybody in the firm.” Arora noted that Samuel’s “super compassionate big heart” is evident personally — he and his wife have adopted a number of children — and professionally — he serves pro bono cases and fights for the underprivileged.
Samuel is dependable and even-tempered. “I’ve never seen him get upset. He takes his time, but you know the case will be ready.”
Such an example empowers others. “He is what you want to be,” Arora said.