Related Blog Posts Page: “SHUT UP AND LISTEN!”
As I read and reflected upon my reading of Tilman J. Fertitta’s book entitled: “SHUT UP AND LISTEN!” I shared thoughts via blogs and created a page to organize the collection of my published pages, pertaining to Fertitta’s book. Throughout the book it is true that there are nuggets of wisdom, truth and practical application that one can learn from, and apply for daily living, planning of ventures / business or specific goals. And I’m sure that there is probably more that I could write about for each chapter, or points of interest. For this blog, I wanted to specifically focus on thoughts that were offered by Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor or University of Houston. Dr. Khator offers thoughts in Fertitta’s book, within the section entitled: “The Tillman I know.” With the many business ventures, entrepreneurial initiatives, Fertitta is known for his desire to give back to the community, and is currently serving as Chairman of the Board of Regents at the University of Houston, Texas, USA and owner of the Fertitta Centre.
“If I have to define one quality about Tilman, it’s his compassion. Once we had a student who tried to commit suicide. Tilman texted me every four hours asking how the student was doing. His heart really connects with students because he knows people are not just numbers.” (Fertitta, 165).
Dr. Renu. Khator, Chancellor UNiversity of Houston, Texas, USA.
This initiative is closer to my interests of Education, and especially linked to Tilman’s own experience with a student. Dr. Khator states: “If I have to define one quality about Tilman, it’s his compassion. Once we had a student who tried to commit suicide. Tilman texted me every four hours asking how the student was doing. His heart really connects with students because he knows people are not just numbers.” (Fertitta, 165). This quote really resonated with me, from my own experiences of being a student – mentor. Students who are in crisis, often don’t think that anyone would care. Crisis’ are especially heightened when students lack the personal and academic support. There are many factors including pressure upon students, that are a cause for crisis. However, reaching out is vital. Sometimes its that one person that can be the life-giving source, to the student who is feeling suicidal.
I could relate to Tilman’s own reaction especially because students often don’t understand the impact that they have upon an educator / professional, or even a billionaire as Fertitta. But the fact that Tilman is a billionaire, and had this similar reaction as I, only humanizes Fertitta. As we look past dollar amounts, to humanize Fertitta more – the human value. The ability and desire to give back as well as care for those – whilst assisting the mission and success of the Institution.
These thoughts serve to add a conclusive point to my blogs and reading of Tilman J. Fertitta’s book. I am sure that if I have any further thoughts or points to refer back to this book I certainly will. For now, I have enjoyed my reading, reflections, writing with regards to Tilman’s first book, and look forward to the hope of more publications soon!
Reference: Fertitta, J. Tilman. SHUT UP AND LISTEN. HarperCollins Leadership, 2019.
Further Reading:
- UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM: TILMAN J. FERTITTA Chairman, UH System Board of Regents, Chairman of the Board and CEO Landry’s, Inc.
- Tilman J. Fertitta – Website
These thoughts were originally hand-written on March 1st, 2020.
My Thoughts To Share With Love & Kindness! 🙂
{HEART'S, FOREVER!} 
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