“Everybody in, Nobody Out” is the name of the book Ken Fischer has written about his 30 plus years leading the University of Michigan Musical Society. The title is perfect for his book because this is how Ken lives his life. He thinks of ways to include people in leading his organization. He feels bad when somebody is left out. Ken is always searching for ways to help people achieve their very best and he believes in those people. Often, the way Ken helps people is to connect them with other people. He knows that it is through connection that people are most likely to succeed. Likewise, he knows that there is no worse feeling than to be left out, to be excluded.
I’m proud to call Ken my friend. I have been the recipient of his generosity and I have seen him reach out to young adults who wanted to learn about music, and I have seen him arrange to get special seating for the elderly who want to attend concerts. I’ve learned from him about the importance of connection and the power of generosity.
The book itself is a valuable lesson in positive leadership. All proceeds from the book go to the University of Michigan Musical Society (once again part of Ken’s generosity). If you’d like to purchase the book, use code “UMGLFISCHER” for a 30% discount and free shipping at https://www.press.umich.edu/9902056/everybody_in_nobody_out
Everybody In, Nobody Out
Last week, I had the honor to feature Ken in a LEADERS CONNECT Zoom cast about his new book. At 8 AM people were on the phone from California, where it was 5 AM, to pay tribute to Ken and his book. People who Ken has helped and supported were in attendance from London, Buenos Aires, and other spots from around the globe. They called because they knew what Ken meant to them and they wanted to support him in return. If you want to know more about what it takes to be a great leader, please take an hour to watch the video of the event HERE. Or if you just have a few minutes, read through the rest of this post where I share some of the comments that Ken‘s colleague from around the world made about him and his book.
“Ken redefined the UMS idea of performing arts in all its diversity;
Closer to my particular field, he ensured the Inclusion of Dance programming at UMS, all this while we were waging the battle to include Dance & Theater into the title of the U-M School of Music.” – Peter Sparling
“Ken not only is a risk taker, but he truly believes that everyone plays an important role in the community and that his job as a leader is to find a way to introduce that.” – Colleen Jennings-Roggensack
“This joyous, openhearted memoir is, in fact, a manual on fostering connectivitiy —no matter what field you are in.” – Janet Eilber
“What an absolute privilege it was getting to know Ken and see him regularly at our downtown Ann Arbor Rotary Club lunches. His presentations were some of the most memorable and enjoyable. He took time to meet with me over coffee one day – thank you for being available! Congrats on the book and continued success to you and the many people you’ve impacted over the years.” – Doug Moffat
“Ken has a way of making everyone feel special!! He is the best connector which of course leads to many special events and positive changes!” – Debbie Krone
“Ken Fischer is the standard-bearer of inclusive leadership. His story is uplifting and offers powerful lessons for us all. I hope the next generation of leaders both inside and outside the arts take inspiration from his remarkable journey.” -Trey Devey
“I’ve been going to Penny and Ken’s house once a week for the last seven years for my son to take flute lesson from Penny. Whenever Ken comes back home during our lesson he always gives us the warmest greeting; and with the takeout dinner in his hand, he makes us at ease, the Famous Great Ken is such a family man! My best memory though is when Ken plays percussion at Penny’s studio’s annual Christmas concert for the Glacier Hill Senior Community. Ken’s being available to everyone, his caring and love is just genuine and incredible! We are honored to know both Penny and Ken as the best educator and community leader in this country!” – Shuang Wei
“Whether you are a beginning arts administrator or a seasoned one deep into your journey, this book is a must read. It enlightens, engages, and reminds us of the ‘why’ and gives us insight into the ‘how’.” -Colleen Jennings-Roggensack
“He is always there for you. I’ve never heard Ken say ‘I’m too busy’….. He makes you feel like you are special all the time.” – Marylene Delbourg
“Almost 30 years ago, I was managing Urban Bush Women when they performed at UMS. One of the dancers got sick during the show. Ken himself took us to the Emergency Room and waited until she was seen and taken care of (near midnight). I didn’t know presenters did that — but have tried to emulate that level of service ever since! Thanks Ken!” – Laurie Uprichard
Media Coverage
If you would like to learn more about Ken and his book “Everybody In,Nobody Out”, I encourage you to read through these articles:
Michigan Today Podcast and Article about Ken Fischer’s book “Everybody In, Nobody Out” by Deborah Holdship, August 30, 2020
https://michigantoday.umich.edu/2020/08/28/episode-40-ann-arbors-music-man-featuring-ken-fischer-ma-70-HDFA-19/
WRCJ Interview of Ken Fischer by Peter Whorf about “Everybody In, Nobody Out” August 27, 2020
https://www.facebook.com/125432581977/posts/10160072374246978/?extid=ZM8A1tPNUjXYRNw6&d=n
Detroit News Article about Ken Fischer’s book“Everybody In, Nobody Out” by Michael Hodges, August 19, 2020
https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.detroitnews.com/amp/3394376001