Father Dave Talks About Servant Leadership

Father Dave Flanagan and Optimist President Bob Hundhausen

Father Dave knew from a young age that he enjoyed serving others. He chose leadership roles in high school and college that allowed him to serve his fellow students. He taught for three years after college before entering the seminary. He especially enjoyed the moment a student would grasp a new concept. After some time in the seminary, he took a break because he wasn't sure he wanted to become a priest. He got his master's degree from UW-Platteville and served as principal at a couple Catholic schools before making the decision to return to the seminary. As principal he enjoyed helping both teachers and students.

Father Dave worked with the Elder Hostel program at UW-Platteville for 10 years. He found meeting the needs of these folks very rewarding. Father has served to people of Saint Rose in Cuba City for 23 years. Father Dave has a way of being there for people who have lost loved ones that is truly a gift. Although he is retired, he is still called upon for many funerals.

Father Flanagan has been a mentor for the UW-Platteville for many years. Back when he was asked to be a mentor, the coaches were looking to relate basketball skills with life after basketball. They wanted an outside person that students would feel comfortable talking with without worrying that it would affect their playing time. Father Dave would talk to the players the night before a game about a topic chosen by the team. Servant leadership, brotherhood, mental toughness, persistence, team work, and passion were among the many topics chosen.

Father Dave retired a couple years ago; and has recently moved to an apartment in Cuba City. He continues to mentor the basketball team and help the parish.