At an age when most are reflecting on the past, Dr. Ismael Sanchez is still building the future.
An 81-year-old veteran, educator, bishop, and now published author, Dr. Sanchez brings a rare blend of life experience, spiritual depth, and academic insight to the leadership conversation. His new book, Transformational Leadership Unleashed: Strategies for Inspiring Change and Driving Growth, offers more than advice; it delivers a compelling framework for leaders across industries who want to lead with purpose, empathy, and vision.
From Humble Beginnings to Holistic Leadership
Born on November 20, 1943, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, Dr. Sanchez began his journey in service early. After serving in the U.S. Army, he pursued a career in education, earning degrees in Secondary and Adult Education from the City College of New York. He later completed his Ph.D. at York Christian International University and is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Phoenix.
Over the past 40 years, he’s worn many hats: high school history teacher in the South Bronx, director of student support services at CUNY, and faculty facilitator at Boricua College. He taught in a style that was anything but traditional. “My teaching was always interactive,” he explains. “I made sure students felt ownership of the knowledge. Everyone brought something to the table.”
This same approach shaped his philosophy on leadership.
The Book: A Framework Born from the Field
Transformational Leadership Unleashed is a culmination of decades spent leading in education, ministry, and community. But the seed was planted during his doctoral research on facilitative learning. The concept of “transformation” stuck with him; he saw its power not just in education, but in religious and corporate spaces too.
The book outlines a leadership style built on connection rather than command, vision instead of control, and empowerment over hierarchy. Sanchez champions what he calls “horizontal leadership,” a model that encourages leaders to build other leaders, not followers. He sees leadership as fluid, shared, and rooted in trust.
“Too many leaders struggle,” he says. “Not because they lack skill, but because they lack clarity, connection, and emotional depth.”
In clear, concise language, the book covers topics ranging from vision casting and team building to emotional intelligence and innovation. The structure is lean, accessible, and designed to offer practical value regardless of the reader’s field.
Leadership That Transcends the Pulpit and the Podium
Beyond education, Dr. Sanchez has served as an ordained International Bishop for more than five decades. As Vice President of York Christian International University and a member of the Organization of Bishops in New York, he has mentored countless ministers and faith leaders. His ability to integrate spiritual principles with universal leadership values is a cornerstone of his influence.
“I don’t separate spiritual leadership from professional leadership,” he explains. “Values like empathy, integrity, and vision, they’re needed in every sphere.”
This philosophy also guided his leadership as president of a New York City community board, where he led initiatives with input from team members and citizens alike. Whether in the church, the classroom, or the boardroom, his leadership model stays the same: inclusive, visionary, and deeply human.
A Second Chance at Life—and Purpose
In 2024, Dr. Sanchez’s life took a dramatic turn. While traveling with family in Dubai, he suffered a severe heart attack. Doctors weren’t sure he’d make it through emergency open-heart surgery. But he did.
“I was literally resurrected,” he says. “That experience gave me clarity and urgency.”
That second chance became fuel for finishing the book, and it sharpened his desire to share what he’s learned with a broader audience. “This isn’t just theory,” he says. “It’s everything I’ve lived.”
Anchored by Family, Driven by Legacy
His family, his wife Loida, three daughters, and four grandchildren have been pillars of encouragement. Two of his daughters serve as detectives in the NYPD, while another is preparing to graduate as a nurse. He speaks of them not only with pride but with deep gratitude.
“My family saw the time and effort I poured into the book. They supported me, even when it meant writing until 3 a.m.,” he says. “Their belief in me kept me going.”
Their support extends beyond emotional encouragement. He often shares with them the very leadership values he writes about, modeling the same inspiration and empathy at home that he advocates in his work.
A Voice That’s Needed Now
Dr. Sanchez’s book arrives at a time when the meaning of leadership is under scrutiny. Rapid change, digital overload, and a post-pandemic world have many leaders grappling with burnout and disconnection. Transformational Leadership Unleashed responds to this moment with clarity, heart, and a call to deeper engagement.
He doesn’t claim to have all the answers. What he offers is more valuable: a process. A vision. A way forward.
“It’s not about being the smartest or the strongest,” he says. “It’s about showing up for your people, staying curious, and leading with humility.”
The book is already resonating with readers across professions. Some have asked when Volume Two is coming. Others want to see his unpublished memoir, My Sanchez: My Life Story, made public. He’s open to both ideas.
But for now, his focus is on getting this message into the hands of those who need it.
Final Word
Dr. Sanchez reminds us that leadership isn’t about a title, it’s about impact. At 81, he’s not just adding to the conversation. He’s changing it.
In a world that often confuses power with presence, his voice cuts through with something rare: wisdom. And in Transformational Leadership Unleashed, that wisdom is now on the record.
