Oxford City staff members attended a leadership conference on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Held at the Oxford Performing Arts Center, “Leading with the Art of Yes” was presented by Joseph Suddeth, assistant fire chief at Eglin Air Force Base.

Oxford Fire Chief Ben Stewart introduced Suddeth, noting his ties to the local area.

“Joe also works at Talladega Superspeedway and has been there for many years,” Stewart said. “I consider him not only a counterpart in the fire service but also a personal friend and mentor who has helped me throughout my career.”

Suddeth’s remarks noted how “no” is always the easiest answer, but not always the correct one and offered a challenge for supervisors to move from observation to ownership, control their inputs, and ensure their actions validate their messages.

The seminar is part of a continuing education program for city staff, helping to ensure quality services are provided to residents.

“Oxford certainly appreciates our employees for the superior work they do,” said Mayor Alton Craft. “The best award I get is when others come and try to hire away our employees, because that tells me we must be doing something right when they think our employees are the best.”