Learning from Quin and Cindy Christensen at Cumorah Academy
At Cumorah Academy, every week is an opportunity to learn from mentors who inspire us to grow — personally, professionally, and spiritually. This week, we were privileged to hear from Quin and Cindy Christensen, a couple whose journey exemplifies faith, courage, and emotional intelligence in leadership.
Their message reminded us that true fulfillment doesn’t come only from career success, but from developing emotional awareness, embracing change with faith, and finding purpose in every season of life.
Quin & Cindy: A Story of Resilience and Purpose
From the very first moment, Quin and Cindy invited us to reflect on who we are, what we value, and how we can live with greater purpose.
Quin, who served as a missionary in Japan, built a thriving career as a veterinarian and entrepreneur. After founding and managing his own animal hospital for 23 years, he sold his business and moved into consulting — showing how adaptability and courage can redefine success.
“Anytime your job situations change, be flexible. Identify what you enjoy and how you can build your life around it — that’s where fulfillment begins.”
Cindy followed a different path, one led by music, creativity, and service. With a degree in Choral Education from BYU, she directed several choirs and later founded a nonprofit organization that provided music education to hundreds of students.
At one point, Cindy paused her professional career to focus on her family — a period that deepened her emotional intelligence, resilience, and sense of purpose. Nearly two decades later, she returned to music with a renewed perspective.
Her experience is a powerful reminder that career breaks and changes can be opportunities for growth — even when the next step isn’t immediately clear.
The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
This week’s classes centered on emotional intelligence — the ability to understand, manage, and express our emotions while connecting with others authentically.
Quin and Cindy emphasized that leadership begins with empathy and self-awareness. Mistakes and challenges, they taught, are not failures but opportunities for growth and transformation.
“Mistakes, failures, and challenges are doorways to growth and improvement.”
They encouraged us to see life as a journey of continuous learning — to practice patience, faith, and perspective, especially when progress seems slow.
What Makes an Effective Leader
Among their many insights, Quin and Cindy highlighted key principles of effective leadership — lessons grounded in integrity, empathy, and purpose.
1. Empathy Over Ego
“Effective leaders care more about people than about their own position.”
True leaders lift others rather than control them. Influence comes from compassion, not authority.
2. Humility and Accountability
“Good leaders are aware of their weaknesses and take responsibility for both success and failure.”
As Quin shared from his business experience, leadership grows stronger when we own our results instead of shifting blame.
3. Vision and Structure
“Leaders who see the big picture create systems that help others work effectively within it.”
Visionary leaders combine strategy with empathy — creating clarity that empowers others to thrive.
4. Leading by Example
“Leaders walk the talk — the culture of any organization begins with their behavior.”
Integrity and consistency build trust. When leaders live their values, others follow naturally.
Turning Challenges into Growth
One of the most inspiring lessons from Quin and Cindy was about turning challenges into opportunities.
Cindy’s story of pausing her music career showed that detours can be times of preparation, not failure. Quin’s transition from business owner to consultant demonstrated that adaptability is key to long-term success.
They reminded us that faith is not just belief — it’s action in the unknown. It’s trusting that the path will unfold step by step, even when you can’t see the full picture.
Their message reflected a deep truth: life unfolds in seasons, each with its own lessons and blessings.
“You have a whole life to meet your goals. Life happens in phases. Do your best now — and trust the process.”
Fun Facts and Final Thoughts
Beyond their professional success, Quin and Cindy radiate joy and curiosity. They met on a blind date — and Quin proposed in a grocery store! When asked about superpowers, Cindy said she’d choose teleportation to be close to family, while Quin picked flying for the feeling of freedom.
Their final message to students summed up everything they stand for:
“Share what you’ve learned here with others. Teaching strengthens your understanding and helps you grow even more.”
They shared a few words of their experience below:
Growing Through Faith and Emotional Intelligence
Through their story, Quin and Cindy Christensen reminded us that leadership is not about titles — it’s about empathy, courage, and the willingness to keep growing. Their journey shows that emotional intelligence, faith, and resilience are the foundations of a meaningful life.
At Cumorah Academy, we learn from mentors like Quin and Cindy who inspire us to combine purpose with action, faith with courage, and service with leadership.
If you’re ready to grow in your personal, professional, and spiritual life — and to learn from mentors who live what they teach — join us at Cumorah Academy.
Written by Thamara Egídio
Collaboration with Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
