The Interview: Scott McInnis of CCF
From Staff Reports
This month, The Paper visited with Scott McInnis, the Executive Director of the Coweta Community Foundation, for its April Q&A.
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
I like to think of myself as an optimistic and creative person, guided by love and faith throughout my life. My journey started with my high school sweetheart, Heather, whose unwavering support over the past 32 years has helped shape a fulfilling life dedicated to purpose. I’ve had the privilege of serving in the Navy, serving as a Respiratory Therapist, and becoming a pastor, all while focusing on serving our community.
In my downtime, you’ll find me enjoying concerts, theater, Georgia football games, the beach, or anywhere there’s a boat. I also own golf clubs and enjoy toting them around in a golf cart.
Currently, I’m the Executive Director of The Coweta Community Foundation, where I inspire others to get involved in philanthropy. Heather and I are proud parents of two amazing daughters who constantly inspire us. My love for my family and life drives my passion for making the world a better place.
Best piece of advice you’ve received.
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received is to “Focus on the journey, not just the destination.” You gotta “stop and smell the roses.” If we become so focused on getting to the next level of success, we miss out on the really important stuff. Your faith, family, and fun are the things that you want more of as you look back on your life. Make time for them now.
And… don’t bet on the Falcons.
If I had it to do over …
I wouldn’t change a thing. Well … Maybe I would have invested in Apple, Amazon, and Bitcoin when they were first offered.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
This is an impossible question. Thanks to Spotify, we don’t have to make this choice . I have very eclectic taste in music and books.
For Music – Worship music is a given. I love to sing old hymns so I’ll sing those…but for three albums outside of church music – I’d say, Abby Road – Beatles; Songs in the Key of Life – Stevie Wonder; and Red Headed Stranger – Willie Nelson.
For Books – I believe the Bible is a given – so I’m not counting it in the three. And this is again super challenging. Three books I’m currently reading: “The Let Them Theory,” by Mel Robins; and “Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons,” by Ben Hogan; and “Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies”- By Michael F. Bird, N. T. Wright.
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why?
1 Johnny Carson – As a legendary television host and comedian, Carson defined late-night television for decades. I’ ’d have him host the party and help carry the conversations. He’d be hilarious.
2 Ronald Reagan – His experiences as a Hollywood actor and a political leader would provide a unique perspective on the relationship between entertainment and politics. Reagan could discuss his vision for America, his approach to governance, and the significance of optimism in leadership.
3 George Washington – His experiences during the Revolutionary War and his role in shaping the United States would inspire discussions about democracy, governance, and the values that underpin a free society. Washington’s emphasis on unity and public service would resonate in contemporary conversations about civic responsibility.
4 Michael Jordan – The greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan’s work ethic, competitive spirit, and impact on sports culture would spark discussions about excellence, dedication, and the influence of athletics on society. His experiences with teamwork, leadership, and overcoming challenges could lead to inspiring conversations about motivation and achieving greatness on and off the court.
5 Paul McCartney – His experiences in the music industry, insights into creativity, and reflections on collaboration would provide a rich backdrop for discussions about art, influence, and the power of music to bring people together. McCartney’s stories about the creative process and the impact of The Beatles on popular culture would be particularly engaging.
6 The Apostle Paul – As the writer of most of the New Testament, he would bring a moral and theological perspective to the conversation. I’d be interested to ask about challenging verses from scripture, and I’d be eager to see how he interacted with the others at the table.
This would be a lit party. Imagine the stories they could tell. I’d love to hear what they thought about America today.
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.
When I was in 11th grade… I thought I’d have an EGOT (EGOT is an acronym that stands for Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) by now.
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
On a beach or on a boat.
Your go-to food.
20 oz. thick Ribeye, loaded baked potato, and a Caesar salad.
Favorite movies(s).
It’s a Wonderful life, Shawshank Redemption, Braveheart, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Elf, Forest Gump, Field of Dreams, The Godfather, Star Wars, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Airplane, Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas, Christmas Vacation, The Breakfast Club, St. Elmo’s Fire, Platoon, Schindler’s List, Bridge on the River Kwai, Rambo, Casablanca, Saving Private Ryan, Tommy Boy, Coming to America, Trading Places.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs…spelled DAWGS.
Your favorite quote and why?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control; against such things there is no law. Gal. 5:22-23
Because in every situation, this Bible verse reminds us how to respond.
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.
My amazing 32-year marriage to Heather and raising my two beautiful daughters.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own?
Don’t push the fast-forward button on your life.
