Author of “The Checkbook“
Buddy Stewart is originally from Louisville. He was born in Louisville; however, as the son of a career Air Force father, he grew up all along the east coast and Europe. When his father retired, his family settled back in Louisville. Buddy graduated from Louisville Male High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in Math from the University of Louisville in 1969. He was in the Navy ROTC and upon graduation from U of L was commissioned as an Officer in the US Navy and served in the Mediterranean and Vietnam. He earned a Masters Degree in Community Development in 1980 from U of L.
Buddy Stewart – Background
Buddy Stewart has over 42 years experience in the health care field. After his time in the Navy, in 1971, he joined Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kentucky. He held various management positions in both the staff and claims operations during his 19 year career with Blue Cross. Buddy then joined Humana and enjoyed a second successful corporate experience of re-invention and change for 23 years. Currently, he is retired from corporate life, but not the continuing life of change.
He has experienced firsthand job changes and loss through “down-sizing, right-sizing, reengineering” or just reorganization. In each situation, he has “survived,” creating a better career opportunity than he had before.
Buddy has been a member of Rotary International for over 33 years, is currently a member of the Rotary Club of Louisville and was a charter member of the Hurstbourne Sunrise Rotary Club which began in September 1984. He has “given back” to his local community through Rotary by holding various committee and club positions. Buddy began Interact and Rotaract Clubs which are Rotary clubs in high schools and colleges.
Buddy is also a photographer – a hobby which he enjoys thoroughly.
Buddy has been married for over 48 years to Linda, and they have two daughters. Buddy and Linda enjoy music, photography, mountain hiking and exercising. He and Linda have 2 grandsons and 2 granddaughters.
Buddy Stewart has a life time of experience in the trenches of change; as an “military brat” growing up; college/ROTC experience; military experience during Vietnam; corporate life dealing with superiors, peers, and subordinates; getting the job done in corporate and civic organizations; motivating himself and other by creating teams; and now as an author and speaker sharing successful advice in the form of wit, wisdom and humor from a lifetime mentors, friends and family.
Many have benefited from his mentoring and leadership by example. His book illustrates his approach and guidance for dealing with change in the modern organization and life. He speaks frequently on the subject.