In the same via media manner of balance, Alton (the "al" pronounced the same as in the word "Alabama") Lacey seeks council with all of his staff, faculty, and friends, but none "have his ear" as to imply partiality. He listens, weighing words and perspective as he develops a rapport for explaining his perspective and decision in concensus-building fashion. Few times do others scratch their head in misunderstanding of method or motivation. And were they confused on the outset, once the course of action is begun, meaning becomes clear - never shrouded in secrecy or subversion.
In a time where titles and labels have become banners of cliques or campaigns, Lacey is steadfastly determined not to be labeled one way or another. Political or religious in nature, Dr. Lacey does not merely opt out, but he simply sidesteps muddled complications that entangle many but those holding strong to ways of integrity.
Lacey is a very religious man - but a private man as well. While he is strong and well versed in his faith, he will not be found arguing finer points of beliefs that have little effect on the practicalities of life. A world-traveled and culturally aware person, he also has a unique and disarming acceptance of other people's beliefs. "How can we appreciate our religious freedom without exercising the acceptance of others'?" One of his greatest desires for MBC students is to experience other cultures. Because of this desire, the College now has agreements with Hong Kong Baptist University, Harlaxton College, the Center for Cross Cultural Education in Seville, Spain, and other ventures through the Consortium for Global Education that opens up almost every part of the world to our students.
President Lacey spends a normal week at work. Unlike other leaders, he does not pour countless hours into his work at the expense of his family and quality of life. Instead, he takes a balanced approach to life, believing that people are more effective when their lives are in order and in harmony. In a time where employers squeeze every ounce of time and talent-resource from their subordinates, Alton Lacey wants his faculty and staff to go home at a normal hour and to spend time with their family and community.
In this belief, we find much of who Lacey really is. He is a family man who balances the call and weight of an institution with the love for his family and the needs of society. He invests time in community efforts and civic organizations such as Rotary Club. He is an active member of his church, Third Baptist, St. Louis, while he is first to admit that his role at the College prohibits him from serving as Sunday school teacher, deacon, and choir member as he has served before. During the Greater St. Louis Billy Graham Crusade, he participated in the 6,000 voice choir and strongly encouraged the MBC family to become invovled.
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