Thoughts on Walt
Page 14 of 26
Pressler talks to Art Linkletter at opening of
Disney's California Adventure.
Linkletter was one of the hosts of Disneyland's opening day broadcast.
Paul Pressler on Walt Disney
December 20, 2001
| It is difficult, if not impossible, to name another company founder whose organization is built on -- and today continues to reflect such personal characteristics |
Paul Pressler is currently the Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. In that capacity he is responsible for the company's theme parks and resorts worldwide, the Disney Cruise Line, Disney Regional Entertainment and Walt Disney Imagineering. Pressler joined the Walt Disney Company in 1987 as a Senior Vice President for Consumer Licensing. He later was named President of the Disney Stores and in 1994 was named President of the Disneyland Resort. In 1998 Pressler was promoted to President of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and in July of last year he was promoted to Chairman.
LaughingPlace.com: What is your exposure to Walt Disney?
Paul Pressler: Although I never met him personally, I have felt a connection to Walt through two important experiences: My trip to the 1964 World's Fair and my interactions with our Cast Members who worked alongside Walt during the early years of operation at Disneyland and the development of Walt Disney World.
I was eight years old when I attended the World's Fair and, even today, can clearly recall the feelings of excitement and wonder I experienced at the Disney exhibits. I remember that we all thought it was "Mr. Disney's Park" given the extraordinary creative contributions he made, especially, It's a Small World, the GE Carousel of Progress, and Mr. Lincoln. And, like so many of us who have had the opportunity to work for this company, it was my childhood introduction to Disney at the World's Fair that set me on this unforgettable career path.
As an adult, I have had the opportunity to experience Walt Disney by listening to the amazing stories told to me by many of our Cast Members including people like Marty Sklar, John Hench and Bob Penfield. Walt Disney is the heart and soul of this company, and therefore, our Cast Members are understandably proud to share their personal experiences and remembrances. I have been lucky enough to hear many of these stories and in that way, I stay connected to the essence of who Walt Disney was.
LP: What do you admire the most about Walt Disney?
PP: Without question, the two characteristics that immediately leap to mind are his courage and perseverance. It is widely known that Walt Disney was a creative genius, and clearly I find this to be an admirable quality, but I am even more inspired when I think of the incredible conviction it must have taken to make his dreams come true despite many personal failures and the tremendous financial pressures he faced.
LP: What is the greatest gift Walt left to the Company?
PP: His personal legacy ... the memories of who he was and what he stood for. It is difficult, if not impossible, to name another company founder whose organization is built on -- and today continues to reflect such personal characteristics. Walt left us a rich and clear road map for success and it is one that we continue to follow today as we strive for innovation in the stories we tell through our Disney parks, our Disney films and all other Disney products and experiences. Our focus on family, quality, passion and hard work are inspired by Walt Disney.
LP: In your opinion, what is the greatest gift Walt left to the world?
PP: Well....Walt Disney!
LP: Any additional comments you'd like to add.....
PP: Having just sat through the Disney Legends award ceremony, it is clear that Walt also achieved his success by hiring the best people and unlocking their creativity!
Your Thoughts
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