Sioux City, Iowa—Morningside alumni and former board member, renowned author, educator, and former global agriculture executive Cleophus P. Franklin Jr. has announced the release of his ninth book and sixth leadership title, Another Cup with Cleo. This groundbreaking work offers a unique blend of hard-earned wisdom and practical strategies aimed at fostering meaningful transformation in leadership.

Franklin, a Senior Corporate Fellow and Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston-Downtown, draws on over three decades of experience with leading agricultural companies like John Deere, Case-New Holland, and Mahindra to deliver a leadership book that transcends traditional corporate rhetoric. Through authentic storytelling, he reveals how foundational lessons, generational wisdom, and mentorship foster a leadership style rooted in courage, connection, and compassion. Structured across four key paths, the book blends personal narratives, family insights, and professional experiences to emphasize vulnerability, humility, and the power of relationships in cultivating lasting leadership.  

“A unique strength of Another Cup with Cleo lies in its ability to provide both inspiration and actionable tools for leaders across industries,” said University Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement JJ Marlow. “The book offers a heartfelt and relatable guide for leaders seeking to unlock potential not just in themselves but in others, turning challenges into opportunities.”

A percentage of the proceeds from Another Cup with Cleo will be donated to Morningside University’s Franklin Leadership Foundation. This initiative is dedicated to funding scholarships for financially challenged and underprivileged college students, helping them pursue their educational aspirations and build brighter futures.

Franklin’s achievements extend beyond his literary contributions. A graduate of Morningside University and the University of North Carolina, his expertise in leadership, brand strategy, and business development has garnered recognition on both national and international levels. Today, his influence continues through his writings, mentoring, and philanthropic efforts that champion leadership and education as pathways to personal and professional empowerment.

Another Cup with Cleo is now available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and the official website at www.coffeewithcleo.com