This article describes the author's personal involvement in the California Council for the Education of Teachers (Cal Council), beginning in 1960 and spanning four decades, which involved associations with key people in California teacher education and credentialing. The Cal Council was organized for leaders in teacher education from the University of California, California State University, and private colleges and universities, to advise the State Superintendent on best professional practices. Various members of the legislature were considering some major changes regarding teacher credentialing requirements as early as 1960. Legislative enactment of credentialing requirements would end the long-standing flexibility and cooperation between colleges and universities and the State Department of Education. Conversations among Cal Council members revealed great discomfort with pending legislation and lack of agreement among participants about the best policies for preparation for certification. These conversations provided the basis for the author's doctoral research. Struggles and achievements throughout the author's leadership tenure in the Cal Council are discussed. The organization now shares both the scholarship of best professional practice and empirical research on teaching due to the sponsorship of a scholarly journal and a changing membership. The result has earned Cal Council well-deserved national recognition.