Leaders on Leadership

Dr. Richard Helldobler, President of William Paterson University, brings a unique blend of artistry and strategy to his leadership. After earning a business degree and turning down a lucrative corporate offer, he pursued a career in dance, which led him to become a higher education leader. A first-generation college student with immigrant roots, Dr. Helldobler shares how his background in the arts influences his approach to building teams and navigating complexity. He also reflects on his time as an ACE Fellow, the mentors who guided his path, and the importance of finding opportunity in the midst of challenge. Interview recorded May 2025. Read the full episode transcript. 

Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, President of the University of Nebraska System, reflects on his journey from Brooklyn public schools to academic medicine and higher education leadership. A first-generation student with a background in engineering and cardiac surgery, Dr. Gold shares how trust, transparency, and service have shaped his leadership philosophy. He speaks candidly about the challenges facing higher education today, including shifting public perceptions, and highlights the cultural strengths that make Nebraska a distinctive place to lead. Interview recorded March 2025. Read full podcast transcript.

Krista Newkirk, President of the University of Redlands, shares her leadership journey and the values that guide her approach. President Newkirk reflects on the formative experiences of her childhood on a cattle ranch and the influence of her grandfather's dedication to education. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, courage, and collaborative leadership, advocating for leaders to listen before setting a vision. She also discusses the challenges facing higher education, including public perceptions of its value and the need for policy changes to support accessibility. Interview recorded January 2025. Read full podcast transcript.

Dr. Zulma Toro, Central Connecticut State University's first female and first Hispanic President, has dedicated her career to expanding opportunities for underrepresented students, particularly in STEM fields. Her background in industrial engineering shaped her leadership approach, emphasizing the human side of systems and the importance of strong teams. In this episode, Dr. Toro shares the experiences, mentors, and defining moments that guided her journey, from her early years in Puerto Rico to leading a university committed to access and student success. Interview recorded December 2024. Read full podcast transcript. 

In this special episode, Dr. Jay Lemons welcomes Dr. Marjorie Hass, President of the Council of Independent Colleges, and Dr. Charles L. Welch, President of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, for an engaging discussion on the Competencies for the College Presidency study. Sponsored by Academic Search and conducted in partnership with AASCU and CIC, the study identifies seven key competencies essential for effective higher education leadership today. Drs. Hass and Welch share their insights on the evolving role of the college presidency, the challenges facing leaders, and how these competencies can guide institutions through complex times. Download the study and read the full episode transcript here. Interview recorded December 2024.

Dr. John Bravman's journey from a small-town upbringing to leading Bucknell University is a story of perseverance and vision. As a first-generation college student who struggled through his first year at Stanford, President Bravman learned to embrace challenges, guided by transformative mentors and an unrelenting commitment to growth. Now, as Bucknell's President, he reflects on the lessons that shaped his leadership and the initiatives that continue to connect the university to its mission of access and excellence. Interview Recorded November 2024. Read full podcast transcript.

Dr. Darrin S. Good, President of Nebraska Wesleyan University, didn't always know he'd lead a college. He started on a path to dental school, envisioning a stable career and a comfortable life. But during his dental school interview, he realized his passion lay elsewhere—teaching, mentoring, and shaping the lives of students. In this episode of Leaders on Leadership, President Good shares the personal stories, moments of reflection, and mentors that inspired him to pursue a career rooted in impact and purpose. Interview recorded November 2024. Read the full episode transcript. 

Dr. Flora W. Tydings, Chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents, shares her inspiring journey from K-12 to higher ed leadership with host Jay Lemons. With a commitment to workforce development and a values-driven approach, she highlights the innovative programs, like Tennessee Promise, that boost enrollment and open doors for students across Tennessee. Chancellor Tydings reflects on the importance of building diverse teams and the state's transformative investment in educational infrastructure, inspiring the next generation to lead with purpose and create lasting impact. Interview recorded October 2024. Read the full episode transcript. 

Dr. Jann L. Joseph, President of Georgia Gwinnett College, brings a leadership story shaped by resilience and a drive for growth. Starting in Trinidad, Dr. Joseph's journey has been marked by pivotal moments, guided by her late husband's belief in her potential. She shares insights on building trust-filled teams, fostering a supportive community, and making bold decisions to shape a brighter future. Interview recorded July 2024. Read the full episode transcript.

Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University, has a leadership journey that is anything but conventional. Originally aspiring to become a Canadian Mountie, Dr. Damphousse shifted his path in graduate school but remained committed to helping others. He continues to focus on student success and empowering the next generation, drawing from his unique experiences to guide Texas State with a deep commitment to serving its community. Interview recorded August 2024. Read the full episode transcript here. 

Dr. Debbie L. Sydow, President of Richard Bland College of William & Mary, shares her journey from a first-generation college student to a leader in higher education, emphasizing the impact of mentors and the importance of strategic reinvestment in student success. She also reflects on the qualities of effective leadership, including comfort with ambiguity, open-mindedness, and a commitment to the institution's mission. Interview recorded July 2024. 

In this episode, host Jay Lemons interviews Larry Schall, President of the New England Commission of Higher Education. Larry shares his unconventional journey from a civil rights attorney to higher education leader, emphasizing the importance of relationships and authenticity in leadership. He discusses the challenges and opportunities facing college presidents today, including external pressures, the need for resilience, and the significance of long-term commitment to an institution. Interview recorded June 2024. 

Dr. Susan D. Stuebner, who has served as President of Colby-Sawyer College since 2016, has an inspiring journey that traces back to her early career as head women's basketball coach and admissions counselor at Albright College. Sue shares with host Jay Lemons how she has learned to embrace a guiding principle that has been instrumental to her success: the power of authenticity. She advocates for the importance of being true to oneself and following one's passions, emphasizing that genuine leadership not only fosters a positive environment but also paves the way for meaningful accomplishments. Interview recorded March 2024. 

Dr. Montserrat Fuentes, President of St. Edward's University, joins Dr. L. Jay Lemons in a compelling conversation about leadership in higher education. Dr. Fuentes shares how she finds harmony at the intersection of her two passions: music and mathematics and tells the story of her journey into academic leadership as a Hispanic woman. She highlights how she lives out her mission of preparing students for their futures through a strong educational community focused on student success.

Explore Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson's journey into higher education leadership. From her origins as a first-generation college graduate in Alaska to leading San José State University as its 31st President, she reflects on the mentorship and opportunities that shaped her, including the pivotal Executive Leadership Academy through the American Academic Leadership Institute. Gain insights from her story of resilience and leadership in higher education.

In this episode, Dr. Mary Dana Hinton, President of Hollins University, takes us through her journey to the presidency. From a young age, her mother instilled in her the importance of not only obtaining an education but of finding ways to serve others through that education. She shares the importance of leading through the margins and encourages others to develop a lifelong commitment to learning and developing their leadership from a place of compassion. Interview recorded in August 2023.

Dr. Kathy Wilson Humphrey recounts her educational journey, including attending one of the first desegregated schools in Kansas City where she grew up. Dr. Humphrey's passion for working in academia began when she served as a Resident Assistant at the University of Central Missouri. She shares with host, Dr. L. Jay Lemons, how she views her role as president and how a servant leadership style can transform institutions and build a sustainable and thriving culture. 

In a special Pride Month episode, Dr. Jay Lemons was privileged to host Dr. Timothy Mottet, President of Colorado State University Pueblo. Dr. Mottet shared his inspiring story, beginning with his roots in rural Iowa, followed by his ascent to leadership in academia. He spoke about the importance of authenticity and inspiration in today's higher education landscape and the ways in which LGBTQ+ leaders can find success.

Dr. Barbara Farley, President of Illinois College, shares her journey and the influential people and experiences that have shaped her as a leader. Dr. Farley discusses her Midwest roots, the importance of education instilled by her parents, the profound impact of teachers who sparked her passion for learning, and the influence her late husband had on her life. She also reflects on her career trajectory, including the roles she held at various institutions that led to her becoming the first female president of Illinois College and Chair of the Board of Directors at the Council of Independent Colleges.

Dr. Charles L. Welch, President of the Arkansas State University System, recounts his path to leadership with host Dr. L. Jay Lemons. As an undergraduate student, Welch had his eyes set on becoming a lawyer, but after meetings with his academic advisor, he chose a career in academia. The first-generation college student ultimately found his passion in helping others achieve success through their education.

President of the Council of Independent Colleges and author of A Leadership Guide for Women in Higher Education, Dr. Marjorie Hass, shares her story on how she moved from faculty to provost, and ultimately to the presidency. She discusses the challenges of leaving behind a discipline she loved to lead as well as advice she would give other women seeking leadership roles in higher education.

Dr. Gary Crosby, the eighth President of Saint Elizabeth University, joins Jay to discuss his path through student affairs to the presidency and how being agile and flexible has been key to his success. Dr. Crosby, who is the first male and person of color to lead Saint Elizabeth, also shares how being a first-generation student led him to this role and guides him as a leader in higher education.

In this episode, Jay talks with Dr. Beatriz González, President of the Wolfson Campus of Miami Dade College. Dr. González shares her family's story as Cuban exiles and how that experience influenced her desire to give back to others through leadership in higher education. She also discusses the need for leaders to be authentic, humble, and open to opportunity, and to surround themselves with a talented team and strong support network. Interview recorded in January 2022.

In this episode, Jay is joined by Dr. Ronald Rochon, President of the University of Southern Indiana. Dr. Rochon talks about the important attributes he thinks make for a good leader, including empathy, accessibility, and humility – all qualities he saw in his mentors. He also advises new leaders to make time to build their networks, listen widely and well across the campus community, and be patient with change. Interview recorded in December 2021.

Jay talks with Dr. Javier Cevallos, President of Framingham State University, who talks about the role and impact of AASCU institutions in meeting the needs of their local communities. He shares his thoughts on leadership and identifies humility and honesty as being two critical attributes of good leaders. He also discusses how important it is for leaders to build a highly skilled team of individuals who share the values of the institution and to develop a network of peers through participation in leadership development programs. Interview recorded in October 2021.

Jay is joined by Deborah Stanley, President of the State University of New York at Oswego, who recently announced her retirement after more than 25 years in the post. Ms. Stanley shares her thoughts on the qualities and characteristics of great leaders and reflects on how those attributes have changed during her time as a university president. She also offers advice for new leaders on being patient and optimistic, and learning to love an institution before identifying areas for its growth and improvement. Interview recorded in October 2021.

In this episode, Jay talks with Dr. Loren Blanchard, President of the University of Houston-Downtown, who shares three pieces of advice for leading through crisis: being nimble, doing advanced preparation, and delivering clear, consistent and regular communication. Dr. Blanchard also discusses some of the proven strategies he has used to help close equity gaps and the importance of focusing on student success to achieve those efforts. Interview recorded in September 2021.

Jay is joined by Dr. Félix Matos Rodríguez, Chancellor of the City University of New York. Dr. Rodríguez shares his thoughts on how leaders can benefit from having a mentor or executive coach as they transition into a new role. He also discusses the importance of understanding your leadership style so you know your strengths and the areas where you need to grow.

In this episode, Jay speaks with Dr. Alisa White, President of Sam Houston State University (SHSU). Dr. White discusses her experience transitioning to the presidency at SHSU during the height of the pandemic and the importance of virtue, courage, and honesty when building a strong team.

Dr. Shirley Collado talks with Jay about how her earliest college experience as a member of the inaugural class of Posse scholars shaped her career, her perspective on access, success, and college completion, and her understanding of students' desires for a sense of belonging and affirmation. She also discusses how aspiring leaders can prepare for the challenges of the future by gaining skills and experiences from across the varied sectors of higher education.  

In this episode, Jay speaks with Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy, president of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Dr. Ramaswamy talks about his journey to leadership and how his own experience as a first-generation, low-income student in India has translated to a passion for student success and closing equity gaps, which he has put into action while with NWCCU. He also discusses the importance of mentorship and how good leaders know how to make others shine.

Dr. Chapdelaine talks with Jay about the role of institutions in community engagement and workforce development. She discusses her own experience both as a faculty member and administrator in preparing students to contribute to their communities as talented professionals and civic leaders. She also shares her thoughts on the important qualities of good institutional leaders, from being passionate about student success and the university mission to leading with integrity.

Jay is joined by Dr. Jo Allen, who talks about her path to the presidency of her alma mater, Meredith College. Dr. Allen discusses Meredith's anti-racism initiative and shares some of the successes and challenges the campus community has faced in this effort. In addition to offering her thoughts on the importance of balancing confidence with humility as a leader, she discusses the value in taking time to reflect and learn from your leadership experiences.

In this episode, Jay talks with Dr. Scott Miller, President of Virginia Wesleyan University, who has served for 31 years in four college presidencies. Dr. Miller reflects on the characteristics that made him effective in those roles and led to opportunities for his institutions and those who served with him. He also shares the importance of life-long learning and taking advantage of leadership development programs like those offered by the American Academic Leadership Institute. 

Jay talks with Dr. Daniel Greenstein, Chancellor of Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education, who reflects on his career path and how it led him to be a passionate advocate for affordable, accessible higher education. Dr. Greenstein also discusses important qualities needed for strategic leadership, including data-informed decision-making, accountability, transparency, and empathy. 

Jay is joined by his mentor and former boss, John Casteen, president emeritus of the University of Virginia, and takes the opportunity to reflect on some of the important advice Mr. Casteen offered him as he began his leadership journey. Mr. Casteen discusses the impact desegregation and the civil rights movement had on his approach to creating opportunity and educational equity throughout his career. He also shares the key skills and attributes he looked for when building his leadership team.

Jay is joined by Dr. Jessica Kozloff, former president of Academic Search and president emerita of Bloomsburg University (PA). Dr. Kozloff talks about the mentors who influenced her path to the presidency and reflects on some of the advice they shared with her. She also offers her thoughts on mission-oriented, student-centered leadership.

Jay talks with Dr. Joel Martin, President of Wagner College (NY), who discusses how his journey from scholar to scholar-administrator gave him the opportunity to have an expanded impact on his institution and in society. He also talks about the unique perspective that having a diverse institutional background can offer and the benefits of looking outside your sector for new ideas and influences. 

Jay speaks with Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System. Dr. Turman shares his thoughts on creating a shared vision by engaging stakeholders early and often through the process. He also discusses the importance of seeking out mentors to help you shape and refine your leadership style.

Jay is joined by Dr. Heidi Anderson, President of University of Maryland Eastern Shore, who talks about the mentors who influenced and encouraged her on her path to leadership. Dr. Anderson discusses the myriad benefits of public higher education and the challenges facing institutions as they work to address changes to the business model and the learning model in a post-pandemic world.

In this episode, Jay speaks with Dr. Clarence Wyatt, President of Monmouth College (IL). A historian, Dr. Wyatt reflects on what we can learn about leading in turbulent times from earlier periods in American history. In addition to sharing his own thoughts about what makes a good leader, he also shares some of the characteristics that have consistently defined good leaders throughout history.

Jay talks with Dr. Barbara Mistick, President of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), about her non-traditional path to higher education leadership and how her early entrepreneurial experiences influenced her career journey. Dr. Mistick discusses the importance for aspiring leaders to seek out diverse experiences and build a deep network. She also touches on the need for today's leaders to be empathetic and strategic in the face of crisis.

Jay is joined by Dr. Melody Rose, who earlier this year became Chancellor of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Dr. Rose shares her story as the first in her family to earn a college degree and discusses how that experience shaped her perspective on access to higher education. She also discusses the value of effective communication strategies and what to look for in building a strong team.

In this episode, Jay talks with Dr. Damián Fernández, President of Eckerd College (FL). Dr. Fernandez shares his thoughts on higher education as an engine for social mobility and the importance of understanding the culture and ethos of an institution in order to be authentic and inspirational as its leader.

In his third episode, Jay is joined by Dr. Rich Ekman, President of the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), who recently announced his plans to retire after 20+ years at the helm. Dr. Ekman reflects on what he learned on his path to the CIC presidency and addresses the characteristics of good leaders. In addition, he discusses how CIC's professional development programs can help senior leaders do their jobs better and advance their institutions more effectively.

In this episode, Jay speaks with Dr. Bill Kibler, a Senior Consultant at Academic Search who recently retired as president emeritus of Sul Ross State University (TX) after a distinguished 43-year career in higher education. Dr. Kibler discusses courageous leadership, the challenges facing higher ed leaders in the midst of the pandemic, and the importance of honesty, integrity and trust in building strong teams.

Today's higher education leaders share their stories and insights about leadership in the academy. Join host Jay Lemons and his guests for thoughtful conversations and interesting perspectives on leadership.    In this first episode, Jay speaks with Dr. Mildred García, president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) and former president of both California State University Fullerton and California State University Dominguez Hills. Dr. García talks about her journey to leadership as a Latina and first-generation college student, how to diversify the leadership pipeline, and what it means to be a good leader in higher education today.