Leaders on Leadership

Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, President of the University of Nebraska System

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

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, President of Central Connecticut State University

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. 

Special Episode: Discussion on the Competencies for the College Presidency

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, President of Bucknell University

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

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

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

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

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

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. Read the full episode transcript here.