Leaders on Leadership

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.

Dr. Larry Schall, President of the New England Commission of Higher Education

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. Read the full podcast transcript here.

Dr. Susan D. Stuebner, President of Colby-Sawyer College

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. Read the full episode transcript here.

Dr. Montserrat Fuentes, President of St. Edward's University

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. Interview recorded February 2024. Read the full episode transcript here. 

Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, President of San José State University

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. Interview recorded December 2023. Read the full episode transcript here. 

Dr. Mary Dana Hinton, President of Hollins University

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 August 2023. Read the full episode transcript here.

Dr. Kathy Wilson Humphrey, President of Carlow University

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. Interview recorded August 2023. Read the full episode transcript here. 

Dr. Timothy Mottet, President of Colorado State University Pueblo

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. Interview recorded June 2023. Read the full transcript here. 

Dr. Barbara A. Farley, President of Illinois College

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. Interview recorded April 2023. Read the full episode transcript here. 

Dr. Charles L. Welch, President of the Arkansas State University System

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. Interview recorded April 2023. Read the full episode transcript here.