Leaders on Leadership

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. Read the full episode transcript here.

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, 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, 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.