Are you ready to SOAR?
SOAR Analysis for Higher Education Leadership Many of us are familiar with the SWOT analysis, which examines an organization’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. SWOT is a common strategic planning tool, especially in corporate settings. The organization’s strengths and weaknesses are discussed, and the opportunities and threats in the external environment are explored. From there, […]
The secret to implementing an inclusive and successful strategic planning process
Why Inclusive Planning Matters Including people in a decision that affects them increases its potential for success. The same goes for strategic planning. Strategic planning processes that include stakeholders are more successful because we are more likely to support ideas that we help shape. This is particularly pertinent in higher education, where shared governance is […]
Six Conditions Leading to a Successful Strategic Planning Process
Why Strategic Planning for College Leaders Matters In my almost three decades as a community college administrator, I heard a lot of people groan when discussing strategic planning. Often people felt they were too busy to participate in a process that they felt wasn’t worth their time. When facilitated properly, strategic planning can be a […]
My Favorite Books of 2022
Must Read Books For College Leaders This was a good year for reading. I’m on track to read 78 books; 130% of my goal. I’m a sucker for reading challenges, which probably began in the 1980s with the summer reading program at the Chelmsford Public Library. I loved recording the books I read each summer. […]
Prompts to Reflect on 2022
College Leaders Seeking Growth How was your 2022? Reflecting back on your year has many benefits. Thinking about the past year’s ups and downs, achievements and challenges, joys and sorrows can help you make decisions about the year ahead. Taking the time to reflect on the past year helps us think about what serves us, […]
How to survive when you are in survival mode
Tips for College Leaders December is a brutal times for academics. Students are stressed; just trying to make it to the finish line in one piece. Faculty are stressed as they stare at the enormous pile of grading in front of them. For administrators, the clock is ticking on what you can do while faculty […]
Client Spotlight: Ashley Moore
Career Growth In Higher Ed I am excited to share an interview with my friend and colleague Ashley Moore. Ashley and I collaborated often when we were in our campus-based positions. Currently, Ashley is the Director of Client Sales and Service at FlexProfessionals in Boston. We talked about her transition from higher education to a […]
Who is on your personal advisory board?
Advice for College Leadership Our success as leaders is easier and more fun within a community. Leading in higher education, especially these past few years, requires mental and emotional strength. When you are hanging out with people who energize you, support your ambitions, and are also working hard to be the best leader they can […]
Are You a Badass Leader?
What is Badass Leadership in Higher Ed In my opinion, one of the highest compliments you can give a woman is that she is a badass. For instance, I was once plodding along in the woods of New Hampshire on my cross-country skis (sticking to the flat trails because I was terrified of hills), and […]
Reflections on my first year as a coach & consultant
A Year of Growth in Higher Education It’s my anniversary! On September 3, 2021, I wrote in my journal that it was the first day of the rest of my life. My friends treated me to mimosas and breakfast. It was time to officially launch my new life as a full-time coach and consultant. This […]