I recently had the privilege of reading the thought-provoking book "Teaching Men of Color in the Community College: A Guidebook" by J. Luke Wood, Frank Harris III, and Khalid White. As someone involved in higher education, particularly in the faculty and instructional leadership realm, I found this book to be an invaluable resource. It offers valuable insights into supporting the success of men of color in community colleges and highlights the significant role that faculty members play in advancing student achievement. "Creating meaningful and intentional interactions with students should be prioritized"
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"Reframing Academic Leadership" by Joan V. Gallos and Lee G. Bolman is a highly recommended read for anyone in higher education. The book offers an unsettling yet insightful perspective on the past, present, and future of academic leadership. As someone who has been involved in academic leadership roles, I found the book to be particularly relevant and thought-provoking. It delves into various aspects of leadership and provides valuable insights and strategies for academic leaders to navigate the challenges they face. From sustaining health and vitality to fostering a caring and productive campus, the book covers a range of topics essential for effective leadership in the academic setting. Throughout the book, I found numerous connections to my own experiences as an academic leader. One key takeaway was the importance of sustaining health and vitality. The authors emphasized the need for self-care and setting boundaries, which deeply resonated with me. It reminded me of the dangers of neglecting personal well-being in the pursuit of institutional success. By investing in my own growth and resilience, I realized that I can better serve and lead others Another significant aspect explored in the book is the power of shaping institutional culture. The chapter on "Keeping the Faith and Celebrating the Mission" provided valuable insights into constructing a historical narrative to inspire a shared purpose among faculty and staff. This reminded me of the impact a positive tone and a sense of community can have on motivating and engaging individuals within an institution. It reinforced the importance of celebrating the mission and creating a supportive and inspiring environment. The concept of sensemaking and reframing was also a thought-provoking topic discussed in the book. By highlighting the role of interpretation and encouraging alternative viewpoints, the authors challenged my own mindset as a leader. I realized the significance of continuously questioning and evolving my own thinking to effectively navigate the complexities of academic leadership. This chapter reminded me of the importance of being open to different perspectives and seeking input from others to make informed decisions. The value of fostering a caring and productive campus resonated deeply with my belief in servant leadership. The book emphasized the importance of empowering others, providing support, and fostering collaboration. Creating an environment that promotes growth, inclusivity, and well-being positively impacts both productivity and the overall campus community. This chapter reinforced my commitment to creating a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can thrive and contribute their best. Lastly, the chapter on "Leading from the Middle" struck a chord with me as an academic leader navigating complex relationships and expectations. The strategies for effective action, such as active listening, understanding differences, and finding support in peers, provided practical guidance. This chapter reminded me of the importance of courage and adaptability in leading by example and finding common ground with colleagues across various levels of leadership. "Reframing Academic Leadership" has not only broadened my understanding of academic leadership but also provided valuable connections to my own experiences. The book's exploration of sustaining health and vitality, shaping institutional culture, sensemaking and reframing, fostering a caring and productive campus, and leading from the middle align with my personal insights and challenges as an academic leader. It offers practical strategies and perspectives to enhance leadership skills and make a positive impact in higher education institutions. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of academic leadership and drive meaningful change within their institutions. "Leaders are expected to make things better and to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape" - Joan V. Gallos and Lee G. Bolman Mind Your Mindset by Michael Hyatt and Megan Hyatt Miller is a refreshing and insightful book that delves into the inner workings of memory and how it shapes our stories and mindset. As an oral historian and administrator, I found this book to be a treasure trove of knowledge that resonated deeply with my experiences and studies. The authors meticulously explore the concepts of episodic and semantic memory, selective memory, confirmation bias, and the influence of mindset on our goals and productivity. "Mistakes are never a failure - they can be turned into wisdom" - Cat Cora |
AuthorDr. Jess Clark is a trained historian and higher education leader passionate about leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance learning experiences. A lifelong learner and servant leader, she empowers educators in the digital age. Through her blog, she shares expertise on educational leadership, curriculum development, and integrating technology in higher education, inspiring administrators and educators. Dr. Clark's commitment to embracing emerging technologies like AI reflects her belief in technology's transformative power in shaping the future of education. Archives
April 2024
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