Introduction "13 Ideas That Are Transforming the Community College World," edited by Terry U. O'Banion, is a compilation of essays published in 2019, aimed at guiding the next generation of community college administrators. Sponsored by the League for Innovation, this work reflects on vital initiatives and trends shaping these institutions, intending to serve as a foundational text for emerging leaders in the rapidly evolving landscape of community colleges. Summary of the Book This insightful book encapsulates 13 pivotal ideas, each explored in individual essays by respected authors. These ideas cover a diverse range of topics, from traditional themes like leadership and technology to innovative concepts like equity, guided pathways, and the impact of demographic changes. Collectively, the essays present a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities within the community college sector, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and proactive approaches in education. Strengths of the Book The book's major strengths lie in its thorough exploration of access, opportunity, and innovation. For instance, the essay on transformative leadership delves into the necessity of adaptive and creative leadership styles in the face of modern educational challenges. Another essay's focus on the integration of technology in education highlights how community colleges are leveraging digital tools to enhance learning and access. These insights are particularly valuable for new administrators, offering practical wisdom and a clear understanding of the current educational climate. Areas of Opportunity However, the book primarily revisits established concepts rather than introducing groundbreaking future trends. Discussions on guided pathways and e-learning, for example, offer well-trodden insights rather than new perspectives. This approach results in a certain degree of redundancy across chapters, potentially leading to a repetitive experience for seasoned educators. Furthermore, the book misses a critical discussion on the high turnover in higher education leadership and its implications for institutional stability, a topic increasingly relevant in today's educational landscape. Conclusion In summary, "13 Ideas That Are Transforming the Community College World" provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts in community college administration, though it may resonate more with newcomers to the field than with experienced administrators. For those well-versed in the sector, the book reaffirms known strategies and trends, meriting a rating of three out of five. Nonetheless, it remains a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the foundational aspects of community college administration. #13Ideas #CommunityCollege #HigherEducation #Leadership #Innovation #TerryUOBanion #TheClarkCommunique
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Introduction Recommended by Anne Lang and thoughtfully placed in my Christmas stocking by Santa, Adam Grant's "Hidden Potential" arrived at a crucial juncture in my professional life. Known for his deep dives into organizational psychology, Grant presents a narrative that resonates with those at pivotal points in their careers or lives. As I navigate through an unexpected career transition, this book serves as a vital compass, guiding me towards a deeper understanding of leadership and personal growth. Comprehensive Summary "Hidden Potential" explores the uncharted territories of human capabilities, skillfully intertwining contemporary case studies with personal anecdotes. Grant addresses themes such as resilience in adversity, redefining failure, and the power of teamwork. The narrative structure leads readers through an enlightening journey, challenging conventional notions about talent and success. My experience of simultaneously reading and listening to the audiobook, where subjects' voices are included, added a rich layer of depth and connection to the narrative. Strengths and Reflections The book’s strengths are manifold, particularly in its applicability to leaders and educators. Grant's engaging storytelling, combined with relevant, contemporary examples, makes the content both informative and relatable. His ability to connect themes with practical examples is a standout feature, offering a continuum from his previous book "Think Again." Personally, the book’s emphasis on collaborative intelligence and embracing challenges echoes my own leadership philosophy, reinforcing my commitment to fostering growth and learning. Opportunities and Personal Takeaways While the book is compelling, aligning the audiobook more closely with the written text could enhance its impact. Additionally, a more balanced perspective on topics like gamification, where Grant's biases are noticeable, could broaden its appeal. Despite these minor issues, the book's insights into team dynamics, resilience, and fostering a culture of continuous learning align closely with my professional values and experiences. Evaluation and Recommendation I rate "Hidden Potential" a solid 5 out of 5 on Goodreads. Its arrival during my career transition has made it an indispensable guide. The book’s focus on transforming challenges into opportunities and its emphasis on growth and collaboration mirror my own journey through professional upheaval. Adam Grant has delivered a thought-provoking, insightful book that I highly recommend to anyone seeking to unearth their potential or lead with authenticity and purpose. #HiddenPotential #AdamGrant #LeadershipJourney #ProfessionalGrowth #ResilienceInLeadership #TeamDynamics #ContinuousLearning #CareerTransition #OrganizationalPsychology #InnovationInEducation #PersonalDevelopment #LeadershipInsights #GrowthMindset #CollaborativeIntelligence #UnlockingPotential #TheClarkCommunique Introduction "Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World," authored by Admiral William H. McRaven, is a concise yet impactful book that distills the wisdom gleaned from a distinguished military career into practical life lessons. McRaven, a retired US Navy Admiral, offers readers an engaging blend of personal anecdotes and sage advice, drawing from his experiences to provide a guide for overcoming challenges and achieving success. Synopsis Comprising ten chapters and a memorable University of Texas commencement speech, "Make Your Bed" is a series of compelling narratives, each concluding with a potent life lesson. From the importance of small victories like making your bed, to facing life's 'sharks' with courage, and embracing failure as a path to strength, McRaven touches on key aspects of resilience and leadership. The book culminates in a stirring speech that encapsulates its core message: the potential of individual actions to initiate broader change. Strengths The book's primary strength lies in its practicality and readability. McRaven's straightforward, no-nonsense approach makes complex concepts accessible, while his storytelling keeps the reader engaged. Particularly inspiring is the book’s ability to transform obstacles into opportunities, resonating with themes from "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. McRaven’s military background brings a unique and humbling perspective to leadership and human endurance. Weaknesses Despite its merits, the book left me wanting more, particularly deeper insights into McRaven's experiences. While the military examples are enlightening, they sometimes feel distant from civilian life experiences. Additionally, the military jargon used for key takeaways, such as 'sugar cookies' or 'circuses,' might be less relatable for those unfamiliar with military terminology, potentially obscuring the broader applicability of these lessons. Conclusion I rate "Make Your Bed" a full 5 out of 5 on Goodreads for its insightful, concise, and meaningful content. This book was a wonderful holiday read, and its timing was impeccable in the current phase of my life, offering centering and grounding perspectives. A heartfelt thanks to my father for recommending this read and to my former colleague Jerry Anhorn for reminding me of the simple yet profound act of making my bed, a ritual that brings a sense of accomplishment and closure to my days. McRaven’s words are not just about leadership in the traditional sense but about living life with purpose and resilience. #LeadershipWisdom #MakeYourBed #WilliamHMcRaven #LifeLessons #Resilience #MilitaryInsights #PracticalAdvice #Goodreads5Star #BookReview #TheClarkCommunique Introduction As a participant in the 2023-24 cohort of the Executive Leadership Institute, facilitated by the League for Innovation, I was recommended a transformative book titled "Leadership in the Crucible of Work" by Sandy Shugart. This recommendation came at a pivotal time in my journey as a leader, offering profound insights and reflections on the nature of authentic leadership. Sandy Shugart, with his wealth of experience in leadership roles, crafts a narrative that not only guides but also challenges the reader to delve deeper into the nuances of leadership. Comprehensive Summary "Leadership in the Crucible of Work" takes readers on an exploratory journey through the landscape of leadership. Shugart's approach to juxtaposing contrasting themes such as despair with hope, listening with not listening, and failure with forgiveness, provides a rich tapestry of insights. Each chapter is a deep dive into these dualities, enriched with Shugart’s personal experiences and vulnerabilities. The book's structure and content mirror the unpredictable yet rewarding journey of authentic leadership, guiding readers toward growth and self-discovery. Strengths and Reflections One of the book's strengths is its unique dichotomy of themes, offering a balanced perspective on leadership challenges. Shugart's use of "the crucible" as a literary device deepens the book's impact, making it relatable and authentic. His openness about his continuous learning journey in leadership adds a level of authenticity that resonates with me personally. Reflecting on these strengths, I see parallels in my leadership journey, where embracing vulnerabilities and continuous learning have been central. Opportunities and Personal Takeaways While the book's diverse examples are enlightening, they occasionally diverge from a focused narrative specific to higher education leadership, an area particularly relevant to my work. The book's introspective nature, requiring deep self-reflection, can be challenging yet rewarding. It is not a prescriptive guide but an invitation to engage in a community of thought and practice. This approach aligns with my belief in the power of collaboration and the importance of building a community of like-minded leaders. Evaluation and Recommendation I rate "Leadership in the Crucible of Work" a full 5 out of 5 stars on Goodreads. It is a book of discovery, understanding, and transformation. Reading it in conjunction with my Executive Leadership Institute experience was incredibly timely, resonating with my personal and professional growth. This book has reinforced my commitment to lead with heart and authenticity. Through Shugart's narrative, I have navigated my own crucible, experiencing transformation and renewal. This book is an essential read for those on a journey of authentic leadership. #theclarkcommunique #resilience #leadershipgrowth #authenticleadership #selfdiscovery #leadershipjourney #transformation #leadershipinsights #ExecutiveLeadershipInstitute Reframing Leadership: A Review of 'Hacking Leadership' by Joe Sanfelippo and Tony Sinanis12/15/2023 Introduction: "Hacking Leadership" by Joe Sanfelippo and Tony Sinanis provides insightful strategies for transformative leadership in educational settings. This book, aimed primarily at K-12 educators and leaders, holds valuable lessons for higher education leadership as well. Introduced to me by a superintendent with whom I collaborated on early college opportunities, and recommended for his entire leadership team, this book redefines the conventional approaches to educational leadership. Sanfelippo and Sinanis, both accomplished in the field of education, offer practical solutions to common leadership challenges, making their work relevant beyond its initial K-12 focus. Synopsis: The book is structured around ten 'hacks,' each addressing a specific leadership challenge in the educational context. These hacks cover a range of topics, from rethinking how leaders interact with their communities to transforming school culture. Each chapter follows a consistent format: it begins by identifying a problem, offers solutions for immediate implementation, outlines a long-term plan, presents a case study illustrating the hack in action, and concludes by reconnecting to the initial problem. This approach provides a comprehensive guide for educational leaders to effect meaningful change. Strengths: "Hacking Leadership" excels in its accessibility and practicality. The book's concise, easy-to-read format makes it approachable for busy professionals. The scaffolded approach in each hack is particularly effective, guiding the reader from problem identification through to long-term implementation. The inclusion of case studies provides real-world examples of how these hacks work in practice, grounding the theoretical advice in tangible outcomes. This structure ensures that each chapter is both informative and applicable, offering a step-by-step guide to tackling leadership challenges. Audience Considerations: While the book offers valuable insights, its primary focus on K-12 education, with frequent references to 'kids' and 'parents', requires some reframing for higher education leaders. The use of K-12 specific language might limit its immediate applicability to higher education contexts, potentially deterring some readers. This focus is a minor drawback but is worth noting for those in higher education leadership. Conclusion: I rate "Hacking Leadership" 4 out of 5 stars on Goodreads. It's a commendable work, offering practical and effective strategies for educational leadership. However, the placement of the mindset chapter as the last hack slightly undermines its impact. In light of Arbinger's emphasis on mindset as the driver of behavior, positioning this crucial topic at the beginning would have provided a stronger foundational approach. Despite this, I recommend "Hacking Leadership" for its innovative and practical insights, particularly for those willing to adapt its lessons to higher education settings. #HackingLeadership #JoeSanfelippo #TonySinanis #EducationalLeadership #K12Education #HigherEducation #LeadershipDevelopment #MindsetMatters #GoodreadsReview #TheClarkCommunique Introduction: Cathy O'Neil's "Weapons of Math Destruction" is a compelling exploration of the intricate and often obscured world of big data, especially in its application to the education sector. Released in 2016 by a mathematician turned data scientist, the book is an essential guide for understanding the deep and sometimes detrimental impact of algorithms on society. My engagement with this work as part of the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) with the League of Innovation revealed its significance in the context of data-driven decision-making. Synopsis: In this book, O'Neil uncovers the biases and inequalities hidden within algorithms. She focuses on their impact in education, critiquing systems like student evaluations and college rankings that can entrench disparities. The book exposes the risks of blind reliance on data, advocating for a more nuanced and ethical approach to using algorithms in decision-making processes. Strengths: O'Neil's expertise is a highlight, making complex topics both accessible and relatable. She uses vivid examples and infuses humor into unsettling topics, enhancing the readability. Particularly compelling is her analysis of teacher evaluations, which she argues are often too simplistic, incomplete, and challenging to develop effectively. This discussion exemplifies the book's strength in blending detailed research with a focus on the human aspects of data science. Weaknesses: However, the narrative can be somewhat dry, and the broad range of examples may dilute its direct relevance to specific industries like education. O'Neil's political views, while providing context, are pronounced towards the end and may reflect her biases, potentially alienating some readers. Conclusion: I rate "Weapons of Math Destruction" 3 out of 5 stars on Goodreads. It's a recommended read, or at least worth a skim, for its comprehensive overview of big data's role in various sectors, including education. The book's depth and style present some challenges, but it's insightful for those looking to understand the complexities of data in the digital age. While not a must-read, it offers valuable perspectives for education professionals navigating the ethical and practical dimensions of data usage. #WeaponsOfMathDestruction #CathyONeil #BigData #EducationSector #AlgorithmicBias #DataEthics #ELI #LeagueOfInnovation #BookReview #TheClarkCommunique Introduction: My journey with Jim Collins' "Good to Great" initially left me with a lukewarm impression, meriting a modest 3 out of 5 stars on Goodreads. However, revisiting this book amidst recent experiences at an institution rebuilding after years of trauma and seeking to reclaim its educational excellence, my appreciation for Collins' work has profoundly deepened. Now rating it a full 5 stars, I see the book's value in a new light, especially when paired with my training in cultural transformation through Arbinger. This reflection is timely, as "Good to Great" is part of my assigned readings for the upcoming Executive Leadership Institute through the League for Innovation. Synopsis: "Good to Great" explores what propels a good company into greatness. Collins and his team's extensive study distills the key elements that set truly great companies apart. The book delves deep into strategies, processes, and, crucially, the human elements that underpin organizational success, presenting these insights in an engaging, narrative style. Strengths: The book's strength lies in its comprehensive research, conveyed through a conversational tone that renders complex concepts approachable. Collins’ application of business psychology places a human face on organizational change, making the book relatable and insightful. This human-centric approach adds depth to the book, transforming it from a mere academic exploration into a compelling and impactful read. Weaknesses: "Good to Great" predominantly focuses on the corporate sector, which can somewhat limit its direct applicability to non-profit or educational settings like higher education. However, in the updated audiobook version, Collins refers readers to his additional work on schools and government agencies, which helps bridge this gap. Despite this, the book’s primary corporate perspective may initially challenge those seeking direct relevance to non-corporate environments. Conclusion: Reflecting on my evolving relationship with "Good to Great," I realize its enduring relevance and adaptability. My new perspective, shaped by recent professional experiences, underscores the book's timeless insights into organizational excellence. I am grateful for the opportunity to rediscover this work through the Executive Leadership Institute, allowing me to appreciate Collins' research afresh and apply it meaningfully in the context of educational leadership. #GoodToGreat #JimCollins #LeadershipDevelopment #OrganizationalExcellence #CulturalTransformation #ExecutiveLeadership #HigherEducation #BusinessPsychology #TheClarkCommunique Rethinking Education: A Critical Review of "Academically Adrift" by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa12/6/2023 Introduction: In "Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses," authors Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa embark on a rigorous exploration of the challenges plaguing higher education. Published at a time when educational institutions face increasing scrutiny, this book stands out with its comprehensive research and transparent presentation, including a detailed appendix of data. The authors, both experts in education, confront uncomfortable truths, urging a fundamental reevaluation of our academic structures and methodologies. Synopsis: Arum and Roksa's book provides an in-depth analysis of the higher education system, focusing on critical issues such as student engagement, academic rigor, and the overall value of a college education. Supported by extensive data, the authors paint a picture of an educational system in dire need of reform. They advocate for a shift towards a learning-centric model, emphasizing the need to instill a lifelong love of learning, critical thinking skills, and a sense of responsibility in students. Strengths: "Academically Adrift" shines in its well-grounded research and potent call to action. The authors compellingly argue for a transformation in higher education, stating, "A renewed commitment to improving undergraduate education is unlikely to occur without changes to the organizational cultures of colleges and universities that re-establish the institutional primacy of these functions." Their insistence on the need for a cultural shift towards embracing lifelong learning and critical thinking highlights the book's relevance and urgency. Another significant strength is its clear advocacy for leadership in driving this change, as noted: "Institutions need to develop a culture of learning if undergraduate education is to be improved... Strong leadership, including presidents, deans, provosts, and others, demonstrating a commitment to these goals is essential." Weaknesses: However, the book's academic tone and data-heavy approach may limit its accessibility to a wider audience. Its sobering narrative, while honest, can be disheartening, affecting reader engagement. Additionally, the authors' reluctance to label the challenges in higher education as a crisis might undermine the perceived urgency for transformative action. Evaluation and Recommendation: I rate "Academically Adrift" 3 out of 5 stars. Despite its challenging style and often depressing narrative, the book's message is crucial for those in the field of higher education. It is a necessary read, compelling us to confront the realities of student engagement and educational rigor. By highlighting the urgent need for reform, Arum and Roksa inspire a deeper reflection and a call to action, essential for sustaining the relevance and integrity of higher education institutions. #AcademicallyAdrift #HigherEducation #EducationalReform #StudentEngagement #RichardArum #JosipaRoksa #LeadershipInEducation #CultureOfLearning #EducationalCrisis #TheClarkCommunique Introduction: In the realm of organizational transformation, "Change Management: The People Side of Change" by Jeffrey M. Hiatt and Timothy J. Creasey stands out as a guiding beacon. This book, which I came across as part of my curriculum in the Executive Leadership Institute for rising presidents through the League of Innovations, offers a nuanced perspective on the dynamics of change. Hiatt, a pioneer in change management, and Creasey, his accomplished co-author, employ the ADKAR model – a framework they advocate throughout the book – to elegantly structure their insights into managing change effectively. Synopsis: The essence of the book is its focus on the ADKAR model, an acronym representing Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement. This model serves as the book's structural and conceptual core, guiding the reader through the crucial phases of change management. Hiatt and Creasey dissect each element, demonstrating their pivotal roles in the successful adaptation and implementation of organizational changes, emphasizing the critical importance of addressing the human element in these processes. Strengths: One of the book's key strengths is its in-depth explanation of the ADKAR model. This framework offers a clear, actionable guide for navigating change, underscoring the vital role of individuals' responses in the change management process. The book's final chapter is particularly impactful, advocating for the development of change competency within organizations – a transformative concept that extends beyond mere management of change to its integration as an essential organizational ethos. Weaknesses: Despite its strengths, the book falls short in providing extensive case studies or real-life applications of its principles. This lack of practical examples makes it challenging for readers to visualize the ADKAR model in action. Additionally, the authors' repeated claim of the model's versatility, while valid, occasionally comes across as an avoidance of offering more specific, detailed applications. Evaluation and Recommendation: I rate "Change Management: The People Side of Change" 3 out of 5 stars. It's an essential read for leadership teams, especially in higher education, where leaders play a dual role as decision-makers and educators in fostering a culture of change competency. The book's concise and accessible format makes it a quick, engaging read, easily digestible within a few hours. While it could benefit from more applied examples, its robust theoretical foundation makes it a valuable starting point for understanding the fundamentals of change management. #ChangeManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #HigherEducation #ADKARmodel #OrganizationalChange #ExecutiveLeadership #Innovation #LeadersAsEducators #CultureOfChange #ProfessionalGrowth #TheClarkCommunique Leading with Integrity: A Comprehensive Review of "Meeting the Ethical Challenges of Leadership"12/4/2023 "Meeting the Ethical Challenges of Leadership: Casting Light or Shadow" by Craig E. Johnson, in its seventh edition, is a pivotal work that I encountered as part of the Executive Leadership Institute, a program for rising presidents through the League for Innovation. As an aspiring leader in higher education, I found this book to be profoundly impactful, resonating with the depth of ethical considerations inherent in leadership roles. Johnson, a distinguished figure from George Fox University, USA, compiles a comprehensive exploration of leadership ethics, making a compelling case for its necessity as core reading in higher education administration and leadership. Johnson's book is an extensive treatise on the ethical dimensions of leadership. It examines the duality of leadership roles - the potential for both significant benefit and substantial harm. Johnson asserts that ethics lies at the heart of leadership, emphasizing the moral responsibilities that accompany leadership positions. The book's interdisciplinary approach offers insights into ethical decision-making, the influence of leaders and followers, and the creation of an ethical culture. This wide-ranging exploration covers various aspects, from combating evil and ethical decision-making to crisis leadership, making it an all-encompassing resource. The book's credibility is anchored in its sound research and comprehensive coverage of ethical leadership. Each chapter begins with clear objectives and outcomes, followed by pertinent examples and case studies, enhancing the learning experience. Particularly impactful are the self-assessments and team assessments included, which encourage introspection and application of the concepts discussed. The relevance of this book to real-world scenarios is further highlighted in the final chapter, which echoes the principles of ethical crisis leadership I learned from Michael Hyatt, underscoring the value of ethical leadership in turbulent times. While the book is an invaluable resource, its format as a textbook might limit its accessibility. The dense, academic style may not appeal to casual readers, and its cost could be prohibitive for some. Additionally, the content, while enlightening, can be uncomfortably revealing and somewhat disheartening, as it uncovers the prevalence of unethical practices in leadership. This revelation was particularly striking to me, as it contrasted with my intrinsic belief in authenticity and ethical conduct in professional settings. "Meeting the Ethical Challenges of Leadership" is a book I rate highly - five out of five stars on Goodreads. Its comprehensive examination of ethical leadership is not just academic but practically essential. I recommend it as foundational reading for anyone stepping into leadership, especially in higher education or faculty roles. The insights and frameworks it provides are invaluable for navigating the complex ethical landscapes of leadership, making it a critical resource for aspiring and current leaders alike. #EthicalLeadership #HigherEdLeadership #CraigEJohnson #LeadershipEthics #ExecutiveLeadership #EducationInnovation #LeadershipDevelopment #EthicalDecisionMaking #LeadershipBooks #MeetingEthicalChallenges #TheClarkCommunique |
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
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