It’s a tough job, for sure. And it seems like the challenges are only growing. The pressure to navigate complex political issues, handle campus protests, and make tough decisions that will inevitably upset some people can take a toll on even the most experienced leaders. So, it’s no wonder that turnover rates are so high.
But, as the podcast highlights, there are also incredible leaders like Song Richardson and Suzanne Rivera who are breaking barriers and making a difference in higher education. Their stories are inspiring and show the importance of having diverse voices at the top of our colleges and universities.
As students and parents, it’s important to ask questions about the values and priorities of the college president. Their leadership can have a significant impact on the campus culture and the overall student experience. So, next time you’re considering a college, don’t forget to look beyond the programs and facilities and consider who is leading the institution and what they stand for. They are committed to guiding their institutions through challenging times and making a positive impact on the lives of students. Despite the political pressures and constant challenges, college presidents play a crucial role in shaping the future of higher education and society as a whole. You have a president who’s trying to change things up.’ And I felt like, ‘No, I’m actually trying to live out the mission of this institution.’
[Kirk] The backlash eventually led to Richardson’s resignation, but she says she stands by her decision and hopes it sparks a conversation about the role of college presidents in higher education.
[Song Richardson] Ultimately, I think the conversation is about what do we value in higher education? What do we value in our institutions? And how do we ensure that those values are being lived out on our campuses?
[Kirk] So whether you know who your college president is or not, it seems like their leadership — or lack thereof — can have a big impact on your college experience. [Jon] Thank you for listening to College Uncovered. We hope you enjoyed this episode and gained some insights into the challenges and complexities of college leadership. Don’t forget to reach out to us with your thoughts and feedback. Have a great day!
Este episodio fue producido y escrito por Kirk Carapezza y Jon Marcus, y fue editado por Jeff Keating.
Meg Woolhouse es la editora supervisora.
Ellen London es la productora ejecutiva.
Asistencia de producción de Diane Adame.
Mezcla y diseño de sonido por David Goodman y Gary Mott.
Canción tema y música original de Left Roman.
El gerente de proyecto y jefe de podcasts de GBH es Devin Maverick Robbins.
College Uncovered es una producción de GBH News y The Hechinger Report y distribuida por PRX.
Es posible gracias a la Fundación Lumina.
El Hechinger Report proporciona reportajes detallados, basados en hechos, imparciales sobre educación que son gratuitos para todos los lectores. Pero eso no significa que sea gratis de producir. Nuestro trabajo mantiene informados a educadores y al público sobre temas urgentes en escuelas y campus en todo el país. Contamos la historia completa, incluso cuando los detalles son incómodos. Ayúdanos a seguir haciéndolo.
Únete hoy.