Our most recent Dean candidate offered some interesting insights. I thought that I would share a few.
- What do we mean by ‘engaged learning’ and ‘student focused learning’? At Cornell University this means to advance academic service-learning, community-based research, and public scholarship across a wide spectrum of academic disciplines and programs. At Lawrence University it means to create and sustain connections between the academic curriculum and community service. At SMU is means a capstone-level, student driven research, civic engagement, professional internship or creative work that has clear project and clear personal learning goals.
- How would our decisions be different if we considered student success as our top priority?
- Do we agree on our ‘tagline’? We must be on the same page as we move forward.
- Fundraising and stewardship of existing gifts. Stewardship of existing gifts is extremely important.
- Must be an advocate for the college. Internally within the university. Externally with alumni and friends. Don’t forget the students!
- Globalization. Who will be your partners?
- Triple bottom line ( people, planet, profit) – the new buzz words related to sustainability and the environment.
- Thought leadership – how do we leverage this?
- Finale – How Do We Create the Future? Put a proposal together and match it with the right donor. Build relationships.
Overall I was impressed with this candidate’s ability to articulate their thoughts around academic leadership. I am always pleased when I can learn a few things. This candidate was able to ‘bundle’ their accomplishments into four categories: (1) strategic planning, (2) reputation building, (3) development, and (4) accreditation. Good thinking!
– from the pen of Dr. Percy Trappe
The Academic Anchor 
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