1. Leo Lambert, President Emeritus at Elon University

Higher Ed Leaders: Transforming and Innovating Higher Education in the US sponsored by Viv Higher Education

In this insightful episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with President Emeritus Leo Lambert, who led Elon University through a period of remarkable transformation. Lambert's personal journey into higher education, starting as the first in his family to earn a four-year college degree, is a testament to the power of mentorship and seizing opportunities. He shared his experiences in the "in-between spaces" of higher education, where he developed a passion for understanding how the system works.

Lambert emphasized the importance of maintaining a student-centered approach in institutional transformation. He discussed the significance of fostering a strong institutional identity and committing to long-term strategic planning. Lambert highlighted the value of growth, not just in numbers but in quality and infrastructure, to provide a superior educational experience.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation was the need for leaders in higher education to focus on the main thing. Lambert stressed the importance of reflection, deep thinking, and keeping the institution's mission at the forefront of decision-making. He also highlighted the significance of collaboration between presidents, boards, faculty, and staff to navigate the complexities of the industry and adapt to unforeseen events.

A notable aspect of Elon's transformation was its evolution into a multi-faith institution. Lambert discussed the university's commitment to religious diversity and dialogue, creating a climate of understanding and respect among different faiths.

As President Emeritus, Lambert continues to make an impact through teaching, writing, and consulting. His insights serve as a valuable guide for current and future leaders in higher education, emphasizing the importance of student-centered approaches, strategic planning, and fostering a culture of collaboration and reflection.

About Leo Lambert

Leo M. Lambert led Elon University from 1999 to 2018, focusing on creating a student-centered culture and developing students as global citizens and ethical leaders. Under his leadership, Elon gained national prominence and built a reputation for academic excellence. He currently holds the title of president emeritus and is a professor at Elon University.

Read more on the Elon website.

Books:

Relationship-Rich Education: How Human Connections Drive Success in College by Peter Felten and Leo M. Lambert

Connections Are Everything: A College Student's Guide to Relationship-Rich Education by Peter Felten, Leo M. Lambert, Isis Artze-Vega, and Oscar R. Miranda Tapia

This podcast is sponsored by Viv Higher Education

About Viv Higher Education

Viv Higher Education is a Boston-based, female-owned comprehensive marketing agency specializing in higher education. With expertise in strategic planning, creative asset development, and media campaigns, we focus on enrollment-centric initiatives. Our approach is grounded in industry best practices, ensuring precision in reaching target audiences. We have extensive experience in marketing to diverse groups, including high school students, Hispanic, military, LGBTQ+, international students, and online learners. Navigating the complex landscapes of university environments is second nature to us, and we prioritize fostering collaborations that yield mutually beneficial outcomes. With a personable, nimble, and highly responsive approach, we deliver tailored solutions to empower organizations to achieve their objectives.
Website: https://vivhied.com/
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