In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Dr. David Dausey, Provost and President-Elect at Duquesne University, for a rich and candid discussion about mission-driven leadership, the evolving role of the provost, and the mindset required to navigate transformative change in higher education. Dr. Dausey shares his deeply held conviction that fidelity to institutional mission must be the provost's north star, while emphasizing that social and emotional intelligence are equally essential leadership tools. He reflects on the importance of listening — whether conducting a presidential listening tour or receiving critique — and offers practical wisdom for new provosts on the value of patience, process, and taking change one step at a time.

Takeaways:

• The most important quality of a provost is an unwavering commitment to the institution's mission; it must be lived, not just stated.
• Technical expertise matters, but the ability to understand and respond to the lived realities of others is what truly defines effective academic leadership.
• Whether embarking on a new role or receiving criticism, intentional listening is the foundation of servant leadership.
• Culture change takes time; start one piece at a time and resist the urge to do everything at once.
• How decisions are made shapes how people experience them, even when the result is the same.

In this episode, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Catherine E. O'Connell, Provost of Illinois College, as she shares the rich history, unique traditions, and bold initiatives shaping this historic institution.

Now in her 10th year as Provost, Dr. O'Connell leads an institution approaching its bicentennial in 2029—the first college in Illinois to grant degrees and home to the oldest college buildings on any campus. Founded by Yale ministers who came west to "civilize the frontier," Illinois College was built on a foundation of abolitionist principles that sparked controversy in its early years and continues to inform its mission today.

In this candid conversation, Dr. O'Connell discusses the unique challenges of academic leadership at a small liberal arts college, from managing the competing priorities of diverse constituencies—students, alumni, faculty, trustees, and community members—to navigating the increasingly volatile landscape of institutional messaging in the social media age. She shares hard-won insights on building and trusting your leadership team, the loss of anonymity that comes with the provost role, and offers essential advice for new academic leaders entering this complex position.

Takeaways:

• Illinois College blends its historic roots with forward-thinking programs to boost student success.
• O'Connell emphasizes the importance of collaboration and navigating diverse priorities in academic leadership.
• The college's new nursing program launch during the pandemic showcases adaptability and community support.
• Illinois College is incorporating AI into education to prepare for a digital future.
• The conversation highlights the changing skills needed for effective leadership in small liberal arts colleges.