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.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Audra Spicer, the Provost and Acting President of CSU Global, discusses the unique model of CSU Global as a fully online university, its focus on career readiness, and the importance of flexibility for adult learners. She shares her journey within the institution, the challenges of transitioning to a leadership role, and the significance of student-centric decision-making. The conversation also touches on recent achievements, the role of AI in education, and advice for aspiring academic leaders, emphasizing the need for collaboration and continuous learning in the evolving landscape of higher education.

Takeaways

• Flexibility is crucial for adult learners pursuing education.
• Student success is the top priority in decision-making.
• Recent achievements include a career-connected campus designation.
• AI should be embraced as a tool for efficiency.
• Provosts need to focus on budget management and institutional priorities.

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner interviews Dr. Raul Rodriguez, the Vice Provost of Woxsen University in India. They discuss the unique aspects of Woxsen University, including its residential campus and the challenges and opportunities of operating in the Indian higher education landscape. Raul shares his journey from a psychologist to an academic leader, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research, particularly in necrobotics. The conversation also touches on the balance between administrative duties and research, the agility of curriculum development in India, and the integration of AI in education. Raul provides insights into the ethical considerations of AI and the governance structure within Indian universities, concluding with advice for academic leaders.

Takeaways

• Balancing administration and research is a continuous challenge for academic leaders.
• Leadership in academia requires a team-oriented approach.
• The Indian education system is more agile in curriculum development compared to the West.
• AI integration is essential for modern education and administration.
• Governance in Indian universities is a mix of autonomy and administrative oversight.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner (La Roche University), Dr. Iris Lafferty, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Capella University, discusses her educational philosophy, the unique mission of Capella, and the importance of competency-based education for working adults. She shares insights on balancing compliance with innovation, the challenges faced by Chief Academic Officers, and the role of AI in education. Dr. Lafferty emphasizes the need for strategic leadership in a rapidly changing environment and offers advice for aspiring academic leaders.

Takeaways

• Balancing compliance and innovation is crucial in higher education.
• AI should enhance human capabilities in education.
• Listening deeply is essential for effective leadership.
• The triangulation of curriculum, faculty, and operations is vital for student success.
• Understanding the needs of the workforce is critical for program development.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Roger J. Ward discusses the chapter on academic freedom and freedom of speech he wrote for the Chief Academic Officer’s Handbook: A Provost’s Guide to Visionary Leadership. Dr Ward explains the critical distinctions between academic freedom and freedom of speech, emphasizing their importance in higher education. He explores the historical context of these concepts, the challenges faced by institutions today, and the limitations that exist within academic freedom. Dr. Ward also addresses the implications of recent political developments on academic freedom and the role of institutions in safeguarding these principles while promoting respectful discourse. Recorded in February 2025, this episode does not reflect the federal government's recent challenges to freedom of speech and academic freedom.

Takeaways

• Academic freedom is essential for faculty to teach and research without fear.
• Freedom of speech is protected under the First Amendment, but not absolute.
• The distinction between academic freedom and freedom of speech is crucial for academic leaders.
• Recent societal changes impact how academic freedom is perceived and applied.
• Institutions must navigate the balance between academic freedom and a respectful environment.

In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Kevin R. Carman discuss the chapter on “Self-Management for Provosts” they co-wrote for The Chief Academic Officer’s handbook: A Provost’s Guide for Visionary Leadership (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2025). They offer insights on self-management for provosts, emphasizing the importance of building professional networks, striking a balance between visibility and personal time, and practicing mindfulness. Thuswaldner and Carman discuss effective delegation, the role of executive assistants, and strategies for managing email. The conversation also touches on navigating difficult personnel decisions and the value of continuous professional development.

Takeaways

• Provosts should engage with professional organizations to combat isolation.
• Visibility on campus is crucial for provosts to connect with the community.
• Carving out personal time is essential to avoid burnout.
• Mindfulness practices can significantly improve well-being.
• Effective delegation is key to successful leadership.