How does faculty leadership evolve when higher education itself is changing faster than ever?

In this episode of Uncharted State, Susan Seal and Maddie Ludt sit down with Dr. Stacy Haynes, professor of sociology and president of Mississippi State University’s Robert Holland Faculty Senate, to explore how faculty governance operates behind the scenes and why it matters more than ever.

Drawing on her background in criminology and decision-making research, Dr. Haynes shares how shared governance helps universities navigate uncertainty, balance diverse perspectives, and ensure faculty voices remain part of institutional decision-making. The conversation explores how communication, trust, and early collaboration shape effective leadership, especially as higher education faces rapid technological change, shifting expectations, and increasing external pressures.

In This Episode:

• What faculty governance does behind the scenes
• How shared governance connects faculty, administration, staff, and students
• Leading during uncertainty and navigating competing perspectives
• Balancing speed with inclusion as higher ed evolves
• Why communication breakdowns create confusion, and how to fix them
• Faculty perspectives on AI and the future of teaching and learning
• Reimagining governance systems for a faster-moving world

As universities adapt to new realities, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how leadership, collaboration, and communication shape the future of higher education.