In an era often clouded by skepticism, it's essential to spotlight those leaders who dare to voice a different narrative—one that’s not only uplifting but rooted in a practical optimism that can genuinely steer us toward a better future. In her recent IngenioUs blog article, Morriss-Olson introduces the concept of informed hope, an approach that's neither naive nor inactive, but a strategic compass that can guide leaders through today's highly dynamic environment. Sharing stories from her IngenioUs conversations of leaders who are skilled at the practice of hope-casting, Morriss-Olson suggests that the call for leaders to champion a message of hope and positivity has never been more urgent

Tune in to our latest episode as we unfold stories that do more than inspire; they serve as a clarion call for leadership that is as courageous in its optimism as it is deliberate in its strategy. Exactly what these times call for.

In this episode, we speak with Meredith College President, Dr. Jo Allen. As the first alumna to lead the college, President Allen has a unique and personal connection to the institution. During our conversation, we explore her path to becoming president and how her experiences have shaped her approach to leadership. Under President Allen's guidance, Meredith College has experienced transformative

Listen in to hear President Allen's personal insights on leading a college, the power of education in shaping lives, and her hopes for the future of Meredith College. It's a conversation full of real-world experiences and practical wisdom that you won't want to miss.

In this inaugural Season 5 episode, we host Dr. Andrew Hsu, the highly successful and innovative President of the College of Charleston. Dr. Hsu's journey is as unique as it is

In this episode, Dr. Hsu shares insights from his remarkable career, his vision for the College of Charleston, and how his engineering background shapes his innovative leadership style. Join us as we delve into the mind of a leader who views higher education through the lens of an engineer, turning challenges

What happens at your institution when an accepted student is ready to join your community and says “yes” to your offer of admission? Is your institution ready for them?  The journey to student success (and retention) doesn’t begin when students arrive at your institution—it starts when they submit their deposit to your institution. How can admissions offices seamlessly “hand off” new students to their colleagues across their institutions’ multiple divisions and departments in a way that helps students feel welcomed and supported? In our upcoming Leading Edge Thinking Webinar, our speaker, Ken Anslment will answer these questions and will address how a student-first strategy can help ensure that every new student has an equitable chance for success at their institution. The webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan 24, 2024 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM EST

⁠Register here.⁠

In this mini episode, we speak with the webinar presenter Ken Anselment • Vice President for Enrollment Management • RHB, to learn more about what he will be talking about and what attendees can expect to take away.

People often wonder about the origin of IngenioUs. As Dr. Morriss-Olson tells it, the podcast was born from a combination of necessity, curiosity, and a bit of serendipity during the pandemic lockdown. Starting small-- just a handful of people and online during those early days, each with a common interest in leadership--the podcast has grown to a whopping 21,000 people from all over the world, all eager to hear from these sharp, creative leaders who are telling their stories. Season 5 is now on the way, packed with even more heart-to-hearts with folks who are leading the charge. In this kick-off mini-episode, you'll hear more about how Ingenious got started and who we will be talking to during the upcoming season. What's on your mind? What's your take on leadership? What stories of leadership and transformation do you hold? Drop us a line – – we love hearing from you, and your story might just be the spark someone else needs.

As the landscape of higher education shifts, so too must the paradigms of leadership. As we conclude 2023, the call for visionary and transformative leaders—those who see beyond challenges to opportunities, who innovate and pioneer change—is more urgent than ever. Drawing insights from our Season 4 IngenioUs conversations, Melissa Morriss-Olson shares six big ideas that promise to redefine leadership in higher education in the days ahead. To read the companion blog piece, see here.

In her latest IngenioUs blog article, Kristine Barnett asks us to consider the value of collective leadership in higher education, As she wisely points out, focusing solely on individual leaders can undermine the collaborative potential within academic teams. Higher education thrives when diverse perspectives and expertise are harnessed collectively; when all perspectives are honored and when everyone can find a place to belong. Barnett suggests that institutions must shift from a hero-centric model to one that champions collective leadership, valuing contributions from all, promoting collaboration and development, and empowering individuals at all levels to take on leadership

 In his most recent ⁠IngenioUs⁠ blog article, ⁠David J Staley ⁠asks universities to consider long-term visionary thinking as an important tool for ensuring their relevance. According to Staley, this means taking to heart the meaning of "visionary" leadership, something he suggests most university boards don't really want. As Staley astutely points out, the art of envisioning something radically different from what the rest of us see today may be too discomforting and disruptive for most university boards to manage. This article is one of Staley's most compelling reads and speaks succinctly to the disconnect between how so many higher education institutions operate today and what is required for long-term viability.

In this mini episode of an IngenioUs, Dr. Lauren Way speaks with Dr. Reena Lichtenfeld, presenter for our upcoming leading edge thinking in higher education webinar entitled, 'From SMART Goals to Stellar Teams: The Power of Trust and Accountability.' In this webinar preview episode, we learn about the "Accountability With Care" system, an approach that equips higher ed leaders with the tools and strategies to cultivate a culture of trust and accountability, ensuring your teams not only meet but exceed their potential. The webinar is scheduled for December 13 at 12:00 noon (ET). To register, see here.

In her latest IngenioUs Blog article, Kristine Barnett suggests that the act of courageous leadership is not just about the destination but the journey of personal and professional development that goes beyond the institution's walls. And while not everyone is born with an abundance of "intestinal fortitude," Barnett says it can be nurtured over time through self-awareness, commitment to growth, and cultivating a positive space for achieving objectives. Listen here for more guidance on becoming a courageous leader.