Leaders on Leadership

Dr. Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, President of Oakland University, has built a career at the intersection of medicine, industry, and higher education. A renowned pediatric endocrinologist and member of the National Academy of Medicine, her journey has been shaped by a remarkable upbringing in a family deeply engaged in civil rights and public service. In this episode, Dr. Pescovitz reflects on the values instilled by her parents, the resilience forged through personal loss, and the leadership philosophy she frames around her “eight C’s.” She also shares practical wisdom for aspiring leaders, from setting aspirational goals and embracing “moon landings” to cultivating creativity, compassion, and community on her teams. Interview recorded June 2025. Read the full episode transcript. 

Dr. Luis Pedraja’s path to the presidency began in Little Havana and wound through ministry, classrooms, and accrediting agencies before leading to Quinsigamond Community College. A first-generation college student and Cuban immigrant, he brings a lived understanding of higher education’s power to transform lives. In this episode, Dr. Pedraja reflects on the mentors who shaped him, the values that ground him, and the urgency of leadership centered on equity, humility, and student success. With insight from both national accreditation and local community impact, his story speaks to what it means to lead with conviction in times of rapid change. Read the full episode transcript. Interview recorded July 2025.

Dr. Berenecea Johnson Eanes leads with a steady hand and an open heart, a necessity in a presidency shaped by disruption, challenge, and change. As President of Cal State LA and Chair of the Academic Search Board, she shares what it means to lead through volatility while staying rooted in purpose and guided by student success. From early experiences in residence life to her reflections on building authentic teams and redefining campus culture post-COVID, Dr. Eanes brings clarity and candor to the realities of higher education leadership. Her story is one of resilience, mentorship, and the daily choice to lead with intention, even when the path for higher education is uncertain. Interview recorded June 2025. Read the full episode transcript.

Dr. Richard Helldobler, President of William Paterson University, brings a unique blend of artistry and strategy to his leadership. After earning a business degree and turning down a lucrative corporate offer, he pursued a career in dance, which led him to become a higher education leader. A first-generation college student with immigrant roots, Dr. Helldobler shares how his background in the arts influences his approach to building teams and navigating complexity. He also reflects on his time as an ACE Fellow, the mentors who guided his path, and the importance of finding opportunity in the midst of challenge. Interview recorded May 2025. Read the full episode transcript. 

Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, President of the University of Nebraska System, reflects on his journey from Brooklyn public schools to academic medicine and higher education leadership. A first-generation student with a background in engineering and cardiac surgery, Dr. Gold shares how trust, transparency, and service have shaped his leadership philosophy. He speaks candidly about the challenges facing higher education today, including shifting public perceptions, and highlights the cultural strengths that make Nebraska a distinctive place to lead. Interview recorded March 2025. Read full podcast transcript.

Krista Newkirk, President of the University of Redlands, shares her leadership journey and the values that guide her approach. President Newkirk reflects on the formative experiences of her childhood on a cattle ranch and the influence of her grandfather's dedication to education. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, courage, and collaborative leadership, advocating for leaders to listen before setting a vision. She also discusses the challenges facing higher education, including public perceptions of its value and the need for policy changes to support accessibility. Interview recorded January 2025. Read full podcast transcript.

Dr. Zulma Toro, Central Connecticut State University’s first female and first Hispanic President, has dedicated her career to expanding opportunities for underrepresented students, particularly in STEM fields. Her background in industrial engineering shaped her leadership approach, emphasizing the human side of systems and the importance of strong teams. In this episode, Dr. Toro shares the experiences, mentors, and defining moments that guided her journey, from her early years in Puerto Rico to leading a university committed to access and student success. Interview recorded December 2024. Read full podcast transcript. 

In this special episode, Dr. Jay Lemons welcomes Dr. Marjorie Hass, President of the Council of Independent Colleges, and Dr. Charles L. Welch, President of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, for an engaging discussion on the Competencies for the College Presidency study. Sponsored by Academic Search and conducted in partnership with AASCU and CIC, the study identifies seven key competencies essential for effective higher education leadership today. Drs. Hass and Welch share their insights on the evolving role of the college presidency, the challenges facing leaders, and how these competencies can guide institutions through complex times. Download the study and read the full episode transcript here. Interview recorded December 2024.

Dr. John Bravman’s journey from a small-town upbringing to leading Bucknell University is a story of perseverance and vision. As a first-generation college student who struggled through his first year at Stanford, President Bravman learned to embrace challenges, guided by transformative mentors and an unrelenting commitment to growth. Now, as Bucknell’s President, he reflects on the lessons that shaped his leadership and the initiatives that continue to connect the university to its mission of access and excellence. Interview Recorded November 2024. Read full podcast transcript.