Standing Tall: Voices in Leadership Removing Barriers: How Leaders Empower Student Success
Dr. Selmon's Leadership Journey:
• From elite college wrestler to higher education leader across three states.
• Early leadership experiences as a wrestling team captain shaped his focus on accountability and teamwork.
The Role of Community Colleges:
• Gateway to higher education and career advancement.
• MCC’s impact on economic mobility and talent development.
• The importance of affordability, accessibility, and community relevance.
• Removing Barriers to Student Success:
• The creation of the Jayhawk Hub to address non-academic challenges like food insecurity and transportation.
• Partnership with 26 community organizations to provide resources without duplication of effort.
• Outcomes: Increased retention and persistence for students receiving support.
Adapting to Change:
• Staying relevant with advancements like AI and fostering professional development for staff.
• Viewing challenges like AI as opportunities for innovation, akin to the introduction of calculators or the internet.
Leadership Lessons:
• The importance of mentorship at every stage of life and career.
• Strategic planning as a collaborative and fluid process that drives long-term success.
• Empowering leaders by encouraging ownership and personal goal-setting, including mental health priorities.
Importance of Marketing:
• Telling student success stories through billboards, podcasts (The J Talk), and other platforms.
• Highlighting programs like nursing and athletics to attract students and showcase impact.
Key Takeaways for Leaders:
1. Leverage Early Leadership Opportunities: Skills developed in small roles can lay the foundation for larger leadership responsibilities.
2. Focus on Removing Barriers: Addressing non-academic challenges enables students to focus on learning and achieve success.
3. Collaborate Strategically: Engage community partners to maximize impact and avoid duplicating efforts.
4. Stay Relevant: Embrace emerging technologies and foster adaptability within your team.
5. Plan with Flexibility: Combine long-term vision with short-term action steps, involving stakeholders to build ownership.
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