Kevin McClure

In this conversation, Kevin McClure, a Professor at UNC Wilmington and expert in higher education workforce dynamics, discusses the current struggles facing the academic workforce. He highlights the effects of hiring freezes and funding cuts on staffing and recruitment, revealing a decreasing ability to attract new talent. McClure also dives into the vital role of shared governance in addressing these issues, suggesting that participatory practices could be key to revitalizing the sector. Plus, he shares insights on the emotional toll these challenges have on educators and students alike.

Kevin McClure, a faculty member at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and author of The Caring University, discusses a transformative approach to workplace culture in higher education. He emphasizes the need to prioritize faculty and staff well-being to improve student success. By challenging norms of burnout, he advocates for intentional investment in employee care. McClure also shares actionable strategies for fostering organizational change, encourages collaborative ideas, and highlights the importance of transformational leadership in creating resilient institutions.

Jorge Bermicky, an assistant professor at Howard University specializing in leadership among Latino men, and Kevin McClure, associate professor at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, dive into the crucial competencies for effective college presidency. They discuss the importance of listening and resilience, and how these traits can transform executive roles. The conversation highlights the need for trust, emotional intelligence, and authentic narratives to foster broader representation in leadership. They also explore the post-pandemic shifts in student affairs and the importance of support networks.