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IngenioUsAuthor: Melissa Morriss-Olson
Welcome to IngenioUs where conversations spark innovation and open doors to the future of higher education. Our podcast is a dedicated space for deep dives with the most original minds and active changemakers in academia. Each episode is a journey through the ideas and actions of those at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in higher ed. Join us as we explore academic innovation, uncovering insights and inspirations from those who dare to think differently. Language: en Genres: Business, Entrepreneurship Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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The Builder President: How Summer McGee Is Reimagining Higher Education with Vision, Data, and Heart
Monday, 20 April, 2026
In a time when higher education is facing profound questions about its value, purpose, and future, what does it take to lead with both clarity and conviction?In this episode of IngenioUs, I sit down with Dr. Summer McGee,president of Lenoir-Rhyne University—a dynamic and forward-thinking leader whose career has been defined by building: building programs, building strategy, and building institutions that grow and thrive.From her earliest days as a faculty member launching a new academic program to her leadership today as a two-time college president, Summer has consistently approached leadership with a builder’s mindset. In our conversation, she shares what she has learned across her leadership journey and how she is navigating one of the most complex moments in higher education.We explore:Why higher education leaders must once again articulate the value of a college degree The critical question every institution must answer: Why do we exist—and what do we do better than anyone else? What she learned from leading a major institutional turnaround at Salem Academy and College The invisible work of the presidency—and how she manages the weight of leadership How authenticity, relationships, and joy (including competitive pinball!) shape her leadership style Why data-driven decision making and storytelling go hand-in-hand What women need to know before stepping into senior leadership roles Throughout the conversation, Summer offers a powerful reminder that leadership is both deeply strategic and deeply human—and that the future of higher education will be shaped by those who can do both well.About the GuestDr. Summer McGee is the president of Lenoir-Rhyne University. A two-time college president and former founding dean, she is known for her expertise in academic innovation, enrollment growth, and institutional transformation. Her leadership is grounded in a commitment to student success, strategic clarity,and building organizations that are positioned to thrive in a rapidly changing higher education landscape.Key TakeawaysGreat leadership in higher education requiresbalancing heart and strategy Institutions must clearly define and communicate their distinctive value Transformation is possible—even in resource-constrained environments—when vision and alignment are strongAuthenticity and vulnerability are strengths, not liabilities, in leadership Sustainable leadership depends on support systems, boundaries, and moments of joy Connect & Learn MoreFollow IngenioUs for more conversations with innovative leaders shaping the future of higher education.
