Building Resilience and Community in Times of Institutional Change

If you're searching for inspiration and actionable insights on leadership in higher education, you'll want to tune in to the latest episode featuring Dr. Jhenai Chandler, hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton. This engaging conversation shines a light on the complexity of change management and the importance of authentic leadership through times of uncertainty.

One major theme that emerges from their discussion is the necessity of adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of student affairs. Dr. Chandler shares her personal experiences navigating institutional shifts, emphasizing that flexibility and open communication are key to both individual growth and organizational success. She discusses how leaders who prioritize empathy and transparency foster environments where innovation isn't just encouraged—it thrives.

Another powerful topic is the need for intentional mentorship and community-building. Dr. Chandler highlights how finding and being a mentor can propel professional development in meaningful ways. She stresses that mentorship doesn't have to be formalized; often, those small, consistent connections spark the greatest impact. Listeners are reminded that building a supportive professional network sharpens resilience, especially when facing challenges unique to the higher education sector.

The conversation doesn't shy away from discussing the personal side of leadership either. Dr. Chandler is candid about the importance of self-care and boundary-setting, particularly for those who often take on invisible labor within their institutions. She encourages embracing humanity within the professional sphere—celebrating wins, learning from setbacks, and bringing your whole self to work.

Rounding out the episode, the hosts and Dr. Chandler offer practical advice for emerging leaders. They underscore the value of continual learning and the importance of staying true to your values, even amidst external pressures. From candid anecdotes to strategic insights, this episode is packed with wisdom that will resonate with higher education professionals at every stage of their journey.

If you're ready to be inspired and energized, don't miss this insightful episode! The perspectives shared by Dr. Chandler, and Dr. Creighton, will leave you with actionable strategies and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you're a seasoned administrator or just starting your career, this dynamic conversation is sure to spark new ideas and meaningful reflection.

Tune in and join the dialogue today!

 

TRANSCRIPT

Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:02]:
Welcome to Student Affairs Voices from the Field, the podcast where we share your student affairs stories from fresh perspectives to seasoned experts brought to you by naspa. We curate free and accessible professional development for higher ed pros wherever you happen to be. This is season 13 on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton. She her hers your essay Voices from the Field Host welcome to season 13 of SA Voices from the Field. This season is on the Value of Student affairs and I'm thrilled to open this season with Dr. Janae Chandler, who currently serves as the Vice President of Research and Policy for Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.

Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:42]:
That's us. Here at naspa, she's leading efforts to advance student success and equity through research driven policies. Previously, Dr. Chandler was Senior Director of College Completion Policy at TCUS, or the Institute for College Access and Success, where she oversaw the organization's advocacy and policy strategy aimed at improving college completion rates. Her work focused on enhancing institutional capacity to support student success, collaborating with state and federal policymakers, industry leaders and researchers to promote policies that advance equity in higher ed. Before joining TCUS, Dr. Chandler was a leader of Post Secondary Transitions at Education Strategy Group, where she worked with state and regional policymakers to improve advising practices, early post secondary opportunities, and mathematics pathways. She also led business development in college and career advising, ensuring that advising systems address the holistic needs of all students.

Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:30]:
As the Inaugural Director of the Florida Caribbean Louis Stokes Regional center of Excellence, Dr. Chandler conducted research to assess the impact of growth mindset interventions on STEM student success. Dr. Chandler began her career in advising at Tallahassee Community College, later holding lea