Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance, and Doug Lederman, Editor and Co-Founder of Inside Higher Ed, speak with Dr. Valerie Sheares Ashby, who recently assumed the role of president at University of Maryland, Baltimore County. President Sheares Ashby talks about becoming UMBC's first new leader in decades, the nature of servant leadership, how higher ed can shape the future, and how self-care is vital in doing her work effectively. Topics include:

• The most effective way that outgoing leaders can make their departure easier for their successor and their institution
• Positive examples and lessons for leadership
• The critical need for inclusive excellence at all levels of higher ed
• The day-to-day importance of staying grounded while pursuing visionary work
• Shared wisdom and reading recommendations for higher ed leaders

In February 2023, the University Innovation Alliance celebrated the 100th episode of its Innovating Together Podcast. To honor the occasion, UIA founder and CEO Bridget Burns sat in the guest chair, this time answering the questions instead of asking them. She spoke with Doug Lederman, Editor and Co-Founder of Inside Higher Ed, about the origins of the podcast, the challenges that all higher ed leaders share regardless of institution, the roles of generosity and kindness in leadership, and the necessary qualities of humanity and humility. Topics include:

• Audience interest in seeing the human face of higher ed leadership

• The day-to-day challenges and aspirations of truly iconic leaders

• The best career advice Dr. Burns received and the advice she most frequently gives

• Recommended reading for leaders of higher ed institutions


Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance, and Doug Lederman, Editor and Co-Founder of Inside Higher Ed, speak with Dr. Javier Reyes, Interim Chancellor at the University of Illinois Chicago, one of the UIA's newest member institutions. Chancellor Reyes talks about his leadership style, expectations he's faced, lessons he's learning from the experience as interim, and how future administrators might best prepare for this kind of leadership. Topics include:

• The expectations vs. realities of accepting an interim position

• How higher ed administrators can and should be prepared for top leadership positions

• Why an interim chancellor is so much more than just a caretaker

• How Dr. Reyes will rethink his role as provost after his term as chancellor concludes

• Checking your own perceptions and ensuring that everyone is on the same page