11. “Self-Management for Provosts:” A Conversation with Kevin R. Carman
In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Kevin R. Carman discuss the chapter on “Self-Management for Provosts” they co-wrote for The Chief Academic Officer’s handbook: A Provost’s Guide for Visionary Leadership (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2025). They offer insights on self-management for provosts, emphasizing the importance of building professional networks, striking a balance between visibility and personal time, and practicing mindfulness. Thuswaldner and Carman discuss effective delegation, the role of executive assistants, and strategies for managing email. The conversation also touches on navigating difficult personnel decisions and the value of continuous professional development.Takeaways• Provosts should engage with professional organizations to combat isolation.• Visibility on campus is crucial for provosts to connect with the community.• Carving out personal time is essential to avoid burnout.• Mindfulness practices can significantly improve well-being.• Effective delegation is key to successful leadership.
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34:48
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34:48
10. “At the Pleasure of the President:” A Conversation with Joan F. Lorden
In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Joan F. Lorden discusses her chapter, “At the Pleasure of the President,” from The Chief Academic Officer’s Handbook: A Provost’s Guide to Visionary Leadership (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2025). She offers valuable insights into the provost’s relationship with the president, emphasizing the importance of trust, communication, and balancing faculty needs with institutional priorities. Dr. Lorden explores strategies for building strong presidential partnerships, managing crises, preparing for leadership transitions, and navigating the complexities of fostering institutional growth and transformation.Takeaways• A newly hired provost should start with a reservoir of trust.• Honesty and transparency are crucial in building relationships.• Understanding the institution's culture is key for success.• Provosts must balance confidentiality with transparency to faculty.• Explaining funding streams to faculty is essential for trust.
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31:38
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31:38
9. Visible and Shadow Structures in Higher Education: A Conversation with Chris Heavey and Tondra De
In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Tondra De and Dr. Chris Heavey discuss the chapter on visible and shadow structures they wrote for The Chief Academic Officer's Handbook: A Provost’s Guide to Visionary Leadership. They examine the significant distinctions between visible and shadow structures in higher education, highlighting the importance of comprehending both for effective leadership. The discussion covers strategies for fostering collaboration, navigating informal networks, and addressing silos within institutions. They also explore the significance of communication, the role of provosts in shaping campus culture, and the importance of self-awareness and constructive feedback for effective leadership development.Takeaways• Visible structures are formal and documented processes.• Shadow structures are informal and influential networks.• Effective communication fosters collaboration and minimizes conflict.• Building personal relationships is key to navigating shadow structures.• Transparency helps combat misconceptions about the provost's office.
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35:27
8. “Seasons of a Provost:” A Conversation with Kathy E. Johnson and Beth Ingram
In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Kathy E. Johnson and Dr. Beth Ingram discuss their chapter “Seasons of a Provost” in The Chief Academic Officer's Handbook: A Provost’s Guide for Visionary Leadership (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2025). They explore the often-overlooked topic of provost career transitions, the importance of aligning with presidential vision, and the necessity of having a plan B for unexpected changes. They also delve into the dynamics of cabinet relationships, fostering faculty relations, and the reflective practices that can guide provosts in assessing their career paths. The conversation concludes with personal reflections on knowing when to stay or go in one's career and book recommendations that emphasize empathy and understanding in leadership.Takeaways• Provosts often operate in the background compared to presidents.• Career transitions for provosts are rarely discussed openly.• Aligning with the president's vision is crucial for provosts.• Having a plan B is essential due to high turnover rates.• Building a network of support can provide valuable insights.
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34:33
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7. Defining the Roles of the Provost: A Conversation with Patricia E. Salkin
In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Patricia E. Salkin discusses the evolving role of the provost in higher education, emphasizing the essential skills required for effective leadership, the impact of COVID-19 on academic expectations, and strategies for crisis management. She highlights the importance of building trust with faculty, balancing administrative duties with student engagement, and advocating for academic funding in resource-constrained environments. Dr. Salkin discusses the multifaceted role of a provost in higher education, focusing on the budget process, compliance with accreditation standards, strategic vision, work-life balance, and the evolving responsibilities of the position. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration with deans and the president, the need for transparency in budgeting, and the challenges posed by changing regulations and societal issues. Takeaways• The role of the provost has expanded significantly in recent years.• Creativity and critical analysis are essential skills for provosts.• Networking and understanding institutional culture are key for aspiring provosts.• Crisis management requires strong communication and teamwork.• Provosts should maintain transparency and open dialogue with faculty.
The EdUp Provost Podcast is a proud member of the EdUp Experience® podcast family, America's leading higher education podcast network. Brought to you by the Association of Chief Academic Officers (ACAO), EdUp Provost offers a platform for sharing best practices, discussing current academic challenges, and promoting the educational and organizational interests of Chief Academic Officers. Each episode provides thought-provoking conversations with leaders in higher education, equipping CAOs with insights and resources to navigate societal challenges and enhance their institutions.
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