The right view
As Louisiana Tech begins its search for the next university president, I would like to share a few thoughts with those on the search committee.
As the committee begins its search, here are some key attributes that are essential to continuing the good work that is going on at La Tech:
Commitment to the Community: La Tech is the economic engine that drives Ruston and plays a key role in Lincoln Parish overall. TechPoint has been a huge success and will continue to impact the community in a favorable manner in the future. The next president must be committed to working with City officials and continuing the great work at TechPoint.
Commitment to Athletics: Intercollegiate athletics are the doorway to any university. That statement remains true at La Tech. The next president must be committed to excellence in athletics. That excellence will be challenged through budgetary concerns and growing costs, but finding a way to remain relevant in athletics is essential for the University.
Commitment to Research: Maintaining a research status that attracts faculty, engages faculty, and establishes an environment for students and faculty alike to create and expand learning opportunities is essential. The new opportunities will also generate advancement in key areas impacting all facets of society. The next president needs to embrace the value of research.
However, at its core, La Tech exists to educate and equip men and women for a future of impact. The next president must be committed to creating an educational experience second to none.
· Connecting with the student body is an integral part of the experience.
· Committing to attract, retain, invest in, and engage educators, administrators, and staff is foundational to creating a great student experience.
· Creating a great employee experience is the key to creating a great student experience.
I am less concerned about where the next president received the PHD. I am more interested in the ability to lead a group of educators, administrators, and staff to create a first-class learning experience that attracts, retains, engages, and equips students. I am more interested in the leadership skills that will engage with the community, foster research, and provide the framework for success in athletics.
The committee should not be concerned about Baton Rouge or Lafayette. Success at La Tech should not be a competition with other universities in the State. We are seeking to fill a position to lead La Tech going forward. While that leader will need to work well within the Louisiana System, this leader is solely focused on the success at La Tech.
The right view is what’s best for La Tech. The State of Louisiana is better when La Tech is thriving. Let’s put the focus there and allow the other universities in the state to do the same for themselves.
Let’s find the next leader to continue this focus. We have momentum. Let’s continue to build on it.
That’s my view – I think it’s the right view!
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
