Dr. Lynne Murray- President, Baker University
Advice:
When I think back to when I was your age and I ask myself what prepared me for the eventual Presidency of Baker University, I would say:
Own Confidence. Be who you are. At different times in our lives, we are called into new situations that can sometimes seem daunting or confusing as we work to find our place in them. As I was preparing to be President, I asked other presidents, family, and colleagues—what do I need to do to prepare better to be President of Baker University. While all offered different advice, there was one message that was consistent from all of the people I had asked and that was: Just be you.
I share this with you because I think young women are particularly at risk to lose themselves and to try to fit in and respond to society’s expectations of them instead of having the courage at a young age to just be who they are. I encourage you all to explore and find your talents and your strengths and to pursue educational pursuits and eventually careers that fit with these and that allow you to do your life’s work in a meaningful way while still enjoying what you do. Make each and every day count!
I also thought of a question I was recently asked by a group of students at Baker University studying higher education leadership.
The question is: Running a university is a huge undertaking and takes strong leadership. Can you briefly describe your leadership style?
I think that what may set me apart from others is my own view of this position. I truly believe that it is a calling for me and that I have been called to serve in this capacity for our community. I was attracted to Baker University because of its Methodist traditions and values. I do think we all have the responsibility to be caring and contributing members of society. I want the students to leave here with great character, great values and a sense of moral responsibility. After all, they will be our leaders soon enough. So, how does that translate into leadership style? When I think of this I’m reminded of one of the lessons I learned while working toward my Pd.D: you can only lead people if people are willing to follow. Translated for me, I believe that to be a great leader is to bring others along with you. You lead through encouragement and through support of others.
And, I have to be able to make decisions and have the strength to know that at times they may be unpopular and I may be unpopular because of them. I am comforted to know that in each instance, if I can peacefully lay my head down on the pillow for a good night’s rest that no matter how uncomfortable it was or may be, I made the right decision for the betterment of the University.