IngenioUs

Melissa Morriss-Olson
  • 4.9 (9)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to IngenioUs — where conversations spark innovation and open doors to the future of higher education. Our podcast is a dedicated space for deep dives with the most original minds and active changemakers in academia. Each episode is a journey through the ideas and actions of those at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in higher ed. Join us as we explore academic innovation, uncovering insights and inspirations from those who dare to think differently.

  1. Standing for What's Right: A President's Journey from Army Brat to Mission-Driven Leadership

    DEC 16

    Standing for What's Right: A President's Journey from Army Brat to Mission-Driven Leadership

    What does it mean to lead with authentic mission alignment in today's complex higher education landscape? Dr. Christina Clark, the eighth president of La Roche University, knows the answer intimately—because she's living it. In this conversation, Christina shares how growing up as an "army brat" in Alaska and the Philippines instilled in her the leadership fundamentals that guide her presidency today: service, accountability, and the courage to stand for what's right even when standing alone. Her father's daily reveille call—"it's another day in which to excel"—wasn't just a wake-up routine; it was the beginning of a leadership formation that would spandecades and continents. As a classicist scholar, Christina brings a unique intellectual framework to presidential leadership, using contextual thinking to see beneath surface issues to underlying institutional challenges. She opens up about her intentional journey from faculty to the presidency, the importance of knowingwhere you can flourish as a leader, and why the exhausting presidential interview process at La Roche left her feeling energized rather than drained—a clear signal she'd found the right fit. We explore La Roche's innovative approach to preparing students for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including embedding AI literacy certificates across the curriculum and requiring AI competency in every capstone course. Christina also shares what sustains her personally—from nightly conversations with her mother to morning dance sessions that reconnect her with who she was before becoming an academic. Whether you're an aspiring president, a sitting leader navigating unprecedented challenges, or simply curious about what authentic mission-driven leadership looks like in practice, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for your own journey. Key Topics: Growing up in a military family and learning leadership through service and accountabilityFinding authentic institutional fit: Why mission and values alignment mattersThe Pacum in Terris program: Putting your money where your mission isClassical scholarship and contextual thinking in leadershipNavigating the journey from faculty to presidency with intentionStrategic advice for aspiring presidents: Know yourself, know your environmentPersonal sustainability practices: Music, dance, family, and daily gratitudePreparing students for the Fourth Industrial Revolution: La Roche's AI literacy initiative Building institutional pride and raising your university's profileCreating a legacy of strong shared governance and mission strengthAbout Dr. Christina Clark: Dr. Christina Clark is the eighth president of La Roche University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A classicist by training, she brings more than 20 years of experience in Catholic comprehensive institutions to her first presidency. Dr. Clark's leadership is shaped by her formative years as the daughter of a U.S. Army officer, living in Alaska and the Philippines, whereshe learned the values of service, ethics, and representing something larger than oneself. Her commitment to mission-driven, values-based education guides her vision for preparing students to be global citizens who work for justice,peace, and the common good in an increasingly complex world. Connect with La Roche University: Website: www.laroche.edu About IngenioUs: IngenioUs explores the leadership journeys of transformative women in higher education. Hosted by Dr. Melissa Morriss-Olson, each episode features candid conversations about the experiences, challenges, and insights that shapevisionary leadership in today's colleges and universities. Host: Dr. Melissa Morriss-Olson, Provost Emerita and Distinguished Professor, Bay Path University | Author of "Ingenious Leadership" | Founding Director, Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practice (CHELIP)

    50 min

  2. DEC 9 · BONUS

    Underemployment and the Future of the University: David Staley on the Crisis of Underemployment

    In this episode, David J. Staley reads his latest University Design essay, “Underemployment,” a timely and compelling examination of the rising underemployment of college graduates in the United States. Drawing on Peter Turchin’s framework of “eliteoverproduction,” national labor market data, and comparative insights from global economies, Staley explores the widening disconnect between higher education and the jobs available in the current workforce. He highlights striking statistics—from the underemployment rates by major to the top U.S. occupations that do not require a college degree—and argues that the problem lies not with college-going students, but with an economy unable to generate enough high-skill jobs. The episode challenges listeners to consider: ·      Is underemployment a temporary labor marketfluctuation or a chronic structural issue? ·      What happens to college enrollment and socialstability if the trend continues? ·      Should workforce development simply respond tothe current labor market—or design a better one? ·      And what new mission might colleges anduniversities embrace to combat underemployment? Staley ultimately proposes a bold idea: Universities should not only educate future workers but actively catalyze the creation of high-skill economic opportunity, shaping a labor market aligned with the talent they cultivate.

    9 min
  3. Kindle the Spark: Dr. Ann McElaney-Johnson on Creative Courage in Higher Education

    DEC 2

    Kindle the Spark: Dr. Ann McElaney-Johnson on Creative Courage in Higher Education

    What happens when a French literature professor becomes a university president for 15 years? Dr. Ann McElaney-Johnson shares why creative courage matters more than we think, the power of saying yes to the unplanned, and why leaders must trust the spark even when the data isn't complete. In this powerful conversation, Ann McElaney-Johnson, President of Mount St. Mary's University in Los Angeles, reveals what 15 years of presidential leadership has taught her about authenticity, creative risk-taking, and the surprising importance of relaxing into your role. From her beginnings as an 18th-century French literature professor to leading a university through unprecedented change, Ann shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey—and why none of it went according to plan. Shediscusses the real challenge of organizational change (hint: it's internal, not external), why loving what you do might be your greatest superpower, and her most distinctive leadership insight: the courage to kindle creative sparks even when everything says to wait for more proof. This episode is essential listening for emerging and established leaders alike who want to lead with both analytical rigor and creative genius. Key Topics Discussed: The unplanned path from faculty to presidential leadership Why saying yes to uncomfortable opportunities unlocks potential The informal work of leadership: connection as strategic practice How leadership style evolves from performing to authentic presence Mission fit and why it matters for sustainable leadership The real challenge of change: why personal transformation is hardest Balancing analytical thinking with creative intuition Finding joy and longevity in presidential leadership Advice for emerging women leaders in higher education About the Guest: Ann McElaney-Johnson, Ph.D. is the President of Mount St. Mary's University in Los Angeles, California, where she has served for 15 years. A former professor of 18th-century French literature, she has dedicated her career to creatingeducational environments that respond to the evolving needs of students and society. Under her leadership, Mount St. Mary's has embraced innovation while staying true to its founding mission by the Sisters of St. Joseph: respondingto the needs of the time with flexibility, creativity, and purpose. Key Quotes: "I actually think my superpower is really that I love what I do...There's great joy in being part of this journey of students. It's such a privilege." "You don't have to know it all. I think when I first started, I wasa newbie president... Over time, I've learned that's actually not realistic. None of us has all the answers." "When you see that spark, you know, have the courage to ignite it... Don't forget your creativity, that creative genius that I think each of us has. If we unleash it, is probably as important and more important than all the data. Trust that." "You have to be yourself. You can't fake your way into this job toget the job." "Where else would I go? This is an incredible place. Every day I'mmoved." About IngenioUs: IngenioUs explores transformative leadership in higher education through conversations with visionary presidents and leaders. Hosted by Dr. Melissa Morriss-Olson, author of Ingenious Leadership and founding director of Bay Path University's Doctor of Education program, each episode uncovers the authentic stories, unexpected journeys, and leadership wisdom that shape the future of higher education. Season Information: This episode is part of Season 6, featuring conversations exclusively with women university presidents.

    53 min
  4. Living Your Best Self: Dr. Sheila Edwards Lange on Legacy, Leadership, and Liberation

    NOV 18

    Living Your Best Self: Dr. Sheila Edwards Lange on Legacy, Leadership, and Liberation

    From a small Mississippi community during the civil rights movement to the chancellor's office at the University of Washington Tacoma, Dr. Sheila Edwards Lange's leadership journey is a masterclass in authenticity, mentorship, andstaying true to your purpose. In this conversation, Dr. Lange opens up about the teachers and"aunties" who saw potential in her when she couldn't see it herself, the work-study job that changed her career trajectory, and why she believes the greatest legacy a leader can leave is giving others the freedom to be themselves. KEY TOPICS: Growing up during the civil rights movement and its impact on her commitment to educational accessFinding voice and leadership skills in the churchThe transformative power of mentors like Mrs. Calhoun and Lisa CornishWhy she hires students in every office she leadsThe evolution from doing the work to embodying institutional valuesBuilding reputation in a surprisingly small professional worldLiving in the "fishbowl" of senior leadershipThe twelve-hour rule and why work-life balance isn't optionalAdvice for emerging women leaders and women of colorDefining legacy: creating leaders who live on purposeABOUT DR. SHEILA EDWARDS LANGE: Dr. Sheila Lange serves as Chancellor of the University of WashingtonTacoma. Her career spans roles as diversity officer, community college president, and university chancellor. She is known for her authentic, values-driven leadership and deep commitment to mentorship and creating pathways for diverse leaders in higher education. KEY QUOTE: "Stay true to what matters to you, what gets you out of bed every day. The jobs will follow, you know, the jobs come and go, but it is what gives you meaning, what gives you passion." CONNECT WITH INGENIOUS U: Join our community of transformative women leaders in higher education.Subscribe for more conversations that inspire, challenge, and empower.

    47 min
  5. What Makes a University Worth Attending? | University Design

    NOV 7

    What Makes a University Worth Attending? | University Design

    In this episode, David J. Staley reads his latest University Design blog article for the Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practice (CHELIP). What does it really mean to attend a particular university? During the pandemic, one of Staley's students captured something essential: "I don't feel like I attend the Ohio State University." His frustration reveals a deeper truth about higher education that most metrics and rankings completely miss. In this article, Staley explores a provocative thesis: universities are in the reputation business, operating on intangible capital rather than tangible assets. Drawing on economic theory from Haskel and Westlake's "Capitalism Without Capital," he argues that the real value of a university lies not in its buildings, publication counts, or job placement statistics, but in something far more elusive—its phenomenology, brand, and ineffable experience. KEY TOPICS EXPLORED: The pandemic's revelation about what students truly value in university attendanceWhy traditional metrics fail to capture institutional valueHow intangible capital defines the modern economy—and universitiesThe gap between reputation and current reality at many institutionsArizona State's transformation from punchline to innovation leaderVanderbilt's satellite campus strategy and the question of whether reputation can transcend placeWhat university leaders must understand about phenomenology and brand ABOUT UNIVERSITY DESIGN:University Design is a blog column by David J. Staley exploring innovative approaches to higher education strategy, structure, and future possibilities. Published through the Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practice (CHELIP). This podcast features audio readings of selected articles from the column. AUTHOR/READER:David J. Staley is a historian, futurist, and author focused on the future of higher education and innovation in university design. READ THE FULL ARTICLE: https://ingeniousu.wpcomstaging.com/ RELATED READING: Haskel, J., & Westlake, S. (2018). Capitalism without capital: The rise of the intangible economy (Paperback ed.). Princeton University Press.

    8 min
  6. Lifting Barriers. Naming Possibilities. The Leadership Journey of Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg

    OCT 28

    Lifting Barriers. Naming Possibilities. The Leadership Journey of Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg

    Content Warning: This episode contains references to suicide and sexual assault within the context of student mental health and recovery. The discussion focuses on hope, resilience, and the impact of supportive relationships in higher education. What happens when a leader sees potential in people who've never seen it in themselves? In this deeply moving episode of IngenioUs, Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg shares how a single moment—when a mentor casually said "when you're a college president"—fundamentally shifted her understanding of her own possibilities. Now, as Chancellor of the University of Washington Bothell, she deliberately practices naming potentialin others, especially those who don't see themselves reflected in traditional leadership roles. Dr. Esterberg's leadership philosophy is grounded in her training as a sociologist and shaped by profound experiences with students overcoming tremendous obstacles. She shares theunforgettable story of a student who was the child of Cambodian refugees, struggling with the intergenerational trauma of genocide. That student brought her a jar of tiny origami stars and cranes—made to fight suicidal thoughts—and years later, Dr. Esterberg watched her cross the stage to receive a master's degree in social work. That jar still sits in her office today as a reminder of the transformative power of authentic relationships in higher education. In this conversation, Dr. Esterberg explores: ​The transition from "I towe"—moving from faculty to administrative leadership and discovering the joy of lifting barriers at scale​Why she believes leadership happens at all levels of campus, from physical plant staff leadingsustainability initiatives to students finding their voice​How her research on the LGBTQ+ homophile movement of the 1940s-50s provides historical perspective and hopeduring challenging times​The importance of listening—not just to hear, but to truly understand opinions that differ from your own​Her completion of an Ironman Triathlon and how endurance athletics mirrors her approach to leadershipchallenges​Essential tools for the leadership toolbox: deep listening skills, social media awareness, and genuine love foreducation, faculty, and students​Why creating environments where people can see themselves as leaders is critical to fulfilling higher education's transformative promise Dr. Esterberg's message is both challenging and hopeful: leadership is not the province of a select few but a possibility and responsibility that exists within all members of academiccommunities. By creating spaces where authentic relationships flourish and barriers to success are systematically dismantled, higher education can truly serve all students—especially those who have historically been marginalized or overlooked. This episode will inspire anyone who believes in the power of education to transform lives and the responsibility of leaders to see and name potential in others. ABOUT DR. KRISTIN G. ESTERBERG Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg is Chancellor of the University ofWashington Bothell. A sociologist by training, she has served in leadership roles at multiple institutions including as Provost at Salem State University and in administrative positions at UMass Lowell. Her research focuses on LGBTQ+ social movements, and she is a passionate advocate for creating inclusiveacademic environments where all students can thrive. An accomplished endurance athlete, she recently completed an Ironman Triathlon.

    44 min
  7. Anything is Possible: Building Unshakeable Optimism in Uncertain Times - The Leadership Journey of Dr. Patty Lynott

    OCT 7

    Anything is Possible: Building Unshakeable Optimism in Uncertain Times - The Leadership Journey of Dr. Patty Lynott

    In this inspiring new episode, host Melissa Morriss-Olson sits down with Dr. Patty Lynott, President of RockfordUniversity, to explore how unwavering optimism and strategic risk-taking can transform both careers and institutions. What You'll Learn: How career setbacks can become unexpected launching pads for extraordinary growth.Why "hands-off" leadership often produces the most remarkable results. The art of spotting and developing untapped potential in others. How to build genuine confidence that can withstand any challenge. What it takes to lead authentically without playing political games. Strategies for maintaininghope during higher education's most uncertain times. Key Takeaways: Confidence is the non-negotiable foundation of effective leadership. The best leaders take calculated risks on people others have overlooked. Sometimes the jobs we don't get redirect us toward our true calling. Authentic leadership becomes possible when you stop building your resume and start serving your mission."Anything is possible" isn't just optimism—it's a practicalleadership philosophy. About Our Guest: Dr. Patty Lynott serves as President of Rockford University and brings decades of higher education leadership experience, including 15 transformative years atSouthern New Hampshire University. Known for her direct communication style and talent for developing emerging leaders, she's passionate about the vital rolesmall private colleges play in American higher education.

    42 min
  8. The Soloversity: Imagining a One-Person University Powered by AI

    OCT 3 · BONUS

    The Soloversity: Imagining a One-Person University Powered by AI

    What happens when an entire university could be run by a single academic, supported almost entirely by AI? In this provocative installment of his University Design column, David Staley explores the emerging concept of the “soloversity”—a higher education institution operated by one human professor with a network of AI agents handling teaching support, administration, research, and student services. Drawing parallels to Silicon Valley’s “solopreneurs” and cyber-physical enterprises, Staley asks whether higher education might soon witness entrepreneurial academics launching their own solo institutions. Could these soloversities become the next educational unicorns? And what does this possibility reveal about the future of academic work, institutional scale, and the very foundations of the university? Listen in as Staley reads his essay aloud, bringing to life his vision of higher education’s possible futures. 📖 Read the full article here: The Soloversity by David J. Staley

    7 min
See All (225)

Trailers

4.9
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to IngenioUs — where conversations spark innovation and open doors to the future of higher education. Our podcast is a dedicated space for deep dives with the most original minds and active changemakers in academia. Each episode is a journey through the ideas and actions of those at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in higher ed. Join us as we explore academic innovation, uncovering insights and inspirations from those who dare to think differently.

Information

  • Creator
    Melissa Morriss-Olson
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    225
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Melissa Morriss-Olson
  • Show Website
    IngenioUs

You Might Also Like