Wolverton et al. (2009) reviewed the literature and found
several characteristics commonly associated with effective
leaders. Passion and commitment, self-awareness, and
self-confidence are among the characteristics listed,
and each is evident in the three reflection narratives.
Throughout their careers, each author described a
“passion about higher education” and a “desire to
make a difference” through their work. Each entered
higher education leadership because of this passion and
commitment to both the organization and its people.
One summed up the perspective held by each, saying, “I
had a passion about the higher education enterprise and
the belief that if I did my job well, I could play a role in
making an important difference in the lives of others.”
Another stated, “Probably my greatest strength as a new
administrator was desire and passion to do the job.” The
third described how her commitment often resulted in
working 24/7. She added that, “[she] didn’t complain
or think of her efforts as anything out of the ordinary or
exceptional” due to her commitment.