Lessons Learned Navigating Uncertainties of the Global Pandemic: Insights From Two-Year Higher Education Institution Leaders

In Short

• Commit to lifelong learning and ongoing development, even while leading through crises.

• Acknowledge the individuality and uniqueness of people, while also celebrating and recognizing the meaningful contributions of/to teams.

• Put people first by prioritizing beings over buildings, people over profit. When leaders show up for their people, people show up for them too, especially in times of crisis when people may be feeling unsure, uncertain, and unseen.

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Terrell L. Strayhorn

Terrell Strayhorn ([email protected]) is Professor of Urban Education and Psychology at Virginia Union University. He also serves as Director of the Center for the Study of Historically Black Colleges & Universities and Principal Investigator of The Belonging Lab, a grant-funded innovation hub that unites researchers, practitioners, and policy makers. His research focuses on racial equity and sense of belonging in education and workplaces. He is President/Chief Executive Officer of Do Good Work Consulting Group that partners with schools, colleges, and corporations to improve inclusive climates, policies, and success metrics. Professor Strayhorn is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, AllBusiness, Thrive Global, and authors “Belonging Matters” at Psychology Today.