Becoming the first full-time dean in nearly three years at Langston University’s School of Business was a profound and humbling experience. The challenges were real—restructuring the organization, restoring trust, and navigating limited resources—but so were the opportunities to inspire growth and transformation. Leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about embodying the virtues that uplift and guide others. Over the past year, I’ve learned invaluable lessons that I hope will encourage and empower leaders in their own journeys.
Join me as I share 12 leadership virtues that shaped my first year as Dean.
Here is a series of “Leadership Lessons Learned – Dean Perspectives ” below:
1. Faith: Trusting the Process
“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” – Proverbs 37:23
Through prayer and faith, I found strength and clarity even in the most challenging moments as Dean. Faith is the foundation of leadership—it steadies the heart when the road is uncertain.
2. Active Listening: The Leader’s Most Powerful Tool
“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
I learned to listen attentively to my faculty, students, and stakeholders. Listening builds trust, fosters understanding, and paves the way for collaborative solutions.
3. Visionary: Seeing Beyond the Horizon
“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” – Proverbs 29:18
The vision for Langston University School of Business required bold planning and adaptability. Vision has been my compass throughout this transformative journey. One of the most rewarding experiences was co-hosting the Langston Vibes radio talk show with Dr. Sherri Smith-Keys. What began as her inspired idea evolved into a platform now featured on iHeart Radio and Apple Podcasts. Along the way, I learned new skills as an assistant producer and scriptwriter—proof that vision can take us to unexpected and extraordinary places. Vision unites people with purpose and illuminates the path forward.
4. Adaptability: Embracing Change with Grace
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
The ability to pivot was critical during a year of restructuring and growth. Adaptability is not weakness—it is wisdom in action.
5. Courage in the Face of Opposition
“The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.” – Proverbs 28:1
Difficult decisions, like reorganizing and moving beyond the status quo, demanded courage. I faced resistance with the conviction that progress requires boldness.
6. Hope: Inspiring the Next Generation
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Proverbs 29:11
Inspiring hope in our students is a privilege. As leaders, we must plant seeds of optimism and opportunity, especially for those who feel overlooked.
7. Forgiveness: Letting Go of Resentment
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11
Holding onto past grievances only hinders progress. I learned to forgive and move forward with grace, focusing on the mission rather than the missteps of others.
8. Kindness and Generosity: Leading with Heart
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25
Small acts of kindness—encouraging a faculty member or supporting a struggling student—can ripple into transformative change.
9. Discipline and Teachability: Staying Open to Growth
“For the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” – Proverbs 3:12
Every setback was a lesson, every challenge an opportunity for refinement. Staying teachable kept me grounded and forward-focused.
10. Resilience: Rising After Every Fall
“Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.” – Proverbs 24:16
Leadership is not about never failing—it’s about rising stronger each time. My setbacks as Dean refined my character and deepened my resolve.
11. Trust in God: Leaning on His Wisdom
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
When decisions felt overwhelming, I trusted in God’s wisdom to guide me. Faithful reliance brings peace amidst uncertainty.
12. Meekness and Humility: Strength Under Control
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” – Proverbs 22:4
Leadership is not about titles but service. I learned that humility opens doors that pride cannot.