Welcome to a transformative journey in academic leadership with Substance Over Style: A Field Guide to Leadership in Higher Education. This insightful book, authored by Dr. Donald H. DeHayes, addresses the complex challenges and unique opportunities that leaders in higher education face in today’s polarized environment. Whether you are a faculty member, staff, graduate student, or an experienced administrator, this guide is designed to enhance your leadership potential.

The essence of this book lies in its emphasis on substance rather than style. In a world where leadership can often be superficial, Substance Over Style encourages a deeper understanding of the fundamental qualities that contribute to effective leadership. It provides valuable insights, lessons learned, and practical strategies that will prepare you to navigate the intricacies of university governance.

This guide provides readers with the tools to:

• Build confidence and purpose in their leadership journey.
• Gain insights into the challenges of higher education.
• Understand the nuances that differentiate substance from style in leadership.
• Learn practical strategies for decision-making, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Develop skills in fiscal management, strategic planning, and resource allocation.

Dr. Donald H. DeHayes brings over twenty-six years of leadership experience in flagship public research universities to this guide. As Provost emeritus at URI and Dean emeritus at the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Vermont, his scientific background as a forest biologist and ecosystem ecologist has profoundly influenced his approach to leadership. This book serves as a compass, deeply rooted in experience, to guide and direct emerging leaders in academia.

As you read through Substance Over Style, you will find that it not only equips you with the necessary skills but also challenges you to mobilize your community towards bold aspirations. It is a call to action for leaders to bring their values and vision to life, shaping their careers and the institutions they serve.

Embark on your leadership evolution today, and discover how to think like an ecosystem, extracting clarity from complexity and leading with purpose.