In ‘The New College President,’ authors Terrence J. MacTaggart and Eileen B. Wilson-Oyelaran delve into an essential question: what truly constitutes effective leadership in higher education? Through extensive research and numerous interviews, they bring to light the inspiring stories of seven exceptional presidents who hail from diverse backgrounds. This book challenges conventional wisdom about leadership in academia and offers a fresh perspective on the qualities that successful leaders need today.

The narrative unfolds through the life stories and academic journeys of these university presidents, each of whom has navigated unique challenges that have shaped their leadership styles. These presidents exhibit a remarkable combination of personal qualities—including grit, resilience, compassion, and intercultural competence—paired with strong academic credentials. Their diverse experiences not only contribute to their effectiveness as leaders but also bring a richness to the discourse surrounding higher education in a time of significant change.

One of the central themes of ‘The New College President’ is the difficulty in finding and hiring new college and university presidents. MacTaggart and Wilson-Oyelaran suggest that search committees often look in the wrong places, limiting their pool of candidates to those who fit a narrow mold. By sharing these compelling narratives, the authors argue for a broader understanding of what makes a strong leader in higher education.

The authors introduce a ‘forensic’ model for improving presidential searches, emphasizing the importance of a thorough examination of a candidate’s personal leadership strengths and weaknesses. This model is a departure from traditional practices, which often focus on academic qualifications alone. By adopting this more holistic approach, search committees can identify extraordinary leaders who might otherwise go unnoticed.

The book also highlights the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education leadership. MacTaggart and Wilson-Oyelaran make a compelling case that a commitment to these principles is not merely a moral obligation but a strategic advantage. Diverse leaders bring unique perspectives and solutions to the challenges facing institutions today, helping to foster environments that are inclusive and representative of the communities they serve.

Throughout the book, readers are introduced to influential figures in academia, including Jeffrey Bullock, Waded Cruzado, Mary Dana Hinton, Freeman Hrabowski III, Robert Jones, Kwang-Wu Kim, and Mary Marcy. Their stories provide not only inspiration but also actionable insights for those involved in the search for future leaders in higher education.

In conclusion, ‘The New College President’ is a vital resource for anyone interested in the dynamics of leadership within the academic sphere. It offers a transformative look at how diverse leaders are changing the landscape of higher education, encouraging a shift in mindset that could lead to more effective and inclusive leadership practices. The book serves as both a narrative of triumph and a guide for institutions seeking to navigate the complexities of leadership recruitment in an evolving educational environment.