In a recent article for the Chronicle of Higher Ed, Bob Davies offers a guide for new university presidents looking to smoothly transition into their role. Davies breaks this transition down into three stages: the president-elect stage that runs between the initial appointment notice and first day in the role, the first 90 days that serve as an immersion and learning period, and the “Go! Phase” that is focused on leading. Davies outlines the key goals that a new president should have during each phase and the common mistakes to avoid. Among his concluding recommendations, Davies advises new leaders to keep their focus on their current role, ground themselves with personal reflection, and take the office—but not themselves—seriously.
