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“President to President" Celebrates 20 Years of Intellectual Exchange among College and University Leaders
Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott D. Miller has Served as Co-Executive Editor Since its Inception
University News | July 18, 2023
Twenty years ago, Virginia Wesleyan University President Scott Miller began his tenure as co-executive editor of a transformative initiative to provide a platform for intellectual exchange among college and university presidents. Every year since, the "President to President" thought series has offered deep insights into a wide range of topics centered on leadership, innovation, and the challenges faced by higher education institutions. 
Sponsored by Sodexo, a leading global services company, the series’ unique format features individual chapters, written by esteemed college and university presidents, distributed electronically each month throughout the academic year. "This milestone year is a testament to the enduring power of 'President to President' in shaping the discourse within the higher education community," says Dr. Miller. "We have witnessed the series evolve from a humble idea into a prominent platform that facilitates meaningful dialogue among college and university leaders. As we reflect on the journey thus far, we are excited to see the continued growth and impact of 'President to President' in the years to come."
This year, the series will explore the profound influence of sustainability and its diverse aspects on the future of higher education. Present-day students find themselves at the forefront of a worldwide climate crisis. Prioritizing environmental ethics and sustainable human advancement holds great significance in their lives, and many expect their campus to be in harmony with these principles. Adapting responsible business practices and strategies allows colleges and universities to embrace their students’ values while also creating lasting impacts that ensure long-term success in their own community, as well as establishing their institutions as solid global citizens.
After an insightful foreword from Sean Creighton, President of New American Colleges & Universities, this year’s President to President series will explore the environmental priorities of 10 presidents and their campus strategies for a sustainable future driven by change-making insights:
- Leading in a Digital World - Keith E. Whitfield, Ph.D., President, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- A New Approach to Climate Action Planning: Reimagining Campus Sustainability in a Post-COVID Environment - Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D., President, University of Puget Sound
- Making the "Case" for Sustainability - Robert L. (Bob) Jackson, Ed.D., President, Murray State University
- Questions on the Path to a Sustainable Future - Frank Shushok Jr., Ph.D., President, Roanoke College
- Reducing Energy Consumption as Step One to Building a Sustainability Movement - Alisa White, Ph.D., President, Sam Houston State University
- Applying Sustainability to Presidential Leadership - Andrea Chapdelaine, Ph.D., President, Hood College
- Talent Management as a Tool for Institutional Sustainability - Sandra S. Harper, Ph.D., President, McMurry University
- Strategies for Creating a Business Plan for a Sustainable Future - Stanton F. McNeely III, Ed.D., President, University of Holy Cross (Louisiana)
- Seeing All People More Clearly - Ronald S. Rochon, Ph.D., President, University of Southern Indiana
- Sustainable Strategic Planning in Times of Turbulence - Christopher L. Holoman, Ph.D., President, Centenary College of Louisiana
In a heartfelt tribute, Dr. Miller mourned the loss of his esteemed publishing partner and close confidant, Dr. Marylouise "Weezie" Fennell. Dr. Fennell, a former university president and senior counsel at the Council of Independent Colleges, passed away on October 12, 2022. She had served as co-executive editor for the initial 19 years. Dr. Miller fondly recalled her unwavering dedication to helping others and making a positive impact on the world. Through their collaborative efforts, they sought to create a legacy of knowledge and understanding. Dr. Miller expressed his deep admiration for Dr. Fennell, stating, "She personified a commitment to helping others and improving the world." In honor of her remarkable contributions, the series they worked on together will forever be dedicated to her memory, carrying forward her vital work.
More information about the "President to President" series can be found at www.president2president.com.