What if the real secret to running a successful university isn’t hidden in spreadsheets or campus blueprints, but in the way leaders build relationships? Sarah Holtan, PhD sits down with Dr. Bennie L. Harris, Chancellor of the University of South Carolina Upstate, to reveal why systems-thinking alone won't save higher ed—and why humility, listening, and authentic connection are the true game changers. Leadership isn’t just about making the tough calls; it’s about modeling the value of social capital with trustees, faculty, and students.

Ever wondered how you can make unpopular decisions—like sunsetting a program—without losing the trust you’ve worked so hard to earn? This episode spotlights the art (and sometimes science) of protecting relationships through clear communication and compassion.

Episode Highlights

07:28 - I often talk about my role as a chancellor is not just leading the institution, but I'm also leading the enterprise and I'm also leading the environment outside of the enterprise.

09:55 - Just remember, your most important job is the one that's in front of you right now. But I can help give you the capacity to be the next president of another institution, to be a vice president of another institution, etc., if that's what your aspiration— often people love it here so much that they decide they don't want to leave.

21:45 - During my journey, I learned that the most valuable people in acquiring resources for the institutions from donors and other external sources are our faculty and our students. I put them in front of them and let them do their work.

28:69 - So the point I'm making and saying, when I make a difficult decision, it's typically I've talked about it for a while before I have to pull the trigger.

Sarah Holtan, PhD

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Bennie L. Harris, PhD

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