Ep. 4: Lizz Gardner - MA in Writing & Publishing Turned Higher Ed Administrator

Lizz took the well-tread barista-by-day, writer-by-night path after finishing DePaul’s MA in writing and publishing program. When work became heavy on the baristaing and light on the writing, she threw her hat in the ring to teach a section of developmental education at nearby Wilbur Wright College. Fast forward ten years, Lizz is now the dean of community and continuing education at Malcolm X College, one of the other seven City Colleges of Chicago. Every day, she helps students in the West Side develop professionally and personally with programs the community needs and wants. (She knows because she asks and listens.)Her transition from adjunct faculty to administration didn’t happen overnight, or in a clear-cut, linear fashion. She moved through teaching, advising, data strategy, and grant management, having to learn numerous skills along the way, including means to manage work-life balance as her responsibilities expanded and free time contracted. Yet the art of storytelling she honed in grad school has always come in handy.  Books & other resources mentionedStart With Why by Simon SinekThe Renaissance Soul by Margaret LobenstineCheck out more from The Work SeminarVisit theworkseminar.com or find @TheWorkSeminar on social media. Sign up for The Work Seminar newsletter to receive updates straight to your inbox.Support the show