SEASON 3: Ep. 11 Inside a First Year as College President with Brooke Barnett, Rollins College

In this conversation, Brooke Barnett reflects on her path to the presidency of Rollins College, sharing how an unplanned career that began in journalism evolved into academic leadership through a passion for storytelling, teaching, and amplifying diverse voices. She discusses her first year in the role as a time of deep listening, relationship-building, and community immersion, emphasizing the importance of hospitality and connection. Barnett also makes a strong case for the value of liberal arts education in today’s rapidly changing world, arguing it equips students with critical thinking, adaptability, and ethical reasoning needed in an AI-driven future. She highlights Rollins’ distinctive approach, blending a residential campus experience with access to the cultural and economic opportunities of the Orlando area, and introduces innovative initiatives like the “innovation triangle” that connect education, leadership development, and community impact. Throughout, she underscores the importance of balancing mission and financial sustainability in higher education and encourages aspiring leaders to stay curious, listen deeply, and lead with humility.This podcast is sponsored by Viv Higher Education About Viv Higher EducationViv Higher Education is a Boston-based, female-owned comprehensive marketing agency specializing in higher education. With expertise in strategic planning, creative asset development, and media campaigns, we focus on enrollment-centric initiatives. Our approach is grounded in industry best practices, ensuring precision in reaching target audiences. We have extensive experience in marketing to diverse groups, including high school students, Hispanic, military, LGBTQ+, international students, and online learners. Navigating the complex landscapes of university environments is second nature to us, and we prioritize fostering collaborations that yield mutually beneficial outcomes. With a personable, nimble, and highly responsive approach, we deliver tailored solutions to empower organizations to achieve their objectives.Website: https://vivhied.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viv-higher-ed/