I had the opportunity to "shadow" Dr. Linda Schwartzstein, Asst. Vice Provost/Vice President Academic Affairs for GMU. I took a law class from her and have had the opportunity to participate in university-related meetings. I initially found her to be intimidating - she is tall, serious in expression and demeanor, and piercing gaze (but not an unkind gaze). Since I found her to be a little intimidating, I figured what better person to shadow? I am happy I did as I learned a great deal and have an immense amount of respect and admiration for her.
Three characteristics struck me about her:
1. she consciously helps people professionally, as she was helped early in her career. She makes conscientious attempts to "pay it forward" professionally.
2. she is dedicated to her family and does not allow work to get in the way of her family responsibilities and time with her children. She expects her directors (those reporting to her) to follow the same outlook... work should not take away from personal and family time. She believes and supports work-life balance, and she certainly lives it.
3. her guiding principal in decision-making in her role is "Is the issue/concern/decision best for the student(s) at GMU? I find this very refreshing because in my role, I do not hear this philosophy. For me, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that my most important client is the student.
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2 comments:
Nancy,
I know that his was an excellent shadow experience. I work with college presidents and see the day to challenges that they face with being leaders. I can only imagine what the day to day life of a University attorney would be like? I wonder if her leadership changes depending on the various legal situations that the college may face? How does she handle a case from a legal stand point if the college is at fault? I am sure that her leadership and legal expertise has guided the college through many a trying time.
I was very happy when I read your blog. I am taking her class in the fall and reading about how dedicated she is makes me happy. All of the characteristics that you described are great thing leaders should have.
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