Ten Books to Inspire and Support Your Leadership Journey

Ten Books to Inspire and Support Your Leadership Journey

As we head into the new academic year, the COACHE team has curated a reading list for leaders in higher education seeking inspiration and practical strategies for the year ahead.  

Whether you are an administrator or a faculty member, these books offer valuable data, actionable guidance, and fresh perspectives on leadership, collaboration, and understanding the diverse needs of staff, students, and colleagues.  

(Books are organized alphabetically by author’s name): 

  1. How to Chair a Department (Higher Ed Leadership Essentials) by Kevin Dettmar 
    This practical guide demystifies the complexities of department leadership in higher education. Dettmar provides strategies for effective communication, conflict management, and building consensus, making it ideal for new and aspiring chairs. The book emphasizes adaptability and collaboration, offering insights from both research and real-world experience.
  2. What We Value: The Neuroscience of Choice and Change by Emily Falk 
    Emily Falk explores how neuroscience informs our understanding of human values and decision-making. Through engaging research and accessible explanations, the book reveals how to motivate people and create lasting change within organizations. Falk connects brain science to practical leadership strategies suitable for higher education and beyond.
  3. The Thin Book of Trust, Third Edition: An Essential Primer for Building Trust at Work by Charles Feltman 
    Charles Feltman provides a concise yet powerful exploration of trust in the workplace. He breaks down the components of trust, offers tools for building and repairing trust-based relationships, and addresses the challenges of maintaining trust within teams. This guide is essential for leaders aiming to cultivate a culture of integrity and collaboration.
  4. Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships by Daniel Goleman 
    In this influential work, Daniel Goleman builds on his research in emotional intelligence to examine the complexities of social interactions. The book discusses the role of empathy, awareness, and connection in effective leadership. Goleman provides insights and strategies to enhance workplace relationships and promote a positive organizational climate.
  5. The Caring University: Reimagining the Higher Education Workplace after the Great Resignation by Kevin R. McClure 
    Kevin McClure examines the impact of the Great Resignation on higher education and argues for a culture of care and well-being in academic workplaces. He shares research and practical strategies to support faculty and staff retention, mental health, and morale. McClure’s framework emphasizes empathy and sustainable change.
  6. Inclusion on Purpose: An Intersectional Approach to Creating a Culture of Belonging at Work by Ruchika T. Malhotra 
    Ruchika Malhotra offers a comprehensive roadmap for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion at work. Through case studies and actionable guidance, she demonstrates how to foster belonging and address systemic biases. The book is especially valuable for leaders committed to creating meaningful and lasting cultural transformation.
  7. “Whatever It Is, I’m Against It”: Resistance to Change in Higher Education by Brian Rosenberg 
    Brian Rosenberg analyzes the persistent challenges of change and resistance within colleges and universities. Through wit and insight, he explores why institutions often struggle to adapt and how leaders can navigate resistance constructively. The book offers strategies for fostering adaptability and forward momentum in academic environments.
  8. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek 
    Simon Sinek reveals that the most successful organizations and leaders begin by clearly articulating their underlying purpose—the “why.” By exploring real-world examples, Sinek demonstrates how leading with purpose inspires loyalty and drives success. This book provides a framework for building more motivated and mission-driven teams.
  9. The Prepared Leader: Emerge from Any Crisis More Resilient Than Before by Erika H. James and Lynn Perry Wooten 
    Erika James and Lynn Perry Wooten offer a guide for leading through crisis with agility and resilience. Drawing on research and firsthand experience, the authors provide actionable steps for preparing organizations to face and recover from challenges. The book empowers leaders to develop cultures of readiness and growth.
  10. The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter by Michael D. Watkins 
    Michael Watkins presents a proven roadmap for leaders taking on new roles or transitions. With step-by-step advice, he covers essential strategies for building credibility, securing early wins, and avoiding common pitfalls. This classic guide helps new leaders accelerate their impact and set the stage for long-term success. 

Our hope is that this collection empowers you to foster positive change, support your own professional growth, and contribute to a thriving institutional culture.  

Learn more about how COACHE supports higher education institutions by scheduling a discovery call today!

 

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