The onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic has left many colleges and universities in a constant state of change. A 2020 report from Inside Higher Ed states that college enrollment declined by 2.5 percent in the fall semester, a percentage that equals approximately 400,000 students (St. Amour, 2020). The National Conference of State Legislatures reported that 1,300 colleges and universities canceled face-to-face classes or shifted to fully online in 2020 (Smalley, 2021). The Chronicle of Higher Education notes that 10 institutions either closed or were consolidated in the past year (Natow, 2021). For a sector that can be hesitant to change, higher education has been forced to adapt, be flexible, and reassess its operational model.
Ted Lasso’s Playbook for Academic Leadership: Rethinking Performance Reviews
The Emmy-winning Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso (2020–) has captured hearts with its charm, but it also offered a masterclass in leadership. Ted’s approach—rooted in humility, emotional intelligence, and belief
Deborah Erickson and Katie Fischer
August 4, 2025
