The US Economic Development Administration defines economic development as the process of creating conditions that improve quality of life and economic growth. Academic leaders in higher education are in a unique position to take action to contribute to economic development in their region while also enhancing student outcomes and employee quality of life. This makes good business sense.

How Leaders Shape, Signal, and Build Cultures: A Discussion Guide for Academic Leaders and Their Teams
Among the many desired traits most prized in academic leadership, the ability to shape (or reshape) institutional culture is sometimes overlooked in favor of fiscal acumen, the ability to drive


