Finding Meaning at a College Campus

W. Kent Barnds with 33 years of experience in higher ed shares his why and the importance of working at a college campus.

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Key Takeaways

• Accidental Beginnings, Intentional Impact
  Many higher ed professionals find their way into the field unexpectedly but remain because of the profound opportunities to impact students and communities.
• The Joy of Student Transformation
  Seeing students grow and succeed, from first-year convocation to commencement, is one of the most rewarding aspects of working in higher education.
• Focus on What You Can Control
  In a field fraught with external challenges like the FAFSA overhaul or demographic shifts, leaders must prioritize actionable, impactful goals to stay motivated and productive.
• Mentorship and Leadership Development
  Providing team members with opportunities to pursue meaningful side projects fosters engagement and offsets the cyclical nature of administrative work.
• Higher Ed’s Global and National Significance
  The mission of higher education extends beyond individual success to include the preservation of free inquiry, critical thinking, and the global influence of U.S. educational values.

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How Did Kent Barnds Find His “Why” in Higher Ed?

Like many, Kent entered the field by chance after a conversation with a mentor who saw his potential. Over the years, his “why” evolved to include a deep appreciation for the transformative power of education and a commitment to mentoring others.

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What Keeps Kent Motivated After 33 Years?

Kent’s passion for his work is fueled by three factors: witnessing students’ growth, contributing to the global value of U.S. higher education, and mentoring his team to reach their full potential.

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How Does Kent Inspire His Team Amid Repetitive Work?

He encourages team members to pursue side projects that bring them joy, such as mentoring student ambassadors or collaborating with specific departments. These activities balance the cyclical nature of higher ed work and foster a sense of purpose.

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What Prompted Kent’s Viral LinkedIn Post About Fighting the Good Fight?

Seeing talented colleagues leave campus-based roles for consulting inspired Kent to encourage those still in higher ed to stay engaged. While he respects the consulting field, he lamented the loss of experienced professionals on campuses during such a critical time for the industry.

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What Advice Does Kent Have for Newcomers to Higher Ed?

Kent highlights three unique aspects of working in higher education: developing highly transferable skills, staying inspired by the transformative stories of students, and contributing to a mission that is vital to the nation's future.

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Leadership Lessons from Kent Barnds

1. Create Space for Passion Projects
   • Encourage your team to engage in meaningful side projects to stay connected to the mission and avoid burnout.
2. Focus on the Controllables
   • In the face of systemic challenges, prioritize actionable goals that drive measurable impact.
3. Celebrate Success Deliberately
   • Understand the delayed gratification inherent in higher ed and create opportunities to recognize milestones throughout the year.
4. Foster Curiosity and Development
   • Provide opportunities for team members to take on new responsibilities and learn about different facets of the organization.
5. Stay Mission-Driven
   • Remind yourself and your team of the larger purpose of higher education, from individual student success to societal impact.

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