Order your copies| Hardcover | Softcover | eBook (PDF) | Google Book | Amazon | STRAND Books | Booktopia | Kogan Books | ibs Books | orellfussli books | Yes24 China | goodreads | AbeBooks | Boomerang Books Australia | Success as Destiny explores how institutional leaders at every level can strengthen structures, processes, and approaches to advance both institutional and student success during moments of profound challenge and opportunity. Drawing on the expertise of distinguished faculty of the Executive Leadership Academy (ELA) at the University of California, Berkeley, this volume illuminates leadership practices rooted in collaboration, integrated decision-making, and servant leadership. Covering essential areas such as shared governance, legal issues, AI, enrollment, student affairs, data-informed practice, financial leadership, and strategic planning, the book offers actionable insights for current and future leaders. This is the second volume in ELA’s leadership trilogy. It stands as both a practical guide and a deeply reflective exploration of what it means to lead with purpose, integrity, and vision in higher education today. Editors Johnnella E. Butler, Ed.D. Former Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Spelman College | Atlanta, Georgia and former Associate Dean, The Graduate School, University of Washington | Seattle, Washington Josefina Castillo Baltodano, J.D. Founder and Executive Director Emerita, Executive Leadership Academy, University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, California and former President, Marian University | Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Ding-Jo H. Currie, Ph.D. Distinguished Faculty and Director, Leadership Institute for Tomorrow, California State University, Fullerton | Fullerton, California and former Chancellor, Coast Community College District | Costa Mesa, California Samantha A. Rushing Associate Director and Executive Assistant to the Advisory Board, Executive Leadership Academy, and former Program Administrator, Berkeley Global Executive Education, University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, California Table of Contents Introduction .................. xix 1. Leadership Power Across Cultures ........................................ 1 Ding-Jo H. Currie 2. Leadership Modeling: A Personal Approach to Identity Development ....................... 17 David C. Wilson 3. From Successful Candidate to Transformational Leader ............. 30 Shirley Robinson Pippins 4. Presidential Leadership: Communicating Across Constituencies to Achieve Institutional and Student Success ............................... 40 Janet L. Holmgren 5. Utilizing Data to Inform the Presidency .................................. 49 Richard Yao 6. Faculty Governance and Academic Freedom ............................. 69 George R. Blumenthal 7. Legal Issues Facing Higher Education Amid Public Skepticism ........................ 81 Joseph I. Castro 8. Demystifying the AI Magic: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education ............. 94 Andrew W. Reddie 9. Student Affairs and Reimagining the University Student Experience ................... 104 Kent L. Willis and Barbara D. Holmes 10. The Enrollment Management Challenge .......... 117 Olufemi Ogundele 11. University Business and Finance .............. 133 Sarah C. Latham 12. Strategic Planning in Our Challenging Environment ................. 144 Johnnella E. Butler and Tarshia L. Stanley

Order your copies:  Print Hardcover  |  ebook  |  Amazon  |  Google Books | Other Distributors Women make up the majority of college students and advanced-degree holders. So why do they still lead only about one in three universities, and far fewer of the most powerful ones? Breaking the Glass Ceiling answers that question the way it deserves to be answered: through the people who lived it. Here are seven women who reached senior leadership at a public university in the American South, three African American and four born in China, ranging from a dean in her seventies who helped desegregate her high school in 1963 to a young professor still proving she belongs. In their own candid words, they describe the mentors who pulled them up, the discrimination they outlasted, the families they refused to sacrifice, and the institutions they quietly rebuilt. From their experience, the authors distill a clear and teachable model, the Three Core Layers of women's leadership, and a clear-eyed account of why so few women reach the top and what would actually change that. Rigorous enough for the seminar and human enough for the nightstand, this is both a study and a map. Jing Chang, Ph.D. Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D.

This volume explores governance not as a distant administrative machinery, but as the lived architecture through which universities decide, justify, improve, and sometimes resist change. It brings together discussions of evidence-based decision-making, institutional accountability, quality assurance, leadership, accreditation, and academic culture. The central concern is not merely whether universities collect evidence, but whether they know how to listen to it wisely. Across its chapters, the volume argues that quality culture cannot be manufactured through forms and audits alone; it grows through trust, participation, intellectual honesty, and the patient alignment of institutional purpose with everyday academic practice.

Advancing Local Knowledge for a Sustainable Future: Selected Abstracts from the STAR Global Conference 2025 brings together scholarly abstracts presented at the conference in İstanbul, Türkiye. Reflecting the conference theme, this digital volume highlights diverse perspectives on the role of local knowledge in addressing contemporary global challenges and advancing sustainable development. The collection features contributions from researchers, educators, practitioners, policymakers, and graduate students representing institutions across multiple countries and disciplines. Topics include higher education, artificial intelligence, educational innovation, sustainability, indigenous knowledge systems, community development, cultural heritage, language learning, leadership, social justice, health, architecture, and international collaboration. Highlights Global Perspectives: Research and insights from scholars, educators, and practitioners representing diverse countries and disciplines. Local Knowledge for Sustainable Futures: Innovative approaches that connect indigenous, community-based, and local knowledge with global challenges. Emerging Trends and Innovation: Contributions exploring artificial intelligence, educational transformation, sustainability, and social development. Interdisciplinary Scholarship: A rich collection of abstracts spanning education, technology, culture, leadership, health, architecture, and community engagement. How to cite: Gültekin, O., & Sharma, S. (Eds.). (2026). Advancing local knowledge for a sustainable future . STAR Scholars Press. https://doi.org/10.32674/a2ecr316

First in the Family  is a compelling anthology that amplifies the voices of first-generation college students and scholars from around the world. This volume captures deeply personal narratives shaped by resilience, identity, migration, and mentorship. Across diverse contexts—from remote villages to prestigious global universities—contributors share their experiences navigating systemic barriers and cultural expectations to achieve academic success. These transformative stories not only honor the legacy of first-generation learners but also serve as a powerful call for inclusive practices that empower future generations. OPEN ACCESS BOOK | CC BY-NC-ND Open access editions of this book can be accessed here . The open access edition of this book is freely available to readers worldwide and may be accessed, downloaded, and shared without charge through the publisher’s website and scholarly discovery platforms. Buy on Amazon | Print copies (other vendors) | Open Access Book (Free) Editors Krishna Bista  is Professor of Higher Education at Morgan State University, Maryland. His scholarship focuses on global student mobility, international education policy, and equity in higher education. A prolific author and editor, Dr. Bista also serves as Senior Executive Vice President of the STAR Scholars Network. He earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership/Higher Education from Arkansas State University. Courtney Brown  is Vice President of Impact and Planning at Lumina Foundation, where she leads strategic planning, evaluation, and international engagement initiatives to expand access to learning beyond high school. With a background in education policy and performance measurement, she has published widely and is a frequent speaker on postsecondary success, data-driven strategies, and equity in higher education. Dr. Brown holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Uttam Gaulee  is Professor of Community College Leadership at Morgan State University, Maryland and President of the STAR Scholars Network. Dr. Gaulee's research explores community colleges, international higher education, and global development. He earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Policy from the University of Florida. His research focuses on community colleges, international education, diaspora studies, and global development. Project Editors Professor Mirka Koro,  Arizona State University Professor Meghan MacNamara,  Morgan State University Professor Eugene Hammond,  Stony Brook University Professor Stewart E. Sutin,  University of Pittsburgh Praise for this book This book   reminds us that transformation in higher education often begins in places we least expect, and with people too often overlooked.  George F. Kacenga,  PhD, Vice President of Enrollment Management, William Paterson University of New Jersey, USA As the first in my family to earn a Ph.D. through my own hard work and determination, I can attest that this volume serves as a compelling blueprint for institutions committed to empowering individuals who are not only the first in their families—but the first to lead with courage and conviction.  Jing Luán,  PhD, Governing Board Member, MISK Schools, Provost Emeritus An inspiring narrative emphasizing the need for democratizing access to higher education across cultures, while advocating for the need for more inclusive academic spaces.   Pankaj Mittal,  PhD, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities and Former Vice Chancellor of Bhagat Phool Singh Women's University, India A priceless compass for educators,  First in the Family  charts the paths of their students' transformative journeys of discovery and perseverance, illuminating the way for them to overcome obstacles, transcend borders, and realize their dreams.  Elena de Prada Creo, PhD,  Vice Dean for International Affairs, Facultad de Relaciones Internacionales, Campus Universitario, Spain. These powerful narratives beautifully capture how intercultural growth and academic resilience converge in the lives of first-generation learners, challenging racism, gender bias, and structural inequality. A moving testament to transformation, resistance, and intergenerational commitment.  Sarah Carrica-Ochoa,  Profesora Titular, Facultad de Educación y Psicología, Universidad de Naarra, Spain A moving tribute to the grit and grace of first-generation scholars—this anthology is both an inspiration and a blueprint for a more inclusive academy.   Pankhuri Aggarwal,  PhD,Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, USA A powerful collection of stories from diverse first-generation scholars, highlighting their struggles, resilience, and the vital role of support systems in achieving academic and personal success.  Siu-Man "Raymond" Ting,  PhD, Professor, Director of Graduate Programs, NC State University, USA As a rural education advocate, this book is a valuable resource for academic praxis and serves as a compass to guide young scholars in promoting social justice.  Arlyne C Marasigan,  PhD, Professor, College of Advanced Studies, Philippine Normal University, Manila, Philippines This volume situates the voices of first-generation university graduates in their own unique personal contexts and provides insight into the breadth of pathways that these graduates take to earn their degrees. As a first-gen graduate myself, the stories resonated, and will for others who are seeking guidance on how to be successful in this important life journey.   Shannon N. Davis,  PhD, Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs, George Mason University, Korea

First in the Famil y  brings together powerful narratives of first-generation students who have crossed borders—geographical, cultural, and social—to pursue higher education. Spanning continents and diverse experiences, the chapters explore themes of identity, gender, resilience, and belonging. From navigating privilege and overcoming shame to embracing agency and transforming lives through education, these stories reveal both the struggles and triumphs of being “first.” Each chapter offers a testament to courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of learning to uplift families and communities. Inspiring and deeply human, this volume serves as a vital resource for students, educators, and policymakers committed to expanding access and equity in education worldwide. Editors Uttam Gaulee  is Professor of Community College Leadership at Morgan State University, Maryland and President of the STAR Scholars Network. Dr. Gaulee's research explores community colleges, international higher education, and global development. He earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Policy from the University of Florida. His research focuses on community colleges, international education, diaspora studies, and global development. Krishna Bista  is Professor of Higher Education at Morgan State University, Maryland. His scholarship focuses on global student mobility, international education policy, and equity in higher education. A prolific author and editor, Dr. Bista also serves as Senior Executive Vice President of the STAR Scholars Network. He earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership/Higher Education from Arkansas State University. Courtney Brown  is Vice President of Impact and Planning at Lumina Foundation, where she leads strategic planning, evaluation, and international engagement initiatives to expand access to learning beyond high school. With a background in education policy and performance measurement, she has published widely and is a frequent speaker on postsecondary success, data-driven strategies, and equity in higher education. Dr. Brown holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. Project Editors Professor Mirka Koro,  Arizona State University Professor Meghan MacNamara,  Morgan State University Professor Eugene Hammond,  Stony Brook University Professor Stewart E. Sutin,  University of Pittsburgh Praise for this book This book   reminds us that transformation in higher education often begins in places we least expect, and with people too often overlooked.  George F. Kacenga,  PhD, Vice President of Enrollment Management, William Paterson University of New Jersey, USA As the first in my family to earn a Ph.D. through my own hard work and determination, I can attest that this volume serves as a compelling blueprint for institutions committed to empowering individuals who are not only the first in their families—but the first to lead with courage and conviction.  Jing Luán,  PhD, Governing Board Member, MISK Schools, Provost Emeritus An inspiring narrative emphasizing the need for democratizing access to higher education across cultures, while advocating for the need for more inclusive academic spaces.   Pankaj Mittal,  PhD, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities and Former Vice Chancellor of Bhagat Phool Singh Women's University, India A priceless compass for educators,  First in the Family  charts the paths of their students' transformative journeys of discovery and perseverance, illuminating the way for them to overcome obstacles, transcend borders, and realize their dreams.  Elena de Prada Creo, PhD,  Vice Dean for International Affairs, Facultad de Relaciones Internacionales, Campus Universitario, Spain. These powerful narratives beautifully capture how intercultural growth and academic resilience converge in the lives of first-generation learners, challenging racism, gender bias, and structural inequality. A moving testament to transformation, resistance, and intergenerational commitment.  Sarah Carrica-Ochoa,  Profesora Titular, Facultad de Educación y Psicología, Universidad de Naarra, Spain A moving tribute to the grit and grace of first-generation scholars—this anthology is both an inspiration and a blueprint for a more inclusive academy.   Pankhuri Aggarwal,  PhD,Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, USA A powerful collection of stories from diverse first-generation scholars, highlighting their struggles, resilience, and the vital role of support systems in achieving academic and personal success.  Siu-Man "Raymond" Ting,  PhD, Professor, Director of Graduate Programs, NC State University, USA As a rural education advocate, this book is a valuable resource for academic praxis and serves as a compass to guide young scholars in promoting social justice.  Arlyne C Marasigan,  PhD, Professor, College of Advanced Studies, Philippine Normal University, Manila, Philippines This volume situates the voices of first-generation university graduates in their own unique personal contexts and provides insight into the breadth of pathways that these graduates take to earn their degrees. As a first-gen graduate myself, the stories resonated, and will for others who are seeking guidance on how to be successful in this important life journey.   Shannon N. Davis,  PhD, Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs, George Mason University, Korea