TEDxArcadiaUniversity Speaker: Dr. Steve O. Michael
Dr. Steve O. Michael is the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Arcadia University. His academic career includes assistant professor, associate professor, and full professor of higher education management. While his administrative experience includes Vice Provost for Diversity and Academic Initiatives, Directorship of the Center for International and Intercultural Education and Interim Associate Deanship of Education at Kent State University. Michael was an American Council on Education (ACE) Fellow in 2000-2001 under the President of Carnegie Mellon University. He also served part of his fellowship under the Vice-Chancellors of the City University of London and the University of Bath in England. Michael is a professor of higher education administration with a specialization in higher education finance and strategic management.
What inspires you?
Brevity of Life. I am inspired by the brevity of life of everything poetically captured by the Ecclesiastes. It is exciting to know that whatever it is, there is a time limit. This way of thinking makes the darkest of nights bearable and the brightest of days profoundly appreciated. This way of thinking compels actions where necessary--an antidote to indifference, apathy, and doldrums. Brevity of Life inspire generosity and altruism, knowing too well that with nothing I came and with nothing I shall go. For a time being, therefore, I stand as a chosen custodian to whatever in my care all for the purpose of making someone or a situation better, happier, and richer. Brevity of Life inspires creativity, for herein lies my footprints, my indelible footprints and my unique signature that memorialize my presence on the stage. Brevity of Life inspires passion for short is day light by which one must work, a night cometh when work shall cease.
How do you relate to passion and creativity in leadership?
Leadership is the privilege to make a difference. Creativity is the privilege to memorialize one's contributions in a unique way, and passion is the love-fuel that burns in the heart and speeds up the actions of one so privileged.
