
Experiential Leadership
How Real-Life Moments Shape the Way We Lead
John D. Simon(Author)
Gatekeeper Press
Published on 22. April 2026
Book
Paperback/Softback
304 pages
978-1-6629-4522-9 (ISBN)
Description
In Experiential Leadership: How Real-Life Moments Shape the Way We Lead, former president of Lehigh University John D. Simon invites readers into a deeply personal exploration of how leadership grows through experience. With over two decades of higher education stewardship, he was confronted with unique challenges including the Duke Lacrosse scandal and the forced resignation of University of Virginia President Theresa Sullivan, along with more universal educational leadership issues like adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, forging national and international partnerships, and fostering academic freedom in an increasingly polarized time. With deep humility and humanity, he conveys his hard-earned insight-every challenge is a chance to lead more authentically and with greater purpose and self-awareness. Through compelling stories and practical reflections, he demonstrates how leaders develop resilience, clarity, and purpose by learning directly from the moments that matter most.
Challenges to higher education are only deepening. University leaders must wrestle with generative AI, funding challenges, and an impending enrollment cliff, among others demanding problems. Whether you're stepping into a leadership role for the first time or seeking to deepen your impact, this book offers relatable stories and empowering lessons. Experiential Leadership invites you to embrace your own leadership journey-enabling you to honor the lessons life gives you and turn experience into influence.
More details
Language
English
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Unsewn / adhesive bound
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 16 mm
Weight
443 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-6629-4522-9 (9781662945229)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
John D. Simon has spent his career at the intersection of research, education, leadership, and institutional transformation. A distinguished scientist and experienced academic executive, he has served in senior leadership roles at Duke University, the University of Virginia, and Lehigh University. Known for his steady, strategic and reflective style, Simon has guided these institutions through change, challenges, and the realization of bold initiatives.