The Harry Potter series was a favorite of mine growing up and is still a go-to read or watch if nothing else strikes my fancy. Potions, Dark magic, secret societies, the concept of exposing school children to imminent danger and life-threatening situations for the sake of the greater good simply because they are the "chosen one"...what's not to love? However, as I got older, my focus shifted to the trials and tribulations of the adult characters...particularly those of headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
Throughout the series, Dumbledore is under constant scrutiny by the Ministry of Magic, parents, other professors, and news reporters which brings to mind the question of "why?" Why was everyone not 100% satisfied with his leadership? Why was every supposedly sound decision questioned (even McGonagall briefly questioned her loyalty)? Why would he risk his own career and life for his school?
I guess, the same level of critical observation is seen as the leadership positions in our own country have changed hands.
So...what are we looking for? What makes a leader inherently good or bad? Who sets the standards by which we judge these people are who simply trying to do the job that was handed to them? Furthermore, is it even possible to create legislature that will benefit all citizens or will some group always feel marginalized and under represented?
Kyle and I are super stoked to jump into this topic much deeper as we record our first multi-part series about leadership in the academic community, particularly when it comes to the creation of various policies and their lasting effects on the ever-changing yet perpetually broken educational system.
To kick off this 3-part discussion, we will be dissecting the role of Secretary of Education while picking apart the life and career of the newly resigned and America's very own Professor Umbridge, Betsy DeVos. And hopefully answer the question of whether or not she actually did her job considering what limited resources and funding she had to work with.
Stay tuned for next weeks episode!!!
Daryl
Comments