How do you lead a university into the future while staying rooted in community and tradition? Join us as we explore the journey of Dr. Matt Thompson, President of Kansas Wesleyan University, and discover how vision, vulnerability, and collaboration shape both campus and community.
Highlights
Chapters
0:00 – Breakfast debates and brain teasers
2:52 – Welcome and guest introduction: Dr. Matt Thompson
4:56 – Matt’s background and journey to Kansas
6:05 – College experiences and lessons from set design
8:51 – First impressions of Kansas and cultural differences
12:07 – Faith background and its influence on leadership
14:33 – The “power of and” philosophy at KWU
17:09 – Growth, resources, and community at Kansas Wesleyan
20:43 – Looking up: vision, challenges, and the Community Resilience Hub
24:51 – Partnerships, collaboration, and vulnerability in Salina
28:49 – Supporting student growth and well-being
31:41 – Social media, presence, and the ministry of showing up
34:00 – Legacy, leadership, and the future of KWU
39:32 – Kansas trivia: water, museums, and artifacts
49:35 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with KWU
Resources Mentioned