What does it take to lead through waves of challenge, transformation, and deep institutional change—without losing your sense of purpose?

In this week’s IngenioUs episode, I sit down with Dr. Sandra Harper, a seasoned and celebrated higher ed leader whose story is both refreshingly candid and deeply inspiring. Dr. Harper is a two-time university president, the first woman and first Catholic to lead McMurry University, and a lifelongadvocate for servant leadership and women's advancement in higher education.

From her unexpected start in academia—sparkedby the symbolism of academic regalia at her own college graduation—to her return to McMurry during a time of financial crisis, Sandra’s journey is one of resilience, readiness, and remarkable wisdom.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

• How symbolic leadership shaped her approach—andwhy it still matters today
• The surprising storybehind McMurry’s transition from college to university
• What it means to “lean in” to difference as a first woman or first anything
• Her advice foraspiring women leaders—including how to prepare inwardly and outwardly
• The metaphor that sustained her across decades of leadership: jumping over the waves

Dr. Harper reminds us that titles don’t make leaders—impact does. And her legacy is one of deep, lasting impact.🎧 Tune in now to this rich, wide-ranging conversation: