Leading from Who I Am

 

Blog Post: Leading from Who I Am

This week in class, we were asked to reflect on how our identity influences our leadership, especially through the lenses of race, gender, class, religion, and more. Honestly, I paused for a second before writing. As someone who comes from a more traditional, faith-based background and is attending a very progressive institution, I often feel like I am walking a bit of a tightrope. But I also know that staying true to who I am is central to how I lead.

I grew up in a family that valued service, humility, and hard work. Those values did not come from a textbook; they were modeled around our dinner table, at church, and in my community. I carry them into my role now as a nursing educator and doctoral student. I do not lead with titles. I lead by showing up consistently, listening closely, and trying to make sure every student, especially the ones who feel like they do not belong, knows that they do.

My leadership philosophy is a blend of transformational and servant leadership. That means I care about growth and change, but I also put people first. I am especially drawn to students who are the first in their families to go to college. I see their grit, and I know how tough it can be when no one has walked the path before you. That is why I am building support systems like webinars and mentorships to help bridge that gap.

Leadership, for me, is not about having all the answers. It is about building trust, encouraging resilience, and remembering that behind every academic challenge is a human being just trying to figure it out. And that is a space where I can lead, not by being loud, but by being steady.

So yes, my background shapes how I lead. And I am okay with that. Because the most impactful leaders I have known were the ones who led with quiet confidence, strong values, and a heart for others. That is who I want to be.