Kindness + Math

The AACSB Deans Conference never disappoints, and this one was particularly special thanks to receiving confirmation of a Board vote to reaffirm our accreditation. This doesn’t happen because of any one thing but because of the extraordinary things we each choose to do each and every day. Of course, it’s a continuous improvement process, so we have feedback on things we need to continue working on. Thank you to everyone who was a part of the process. Together, we continue to make a difference.

As I mentioned in last week’s Pulse, I was looking forward to hearing Ethan Mollick’s thoughts on AI in business education. He did not disappoint. In one hour, he gave a talk that would have taken a mere human 3+ hours to deliver. It was outstanding—his passion for the future of AI in education is evident.

Always a highlight of these conferences is meeting with peers/friends. It’s unbelievable some of the challenges they are facing. Sure, some are enrollment-related, but many are dealing with leadership challenges and things we could never imagine. It was an affirmation of the great things happening in Charleston. Sure, we have problems, but overall they are good problems.

Surprisingly, one of the highlights for me was the “Red Helicopter” talk by James Rhee. Thanks to Kindle, I started reading his book on the way home. The book is what he calls a parable about his leading role in the turnaround of Ashley Stewart – an organization where he was clearly a bad “fit.” But by focusing on two words, Kindness + Math, he and the team turned what looked like bankruptcy and liquidation into a fantastic success. Not just financial success but a place where many have found belonging and value beyond the bottom line.

Here’s how Copilot summarizes this concept:

The idea is that kindness fosters human connection, empathy, and a positive work culture, while math (or analytical thinking) ensures that decisions are data-driven and strategically sound. By integrating these two elements, Rhee suggests that leaders can create a more compassionate, effective, and sustainable business environment.

Needless to say, I am all in on this idea! It’s not what I expected from his talk, but it is something we need right now, and it aligns with our values of:

Together, we … Pursue Purpose, Invest in Relationships, and Focus on Outcomes.

I am looking forward to learning more from his experiences and continuing our work together, providing a place where we can each belong and grow together.

YOU make a difference!

Ponder this with me …