Going Big! with Kevin Gentry – Episode Summary: "Leading a Legacy into the Future: Catherine Rowe on Tradition, Innovation, and Going Big"

Release Date: June 2, 2025

Introduction

In this insightful episode of Going Big! with Kevin Gentry, host Kevin Gentry welcomes Dr. Catherine Rowe, the 28th President of William & Mary. As the first female president of this historic institution, Dr. Rowe shares her journey, leadership philosophy, and the innovative strides she has led to transform the university while honoring its rich traditions.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

Background and Leadership Role

Kevin Gentry introduces Dr. Catherine Rowe, highlighting William & Mary’s esteemed position as the second oldest academic institution in the United States and its recognition by Forbes as a top public Ivy. Dr. Rowe's unique blend of scholarship, teaching, and entrepreneurial spirit positions her to lead the university into a dynamic future.

Embracing the "Bold" Campaign

At [07:14], Dr. Rowe explains the pivotal moment that defined her bold approach to leadership:

"Thinking big is what William Mary does indeed." ([07:14])

She emphasizes the importance of aligning the university’s strengths with urgent moments, a philosophy that guided her decision-making during critical times.

Pandemic Response: A Bold Move

Reopening Amidst the Pandemic

One of Dr. Rowe’s most notable decisions was reopening William & Mary for in-person classes in August 2020, defying the prevailing trend of remote learning. At [08:55], she recounts:

"The challenge is finishing the semester in quarantine. ... That's why we call ourselves the alma mater of the nation." ([08:47])

This decision was driven by student feedback highlighting the detrimental effects of isolation on their educational experience. The overwhelming student support led to a carefully planned reopening, demonstrating the power of responsive and bold leadership.

Innovative Initiatives: From Hidden Gems to Crown Jewels

Virginia Institute for Marine Science (VIMS) and the Batten School

Dr. Rowe discusses the transformation of VIMS into a premier research institute and the establishment of the Batten School of Coastal and Marine Sciences. At [16:01], she shares:

"We recognized that it's been, it's out on Gloucester Point. It's never been seen really as a full school of William and Mary. ... that's how you get from a hidden jewel, a real strength, to a jewel and a crown that meets a moment." ([16:01])

This initiative not only revitalized the oyster industry in the Chesapeake Bay but also addressed global challenges such as sea-level rise and aquaculture sustainability, showcasing the university's commitment to relevant and impactful research.

The Relevance of Liberal Arts in the Modern World

Preparing for the Future with a Broad Toolkit

When asked about the relevance of a liberal arts education in today's rapidly changing landscape, Dr. Rowe affirms its critical importance. At [19:47], she states:

"A liberal arts and sciences education is one of the best preparations for going big. ... In a world in which generalists are going to triumph." ([19:47])

She highlights how William & Mary integrates new technologies like AI and machine learning into its curriculum, fostering critical thinking and adaptability—key attributes for future leaders and innovators.

Fostering a Community of Ethical and Respectful Discourse

Better Arguments Program

Dr. Rowe elaborates on the "Better Arguments" program, designed to enhance productive and respectful discourse on campus. At [27:20], she explains:

"One of the key premises is listen passionately. ... These are muscles that can be stronger." ([27:20])

This initiative has cultivated a campus culture where honorable individuals can engage in deep disagreements constructively, reinforcing the university’s values of ethics and community.

Personal Insights and Leadership Philosophy

The Art of Listening

Recognized by peers for her exceptional listening skills, Dr. Rowe underscores the importance of active listening in leadership. At [30:24], she shares practical tips:

"Make rules for yourself that will help you give the airtime to the people you're trying to understand. ... It's about the kinds of mindfulness practices that get stronger by habit." ([30:24])

Embracing Instability as Opportunity

Addressing current global challenges, Dr. Rowe advises embracing instability to uncover opportunities for growth and innovation. At [36:16], she encourages:

"Embrace the instability. ... be part of the solution." ([36:16])

Personal Reflections and Advice

A Lesson Learned

Reflecting on her academic journey, Dr. Rowe wishes she had taken a statistics class, emphasizing the importance of data literacy in today’s world. At [34:36], she advises:

"Understanding how to deal with information at scale ... look for all the students who've done AP stats." ([34:36])

Advice for Going Big

To all listeners—students, faculty, and beyond—Dr. Rowe's advice is clear:

"Embrace the instability and ask yourself, how might we lean into something that we see as needed, necessary, coming our way." ([36:16])

Conclusion

Dr. Catherine Rowe's leadership at William & Mary exemplifies the essence of going big—balancing deep-rooted traditions with forward-thinking innovation. Her commitment to listening, ethical discourse, and leveraging institutional strengths to meet contemporary challenges offers valuable lessons for leaders across all sectors. This episode serves as an inspiring blueprint for those looking to make significant, positive impacts in their communities and organizations.

For more inspiring conversations and strategies to transform your leadership and impact, subscribe to Going Big! with Kevin Gentry on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Pandora, or YouTube.