Lisa Keegan: Leading with Purpose in a Time of Transition

Lisa Keegan returns to the mic just as she prepares to step into her new role as the inaugural Vice Provost for Enrollment Strategy at William & Mary. With signature candor, humor, and heart, Lisa reflects on her five-year tenure at Bucknell University, where she helped build and elevate a leadership bench that is now stepping into her shoes. We explore the “liminal moment” of transition, how to onboard with humility, and what it means to lead with both confidence and care in a sector under pressure. From building trust and amplifying student voices to using with the megaphone that comes with public roles, this conversation is packed with insight—and a great roast chicken recipe—for leaders at any stage of the climb.

00:00 – Introduction: Moving from Bucknell to William & Mary and living in a “liminal space.”

02:50 – The succession mindset: Preparing and elevating her team for leadership long before leaving.

07:10 – “Gunning for my job”: Why great leaders want their people to outgrow their roles.

12:40 – The first 60 days: How Lisa mapped her onboarding plan and built trust from day one.

18:30 – Finding the truth: Navigating competing narratives in a new leadership role.

21:40 – Entrepreneurial leadership: Balancing trustees, presidents, and long-term impact.

25:45 – The pendulum will swing back: Holding onto purpose and hope in a turbulent time for higher ed.

30:40 – The bigger megaphone: Using leadership positions to amplify student voices.

34:10 – Grounding in students: The reminder that keeps Lisa motivated every day.

35:20 – The Rapid Descent: Walkout song, favorite reads, comfort food, tough-love advice, and a bucket-list dream.

42:54 – Outtakes: You'll just have to listen

The ALP is supported by RHB, a division of SIG. Music arranged by Ryan Anselment