Leading Learning Laboratory

This was originally written nine years ago and was tuned up as a new school year begins. I am reminded of how important these fundamentals are and the value of new students reflecting on them as the school year gets underway.Organizations train leaders, for better or worse.

Quinn Minute - Swimming Lesson

I am a certified Baby Boomer, so when I grew up in the 1960s there were nearly three zillion kids in my neighborhood.Nearby was a public pool that offered free swimming lessons each summer. Most of us kids begged to attend those lessons, and most of us did.

Quinn Minute - Proper attire is important

A well-dressed person can go a long way in life. A naked person can’t go nearly as far…especially in snow.That’s because the right garment selection can (1) impress others, (2) display your sense of style and taste, (3) make others think you know lots more than you do.

Redefining regional excellence

A predicted “enrollment cliff” is on the horizon for higher education. The national birthrate is the lowest in recorded history. Fewer college-ready high school graduates are being produced, and fewer of those are enrolling.

Quinn Minute - Are people more outspoken today?

Not long ago I saw a survey that said people are more outspoken than they used to be.So last month -- accompanied by a recorder, my friend George and his dog Gopher -- we conducted our very own poll.

Process is not Leadership

Leadership in any organization implies and requires transformation. Change in purposeful groups of people, large and small, creates discomfort. Organizational discomfort sometimes matures into a labyrinth of processes that stymie evolution in every corner of the hierarchy.

Social Security Matters

Dear Rusty: I will be turning 70 this coming November. I will begin taking my Social Security benefit at that time. My age 70 SS benefit will be approximately $4,500 per month. My spouse (who is currently 74) began receiving her SS benefits about 10 years ago - before her FRA.

The University and the Economy

Universities impact regional economies. In rural areas where economic diversity is scant, the impact is greatest. Economic growth follows four forces.Universities require workers of every stripe, and the jobs needed are one aspect of economic development.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,About three weeks ago, our family was hit with a Norovirus. For most of us, it took the form of “stomach flu” or food poisoning” with which it is generally confused. Given my advanced age and immune compromised condition, it took on a more virulent character.

Keep It Legal: Wills Vs. Trust

August is National Make A Will Month. I do not want you to make a Last Will and Testament.I’ve been doing estate planning for a while now, and I can confidently say that trusts should be the gold standard with wills being the outliers for special circumstances.