Chronicles of Leadership: Reflections and Vision for AUN's Impact on Society | President Frazier

08/01/2024 56 min

Listen "Chronicles of Leadership: Reflections and Vision for AUN's Impact on Society | President Frazier "

Episode Synopsis

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/znB5mki7oIY

Embark on a profound exploration with President Frazier as he discusses a range of captivating topics, from the emotional experience of delivering the Founder's Day Speech to cultural nuances between Nigeria and America. Gain insights into his dedication to education and service, the strategic plan for the American University of Nigeria, personal stories shaping his leadership journey, and the delicate balance between personal connections and strategic decisions for the university's future. This podcast covers diverse topics, including entrepreneurial courses, university challenges, and President Frazier's commitment to lasting legacies. Join this enriching conversation for a comprehensive understanding of his leadership philosophy and the transformative impact envisioned for AUN in education and society.

Chapters:
[00:00] Intro
[02:31] Acknowledgement of President Fraizer's Founder's Day Speech
[03:33] How did you feel giving that speech?
[04:28] Cultural Differences between Nigeria and America
[06:22] Where do you get your Kaftans and Nigerian Native Wears from?
[09:39] The Church and President Frazier's Grandma's role in his upbringing/development
[10:06] Can you share a specific moment from your upbringing that influenced your dedication to education and service?
[14:37] How about your parents and what brought your Grandma into the scene (raising you)?
[16:14] How did you feel after the Founder's Day?
[17:08] Getting back to the basics at AUN with a strategic plan extracted from the Founder's Speech.
[18:12] Can you recount a defining moment that solidified your commitment to upholding values like excellence, integrity and service in leadership?
[21:16] "The reason I succeed today is because I have failed so many times and I have watched others fail and I have been able to come up as a broken person and come together and become whole." - Similar to the famous Japanese Art.
[21:54] How has your past experiences prepared you to navigate challenges that you may encounter as a President?
[24:16] How does AUN as a development University contribute to Africa's Development?
[28:43] Discussing President Frazier's Social Media posts.
[30:54] "I take a lot of pride in the achievement of AUN Students as they represent the AUN Spirit"
[31:08] The story of the Chibok Girls
[31:42] Developing a comprehensive publication showcasing AUN's impactful narratives, encapsulating the milestones achieved over the last two decades.
[32:10] What inspired you to adopt children from the Democratic Republic of Congo?
[34:58] Beyond your professional accomplishments, what personal stories and interaction with students have left a lasting impact on you?
[36:51] How do you balance the connection you make with students with making strategic decisions for their future and the future of the university?
[38:29] How does the prospect of building connections with the alumni, community partners and industry leaders align with your vision for AUN's positive impact on society?
[40:11] What's the significance of students taking entrepreneurial courses and it's impact on their education and future career?
[42:11] What do you see as this school's current biggest challenge?
[42:54] "If people feel like they are part of the conversation, they will take twin ownership."
[43:44] Facilitating cohesion within AUN's Transfer and Exchange Program.
[47:03] Teaching Assistants and Student Instructors.
[48:46] What actions do you believe will contribute to building a lasting legacy for both yourself and the University?
[50:04] Education and AI
[51:25] "Education is one of the few things in the world we are okay with paying for and not receiving."
[52:30] Strategies for cultivating a mindset that recognizes education as more than a certification, focusing on comprehensive personal development.
[55:05] "The day that I don't make time to meet students and get to talk to them is the day that I leave."

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