Dr. Judy Olian's leadership journey from a business school dean to a university president exemplifies the importance of adaptability and strategic vision in higher education leadership. Her approach emphasizes balancing internal management with external engagement, fostering resilience, and maintaining open communication through her "no surprise management rule". Dr. Olian's experiences highlight the necessity of embracing new opportunities and challenges, even beyond one's comfort zone, to enhance skills and expand professional networks. Her leadership philosophy underscores the value of transparency and stakeholder engagement, crucial for building trust and facilitating effective decision-making.