What happens when a French literature professor becomes a university president for 15 years? Dr. Ann McElaney-Johnson shares why creative courage matters more than we think, the power of saying yes to the unplanned, and why leaders must trust the spark even when the data isn't complete.
In this powerful conversation, Ann McElaney-Johnson, President of Mount St. Mary's University in Los Angeles, reveals what 15 years of presidential leadership has taught her about authenticity, creative risk-taking, and the surprising importance of relaxing into your role.
From her beginnings as an 18th-century French literature professor to leading a university through unprecedented change, Ann shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey—and why none of it went according to plan. Shediscusses the real challenge of organizational change (hint: it's internal, not external), why loving what you do might be your greatest superpower, and her most distinctive leadership insight: the courage to kindle creative sparks even when everything says to wait for more proof.
This episode is essential listening for emerging and established leaders alike who want to lead with both analytical rigor and creative genius.
Key Topics Discussed:
The unplanned path from faculty to presidential leadership
Why saying yes to uncomfortable opportunities unlocks potential
The informal work of leadership: connection as strategic practice
How leadership style evolves from performing to authentic presence
Mission fit and why it matters for sustainable leadership
The real challenge of change: why personal transformation is hardest
Balancing analytical thinking with creative intuition
Finding joy and longevity in presidential leadership
Advice for emerging women leaders in higher education
About the Guest:
Ann McElaney-Johnson, Ph.D. is the President of Mount St. Mary's University in Los Angeles, California, where she has served for 15 years. A former professor of 18th-century French literature, she has dedicated her career to creatingeducational environments that respond to the evolving needs of students and society. Under her leadership, Mount St. Mary's has embraced innovation while staying true to its founding mission by the Sisters of St. Joseph: respondingto the needs of the time with flexibility, creativity, and purpose.
Key Quotes:
"I actually think my superpower is really that I love what I do...There's great joy in being part of this journey of students. It's such a privilege."
"You don't have to know it all. I think when I first started, I wasa newbie president... Over time, I've learned that's actually not realistic. None of us has all the answers."
"When you see that spark, you know, have the courage to ignite it... Don't forget your creativity, that creative genius that I think each of us has. If we unleash it, is probably as important and more important than all the data. Trust that."
"You have to be yourself. You can't fake your way into this job toget the job."
"Where else would I go? This is an incredible place. Every day I'mmoved."
About IngenioUs:
IngenioUs explores transformative leadership in higher education through conversations with visionary presidents and leaders. Hosted by Dr. Melissa Morriss-Olson, author of Ingenious Leadership and founding director of Bay Path University's Doctor of Education program, each episode uncovers the authentic stories, unexpected journeys, and leadership wisdom that shape the future of higher education.
Season Information:
This episode is part of Season 6, featuring conversations exclusively with women university presidents.