While I don’t have a formal degree in leadership or specialized training in this ever-evolving field, I’ve been privileged to serve in various leadership roles within higher education for over 30 years. Looking back, I firmly believe that the Lord has guided my path to fulfill the work He prepared for me, and I am deeply grateful for His direction in my life.
When I first arrived at Lee College, I wasn’t sure what major to pursue because I didn’t yet understand my calling. I explored several options, and as a result, my undergraduate years were marked by a diverse range of studies, with a strong foundation in general education, majors in elementary education and secondary mathematics education, and minors in psychology and religion. These academic experiences laid the groundwork for my future career.
After graduating, I was blessed with the opportunity to teach special needs children in public schools, which was both challenging and rewarding. As I completed my master’s degree in special education, I felt a strong sense of calling to return to Lee College, this time to prepare future educators in elementary and special education. This sense of purpose became clearer, and I knew that my work was meant to impact not just students, but the teachers who would shape the lives of future generations.
With a growing sense of purpose, I earned a doctorate in education and worked to establish credibility in the classroom. This led to new leadership opportunities at Lee, including roles as Department Chair, Director of the Teacher Education Program, Director of Graduate Programs in Education, and eventually, Dean of the Helen DeVos College of Education.
After serving 33 years in various educational roles at Lee, I was entrusted with an expanded leadership role as Vice President for Academic Affairs. In this position, I had the privilege of working across all academic disciplines and support services and exploring and developing grants that provided vital resources for greater success of Lee students. Today I serve as Provost and Chief Academic Officer (CAO), leading a dynamic and vibrant academic community.
Although leadership was never something I initially aspired to, I’ve found great joy in each role I’ve held. I attribute my growth (and perhaps my survival) in leadership to several key factors. First, I owe much to the caring and effective mentors who guided me, including my father, Dr. Jim Bilbo, and Dr. Paul Conn. I also believe in the power of experiential learning—being fully immersed in each challenge and role, learning from both successes and failures and always staying committed to the mission. I’ve learned how to be a leader by leading amazing individuals who not only supported me but also worked alongside me to achieve shared goals.
While my passion for each role stemmed from a desire for positive outcomes—such as preparing strong and effective teachers, helping university students thrive, and developing new programs—it wasn’t enough, on its own, to ensure leadership success. I also learned that effective leadership requires building and nurturing strong teams, utilizing the strengths of every team member (including my own), using active listening skills, and adapting to change.
Above all, I believe that these strategies and approaches are built on a foundation of constant prayer and a commitment to seeking wisdom from God and His word. As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (NIV).
This verse has been a guiding light in my leadership journey, reminding me that my purpose is part of a bigger plan and every step I take is part of fulfilling the work God has set before me.
To anyone reading this who is stepping into leadership—or wondering if you are capable of leading—I encourage you to lean on those who support you and keep your eyes fixed on the greater purpose God has for your life. Leadership isn’t about titles or positions; it’s about fulfilling the good works God has prepared for you, one step at a time.
Dr. Debbie Murray, Provost, Lee University (Higher Education Administration)
Cleveland, Tennessee
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