By Julie Rahmer, Learning, Research & Engagement Lead,
Brainstorm Strategy Group
3-minute read
What does leadership look like in today’s complex, high-pressure post-secondary environment?
At the Post-Secondary Leadership Academy, three experienced leaders from Canada and the U.S. came together to reflect on their leadership journeys and share practical insights on navigating change, breaking silos, and stepping into strategic roles with confidence.
Moderated by Graham Donald, President of Brainstorm Strategy Group, the panel featured:
- Dr. Manny Contomanolis, Associate Dean for Academic Engagement, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University
- Suzanne Helbig, Associate Vice Provost, UCI Division of Career Pathways, UC Irvine
- Dan Seneker, Associate Vice-President Enrolment & University Registrar, Enrolment Services, Saint Mary’s University
Here are four key takeaways from the session.
1. There’s No Single Path to Leadership
Leadership often starts with a mindset—not a title.
- “When you name the goal, people can help you get there,” said Suzanne Helbig, who stepped up for stretch projects early in her career, building credibility through action.
- Manny Contomanolis shared how a trusted mentor nudged him forward before he felt ready: “They helped me confront my doubts and affirmed my potential.”
- Dan Seneker credited “anti-mentors” for shaping his leadership philosophy: “They showed me how not to lead.”
Their stories show that leadership can emerge from different places—courage, opportunity, or even frustration.
2. Break Down Silos with Curiosity and Influence
Collaboration doesn’t happen by accident. The panelists emphasized the importance of relationships, empathy, and communication across campus.
- “You can’t lead effectively if you’re stuck in your own lane,” said Seneker, stressing the need to understand others’ pressures and priorities.
- Early in her career, Helbig was tasked with writing a newsletter for faculty—an exercise that sharpened her ability to “influence without authority.”
- For Contomanolis, the key is curiosity: “Approach conversations not to convince, but to learn.”
Influence and alignment come from stepping outside your world and into someone else’s.
3. Change Leadership Is a Long Game
Change on campus doesn’t stick without trust, persistence, and emotional intelligence.
- Helbig shared how a passing comment in a training session led to her leading strategic planning for her department: “I said I liked it, and my director said, ‘Great—you’re in charge now.’”
- Seneker reflected on the shift from short-term wins to long-term thinking: “Leadership means aligning your choices with institutional goals, even when it’s hard.”
- Contomanolis summed it up: “You won’t get it perfect. But if you listen deeply and bring people along, you’ll build the trust you need to lead through it.”
4. Lead Before You Have the Title
The panel closed with clear advice for aspiring leaders:
- Say it out loud. Let people know you want to lead.
- Volunteer for the messy work. These are growth opportunities in disguise.
- Seek feedback and mentorship. Even informal mentors make a difference.
- Stay curious. Ask more questions than you answer.
- Connect to the bigger picture. Understand how your work supports the broader mission.
- Build your network. Leadership is rarely a solo act.
“There’s no single way to lead,” Graham Donald concluded. “But it always starts with intention—and the willingness to grow.”
