In this episode of Candid Conversations, Chris and Candice welcome Dr. Kevin Jackson, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. With an extensive background in accounting and academic leadership, including his tenure as Associate Dean at Gies College of Business, Dr. Jackson shares an authentic and deeply personal exploration of his journey into educational leadership. From his humble beginnings to his current role overseeing the undergraduate experience for tens of thousands of students, Dr. Jackson speaks candidly about what motivates him and how his faith, values, and relationships shape his leadership style.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Jackson reflects on the nature of calling versus career, noting that his progression into leadership has often been spurred by others recognizing qualities in him before he recognized them in himself. He discusses the transition from faculty life to administration and how his missional approach to higher education led him to embrace roles that aligned more closely with his values, even when self-promotion and ambition were not part of the equation. His reflections on the challenges of balancing transparency with professional discretion offer a nuanced look at the ethical complexities of leadership in higher ed.

Listeners will be moved by Dr. Jackson’s emphasis on relational leadership—his belief in leading through empathy, listening, and care for the well-being of others. He offers heartfelt insights into maintaining work-life balance, the importance of boundaries, and redefining discipline as the ability to step away and be present for what matters most. Personal stories, such as his church fellowship group and his newfound passion for birding, offer glimpses into the rhythms that keep him grounded.

As the episode closes, Dr. Jackson speaks directly to aspiring leaders, encouraging them to lead with a clear sense of purpose and mission. Whether reluctant or ambitious, he asserts, effective leadership begins with knowing what you hope to accomplish and staying true to your values. His candid reflections and unwavering focus on the human side of higher education will resonate with educators, students, and leaders alike.