For university managers, summer can look dramatically different depending on where you work. For some, it’s one of the busiest times of the year, filled with student orientation, onboarding, and preparing for the academic term ahead. For others, it’s a rare window of stillness: a chance to step back, recharge, or invest time in strategic planning. Some leaders use this season to gather their teams for reflection and goal-setting; others prioritize their own rest so they can show up refreshed in the fall. There’s no single right way to approach summer. But no matter what your calendar looks like, this season offers an opportunity to pause and choose how you use your time with intention. In this issue of Leadership Insights, you’ll find curated tips and reader favorites to help you recharge, refocus, and lead with purpose.
Whether you’re carving out space for a team retreat, blocking off a well-earned vacation, or looking to set your annual goals, a thoughtful approach to the summer months can position you and your team for a focused and effective year ahead. Here are three areas to consider as you shape your summer priorities:
The Common Thread: Be Intentional
Whether this summer is your busiest season or your quietest, the through-line is intention. Choosing how to spend your time, rather than defaulting to old habits or succumbing to outside pressures, is a silent yet powerful act of leadership. It models reflection, boundaries, and purpose for your team. It helps ensure that when the fall rush arrives, you and your team are not just ready, but also recharged, reconnected, and realigned.
