The state of education is evolving, and although the four-year degree is not going anywhere, there has to be a focus on non-traditional pathways. Higher ed leaders need to lead through influence. In continuing education especially, there is no power, Sandeen says. Continuing ed leaders are not at the top of the hierarchy, so they need to lead with data-proven techniques, persuasive arguments and strong arguments. Each of those skills is also key for running the entirety of university, making CE leaders exceptionally strong candidates to become university presidents, chancellors and deans.
