Dr. Danieley delighted attendees at the February 28 Leadership for Lunch by speaking about leadership traits exhibited by various Elon presidents. Participants first enjoyed a catered lunch of lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and brownies before listening to Dr. Danieley as he highlighted the specific leadership styles of former presidents Rev. William Staley and Leon Smith, and current president Dr. Leo Lambert.
Citing Elon archives and personal anecdotes, Dr. Danieley contrasted Rev. Staley’s quiet, resilient nature and his decision to lead Elon from afar while serving as the pastor of the Christian Church in Suffolk, Va., with Smith’s business-like approach to guiding the University through many Depression-era changes.
Dr. Danieley emphasized the incredible accomplishments of Elon’s eight presidents since its charter in 1889. While many colleges experience presidential turnover on a regular basis, Elon’s presidents have had a lengthy average tenure of 15 1/2 years.
With his affectionate style and usual candor, Dr. Danieley praised President Lambert’s charismatic nature and willingness to seek audiences with Elon students, faculty, and staff. More than anything, perhaps, he highlighted President Lambert’s kind personality and his effectiveness as Elon’s leader for over 14 years. In true humility, Dr. Danieley understated his own accomplishments as an Elon professor, dean, director of planned giving, and president for 16 years from 1953-1956. Dr. Danieley’s incredible role in the University’s life spans from serving as the nation’s youngest college president when he took office in 1953, to his title of president emeritus of the college, which was bestowed in 1992. At the age of 89, Dr. Danieley continues his legacy by attending every single Elon basketball game, interacting with students and faculty alike, and teaching Intro to Biology and History of Elon courses during regular and Winter Terms, respectively.
Leadership for Lunch and Snacking on Leadership are opportunities for student leaders to come together and enhance their leadership skills by participating in hour-long workshops relevant to different leadership development themes. Each month, a faculty, staff, or community member shares their expertise and guides a discussion on a particular topic.
Upcoming Events:
Snacking on Leadership–March 14 and April 18, 4:15-5:15pm.
Contact Hannah Orth and Laura Orr at orgdevelopment@elon.edu for more information.
