About the Researchers

Dr. Lynn Shollen is Associate Professor of Leadership Studies at Christopher Newport University. She earned the Ph.D. in Higher Education Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota, where she studied the leadership process within the context of higher education, academic medicine, and other formal organizations. Her research has examined identity and perceptions of leadership, leadership identities construction, faculty to administrator transition, teaching about women and leadership, and mentoring and leadership for faculty success. Her pedagogical and practical areas of expertise include leadership theory and development, organizational culture and group dynamics, leadership program creation, study abroad, women and leadership, sport leadership, and mentoring. Lynn facilitates developmental and process-oriented workshops for groups and serves as a leadership development consultant for individuals and organizations within and outside of higher education. She is an active member of the International Leadership Association.

Dr. Elizabeth Gagnon is Professor Emerita of Leadership Studies at Christopher Newport University. She earned the Ph.D. in Public Administration and Urban Policy from Old Dominion University where she studied leadership within the public sector. Her research has examined leadership perspectives of public leaders, civic engagement among college students and leadership identity. Her pedagogical and practical areas of expertise include leadership theory and development, leadership identity, civic engagement, social justice, leadership program creation, study abroad, ethics and values, and leading for change. Elizabeth has created and facilitated workshops for leadership in sports and organizational leadership development.

Dr. Kat Callahan is Senior Lecturer of Leadership Studies at Christopher Newport University. She earned the Ph.D. in Higher Education from Florida State University where she also was a graduate assistant for the undergraduate certificate in leadership program. Her background is in the field of student affairs, residence life, and student development, which she pairs with her pedagogical and practical areas of expertise in leadership theory and development, women and leadership, leadership in higher education, pop culture and leadership development, history of higher education, and global student leadership. Kat is currently the director of the Student Leader Global Summit sponsored by the International Association of Student Affairs and Services where she serves as an active member of the Board. She is also an active member of NASPA: Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, and the International Leadership Association.