Be Comfortable Being Uncomfortable: Rick Wernoski

Career Conversations

NACUBO’s Christine Simone interviews Rick Wernoski, the associate vice chancellor for operational excellence at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Key Points:

• 30+ years in higher ed, started as budget analyst and moved up to leadership
• Passionate about transforming students' lives through academics and research
• Recent success creating a K-2 school that boosted literacy and math scores
• Learned to challenge processes, not just do things because "that's how it was always done"
• Great mentors pushed new ideas, best practices, and supported failures
• Pays it forward mentoring others with honesty, integrity, and trust
• Says "yes" to new opportunities like teaching and committees
• Leadership lesson –ensure all voices are at the table and listen first

Overall, Rick emphasizes being open to new experiences outside your comfort zone for growth. His career shows the rewards of starting small in higher ed administration and working your way up over decades. Links

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