Engaging Leaders Podcast Welcomes Dr. Jim Fielder '98

Season 2, Episode 2: Optimism, Inspiration, Innovation: The Keys to Moving Forward

​“Always be prepared to expect the unexpected. The world will constantly be pushing in on you, but your inner confidence will provide your inner stability—watch your inner thoughts and talk because they often determine your outward actions.” – Dr. Jim Fielder, ‘98

In this episode, Eric Brotman '09 is joined by Maryland Higher Education Secretary Dr. James Fielder ’98 to discuss the status of higher education in Maryland—including how to move forward as a state during unprecedented times. Throughout the episode, Fielder hones in on the importance of lifelong learning, educated workforces, and how to stay relevant and ahead of the curve in the workplace and within educational institutions.
 
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

In this episode, we discuss:

• The key differences of leadership and management
• The status of innovative learning and how it will impact the workforce
• How higher education has adapted and evolved—particularly during the pandemic—and the future of brick and mortar universities and educational institutions
• How to encourage and implement lifelong learning for members of the community
• The difference between engaging and enduring in the workplace

 
About our guest:
Maryland Higher Education Secretary Dr. James D. Fielder is an effective and highly regarded executive and public servant with a passion for leading change. Fielder is focused on improving the economic well-being of Marylanders through educational and business opportunities. 
 
He has been appointed by four Maryland governors, providing his talents and expertise in numerous leadership capacities.  These include:

• Current Secretary of Maryland Higher Education Commission
• Secretary of Appointments
• Secretary of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
• Deputy & Acting Secretary for Business and Economic Development
• Assistant Secretary for Department of Economic & Employment Development
• Governor Hogan’s Transition Team Member

 
He also served as Towson University’s Vice President of Finance & Administration, as well as the Director of Budget, Personnel & Institutional Research at the University of Michigan – Flint. Secretary Fielder obtained his Ph.D. at Michigan State University in higher education, his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Maryland, College Park, and he is a Leadership Maryland Class of ’98 graduate and a past board member. 

---