Dr. Felicia Nicole McGowan

One thing that has contributed to my success is treating people the way I would want to be treated, and the way I would want my own family members to be treated. I have a genuine concern for helping others, and I believe that leadership is rooted in service. Along the way, I’ve benefited from the guidance and support of others, and I feel a responsibility to give that same support to those I work with and serve.

The best advice I have ever received is to 'build a reputation for excellence, stay adaptable, and always be a lifelong learner.' I’ve found that consistently striving for high standards, being open to change, and continuously seeking knowledge have been essential to my growth and success.

One piece of advice that has always stayed with me comes from Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I strive to lead and interact with others in a way that leaves a positive, lasting impact, because how we make people feel often matters more than anything else we say or do.

Another very important piece of advice I share with women entering this field is to embrace change. Change is inevitable, especially in education, and being prepared to adjust, adapt, and lead through uncertainty is essential for long-term success.

One of the biggest challenges I face is supporting adult learners who juggle work, family, and financial responsibilities, especially when funding is limited. Balancing academic rigor with student support to ensure retention and persistence is a constant focus in my role.

The values that are most important to me include integrity, a commitment to excellence, and a genuine desire to be of service to others. I also prioritize respecting others as well as myself, being empathetic, and being reliable and trustworthy in all that I do.