Linda Ellington
Linda Ellington is a distinguished faculty member at Southern New Hampshire University, where she is an Associate Dean, teaches in the School of Business, and inspires students to become educated, thoughtful global citizens. Before entering academia, she spent 23 successful years with IBM, an experience that shaped her passion for leadership, strategy, and organizational development. She furthered her expertise by conducting her doctoral research at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom, and earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Florida Atlantic University, USA. In 2022, she expanded her academic influence by joining the Advisory Board at Keiser University. A prolific scholar and recognized leader in her field, Linda has co-authored a widely used textbook on strategic leadership, is the sole author of an organizational storytelling book, and contributed 39 chapters to international scholarly publications. She serves as Associate Editor for the International Journal of Adult Vocational Education and Technology (IJAVET). She sits on multiple editorial advisory boards and peer-review committees, in addition to serving as a dissertation committee member at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. Her dedication to advancing leadership education earned her the esteemed Dr. Patricia Cranton Award in 2017. Alongside her academic work, Linda is an accomplished children's author, having written nine published books—many of which feature animal characters to teach lessons in kindness, courage, and anti-bullying. Deeply committed to service and community engagement, Linda volunteers as a curriculum advisor for literacy organizations and regularly reads to children in underserved communities, often with the support of a Spanish interpreter to ensure wider access. Known for her warmth, empathy, and open-door leadership style, she strives to empower those around her—faculty, students, leaders, and readers alike. Whether she is shaping curriculum, mentoring colleagues, or storytelling for young audiences, Linda brings heart, wisdom, and creativity to everything she does.
• EdX Verified Certificate for Empathy and Emotional Intelligence at Work
• Managers as Multipliers of Well-Being
• EdX Verified Certificate for Conquering Humor Fundamentals
• Global Competence Certificate: AFS Intercultural Programs
• Generative AI: From Concept to Innovation Certificate
• Prosci Change Management Practitioner badge
• Florida Atlantic University - Ed.D.
• University of Oxford, United Kingdom
• University of Warwick, United Kingdom
• Recipient of Dr. Patricia Cranton Award
• Research Peer Reviewers
• AERA
• International Leadership Association
• Storyteller's Network
• Wetlee's Voice Against Bullying
• Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation
• Camp Kindness Counts
• GROWS Literacy Council, Inc. Florida
What do you attribute your success to?
My success is rooted in a deep commitment to purpose, persistence, people, and animals. I lead with confidence, empathy, listening closely, acting with integrity, and remaining adaptable in the face of change. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth has strengthened my voice and clarified my vision, while collaboration and curiosity have expanded my impact. Above all, staying true to my values and using my influence to uplift others has been the most powerful driver of my success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My encouragement to young women entering the field of leadership is to trust your voice and claim your space with confidence and purpose. Lead with authenticity, your unique perspective, experiences, and values are strengths, not obstacles. Seek mentors and allies, but do not wait for permission to lead: growth often happens before you feel ready. Embrace curiosity, be willing to take calculated risks, and view setbacks as lessons rather than limitations. Most importantly, lift others as you rise - authentic leadership is not only about personal success, but about creating pathways for those who follow.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me as a leader, both professionally and personally, are integrity, authenticity, and service to others. I believe in leading with honesty and accountability, staying true to my values even when faced with difficult decisions. Respect, empathy, and inclusivity guide how I build relationships and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. I value continuous growth and recognize that leadership requires humility and self-reflection. Above all, I strive to lead with purpose, driving positive change and leaving a meaningful impact.
Locations
Southern New Hampshire University
Thomasville, GA 31757