Lessons Learned

"The lessons Bowen cites are wise and sound and balanced and, in my opinion, absolutely right on."--Hanna Holborn Gray, former president of the University of Chicago"Lessons Learned is so compelling that I read it in one sitting the day I received it. Bowen's specific and vivid examples masterfully illustrate the general points he makes about governance, administration, setting priorities, recruiting faculty and students, and fundraising. I found it most stimulating as well as illuminating to read."--Amy Gutmann, president of the University of Pennsylvania"There is an unusual amount of wisdom and good common sense in these pages from which any academic leader or aspiring leader could learn a lot."--Derek Bok, former president of Harvard University"I loved reading Lessons Learned. It is thoughtful, pithy, and wise. This is a terrific book. I am only sorry I did not have the benefit of reading it nine years ago. I would have saved myself from making a few big mistakes."--Lawrence S. Bacow, president of Tufts University"This book, it seems to me, is Bill Bowen the teacher in full cry, delivering the goods with his usual insight, clarity, and force. This is not a memoir or history of his years in Princeton's Nassau Hall but rather a sophisticated, winsome guide to what worked--and didn't work--as he navigated the presidential wilds. Lessons Learned is in a league by itself."--Taylor Reveley, president of the College of William and Mary