Understanding the Boldness of Love: How Love Shapes Education and Leadership
Written by Catherine Koverola, PhD
Why would a university administrator write a blog called “The Boldness of Love”? I’m sure some might wonder, “Couldn’t she write something a little bit more scholarly? Really, ‘The Boldness of Love’?” Here’s the thing–I’m one of those academic leaders who is committed to higher education making a tangible difference in the lives of real people.
Whether as a teacher in the classroom, a scholar in the field, a clinician with my patient, or a university administrator developing a strategic plan (or even just writing another memo), what drives me is the knowledge that what I do makes a difference. Plain and simple, I just don’t think you can make a difference if you don’t do it with love.
What makes love “bold”? Love is about kindness. It’s about putting someone else first and respecting the dignity of the other. Love is about humility, and not needing to “win.” It’s not necessary to be the biggest and the best for the sake of one’s own ego. It is about aspiring for excellence in service of the other. Love is about embracing humanity and caring for those who suffer, even when it’s not palatable or clean-cut. It is about being present–fully present–and engaged.
When you think about it, these aren’t always easy things to do, or easy choices to make. Often, it feels easier to go the other way–to be wrapped up in one’s own existence because the prospect of giving of one’s self comes with risk and sacrifice. It comes with the potential for criticism, discomfort, and, at its worst, harm. When you speak for those whose voices have been stifled, reach out to those who have been shunned, or speak truth to power, you are taking a risk. But it’s a bold risk.
What I know to be true is that when the work is done with love, it makes a difference. A teacher who is indifferent and focused solely on learning outcomes will ultimately be ineffective, whether the student is a first-grader or a doctoral candidate. Real learning only happens in an atmosphere of trust and care.
Research conducted without respect for the implications of the findings upon the participants or their communities–however scientifically rigorous–will inevitably do harm. In contrast, research conducted with respect has the potential to create significant change for good. In clinical practice, it is well established that surgery, drugs, or psychological insight alone will fall short–the extra ingredient that is needed for healing is love. The client needs to trust and believe in the caregiver, and the caregiver must hold that responsibility close.
When I think about the work of the faculty, staff, and students at the universities where I have served, I am always deeply moved by the boldness of their love—in the classroom, in field research, in the clinic, and in the community.
Every day, I see lives transformed by the boldness of love. One of my colleagues recently shared of her tireless efforts to work through institutional bureaucracy to process a payment so a student would have rent money, despite the disgruntled student's repeated barbs at her. My colleague lovingly persisted on behalf of a student she recognized was hurting and misdirecting that hurt towards someone advocating on her behalf.
Even in the midst of meetings, memos, numbers and policy, I never cease to be inspired in my role as a university administrator. I am always reminded of the importance of doing everything I can to facilitate a community in which everyone is afforded respect and dignity. Where everyone who is touched by our faculty, staff, and students truly experiences the boldness and power of love.
Practical Tips for Implementing Bold Love in Education and Leadership
When someone is unkind or rude, pause before reacting. Ask yourself: how can I mitigate this with kindness and understanding?
When you recognize someone has made a big mistake, acknowledge it with kindness, and assist the person in figuring out corrective action.
Have the courage to speak up when you see something unethical, even when it takes you out of your comfort zone.
When your gut tells you to take action on behalf of someone who is vulnerable, take action, even if it costs you. Have courage; be bold.
Look for ways to express gratitude regularly. A simple thank you can make someone feel seen, valued, and boost their motivation.
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