Firm Center, Soft Edges: Leading Christian Higher Education with Conviction

Christian higher education is navigating powerful headwinds, but Dr. Barry H. Corey believes the answer is neither retreat nor compromise. As President of Biola University, Dr. Corey reflects on nearly two decades of presidential leadership and the calling, humility, courage, and conviction required to remain faithful through seasons of change. From resisting the twin dangers of nostalgia and institutional amnesia to preparing students for a world being reshaped by AI, Dr. Corey offers a compelling vision for Christian higher education rooted in a “firm center” and “soft edges.” He challenges leaders to hold tightly to biblical truth while leading with kindness, excellence, and courage, trusting that God’s tailwinds remain stronger than the cultural headwinds. ___ Tune In to Discover ▫️Why a clear sense of calling can sustain leaders through both self-doubt and success ▫️How long-term leaders must adapt as their institutions and leadership strengths change ▫️What it means to lead with “thick skin and a tender heart” ▫️Why Christian colleges should prepare students with a firm center, soft edges, and a commitment to excellence ▫️ Why both nostalgia and institutional amnesia can threaten the future of Christian colleges ___ Inside the Episode 11:52 - How presidential leadership must evolve over time 16:24 - Why leaders need thick skin, tender hearts, and relationships outside their institutions 18:38 - Trusting God’s “tailwinds” when leadership headwinds grow stronger 21:42 - Firm center, soft edges, and preparing students for a rapidly changing world 23:58 - Thinking theologically about AI, technology, and innovation 28:16 - The dangers of nostalgia and amnesia in Christian higher education ___ To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player. ___ The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Education and is proud to be part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.