Law School Dean, Former US Navy Admiral Discuss the Importance of Strong Leadership
The Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law recently welcomed (Ret.) Admiral Jonathan Greenert, former chief of naval operations, the highest-ranking position in the United States Navy, for a conversation on leadership. The event was held in conjunction with the University’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) collective, Friends of Nova, which offers Villanova’s student-athletes a wide range of opportunities to engage in NIL activations and opportunities to further their athletic, educational, and personal development, as well as wealth management firm, UBS.
A reflection of the law school’s ongoing collaboration with Friends of Nova, Mark C. Alexander, The Arthur J. Kania Dean and Professor of Law, was invited to moderate the discussion with Admiral Greenert. Both have served as leaders throughout their careers and have experience in government and policy. Their conversation touched on leading with integrity, navigating change and motivating others. Villanova Law students who focus on leadership development as part of their legal education also attended the event.
Admiral Greenert’s 40-year tenure with the US Navy includes serving as the 30th chief of naval operations. During the conversation, he spoke about his approach to taking charge of a team, whether it’s a submarine crew or a room full of government officials. He stressed the importance of cohesive, unambiguous communication when leading an organization. “Work with integrity and empathy,” he said. “Treat everybody with dignity and respect. It all comes back to that, no matter what the leadership styles [within your organization] are.”
Admiral Greenert also spoke candidly about his successes and challenges as a leader and how he had to reconsider his leadership style at times. He also said that hitting roadblocks, disagreeing with a coworker or a superior and navigating change are all unavoidable—and expected—parts of life. He also took questions from the audience before the discussion concluded.
“It was an honor to talk with Admiral Greenert and learn about his wide range of leadership experiences,” Dean Alexander said after the event. “I am pleased that Villanova’s student-athletes, along with our law students, had the chance to hear real-world advice about the power of working collaboratively, whatever their pursuits.”