The Ripple Effect: How Small Actions Foster Strong Leadership

Wednesday, May 27, 2026

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM East Coast USA Time

Location: Marquis Salon 12/13

Institution Type: Any

Target Audience: Any

Moderator(s)

Henry Zheng, PHD

Vice Provost for Institutional Effectiveness and Planning
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

Presenter(s)

Yesenia Espinal, PHD (she/her/hers)

Associate Vice President for Data Analytics
Howard University, United States
Adrea L. Hernandez, PHD (she/her/hers)

Executive Director for Institutional Research
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, Indiana, United States
HX

Hui Xiong, PHD

Assistant Provost for Institutional Research and Assessment
Wellesley College, United States

Session Abstract: This session explores the profound impact of intentional, day-to-day behaviors on leadership development. Moving beyond strategic and operational leadership skills that we shared at AIR Forum in Orlando last year, we will focus on the "small things" that build trust, inspire teams, and create lasting influence. Our panel will share personal stories, demonstrating how simple acts such as of follow-through, active listening, being punctual, clear in communication, and empathy accumulate the “secret sauces” to build and define a leader's character and capability.

Keywords: Small actions, leadership characteristics, leadership capabilities, aspiring leaders, responsibility