James T. Laney, president emeritus of Emory University (GA) and former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, keynoted the 2006 Presidents Institute with the powerful argument that presidents should see themselves as “educators-in-chief” more than as chief executive officers.

He reflected, from his own years at the Emory helm (1977-1993), on his gradual realization that he could influence the university’s various communities more profoundly by talking about teaching, learning, and student development than by reciting the institution’s achievements in fundraising, campus construction, and enrollment—even though those achievements were nationally noteworthy. For example, in seeking to build a campus climate that addressed the human dimensions of education, Laney established an enthusiastically received “last lecture” program through which retiring faculty members could address any topic of deep meaning for them. “This series has opened up a whole new dimension of humanity on campus. The students listen in rapt attention—they long for the opportunity to hear admired professors say things that come from the heart.”

Laney named several aspects of the president as educator that he has found particularly significant. He urged that presidents be teachers, framing broader contexts and trying to shed light on the issue at hand, even if that topic caused anguish. He counseled his colleagues to learn how to empathize with others. “The best, deepest education is not what people learn but how they identify with others and the chemistry that occurs.” He urged presidents to have mentors: “Getting to know mentors at the highest level of learning is very intimate—you learn who the human being is behind the official labels.” He cited the inspiration that he had found in individuals whom he considered mentors. One such individual was an aunt who became a renowned scholar; others included historical figures such as George Washington, from whom he drew lessons on ways to use power. “Washington relinquished power twice for the good of the country. He never exercised power for self-aggrandizement. This is a lesson we need to learn as presidents.”

Finally, he encouraged presidents to include the concept of virtue, and an ability to live beyond oneself, as essential parts of education. “Adam Smith believed that liberty and democracy cannot flourish without virtue, the capacity to act on behalf of something greater than yourself—not denying yourself, but living beyond yourself.”

The attending presidents, spouses, and others thanked Laney for his nuanced and stirring remarks—and for his remarkable service to higher education and his country—with a rare standing ovation.