Listening and Leading: Elgin Community College’s CBO Kimberly Wagner

CBO Speaks

Kimberly Wagner is the vice president of business and finance at Elgin Community College in Elgin, Illinois. In this episode, Wagner joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about her transition from corporate accounting to higher education, the importance of empowering and investing in your team, and trends and changes in community colleges. "I think truthfully sweating the small stuff sometimes back then does make you appreciate later, you know, looking back," Wagner says. She emphasizes the value of truly listening and absorbing information, especially early in your career. "One thing that I wish I would have done more, and I think I tried my best as much as I can, is that listening – truly listening – you need to listen and absorb." Wagner goes on to advise aspiring leaders to think carefully before responding, noting the wisdom in pausing and delivering thoughtful responses. Join us for a conversation with Wagner as she shares insights from her diverse career path, discusses Elgin Community College's award-winning financial literacy program, and explores the evolving role of community colleges in meeting the needs of both traditional students and adult learners. Links

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