TONE SETTERS IN THE ACADEMY

…an insightful playbook for current and aspiring university administrators…

“Tone Setters in the Academy is an insightful playbook for current and aspiring university administrators, highlighting how inspirational leaders create positive campus cultures while curating their own energy, growth, and path to wisdom. Through practical examples and reflective frameworks, Andy offers valuable advice for transforming a career in higher education from a mere job into a fulfilling vocation.”

~ Chip Conley, New York Times bestselling author, Founder of the Modern Elder Academy

…packed with insightful stories, practical advice and, yes, hope culled from the author’s own journey as a university administrator.

“Is there a better time for a book like this? Confidence in our institutions of higher education is slipping, and considerable ire is directed at them from Congress, donors, parents and, of course, the students themselves. Along comes this charming gem packed with insightful stories, practical advice and, yes, hope culled from the author’s own journey as a university administrator. Tone Setters in the Academy may have been written as a teaching memoir, and those in higher education will find much to learn from this playbook, but you don’t have to be in academia to admire and enjoy it (as I did immensely). The author draws from a deep well of lived experience and extensive research and a lifelong passion for learning (he even visits campuses while on vacation) and it all shows. This is as wise as it is a compelling read.”

~ Kopin Tan, writer & former Dow Jones journalist

…offers indispensable guidance for university administrators (and those who aspire to be)…

“In Tone Setters in the Academy, the wise and engaging Andrew Ceperley offers indispensable guidance for university administrators (and those who aspire to be), blending real-world examples with practical advice to inspire and elevate their careers. This book serves as a valuable and timely blueprint for creating positive campus cultures and transforming higher education roles into deeply fulfilling vocations.”

~ Lindsey Pollak, New York Times bestselling author of Becoming the Boss: New Rules for the Next Generation of Leaders

…provides us a path forward as staff members, one where we add our own authentic value…

“If you work for a college or university, setting the right tone can feel like the job of a lifetime. Unless you discover the magic of doing the work and loving your contributions, large and small, your campus can feel confusing, isolating, and melodramatic. In Tone Setters in the Academy, Andrew Ceperley provides us a path forward as staff members, one where we add our own authentic value while discovering who we are and how we are meant to serve. If you are questioning your place in higher education administration, this is a must read.”

~ Stuart E. Schwartz, EdD, professor and author

…a vital reference for university administrators at any career stage.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is a vital reference for university administrators at any career stage. This insightful guide invites administrators to reflect on their roles and strengthen their institutional presence as tone setters. Amid a crisis of trust in academia, Ceperley’s conversational style and personal vignettes affirm careers of integrity and service. His focus on tone setters over traditional leaders encourages administrators to approach their work with intentionality, embodying values of wisdom and humane vision. The book outlines 60 mindsets, offering prompts for deep personal reflection to navigate professional challenges. A must-read for those dedicated to understanding and enhancing their role in higher education.”

~ Janina Montero, PhD, Vice Chancellor – Student Affairs, Emerita, UCLA

I wish I had had this resource during my many career transitions. It would have helped me to be a more self-aware leader and a more resilient human being.

“Andy Ceperley’s teaching memoir, Tone Setters in the Academy, combines personal reminiscences, practical takeaways, and inspiration from his long career in academia both as an administrator and as a consultant. It is, in part, a love letter to university and college campuses. While his target audience is administrators on campuses, both national and international, Ceperley’s key points are drawn from a wide range of self-reflective literature. Those who work outside the academy will also find the book insightful, especially his suggestions for embracing change. The academic administrators and others who read the book will not only gain many useful tips for dealing with the current crises in the academy but also will be moved, inspired, and even amused by Andy’s journey and the wisdom he and his mentors have gifted us. I wish I had had this resource during my many career transitions. It would have helped me to be a more self-aware leader and a more resilient human being.”

~ Bill Chamberlain, university pre-law advisor and former law school assistant dean

…delivers both inspiration and practical wisdom to help you lead with confidence and purpose.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is essential for anyone involved in higher education administration. With its engaging narrative style, the book weaves personal anecdotes with valuable insights, offering readers a blueprint for thriving in academic leadership roles. Ceperley’s mindsets provide practical strategies for fostering meaningful connections, driving innovation, and creating a lasting legacy on campus. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned administrator, this book delivers both inspiration and practical wisdom to help you lead with confidence and purpose.”

~ Jim McKellar, former CEO and general manager, Harvard Student Agencies

…provides sound advice for those feeling trapped by a lack of advancement opportunities.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is a timely read for those seeking career advancement in university administration. Drawing from his forty-year career at a number of esteemed institutions, Ceperley provides sound advice for those feeling trapped by a lack of advancement opportunities. Instead of seeking an exit, he encourages readers to adopt a tone setter mindset by actively networking and introducing innovative methods into their workplace. The book outlines a four-part strategy for becoming a tone setter and each section offers actionable mindsets to help readers shift their perspectives and take specific steps towards career fulfillment. This not to be missed, thought-provoking guide is brimming with timely advice for employees looking to carve a new path in university administration and essential for anyone looking to rejuvenate their career in university administration.”

~ Brian Ekeland, IT management consultant

…a beautiful blend of strategy and storytelling from the perspective of a man who has clearly ‘walked the walk.’

“Andy Ceperley has inked a profoundly inspiring and useful book about how to be successful, engaged, and fulfilled in one’s career. I cannot wait to recommend it to a diverse array of individuals at every stage of their careers; even those outside of academia. The material is a beautiful blend of strategy and storytelling from the perspective of a man who has clearly ‘walked the walk.’ He quotes Naval Ravikant stating, “To write a great book, you must first become the book.” Ceperley exemplifies all that he recommends which makes the strategies presented so much more compelling. The mindsets and powerful questions offered at the end of each chapter are direct and digestible. I believe that following the suggestions will not only help you have a better career but also become a better human being. I highly recommend this enjoyable and powerful book.”

~ Jordan Maness, MEd, Certified Life Coach, Career Advising Specialist, Creator and Instructor for Coursera’s Thriving 101: Designing a Fulfilling Life & Career, Author Select An Ideal Life (SAIL): Your 59-Minute Guide to Enjoying the Journey of Life

…a very useful guide to instill practical ‘mindsets’ they can employ…

“Tone Setters in the Academy is a very useful guide for educational administrators of all disciplines to instill practical ‘mindsets’ they can employ in serving students, colleagues, and their institutions with a holistic lens. But this isn’t just some dry manual; by weaving his own personal and heartfelt stories of his career journey through academia, Andrew Ceperley has written a book that also serves as a memoir that will leave a deep and lasting impression.”

~ Jack Chung, Associate Director of Career Services, University of Washington Foster Business School

Finally, we have the book we have needed to navigate our profession…

“Very few of us who become university administrators would have said that was what we wanted to be when we grew up. Finally, we have the book we have needed to navigate our profession whether just starting out or as a seasoned professional. Andrew Ceperley a true visionary, uses examples from his own experience combined with wisdom gained over years of working in a variety of universities, to lay out a series of astute and succinct mindsets. These both prompt self-assessment and promote an expansive perspective of work that is consequential and profound. This insightful book is for anyone who wants to elevate full possession of themselves and, in so doing, become a significant Tone Setter.”

~ Catherine Neiner, higher education consultant

…a thoughtful and pragmatic perspective that resonates with administrators across all levels of higher education.

“Tone Setters in the Academy offers a thoughtful and pragmatic perspective that resonates with administrators across all levels of higher education. Andrew Ceperley adeptly navigates through the real-life obstacles, challenges, and constraints that many in this inspiring sector encounter throughout their careers, many of which can be a fast track to shifting careers. He emphasizes the significance of managing mindsets throughout one’s career journey, starting from roles within our institutions that serve as stepping stones for shaping impactful contributions. Andrew Ceperley highlights how individuals we encounter, admire, and eventually emulate over time often reflect our mindset considerations. As Andrew aptly observes, it is within our capability to consistently embody the role of the tone setter we aspire to be, every single day.”

~ Nigel Cossar, Head Sydney Connect, University of Sydney

A great read for the person starting a career or seeking a change into one in higher education.

“Andrew Ceperley has taken a very rich set of life and professional experiences and wonderfully distilled them into some great pearls of wisdom. A great read for the person starting a career or seeking a change into one in higher education.”

~ Roxanne Hori, executive coach and retired associate dean

No matter your experience level, Ceperley’s insights will help you set the tone, inspire your team, and make a meaningful difference.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is a must-read for anyone navigating the complexities of higher education administration. With practical advice and insights from experienced leaders, this book offers a roadmap for success. No matter your experience level, Ceperley’s insights will help you set the tone, inspire your team, and make a meaningful difference.”

~ Mark Weber, former assistant dean for career services, Harvard Law School

…personal experiences coupled with examples from colleagues that sets the stage for understanding “Tone Setters.”

“Tone Setters in the Academy is dedicated to educational administrators advancing their careers on college and university campuses. Andy Ceperley weaves in personal experiences coupled with examples from colleagues that sets the stage for understanding tone setters. Andy’s personal stories inspire and build a bond between reader and author. We are reminded that flaws and failures are as much a part of us as our assets and successes. Andy does this with humor, encouragement and a finger on the pulse of our institutions. The examples, tools and reflective questions found in this manuscript link self-awareness and examination around the complexities and competing tensions that lie within our roles. The outcome is understanding the far-reaching and emboldened leader that evolves with wisdom over time and place, a tone setter.”

~ Susan Terry, career strategist and consultant

…a love letter…to all those accidental university administrators…

“Sometimes we pursue our calling with clarity and intention. Other times, we stumble into it, drawn by forces we don’t understand. Tone Setters in the Academy is a love letter to the former, to all those accidental university administrators who, through luck or circumstance, discover a career that fills them with a sense of pride and purpose. Elegantly weaving together personal stories with astute observations and actionable takeaways, author Andrew Ceperley unpacks his own journey so that others can find success in theirs. Through this book, readers will learn to embrace their roles and grow in their work, becoming the tone setters so vital to a thriving campus. Reading this book, I couldn’t help but pine for my own days as a campus employee. More importantly, I found new appreciation and gratitude for the myriad tone setters who supported me during my own academic journey. What a great read!”

~ Chas Hoppe, Founder Cape & Cowl Media

…an excellent guidebook for anyone who wants to be a more effective leader in any field.

“It’s unusual to read two books in one, however that’s what it feels like to me. The first is a magical and rich memoir of a life in higher education, the other is an excellent guidebook for anyone who wants to be a more effective leader in any field. Ceperley delights us with stories from a broad swath of college campuses brought to life by his years of experience. He simultaneously takes us on a journey of discovery and awareness building; inviting us to explore and expand our impact in the world.”

~ Cynthia Darst, author and Master Certified Coach (MCC)

…a delightful, refreshing read!

“What a delightful, refreshing read! Andrew Ceperley’s Tone Setters in the Academy reminded me of the many reasons to love higher education, and why it is still such a compelling industry for those of us committed to it. He articulates the case for deeply understanding your institution, and the rich satisfaction that comes from engaging with and contributing to the tone and tenor of your campus. This is a book that articulates the compelling purpose of higher education, that it offers a rare way to witness people transforming their lives. Tone Setters in the Academy also provides an excellent overview of Ceperley’s overarching tenets, or mindsets, that unlock what makes those administrators with presence create their magic. Complex skills and talents are broken down into their moving parts, and then reconstituted in a way that will allow you to see anew the value of wisdom, readiness for change, and openness of spirit that are the hallmarks of the best university administrators.”

~ Traci Callandrillo, PhD, former American University assistant vice president and creator of the Responsive Leadership Framework

…an unexpected and artfully written playbook for post-secondary staffers who are tired and stuck but dedicated and passionate about the work they do and the people they do it for.

“Never has someone so eloquently explained why die-hard college administrators love higher education as we do, despite the long hours, the personal politics, and the historical slow pace of change. Tone Setters in the Academy is an unexpected and artfully written playbook for post-secondary staffers who are tired and stuck but dedicated and passionate about the work they do and the people they do it for. Andrew Ceperley’s book belongs in every conference room where higher-education teams convene. Complete with mindset tips, reflections, and exercises, Tone Setters in the Academy is a book that gets things done for the people who get things done in higher education. Thought-provoking, reassuring, inspiring, practical, honest, and entertaining in a way that few books for higher-ed staffers have ever been.”

~ Kate Colbert, Higher-Education Marketing Consultant and Leadership Coach, and Author of Commencement: The Beginning of a New Era in Higher Education

…shines a light on the important contributions of academic administrators to the education of the students entrusted to us…

“There is a question I have asked myself since I was a child: when does a person become wise? After reading Andrew Ceperley’s Tone Setters in the Academy I have a much better understanding of how wisdom informs the work we do on our campuses. Through sharing stories of personal experiences as a university administrator and the many wise people he encountered along the way, Ceperley shines a light on the important contributions of academic administrators to the education of the students entrusted to us at our colleges and universities. From the allure of the college campuses he visited in high school, to his professional growth as a national leader in higher education, to the inspiring wisdom of his father, a college professor, Ceperley tells his stories with grace and gentle humor, showing us how we can all be tone setters in the academy.

~ Jane Morris, Executive Director of the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships, University of Pennsylvania

…provides practical and inspiring recommendations for taking the time to reenergize our passion in what we do.

“I thoroughly enjoyed Andrew’s humorous and picturesque romp through the hallowed halls of higher education. His book is both insightful and contemplative. Andy shares his personal stories, and provides mindsets (my favorite is ‘pursue growth opportunities that fuel your passion’) and thought-provoking questions to move us from doing to being. We often take pride in the busyness of doing, when we should be spending time on strategic thinking and the ‘why’ of what we do. As a former department chair and interim dean, I highly recommend “tone setters”. Andy provides practical and inspiring recommendations for taking the time to reenergize our passion in what we do.”

~ Linda A. Liang, PhD, Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and President, Organizational Resources, LLC

…an engaging, motivational read.

“Whether you currently work in higher ed, are interested in a role at a college or university, or you seek insights about inspirational leadership, Andy Ceperley’s Tone Setters in the Academy is an engaging, motivational read. Ceperley is a combination of tour guide, teacher, and truth-teller, allowing us to learn from his professional experience and tag along on his visits to wide-ranging college campuses. Each chapter offers mindset considerations and a “powerful question” that prompts your personal connection as a tone setter. His gift for capturing the essence of a college, and his thoughtful analysis about characteristics and strategies of successful leaders, draws you in and will have you taking notes.”

~ Amy Johnson, EdD, Vice Chancellor Student Affairs, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

…lays out a blueprint for how to get college campuses and college administrators flourishing again…

“Tone Setters in the Academy should be required reading for everyone in higher education and those aspiring to enter the field. Andrew Ceperley lays out a blueprint for how to get college campuses and college administrators flourishing again, emphasizing how higher education professionals can reconnect with the reasons they entered the field in the first place. This is an excellent read, filled with vibrant stories, compelling themes, and valuable lessons. Andy provides practical advice based on his extensive experience on many campuses, offering a refreshing perspective on how to invigorate the academic community. His insights are not only inspiring but also actionable, making this book a must-read for anyone dedicated to the advancement and enrichment of higher education.”

~ Lee Kramer, certified professional coach and former university student life director

This book serves as a crucial guide for growth–a compass in uncertain times.

“Tone Setters in the Academy offers an opportunity to pause, reboot, and reflect, reminding us why we entered higher education. Andrew Ceperley encourages us to examine our current situations while challenging us to venture into new realms of thought, helping us appreciate our past, present, and potential future. This book serves as a crucial guide for growth—a compass in uncertain times. It offers higher education administrators and professionals a chance to reflect and move forward positively, providing frameworks for growth.”

~ Nathan Westrup, Executive Director Business Engagement, University of California, Santa Cruz

…each chapter provides actionable guidance that is both inspiring and transformative.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is a great resource for new and experienced higher education professionals. As a former higher education administrator, who ‘grew up’ professionally in the academy I related to so much of what Andy shared. A career in higher education offers more than a job, it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger and make an impact. At the same time, navigating the complexities of a college campus can often be challenging and you need to carefully manage your energy if you want to be effective. The mindsets presented throughout the book offer practical and proven practices that enhance our ability to impact the institutions we serve. From getting entrenched in the culture of the institution to implementing strategies for engaging colleagues, students, and yourself, each chapter provides actionable guidance that is both inspiring and transformative. Andy’s expertise and thoughtful approach have equipped us with the tools to not only address immediate challenges but also to proactively shape the future of our campuses. This book is an essential resource for anyone committed to making a meaningful difference in higher education administration.”

~ Holly Marrone, higher education HR leader

…honors the uniqueness of each individual, environment, and institution, providing effective and customizable strategies for tone setting wherever anyone sits.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is a gem. The work is an accessible blend of research, instinct, and the experience-derived wisdom of Ceperley, himself an accomplished tone setter in higher education and beyond. Recognizing the challenges administrators face in the context of rapid, persistent, and often transformational change in their institutions and higher education more broadly, Ceperley, a self-identifying ‘change junkie,’ has crafted a useful collection of tips and tools, called mindsets, to help college and university administrators navigate, indeed thrive in, tumultuous change environments. Tone Setters is not a one-size-fits-all playbook. Instead, it honors the uniqueness of each individual, environment, and institution, providing effective and customizable strategies for tone setting wherever one sits. It’s a fun read, in part, because of the humility and occasional and appropriate vulnerability that ‘tall poppy’ Ceperley manifests in his writing. The reader leaves Tone Setters feeling empowered, optimistic, and brimming with agency to enrich their professional journeys and add value to their institutions.”

~ James Stascavage, former dean of student affairs

…a treasure trove of reflection and wisdom...

“Andy masterfully blends personal anecdotes with professional insights, delivering a narrative that is both serious and whimsical. His advice and perspectives are invaluable, making this book a must-read for any new higher education professional. Through his experience as a coach and higher education expert, Andy provides readers with practical examples, thought-provoking questions, and sage advice. This book is a treasure trove of reflection and wisdom, essential for anyone navigating the complexities of life as a higher education administrator.”

~ April Herring, EdD, Senior Director of Advising and Retention, Carroll Community College

…many of the lessons learned are applicable to a wide range of careers.

“Tone Setters in the Academy is an interesting and meaningful read. Although it clearly states its target audience is university administrators, many of the lessons learned are applicable to a wide range of careers. Andy Ceperley has taken his many years as a successful administrator, respected leader, and executive coach to share true stories and wisdom that make important mindsets come to life for the reader. In addition to giving the reader insights into creating a meaningful and impactful career and life, the book tells some very interesting stories about the history of the academy. It is a delightful and enjoyable read!”

~ Maureen P. Weatherall, EdD, Vice Provost of Enrollment Management, Loyola Marymount University

…expect to gain valuable knowledge through these pages while thoroughly enjoying the lessons within.

“Tone Setters in the Academy seamlessly and skillfully creates a playbook for educational administrators that is far from the traditional scholarly read.

Inspiring deep reflections about purposeful student guidance and leadership, the book melds memoir-style writing with wisdom-filled nuggets from the author’s personal experience of 30 years across college and university campuses. Filled with positive mindsets (versus the ‘grindsets’ described in the book), Tone Setters poses powerful questions that challenge the reader to examine their own tone in academia while offering gentle, but actionable, direction.

Part narrator, part counselor, author Andy Ceperley’s writing style–approachable, personable, and humorous–keeps the content fresh and engaging, and readers can’t help but relate to him as both a person and a professional. His charm and wit shine equally with the insights he provides. Readers can expect to gain valuable knowledge through these pages while thoroughly enjoying the lessons within.”

~ Lynn Thorne, Author of the award-winning novel, Who Am I If You’re Not You?

…a masterclass in turning the mundane into the marvelous.

“Andrew Ceperley’s Tone Setters in the Academy is a masterclass in turning the mundane into the marvelous. If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate the tangled web of campus politics and transform the administrative grind into a symphony of purpose, this is your blueprint for conducting your career with grace, grit, and a touch of personal genius.”

~ Steven Morris, advisor, author, and speaker for brand, culture, and business strategy

…helps readers tame their inner saboteurs and cultivate self-compassion…

“The book explores the concept of tone setters in higher education—individuals who you love being around because they align their work with their values to create a significant impact. Drawing from the author’s decorated career, it shares relatable stories of successes and stumbles, and poses thought-provoking questions for readers to reflect on their own University careers. Addressing frustrations with hierarchy and political complexities, the book emphasizes creativity, empathy, and continuous growth with a gentle touch. It encourages planting seeds for future growth and explains the dangers of being the ‘tall poppy’ in the field. Practical strategies such as ‘awe walks’ and tips for handling problem employees are suggested, with transitions framed as opportunities for renewal. By highlighting the ‘magical alchemy’ of a university career, the book revitalizes employees frustrated by a lack of promotion. It also helps readers tame their inner saboteurs and cultivate self-compassion, underscoring the crucial role of tone setting in creating a positive and impactful higher education environment. The reader receives a to do list gift which will enhance their success and brighten their perspective.”

~ Marcy Bullock, career coach and consultant

…a testament to the enduring power of education in shaping lives and fostering personal and professional growth. 

“Reflecting on my journey from a refugee camp to becoming an architect, getting to college was a dream realized through perseverance and the power of education. Tone Setters in the Academy resonated deeply with me as it emphasizes the transformative impact of higher education. Despite the changing times, the pursuit of higher education remains a beautiful and inspiring goal. Ceperley’s insights into cultivating one’s unique tone, managing energy, and accessing wisdom offer invaluable guidance for anyone navigating the world of academia. This book is a testament to the enduring power of education in shaping lives and fostering personal and professional growth.”

~ Hussein Al-Baiaty, author and marketing specialist

Lively anecdotes and practical pillars make this book a truly engaging read. 

“This book—part memoir and part leadership development handbook—takes a growth-oriented look at what it takes to thrive in higher education administration. It is chock full of both ancient and practical wisdom drawn from a surprising breadth of sources, and it describes minefields accurately enough to help us avoid them. Lively anecdotes and practical pillars make this book a truly engaging read.”

~ Penny Rue, Vice President and University Professor Emeritus, Wake Forest University

…you will tour campuses as you learn how to establish effective mindsets pursuant to your future success as a campus administrator. 

“Here is an opportunity to be coached by a consummate higher education professional with an eye and ear to changing times. In Tone Setters in the Academy you can benefit from Andy’s unique insights into the industry’s past, present and future. In these pages you will tour campuses as you learn how to establish effective mindsets pursuant to your future success as a campus administrator.”

~ Mitchel Joslin, former student affairs administrator

…inspires readers to find beauty, purpose and promise in the institutions they serve [and] challenges readers to effect positive change that reflects their own academic ideals and values. 

“Professionals in higher education seeking to reignite their passion for their chosen career, while also implementing strategies to put their imprints into the cultural fabric of the institutions they serve, must read Tone Setters in the Academy. Through the use of historic references, personal reflections and fond descriptions of universities with which the author has engaged, Ceperley inspires readers to find beauty, purpose and promise in the institutions they serve. He then challenges readers to effect positive change that reflects their own academic ideals and values. Those who accept Ceperley’s challenges will experience personal and professional growth while at the same time enhancing their collegiate environments.”

~ Casey Sprock, attorney and educator