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Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Santarvis Brown

Dr. Santarvis Brown


Elevating Leaders. Transforming Institutions. Seeing People as Priceless!


At the National Academy of Leadership Development, we believe leadership is most powerful when it begins with how we see people.


This spotlight is part of our ongoing effort to highlight faculty members who are not only developing leaders, but helping shape cultures where people feel valued, seen, and empowered to thrive.


Meet the Leader Behind the Work


Before we dive into the conversation, it is worth knowing a bit about the leader behind the insights.


Dr. Santarvis Brown is a globally recognized educator and leadership strategist who is passionate about developing people and transforming organizations. He currently serves as Graduate Business Department Chair at Excelsior University and has taught at institutions including Cornell University and the University of Virginia. Recognized as Educator of the Year by CIO Today and a recipient of a Global Leader Award, he is also a published author whose work explores leadership, equity, and organizational transformation. He is the founder of The Equity and Elevation Collective, where he equips leaders to navigate complexity, lead with purpose, and elevate those around them.



Leadership becomes truly priceless when it elevates people beyond what they believed was possible for themselves.

The Conversation


Tell us a little about what you do and who you serve.


I develop and guide leaders, institutions, and organizations toward more intentional and effective leadership. My work is centered on helping people grow in how they lead, think, and influence, particularly within higher education and leadership development spaces.



Where are you based?


I am based in Miami, Florida, and work with leaders and organizations across different regions.



What is a defining moment or season that shaped how you lead today?


A defining season in my leadership journey came during a time of challenge and transition when I had to navigate complexity, uncertainty, and competing priorities. That season forced me to reflect deeply on who I was as a leader and what truly mattered. It shaped my commitment to leading with clarity, purpose, and a deep respect for the people I serve.



What are your primary areas of focus right now?


My current focus centers on higher education transformation, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness. I am especially passionate about helping institutions and leaders navigate change while staying grounded in values that uplift people and drive meaningful outcomes.



Who do you most enjoy working with and why?


I most enjoy working with leaders and organizations that are ready to grow. These are individuals who are willing to reflect, challenge assumptions, and embrace new ways of thinking. There is something powerful about partnering with leaders who recognize that growth is not just about results, but about becoming better stewards of the people they lead.



What encouragement would you offer a leader who feels stuck or discouraged?


You are not as stuck as you feel. Often, what looks like a barrier is actually an invitation to pause, reflect, and realign. Growth does not always come through forward motion. Sometimes it comes through deeper understanding. Stay committed to your purpose. The breakthrough often comes just after the moment you feel like giving up.



What does seeing people as priceless mean to you?


Seeing people as priceless means recognizing their inherent value beyond performance, titles, or outcomes. It is about honoring the dignity, potential, and humanity in every person and leading in a way that reflects that belief consistently. When leaders truly see people this way, it changes how they communicate, decide, and show up every day.



Finish this sentence. Leadership becomes truly priceless when...


It elevates people beyond what they believed was possible for themselves.



What is something people might not know about you?


Beyond my academic and professional work, I have a deep appreciation for personal growth, reflection, and the journey of becoming. I value the spaces where learning and life intersect and where leadership becomes personal.



Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?


My work is grounded in the belief that leadership is not just about outcomes. It is about impact. The way we lead shapes how people think, feel, and perform. When we lead with intention and care, we do not just build better organizations. We help people become better versions of themselves.



Areas of Impact


Leadership Development

Higher Education Transformation

Organizational Effectiveness

Equity and People First Leadership



Connect with Dr. Brown




A Final Word


Dr. Brown brings a powerful combination of experience, thought leadership, and heart to the National Academy of Leadership Development faculty. He is equipped to deliver the Priceless Leadership programs and help organizations build cultures where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.


Because at the end of the day, leadership is not just about results. It is about people.


And people are priceless!


Interested in bringing the Priceless Leadership experience to your organization?



Or contact Scott Doggett at Scott@nationalald.com
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