Excellence in Leadership (Unclassified)

Sandi Holdheide

Sandi Holdheide has redefined what it means to be an outstanding leader.

As director of student services and public relations at the Wright State–Lake Campus, Holdheide oversees a multitude of units. She serves as chair of  the commencement steering committee and for several employee searches. In addition, she regularly serves on Lake Campus committees for large events such as the Regional Summit, Residence Move-In Weekend, New Student Orientation, and Welcome Wednesdays.

In these demanding roles, Holdheide has proven time and time again she has the keen ability to multitask and to lead any project.

“Her ongoing review of services and events has led to many positive changes at the Lake Campus,” said Candace Phlipot, coordinator of Lake Campus events and student activities. “Sandi is a driving force in many of our traditions.”

Holdheide inspires her staff to continuously evaluate their own abilities to provide the best service to the students, staff, faculty, and guests while following and enforcing policies. She stays connected to her staff by hosting one-on-one meeting with each staff member on a regular basis.

Within her unit, Holdheide formed “relentless committees” inspired by the university’s Strategic Plan. These committees have worked closely with the Lake Campus Student Success Center and Career Services, improved data analysis, connected more closely with staff at the Dayton Campus, and created new ideas for professional development throughout the year.

Through her responsibilities, professional attitude, continued goals, and missions for her unit and the Lake Campus, Holdheide had demonstrated an unparalleled passion for higher education and Wright State as a whole.