Lynn Perry Wooten

Lynn Perry Wooten stands as a pioneering figure in the realm of organizational development and transformation, her career marked by significant firsts and groundbreaking leadership. As the ninth president of Simmons University, she holds the distinction of being the first African American to lead the venerable institution, a testament to her extraordinary expertise and visionary leadership. Her academic journey commenced with remarkable achievements, including being named valedictorian upon earning her bachelor's degree from North Carolina A&T State University. This foundation was further enriched by an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and a doctorate from the University of Michigan, equipping her with the multifaceted insights necessary for her subsequent influential roles. Among her notable contributions to the field of leadership, Lynn Perry Wooten coauthored "The Prepared Leader: Emerge from Any Crisis More Resilient Than Before" with Erika H. James. This work, acclaimed for its incisive exploration of crisis management and resilience, underscores her profound understanding of the complexities leaders face in turbulent times. Her tenure as the David J. Nolan Dean and Professor of Management and Organizations at the Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management further cemented her status as a thought leader, alongside her nearly two decades on the faculty at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, where she specialized in crisis leadership and positive organizational scholarship. Wooten's literary and professional contributions are characterized by a distinctive blend of insightful analysis and practical guidance, aimed at empowering leaders to navigate and thrive amidst adversity. Her writing style is both engaging and authoritative, weaving together themes of diversity, inclusion, and innovative leadership. Residing in Brookline, Massachusetts, she remains a vibrant participant in the Boston philanthropic and civic community, continually seeking to foster environments where leaders can emerge stronger and more resilient. Through her work, Lynn Perry Wooten has cemented her legacy as a transformative voice in leadership studies, inspiring a generation of leaders to rise to the challenges of an ever-evolving world.