Dr. George Pruitt ’68, M.S.’70, L.H.D. ’94, one of the longest serving collegiate presidents in the United States, joins Redbird Buzz to share how Illinois State University launched his journey in higher education.

Pruitt is currently president emeritus and board distinguished fellow at Thomas Edison State University. Prior to his 35-year presidency, he served in executive leadership positions at Illinois State, Towson State University, Morgan State University, Tennessee State University, and the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning. He also served as an advisor to five U.S. secretaries of education under three presidents of both parties.

During this episode of Redbird Buzz, Pruitt discusses his role in historical moments on campus during the Civil Rights Movement and the challenges he faced and his accomplishments leading a university. Pruitt also provides his perspective on leadership and social justice and how having resources, support, and close friends can help individuals find their true talents.

Redbird Buzz is available on SpotifyApple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsAmazon MusicStitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Transcripts of each episode are available online at Alumni.IllinoisState.edu/Podcast.