My Vision for Global Higher Education: A Professional Manifesto

This statement encapsulates my philosophy, mission, vision, principles, and mindset as a professional in global higher education. It begins with a brief overview of my career, followed by an exploration of my ontological and epistemological perspectives, and concludes with a synthesis of my professional identity through key descriptors.

Philosophical Underpinnings

My experiences across diverse educational settings have solidified my philosophical stance in critical realism, which contends that although reality in quasi-closed systems is mediated through our experiences and judgmental rationality, an objective reality still persists independently. This philosophy, refuting both naïve empiricism and radical constructivism, directs my recognition of the multifaceted realities of higher education, each molded by distinct social, cultural, and institutional processes. Nonetheless, I endeavor to discern the underlying structures governing these realities, thereby deepening my understanding of the working mechanisms beneath the global higher education landscape.

Mission and Values

I am committed to the transformative power of education in enhancing human rights and well-being globally. My advocacy for diversity and inclusion is aimed at providing equitable learning opportunities, particularly for underrepresented groups. Despite the challenges of aligning this vision with national and regional interests, my goal remains to foster an inclusive educational environment where all learners feel valued.

Professional Identity: Five Key Descriptors

1. International Educator

As an International Educator, my approach is rooted in the belief that education transcends geographical borders and institutional walls. Championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives as fundamental elements, I focus on the holistic growth and success of students and the communities we build together. By promoting an inclusive environment that fosters global understanding and cooperation, I actively contribute to the educational community. My role goes beyond administrative functions, aiming to inspire and shape the lives of students to help them realize their diverse aspirations. 

2. Higher Education Strategist

As a Higher Education Strategist, my focus extends beyond immediate educational concerns to include critical thinking, long-term planning, and forward-looking views that anticipate future challenges and opportunities in the global educational landscape. With a nuanced understanding of international trends and educational dynamics, my strategic initiatives are designed to enhance academic institutions' adaptability and influence. I integrate purposefully critical realism into my strategy, which provides an in-depth and holistic perspective between empirical evidence and the recognition of underlying social structures. 

3. Scholar-Practitioner

I embrace the mantle of a Scholar-Practitioner, actively trailblazing through conventional practitioner roles to expand my expertise into research, scholarship, and ultimately higher education leadership. This dual capacity enables me to translate practical experiences into scholarly contributions, extending my impact far beyond the national landscape by sharing insights and fostering dialogue on a global stage. Simultaneously, my steadfast pursuit of brand-new insights through scholarly activities enriches my knowledge base for a successful career.

4. Edupreneur

As an Edupreneur, I am committed to innovating within the educational sector through the cultivation of public-private partnerships and digital transformation. These are critical for introducing fresh solutions to the field of higher education. By bridging the gap between public initiatives and private enterprise, I initiate and guide ventures that not only respond to educational demands but also anticipate future trends. My entrepreneurial approach underlines a strategic foresight, where the design and implementation of novel educational models and programs lead to sustainable and transformative impacts on a global scale.

5. Career Trailblazer

My career as a trailblazer in higher education is marked by a bold departure from the fast-follower mindset. By carving out new paths for professional growth within the South Korean higher educational system, characterized by faculty-dominant governance in particular, and beyond, I set new standards of excellence as a reputable expert. My journey reflects a steadfast dedication to exploring uncharted territories in academia and higher education administration, management, and policy, constantly evolving to meet the demands of an increasingly interconnected and digitized world.

Synthesis

In my professional ethos, these diverse roles and philosophical commitments converge to form a coherent and dynamic vision for my career in global higher education. As I continue to navigate the complexities of this ever-evolving field in the technology-driven era of artificial intelligence, my focus remains steadfast on creating opportunities that enable students worldwide to achieve their potential, institutions to thrive in changing landscapes, and communities to benefit from the transformative power of education. My professional identity, shaped by my roles as an International Educator, Higher Education Strategist, Scholar-Practitioner, Edupreneur, and Career Trailblazer, positions me uniquely to lead, inspire, and effect change, ensuring that my contributions resonate across the educational spectrum and leave a lasting impact.