Back on the Road (and Loving It)
by Claire L. Brady, EdD
Spring semester always arrives with a particular kind of energy—and this year, that energy is already in motion. As I kick off my spring travels, my calendar reads like a cross-country tour: my home state of Florida, Arizona, California (three times!), Arkansas, Texas (twice), Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Kansas—and that’s just the first few months. Add in a full slate of virtual engagements with clients across the country, and it’s shaping up to be one of those seasons that reminds me exactly why I love this work.
I get asked a lot whether I consider myself a “road warrior” consultant. I suppose the answer is yes—by definition. But that label never quite captures what it feels like to step onto a campus, walk past a student union buzzing with conversation, or sit in a room with staff and faculty who care deeply about doing right by their students. Being physically present matters. There is something grounding about seeing the context, feeling the pace of a campus, and understanding the culture beyond what any Zoom call can convey.
I genuinely love being on campus—connecting with staff, faculty, and students, soaking up the unique personality each institution brings, and yes, occasionally snapping a selfie with a campus mascot like I did today at FSCJ. Those moments aren’t just fun; they’re informative. They help me be a better consultant and a more thoughtful partner. When I understand how a campus feels, I can tailor my work in ways that are more human, more practical, and more aligned with reality.
At the same time, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the power of virtual work. Many of my clients continue to invite me back for strategic “tune-ups,” coaching sessions, and targeted projects long after an initial engagement. How great is that? It’s a testament to the relationships we’ve built and the trust that develops when work is grounded, useful, and responsive to evolving needs.
This spring also includes two important pauses—intentional moments to be fully present in community. In January and February, I’ll be spending meaningful IRL time with my partners in the Association for Higher Education Consulting and Coaching (AHECC), as well as with our growing membership at our very first in-person gathering: the 2026 AHECC Retreat in Savannah. Creating space for connection, reflection, and shared learning feels especially important right now, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’re building together.
As busy as the spring calendar is becoming, I still have a few openings for consulting and coaching clients and am beginning to schedule summer engagements. And looming just ahead—late spring—my book “AI with Intention” will finally make its way into the world. I couldn’t be more excited to share it.
I’m honored to get to do this work, to travel, to connect, and to partner with so many thoughtful people across higher education. Whether on campus or on screen, I’m looking forward to what this season brings—and to the conversations still to come.
