Jeffrey S. Raikes, who took the helm as chair of the Stanford University Board of Trustees in July, is a Stanford alum who earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering-economic systems in 1980. He and his wife, Tricia, are the parents of three children who have earned degrees on the Farm. Raikes recently sat down with Stanford Report to talk about his management style, the role trustees play as “thought partners” to university leadership, and how his experiences at Stanford helped shape the trajectory of his life.

 

As trustees, we can leverage our networks – speak to the people to which we’re connected–learn their viewpoints and provide an external perspective that will contribute to the process. Stanford has big aspirations for its impact on the world. So a big question for us is: How can we as trustees tap into our external experience in ways that really enhance what Marc and Persis and university leadership will do as part of long-range planning?

Our trustees also have a very strong interest in campus life. This may be one of the most dynamic periods in the evolution of the student experience. I think it’s very important that our trustees be connected and they’re very excited to do that.

I learned the importance of community values growing up in that environment, a small town where you know everybody and your neighbors support each other. That’s how I think about Stanford – a community. My brother and sister-in-law, who were professors, gave me additional perspectives on academia.

While Stanford University always has room to grow and to improve, I couldn’t be prouder of our institution and its impact on the world.

Read the full article by Kathleen J. Sullivan on Stanford News