Show notes
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Buggs, a seasoned higher education administrator with nearly 20 years of experience, to explore her journey of transforming educational environments and championing student success.
Michelle shares how her own college experience gave her the support and visibility she had longed for—igniting a passion to create those same empowering spaces for others. From a life-shaping study abroad trip in London to a pivotal nudge from a mentor to pursue her doctorate, Michelle opens up about the personal moments that fueled her professional growth.
We dive into her impactful research on peer leadership roles in higher education and how they significantly influence student retention and GPA—highlighting the power of student-to-student connection.
Throughout our conversation, Michelle reflects on the value of checking in with loved ones, challenging limiting beliefs, and embracing imperfection. With wisdom and warmth, she shares her thoughts on thoughtful communication, receiving feedback with love, and cultivating relationships grounded in kindness and faith.
If you're passionate about education, leadership, or simply becoming more intentional in how you show up for yourself and others—this episode is for you.
Key Discussions:
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Passion for Higher Education and Growth Michelle shares her transformative experience in higher education and her resilience during a study abroad program in London.
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The Power of Checking In Importance of checking in on loved ones, overcoming limiting beliefs, treating dissertation as a committed relationship, and the impact of peer leadership on student success.
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Cultivating Positive Thinking and Values Self-awareness, relationships, and kindness are important, as well as faith and intentional thinking, in navigating life's challenges and showing love and recognition.
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Cultivating Love Through Thoughtful Communication Embracing imperfection, receiving feedback with love, leading with respect, and acknowledging and uplifting others in our thirties.
More about Michelle:
Dr. Michelle Buggs grew up in Lake Dallas, Texas, a small suburb in the Dallas/ Ft. Worth Metroplex, located between Lewisville and Denton, and is a graduate of Lake Dallas High School.
In 2006, she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. During her time at UTD she was active in several student organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the School of Management Honors Program, and was an Education Abroad participant. While she excelled in the classroom, her true passion was interacting with her peers through student organizations and community activities.
Michelle went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University in May 2008. From there she has served in several professional roles in the higher education field, including Assistant Director of Intercultural Services and Director of Undergraduate Academic Programs at Texas Woman's University. Michelle then went on to earn her Doctor of Education degree in Higher Education from the University of North Texas in May 2015.
In September 2019, Dr. Buggs transitioned to Collin College to serve as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the McKinney Campus and then as the Dean of Academic Affairs at the McKinney Campus in February 2024.
Throughout her career in higher education, Dr. Buggs has been a steady advocate for equality in education, mentoring, teaching excellence, enhancing policies and procedures, and developing programs focused on student success. In her personal time, Michelle loves spending time with her family and friends, working out, traveling, reading, attending church, and concerts!
Connect with Michelle: Email- mbuggs@collin.edu 💡 Join the Women Growth Group initiative and Elevate your journey with our live, in-person training sessions, designed to ignite your potential and drive remarkable growth with a vibrant network of dynamic women!
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Meet Elizabeth Mahusay:
Elizabeth is a dynamic professional committed to empowering individuals and organizations through thought transformation. With a background in chemistry education, she initially taught science before discovering her passion for mentoring and coaching. Over the years, Elizabeth has trained thousands to overcome limiting beliefs and implement systems that foster personal and professional growth.
In 2024, she published her latest book, Pick Your Path, which offers practical insights and encouragement to help readers align their careers and personal lives with their true calling. Elizabeth is also a certified keynote speaker and leadership coach with Southwestern Consulting, specializing in sales, management, and leadership development.
As the host of the Thinking That Matters podcast, she shares valuable content on business, motivation, and personal growth. Elizabeth and her husband, Fred, have been married for over 28 years and have two grown sons. They are active members of Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen, Texas.
Ready to shift the way you think and lead?
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