We had the privilege of hearing from Dr. Dean Pribbenow, the 17th President of Millikin University, who began his role on July 1, 2025. We are so grateful he took the time to speak with our CEO class about servant leadership and what it truly means to lead with purpose.
Dr. Pribbenow was introduced to the CEO program through a first-year student who had previously been involved and even created a business centered around community coloring books featuring local landmarks—such a powerful reminder of the impact this program has beyond high school.
He didn’t just speak to our students—he engaged them. One activity challenged students to think about the characteristics of leaders they are drawn to versus those they avoid. His message was clear: what often gets celebrated in society can be the opposite of true servant leadership.
Servant leadership, he explained, is about removing barriers so others can do their best work—creating stronger, more sustainable organizations that aren’t dependent on just one person. Authority should be earned, and leadership should center around purpose and people. Listening, empathy, and those often-called “soft skills” are actually signs of strength.
He referenced Robert Greenleaf’s philosophy: serve first, put others before self, lead with empathy instead of ego, and listen more than you speak. He also emphasized stewardship—understanding that we don’t own what we lead, but rather, we are called to care for it and leave it better than we found it.
Dr. Pribbenow shared his nontraditional career path, beginning as a high school English teacher, later earning a master’s in counseling, and spending 36 years in higher education. His perspective reinforced that our lives are not fixed paths—we always have the ability to change direction. Influenced by his father, a minister, he learned early on the importance of caring for others and leading by example.
He reminded students to “never do anything alone”—that the best results come from bringing others along, building partnerships, and lifting people up. Great leaders see potential in others that they may not yet see in themselves and help foster that growth.
When thinking about his own leadership and reputation, Dr. Pribbenow shared his “Four P’s”: Be Present, Purpose, People, and Partnership. Show up. Build relationships. Put people before product and institution before self.
He also shared that one of his favorite parts of his role is the variety—no two days are the same—and getting to see students pursue what they love.
We are incredibly thankful for Dr. Pribbenow s time, wisdom, and genuine investment in our students. His message was a powerful reminder of the kind of leaders our world truly needs. #mtzionilceo #millikinuniversity
