Nicole Stokes-DuPass, Ph.D.
Position: Associate Professor of Sociology
Institution: Holy Family University

What does leadership mean to you?

I describe myself as a servant-leader because in order to lead others effectively, one must also demonstrate the ability to follow other’s leadership. I believe that leadership (formal or informal) provides vision, guidance, and inspiration for others to do their best work. At its core, leadership involves having the courage to make the right decisions at the right time and not just the ones that are popular. Effective leaders engage and empower others to achieve collective goals for a shared objective.

Why is networking/mentoring important?  

Mentoring relationships are similar to any other type. They require trust, respect, and expertise. I used to believe that one person can/should embody all things as a mentor. Over the years, I have learned that it is more useful to learn specific things from a variety of different people. Organizations like PAACE allow opportunities to interact with women in a variety of positions in higher education. As a result, it provides us with unique opportunities to learn from a diverse pool of potential mentors.

Why are you a member of PAACE? 

I love being involved with the ACE Women’s Network. It is one of the few organizations that support women in every position and at every level in academia. Many of our professional organizations are geared toward our institutional role or academic discipline and the PAACE Women’s Network is open and supportive to all. We provide our members with a venue for professional and leadership development and a space to bring and grow their unique talents.

Biography

Prior to her tenure at Holy Family University, she was Director of the International Study Center at Widener University and a Associate Professor of Sociology at Union County College in Cranford, NJ in the Department of Psychology and Sociology. She was an active member of the New Jersey ACE Women’s Network.