In a recent episode of the “Something Extra” podcast hosted by Lisa Nichols, CEO of Technology Partners, WashU’s Vice Chancellor for Technology and CIO Jessie Minton, shares compelling insights into how her lifelong passion for equestrian competitions has shaped her leadership style. Drawing parallels between horse-riding and effective team management, she underscores the importance of patience, resilience, and authentic communication in guiding her team through complex challenges. Her experiences highlight a philosophy that is as critical in the tech world as it is in the show ring—building strong, trusting partnerships that lead to success.
Jessie delves into the unique needs of WashU, touching on the distinct requirements of the Danforth campus’s liberal arts programs and the medical school’s privacy needs, especially in the age of Artificial Intelligence. She discusses the WashU IT Strategic Plan, ImpacT, which directly supports the university’s Here and Next Strategic Plan and emphasizes the importance of AI and enhanced cybersecurity. Jessie candidly shares lessons learned from her early career missteps, which highlight the critical role of clear communication in tech leadership. Notably, Jessie’s journey is marked by significant achievements, including her 2024 ORBIE Award through St. LouisCIO and the Inspire Leadership Network win and being a finalist for the 2025 National ORBIE Award, affirming her exceptional contributions to technological advancement at the university and beyond.
Listeners will be inspired by Jessie’s approach to leadership, which is deeply rooted in authenticity and a relentless pursuit of supporting and elevating both her team and her institution. Her stories of navigating the evolving landscape of AI and cybersecurity, while fostering a culture of innovation and accountability are thought-provoking reasons to tune into this episode. Jessie’s journey offers valuable lessons for leaders in technology and beyond, making this episode a must-listen.