About
Patricia A. Clary
Dr. Patricia A. Clary is a dynamic scholar-practitioner, author, and consultant whose leadership spans across higher education, nonprofit management, and strategic organizational development. With a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University and over four decades of experience in business and public service, Dr. Clary has earned distinction as a compelling communicator, a transformational leader, and a passionate advocate for inclusive, collaborative systems change.
Her leadership in educational administration includes directing more than 400 credit and non-credit programs across 26 university campus sites, with a focus on adult and non-traditional learners seeking professional advancement. She has served in key roles at institutions including the University of Massachusetts Global (formerly Brandman University), Rancho Santiago Community College, and as an invited speaker at Troy University and Murray State Academy for Nonprofit Development and Leadership.
Dr. Clary advises national and international organizations on strategic planning, governance, and convening leadership, often applying research-driven approaches rooted in systems thinking and commons governance. Her extensive experience in fundraising and campaign management has advanced community-based initiatives, increased donor engagement, and strengthened cross-sector partnerships.
A recognized thought leader in public and nonprofit leadership, Dr. Clary has published contributions in EMERALD Publishing, Merits, the International Journal of Public Leadership, and Oikos. Her current and forthcoming works, including Beyond Boundaries Leadership, reflect her commitment to equity, innovation, and ethical leadership in the global nonprofit sector.
An active member of the International Leadership Association, she has held leadership roles in the Women and Leadership and Public Leadership member communities and regularly presents at global conferences. Additionally, she has served on more than 45 boards and commissions, demonstrating a sustained commitment to civic engagement and a deep expertise in governance, economic development, and social impact.
Her research interests include authentic and ethical leadership, burnout, diversity and inclusion, nonprofit sustainability, collaborative governance, and women’s leadership. Through teaching, writing, consulting, presenting, and speaking, she strives to inspire purposeful leadership that transcends boundaries and transforms systems for the greater good.