Dr. Lydia Dodson grew up in Little Compton and Tiverton, Rhode Island, where her grandfather, a Navy veteran, also served in the Coast Guard Auxilliary. She is a proud first-generation college graduate, an experience that continues to shape her deep commitment to education and opportunity.
When she arrived at Bay Path University’s campus for her first day of work, she felt something familiar. Driving up the street, she experienced the same overwhelming sense of belonging she felt years earlier when she moved to Bristol, Rhode Island. For this native Rhode Islander, Bay Path immediately felt like home.
The Chief of Staff role often operates behind the scenes. How do you describe your work to someone outside higher education?
I once worked for a president who liked to say, “I’d rather be Clark Kent than Superman.” That has always resonated with me because the Chief of Staff role is about impact, not spotlight.
To someone outside higher education, I describe my work as being a strategic integrator and problem-solver. I help move forward the initiatives that are important but often don’t have a clear home. I connect people and priorities, ensure follow-through on key projects, and provide the President and leadership team with the context they need to make informed decisions.
In many ways, I serve as both a connector and a translator—bringing together perspectives from across the institution and the community. Most importantly, I focus on removing obstacles and creating alignment so others can do their work effectively and successfully.
What excited you most about stepping into this role at Bay Path?
The mission. Bay Path has such a beautiful mission, and it aligns closely with my own values. How could I not want to work somewhere with such amazing students, a strong career focus, and a beautiful environment? I felt deeply drawn to this institution. When I submitted my application, I was truly hoping this opportunity would come to fruition.
Who or what has influenced your leadership style?
A mentor of mine is a former president of the Community College of Rhode Island, Ray DiPasquale, who also served at Massasoit Community College when I worked there. He had a profound impact on me. He passed away suddenly, but his leadership example stays with me.
He brought the human side to leadership. He treated everyone with compassion and understanding and always put people first. He believed in lifting people up — helping them see what they were capable of, even when they doubted themselves. From him, I learned that leadership is about empowering others, staying grounded in your values, and making room for heart and compassion, especially when facing difficult decisions.
What do you hope your colleagues experience when they work with you?
I hope my colleagues feel supported and confident when they work with me—that I’ve helped remove obstacles and create clarity so they can focus on achieving their goals. I want them to feel valued and appreciated for the work they do. And ideally, they end the day feeling accomplished… and maybe even with a smile.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I love to skydive. I’ve jumped twice at Jumptown in Orange, Massachusetts. People assume it’s all adrenaline, but it’s incredibly peaceful. When you jump out of the plane, it’s quiet and serene. You can even see the curve of the earth. It’s awe-inspiring.
My first jump was tandem, and it reminded me of riding on the back of my dad’s motorcycle when I was three years old. I used to say, “Faster, Daddy, faster!” I’ve been on the back of a Harley since I was a child and even owned two of my own. I’m off the road now, but that sense of speed and wonder has always stayed with me.
I also love to cook, and I make a mean seafood chowder!
What brings you the most joy outside of work?
My family and my three dogs: Zeus, Stella, and Coco Chanel. Two are Rottweilers, and one is an XL Bully. Stella, the Rottweiler, is named after Stella in A Streetcar Named Desire. They all bring so much joy and energy to my life.
Is there a book, quote, or personal mantra you live by?
“To thine own self be true,” from Hamlet. My mom said that to me when I was a child, and it has guided me ever since. If you’re true to yourself, it helps guide everything you do.
