Kean University President Lamont Repollet calls it the “crystal ball effect,” a leadership concept that emphasizes making credible, intentional, values-based commitments that inspire trust and shared belief.
When leaders articulate plausible and principled goals, Repollet said, individuals and organizations are more likely to work collectively toward long-term success.
The concept is just one of the cornerstone philosophies that Repollet details in his new book, Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand and Achieving Success.
The book, which he co-authored with Kean University Distinguished Professor Robin Landa, offers a values-driven framework for leaders navigating today’s complex professional and civic landscapes.
It was released this week.
How to buy the book
Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving Success is available on Amazon and at major booksellers. Proceeds will benefit the Kean University Foundation.
Blending scholarship, lived experience and practical insight, Leadership by Design presents a three-part framework to leadership centered on winning hearts, building a personal brand and achieving success.
The authors emphasize that effective leadership requires forging genuine trust and emotional connection, shaping how leadership is perceived through intentional choices and delivering results measured by meaning, values and legacy.
“Leadership by Design reflects a belief I’ve carried throughout my career,” Repollet said. “Leadership is about more than strategy; it’s about purpose and creating a legacy that empowers others.
“This book represents an opportunity to share that perspective and challenge readers to be intentional architects of the future, designing leadership that is built to last.”
Published by Routledge, the 192-page book is intended for educators and emerging leaders seeking a practical approach to aligning values with action and educational leaders are already turning to the book as a resource.
Charles Ford Jr., superintendent of the Monmouth County Vocational School District, said he will do just that.
“As a superintendent, I am always looking for ways to take my district from good to great,” he said. “Leadership by Design is more than just a guide; it’s a transformative blueprint for educational leaders.
“This powerful resource equips educators to lead with authenticity, build a strong and purposeful brand, and ultimately drive meaningful success for students and communities alike.”
The collaboration between Repollet and Landa began several years ago at a Kean Human Rights Conference and grew through continued conversations around ethics, leadership and design thinking. Landa, who has authored 27 books, said the partnership was rooted in shared values and a commitment to purposeful leadership.
“Dr. Repollet is a rare leader who is ethical, visionary and deeply humanistic,” Landa said. “I knew immediately this project would be different and high level.”
Repollet has long distinguished himself as a thought-leader in the state. His efforts to increase the impact of a Kean education are well known. And his reach will soon grow, as Kean is in the process of completing a merger with New Jersey City University.
Repollet said the collaboration with Landa reflects the leadership philosophy advanced in the book itself.
“Collaborating with Robin was a meaningful experience,” he said. “Her expertise helped shape the structure of this book, and together we created a leadership framework rooted in values and intention.”
Landa said the book serves as a guide.
“Anyone reading this book should walk away understanding they are the chief architect of the future,” she said. “Leadership doesn’t emerge by chance; it must be designed with vision and purpose.”
