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The Sandbox

The Sandbox, a weekly newsletter, is a benefit for paying Insider members designed to help higher ups in higher ed do their challenging jobs. It’s a place to play and create, share ideas, and allow leaders to say what they really think. We strive to provide a Saturday morning read that is both insightful and entertaining. And we rely on current and past leaders to write to and for us. Contact author Rachel Toor if you want to share feedback and jump into the conversation.

The Sandbox is sent each Saturday morning. Not receiving it? Email us at membership@insidehighered.com.

Sample Issues

Whimsical illustration of leaders in a sandbox

Welcome to The Sandbox

And now for something completely different: not just another boring newsletter to doom scroll.

An illustration of a business person being rained on.

The Sister Presidents are Suffering

"I don't know a single woman of color serving as a college or university president who has not received a credible threat of violence.Not one."

Image of masks

Just the Facts of a Presidency

You cannot make this stuff up. Seriously. You just can’t.

Image of taking off a mask

Presidents Get Real About Their Challenges and Fears

When Ambien doesn’t work, these are some of the thoughts that keep presidents sweating in their beds.

All Newsletters

Illustration of a leader writing a "thank you" note.

Illustration of a leader writing a "thank you" note.

The Sandbox Free Sample Issue

A Little Gratitude Goes a Long Way

September 16, 2023

You don't need to say thank you to be a successful leader, but it may not hurt.

In illustration of a female leader choosing from masks of different emotions.

In illustration of a female leader choosing from masks of different emotions.

The Sandbox Free Sample Issue

Authenticity and Leadership - Guest Essays

September 9, 2023

How much of yourself can you bring to work? Two current leaders weigh in.

Illustration of leaders focused on plans and data while a wall collapses on them.

Illustration of leaders focused on plans and data while a wall collapses on them.

The Sandbox Membership Benefit Membership Benefit

Survey Says...

September 2, 2023

A recent survey confused us. Can you explain what we're missing?

Whimsical illustration of leaders in a sandbox

Whimsical illustration of leaders in a sandbox

The Sandbox Free Sample Issue

Welcome to The Sandbox

August 26, 2023

And now for something completely different: not just another boring newsletter to doom scroll.

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