Borrowing Belief: The Leadership Journey of Susan DeWoody

Written By: Tina Alvey Dale

Higher education was not just a personal milestone for Dr. Susan Mastin DeWoody, ’00. It was uncharted territory. As a first-generation college student, she navigated admissions, scholarships, and campus life without a family roadmap, but the unwavering support she found at Westark College was something that shaped the trajectory of her life.

“Everywhere I turned there was a friendly face,” DeWoody said.

Faculty and staff went beyond answering questions; they helped her understand what the next steps toward success would look like. She began building the confidence that would define her future through work and leadership opportunities, including serving as a student ambassador and participating in the Student Activities Council.

Sorne Gregory, the admissions counselor who’d walked her step-by-step through processes that felt intimidating, saw her potential and invited her to become a student ambassador. That early leadership role gave DeWoody exposure to professional environments, donor engagement, and public speaking.

In the Student Activities Office, Stacey Jones modeled a leadership style that combined high expectations with exceptional support.

“He challenged me to rise to a higher standard while ensuring I had the tools and encouragement to succeed,” DeWoody said.

Over time, what began as “borrowed belief” evolved into her own steady self-confidence.

That foundation carried DeWoody into a diverse academic career spanning recruitment, advising, athletics, and academic affairs. She became the first female provost in the 113-year history of Oklahoma Baptist University, a legacy she didn’t initially realize she was leaving. When she learned of the historic significance, it prompted reflection. In a context where senior leadership roles had traditionally been held by men, her presence carried symbolic weight. Female students began sharing how meaningful it was to see a woman in executive leadership.

“For me, on a personal note, I saw a very successful female provost in Dr. Sandi Sanders at Westark, so I knew it was possible,” DeWoody said. “But the context I was working in made it less probable, and that’s not lost on me. Dr. Sanders was the embodiment of a successful, polished leader, who I will always consider a role model.”

Today, DeWoody serves as president of Strata Leadership, a firm dedicated to elevating life at work through leadership development, coaching, and consulting. Her work sits at the intersection of strategy and people. She coaches senior leaders, facilitates executive forums, and guides organizations through growth and change.

“Leadership ultimately revolves around trust, clarity, accountability, and belief in others’ potential,” she said.

She speaks openly about experiencing imposter syndrome, particularly during seasons when she stepped into roles before she felt fully ready. Preparation, resilience, and trusted mentors helped her move forward.

She often returns to the concept of a growth mindset, popularized by Carol Dweck, especially the power of one small word: “Yet.”

If her life carries a central message, it is that steady effort, courage, and perseverance matter. She also is quick to remind that sometimes believing in oneself begins by borrowing belief from someone else.

For DeWoody, UAFS was not only where she was developed. It was where she first learned how to help develop others. That full-circle legacy continues to shape her work and impact her life today.

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