Persistence and Planned Happenstance | Friday Career Connection Ep. 26 | Kristy Morgan

In this episode of the Friday Career Connection, Dr. Kristy Morgan, Associate Vice President for Career Success at Southern Utah University, shares her powerful story of resilience, navigating unexpected life pivots, and building a meaningful career through the power of mentorship, organic networking, and planned happenstance. Whether you are navigating a career shift, balancing family responsibilities, or trying to future-proof your trajectory in the age of AI, this episode delivers practical, grounded wisdom you can apply right now. Dr. Morgan breaks down why linear career paths are a myth, how introverts and extroverts alike can build an authentic professional network without feeling "salesy," and why persistence will always trump perfect circumstances. In this episode, we cover: Embracing Planned Happenstance: Discover the five essential postures—curiosity, persistence, flexibility, optimism, and risk-taking—that position you to capitalize on unexpected opportunities. Authentic Networking & Lifelines: Learn why networking is about dynamic support and survival rather than self-serving schmoozing, along with actionable tips to expand your professional network. Redefining Balance & Overcoming Comparison: Hear Dr. Morgan's candid journey as a single mother managing a high-level executive career, and how letting go of comparison can empower your personal path. Navigating AI & Job Application Tactics: Get expert advice on standing out in today's job market, leveraging targeted applications, overcoming automated AI resume screeners, and maintaining career relevance. ABOUT THE GUEST: Dr. Kristy Morgan is the Associate Vice President for Career Success at Southern Utah University. With over two decades of leadership experience in higher education and Student Affairs—including ten years as a Vice President for Student Affairs—Dr. Morgan has dedicated her career to guiding students toward purposeful, high-impact careers. She holds a master’s degree and a doctorate from Kansas State University and specializes in student retention, career development theory, and practical mentorship. CONNECT with Dr. Kristy Morgan: Dr. Kristy Morgan on LinkedIn:   / kristy-jo-morgan   ABOUT FRIDAY CAREER CONNECTION: Hosted by Tad Brinkerhoff, Associate Vice President for Graduate & Online Studies at Southern Utah University, the Friday Career Connection brings together the SUU online community to explore career management, leadership, and professional growth in an evolving digital world. CONNECT with SUU Graduate & Online: Website: https://suu.edu/online LinkedIn: SUU Graduate & Online Studies:   / suu-grad-online   Is a college degree in your future? Explore SUU's programs: https://suu.edu/online #SUUGradOnline #ThisIsWhereYouSoar #CareerSuccess #SouthernUtahUniversity #PlannedHappenstance #HigherEdLeadership #NetworkingTips