This study explored the role of leadership, especially that of the college president, in the application of continuous quality improvement (CQI) principles in higher education. The life history method study focused on William Troutt, president of Belmont University (Tennessee), who has been successfully guiding CQI initiatives at the institution for eight years. The study involved interviews with all members of the senior leadership team and other administrators, and analysis of presidential speeches, board of trustee minutes, and other institution documents. The study identified primary themes of the CQI effort as they relate to personal characteristics of the president and interpersonal dynamics. Personal characteristics identified included a willingness to take risks and to act unconventionally and a determination to learn and grow as a leader. The main themes identified in interpersonal dynamics concerned inspiring commitment and maintaining alignment to the mission and vision, developing relationships of openness and trust, involving and empowering others, and encouraging communication and feedback. Each of the identified themes is illustrated with excerpts from interviews. (Contains 35 references.) (DB)