In an ever-changing environment, higher education must be able to adapt with the times, and key players will be administrators who are prepared for the future. Artists have special skill sets and perspectives which uniquely prepare them for leadership roles, so the purpose of this qualitative dissertation in practice was to identify traits of successful artists who have transitioned into higher education leadership positions. Additionally, the research explored how these traits translated, enhanced, and limited their ability to effectively lead others within the higher ed environment. This study used a qualitative research method to gather valuable data through interviews. At the time of the study, all participants had worked or were working in higher education leadership in the position of associate dean or above for two or more years, and each had an artistic background. Data from their interviews were collected and coded, and various themes emerged in the findings that contribute to a discussion of how artists' unique skill sets translate to higher education leadership roles. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]