[2] Leland was appointed as the third Chancellor for University of California, Merced, replacing Sung-Mo "Steve" Kang from May 18, 2011 until 2019.

in American studies, and a Ph.D in philosophy, all from Purdue University.

[1][5][6] Her research area is contemporary continental philosophy, with a focus on gender and personal, social and cultural identity.

Leland has served on the board of directors of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, Council for Higher Education Accreditation, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and other local and state non-profit organization.

She was a member of the NCAA Division II Presidents Council and has held leadership positions with the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges and the Southern University Conference.