June 19, 2025

Empathy, Leadership, and Collective Action in Higher Ed with Dr. Terri Givens

36 minutes

Dr. Terri Givens is a regular "Friend of the Show" on Trending in Ed and a professor of political science at the University of British Columbia and author of Radical Empathy. She joins host Mike Palmer to discuss the current challenges facing higher education and academic associations, the importance of collaboration, and how individuals can take action in a chaotic world.

Key Takeaways:

Higher education faces significant disruptions, including declining enrollment, reduced research funding, and a shift towards an adjunct-focused model.

Academic associations are crucial for faculty development and networking but struggle with declining membership and funding.

There's a growing demand for academic associations to take political stances, which is challenging for their 501(c)(3) status.

Collaboration and strategic planning are essential for academic associations and universities to navigate current challenges.

The current political landscape highlights systemic issues like racism and discrimination, underscoring the need for mutual aid and community involvement.

Empathy and taking action are vital in addressing societal and educational challenges, as discussed in Dr. Givens' upcoming book, Reckoning.

It's crucial for higher education to better articulate its value, especially that of a liberal education, beyond just job prospects.

The politicization of higher education is a concern, but it also presents an opportunity for institutions to unite and promote their positive impact.

A historical and global perspective helps us understand and navigate current challenges, recognizing that societies have overcome major hurdles before.

Why You Should Listen:

Gain insights into the significant challenges and disruptions impacting higher education and academic associations today.

Learn about the critical role of academic associations and why their struggles have a "domino effect" on the broader academic landscape.

Understand the call for greater collaboration and strategic foresight within higher education to address current and future crises.

Hear Dr. Givens' perspective on how individuals can find agency and make an impact in a chaotic world, emphasizing local action and mutual aid.

Explore the intersection of politics and education, and why staying politically involved is essential for everyone.

Discover why higher education needs to re-articulate its value and address issues like declining male enrollment.

Tune in to hear Dr. Terri Givens share her extensive experience and sharp analysis on the state of higher education, the role of academic associations, and the power of empathy and action in these turbulent times. Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation!

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