Higher Ed Pulse

President Nick Ladany of San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) shares his vision for higher education. Focused on disrupting traditional models, SFBU introduces modern approaches to faculty development, student wellness, and a restructured curriculum aimed at real-world success. Join us as Nick explains how SFBU’s strategies are set to redefine the academic landscape, ensuring affordability, accessibility, and transformative educational experiences.Key Takeaways
 

• Revolutionizing Faculty Roles: SFBU is challenging traditional norms by requiring faculty to engage in continuous learning and teaching improvement, moving away from outdated tenure models.
• Enhanced Student Wellness Programs: Comprehensive support systems including unlimited mental health services, financial literacy, and nutritional advice aim to support every aspect of student well-being.
• Curriculum Innovation: With a focus on reducing unnecessary coursework, SFBU plans an academic program to streamline graduation without compromising educational quality.
• No Athletics, More Resources: Redirecting funds typically used for athletics to enhance academic and support services, maximizing the value of tuition dollars.

Guest Name: Nick Ladany, President, San Francisco Bay University (SFBU)

Guest Bio: Nick Ladany, Ph.D., is the President of San Francisco Bay University (SFBU). In the spirit of the Silicon Valley, SFBU is acting like a startup and challenger brand in higher education, with the purpose of disrupting higher education and developing a university that is accessible and affordable, with a deep commitment to serving the common good. SFBU’s unique and innovative approach to higher education capitalizes on six pillars of the student experience: praxis academics, life literacy, comprehensive wellness, multiple meaningful relationships, lifelong careers readiness, and financial support, all of which is aimed at meaningful and successful student outcomes.  Previously he was President of Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, Georgia, where he led the university through the pandemic, facilitated record enrollments, enhanced fiscal stewardship, built a leadership team, strengthened a commitment to DEI, and enhanced student success and wellness. He alsoserved as Dean of the School of Leadership and Education Sciences and Associate Provost for Academic Outreach at the University of San Diego; and Dean of the School of Education and Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, CA. Prior to that he was Director of the Counseling Program at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, CA; and Chair of the Department of Education and Human Services and Program Coordinator & Director of Doctoral Training of the Counseling Psychology Program at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He received his Ph.D. from the University at Albany, State University of New York, in 1992 and his B.S. in Psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park. He has more than 80 publications, including 6 books, and has conducted over 250 national and international presentations in more than 20 countries in higher education leadership; and supervision and training of mental health practitioners.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Recorded live at the ASU GSV Air Show, Mallory chats with Auryan Ratliff, Director of Creative and Emerging Technology at ASU Online. Auryan introduces us to a groundbreaking tool designed to alleviate choice paralysis among prospective students — ASU’s degree recommendation engine. Powered by generative AI, this tool personalizes degree selection based on a quiz that assesses a student’s preferences and educational goals.

Key Takeaways:

• AI-Powered Customization: The degree recommendation engine uses generative AI to match students with the ideal ASU degree based on their interests and career aspirations.
• Understanding Student Needs: The tool asks a variety of questions — from academic interests to desired workplace environment — to tailor degree recommendations effectively.
• Reducing Choice Overload: With over 800 degree options, ASU utilizes this AI tool to help students navigate their choices without feeling overwhelmed.
• Future of Educational Tools: Beyond degree selection, this AI initiative is poised to personalize the entire educational experience, including financial aid and course selection.

Guest Name: Auryan Ratliff, Director of Creative & Emerging Technologies at EdPlus at Arizona State University

Guest Bio: Auryan Ratliff is the Director of Creative & Emerging Technologies at EdPlus at Arizona State University and is currently leading a team responsible for building out the new Immersive Technology Initiative for EdPlus. Auryan and his team focus on designing solutions and enhancing the ASU technology stack for a variety of user experience challenges refining how users engage with higher education.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Live from the ASU GSV AIR Show and Summit, Mallory chats with Howard Purcell, President of New England College of Optometry. Howard shares his unique journey from industry to academia and discusses the innovative ways his institution is tackling challenges like student debt and diversity in the applicant pool. With a focus on integrating AI and telehealth into optometry education, Howard provides a provocative look at the future of medical training.

Key Takeaways:

• Insights on higher education’s readiness for disruption and the embrace of new technologies such as AI, virtual reality, and telehealth.
• Innovative student debt solutions implemented by Howard’s institution, involving partnerships to fund education.
• The use of AI to enhance clinical education and patient care, including real-time global research access to improve diagnoses.
• Howard’s vision for modernizing medical education to cater to diverse learning styles and the integration of cutting-edge technologies.
• An open invitation from Howard to collaborate on overcoming educational challenges and modernizing teaching methods.

Guest Name: Howard Purcell, President and CEO of the New England College of Optometry (NECO)

Guest Bio: Howard Purcell, O.D., F.A.A.O., Diplomate and FNAP has been President and CEO of the New England College of Optometry (NECO) since July 2018. Before assuming his leadership role at NECO, he served as Senior Vice President at Essilor of America and Senior Director at Johnson and Johnson Vision Care. A second generation graduate of the New England College of Optometry, Dr. Purcell also participated in a group optometric practice for eleven years with his father in Miami Beach, FL. Beginning in June 1991, Dr. Purcell joined the faculty of Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry. During his career at the college, he was a principle in the development of the Department of Cornea and Contact Lenses. Reaching the rank of Associate Professor, Dr. Purcell was responsible for both the didactic and clinical components of the program, serving as the Deputy Dean of the college. Dr. Purcell is a Diplomate in the Cornea, Contact Lenses and Refractive Technologies Section of the American Academy of Optometry. His energetic and enthusiastic style has made Dr. Purcell a popular lecturer internationally. Purcell’s unique philosophies and practices have often attracted the media to focus attention on current optometric issues and research in the industry.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Recorded live at the ASU GSV AIR Show, guest Chris Edwards from Kanahoma shares his insights on the integration and impact of artificial intelligence in the education sector. From ethical dilemmas and administrative efficiencies to the real-world implications of AI on campuses, this episode covers the spectrum of challenges and innovations shaping the future of higher education. Chris also touches on recent issues like the FAFSA rollout fiasco, offering a holistic view of the current educational landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Ethical Considerations of AI: Chris discusses the importance of ethical AI use in education, emphasizing the need for balance and integrity in its application.
• Administrative Enhancements via AI: Insights into how AI can streamline educational administration, potentially reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
• FAFSA Implementation Challenges: A look at the recent troubles with FAFSA’s technology rollout, highlighting broader issues in educational tech adoption.
• Predictions for AI in Education: Chris forecasts critical changes in the EdTech landscape over the next 18 months, stressing the urgency for educational institutions to adopt these technologies.
• Potential of AI to Transform Education: Examples of AI’s impact, from improving student retention to enhancing learning experiences, illustrating the potential for significant advancements in education.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Pulse, Mallory catches up with Liz Gross live from Campus Sonar at the ASU GSV AIR Show in San Diego. Liz shares her measured insights on the integration and implications of AI in higher education, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices and maintaining the human element in academia. Whether you’re skeptical about AI or diving headlong into its potential, this discussion will provide a balanced perspective on how AI can serve as a valuable assistant rather than a replacement in educational settings.

Guest Name: Liz Gross, founder and CEO of Campus Sonar

Guest Bio: Liz Gross is an award-winning speaker, author, and strategist with 20 years' experience in higher ed and strategic social listening programs. She received a Ph.D. in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service in Higher Education at Cardinal Stritch University, a master's degree in educational policy and leadership from Marquette University, and a bachelor's degree in interpersonal communication from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Guest Social: 
LinkedIn
X/Twitter
Website

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hosts Mallory and Seth examine the critical state of liberal arts education in America and the challenges facing liberal arts programs, including declining enrollments and financial pressures. Mallory and Seth passionately advocate for a rebranding of the liberal arts to highlight their enduring value in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability in an uncertain future.

• Enrollify's success in audience growth and the search for a new marketing manager to propel the brand further, plus innovative hiring strategies that encourage creativity and ensure candidates' attention to detail.
• The pressing challenges faced by liberal arts programs, including significant declines in enrollment and faculty positions.
• The potential of liberal arts education in developing versatile, critical thinkers capable of navigating rapid technological advancements and changing job markets.
• The crucial role of marketing and communication professionals in rebranding liberal arts to highlight their contemporary relevance and value.

This episode not only underscores the urgent need to reevaluate and refresh the perception of liberal arts education but also celebrates the adaptability and critical thinking skills it cultivates, advocating for a balanced approach to preparing students for the future workforce.

https://www.chronicle.com/article/the-gutting-of-the-liberal-arts

https://www.chronicle.com/article/humanities-on-the-cutting-room-floor

https://www.chronicle.com/article/heres-what-happened-after-3-colleges-announced-cuts-to-the-liberal-arts

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 4 of this Pulse Check on Acquisitions and Mergers in Higher Education, guest host Kin Sejpal is joined by President Ian Mortimer as he delves into important considerations for exploring M&A strategies and innovative, alternative pathways for success. In this episode you will learn about:

• Reasons why certain mergers don’t pan out 
• The tradeoff of balancing rational and emotional facets of mergers.
• Options such as leveraging shared resources to navigate merger complexities.
• The need to explore alternative and innovative educational models. 

Guest Name: Dr. Ian Mortimer

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mortimerian/

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode of Higher Ed Pulse, Mallory sits down with Ardis Kadiu, CEO and Founder of Element451 and co-host of the Generation AI podcast on Enrollify. Together, they discuss two new AI innovations — Bolt Assistants and Bolt Search.

• Bolt AI Assistants become an indispensable member of your team.They offer students tailored support while amplifying staff performance through sophisticated tools and insights, aiming to boost productivity and streamline day-to-day tasks. Tell Bolt what you need and every challenge becomes manageable.
• Bolt Search is a game changer for navigating .edu websites. It uses smart AI to answer user questions directly. It doesn't just stop at text; it shows you videos and images that match what the user is looking for. Gone are the days of battling for homepage real estate!

Key Takeaways:

• AI literacy among higher education leaders is crucial for successful AI adoption and its positive impact on ROI.
• The progression from basic chatbots to advanced AI assistants that can handle diverse tasks, offering personalized student interactions and boosting administrative efficiency.
• Predictions for 2024 and beyond, with a quickly widening gap between those institutions who implement and integrate AI versus those who don’t.

Let's keep the conversation going! If you're heading to San Diego for the ASU GSV AIR Show or Summit, reach out to us. We're excited to connect, share ideas, and explore the future of higher education together. 

Related Links:

Generation AI Podcast: https://podcasts.enrollify.org/generation-ai-podcast?hsLang=en

Actionable AI 5-Part Webinar Series: https://element451.com/actionable-ai-webinar-series-recordings

Definitive Guide to AI: https://element451.com/ai-guide-for-higher-ed

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mallory and Seth celebrate National Community College Month by diving deep into the challenges and opportunities faced by community college students, especially when it comes to transferring to four-year institutions. With a focus on cultivating skills for the future, they unpack the concerning data around transfer rates and completion rates, and explore strategies to improve outcomes for these learners. Whether it's rethinking recruitment or embracing vocational training, this conversation is a must-listen for those committed to the success of community college students.

• Over 80% of community college students aim to transfer to four-year colleges, yet only about a third make the leap, and fewer than half of those complete their bachelor's degrees.
• Successful community college recruitment strategies prioritize personal outreach and partnerships over traditional marketing tactics.
• Mallory highlights the importance of high-touch methodologies to support non-traditional students through the transfer process, addressing financial and time constraints.
• Vocational training and apprenticeship programs are gaining traction as valuable alternatives to traditional four-year degrees, promising a renaissance in skills-based education.

https://nscresearchcenter.org/transfer-and-progress/   

https://www.chronicle.com/featured/student-success/transfer-students

https://ccrc.tc.columbia.edu/publications/Tracking-Transfer-Community-College-and-Four-Year-Institutional-Effectiveness-in-Broadening-Bachelors-Degree-Attainment.html

https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/gen-z-trades-jobs-plumbing-welding-a76b5e43

https://podcasts.enrollify.org/higher-ed-geek/episode-223-the-future-of-work-apprenticeships-as-a-pathway-to-prosperity

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 3 of our latest Pulse Check series on Mergers and Acquisitions in Higher Ed, guest Robin Johnson provides applicable advice on managing change during an M&A process. Listeners will learn about:

• The four stages of processing change
• The integration of different teams and cultures
• Dealing with the uncertainty that comes with M&A
• Being an effective leader and manager through the process

Guest Name: Dr. Robin Johnson

Guest Social:
linkedin.com/in/doctarob
https://twitter.com/Docta_Rob

Guest Website: https://www.designorgsolns.com

Guest E-book: Blended: A Leader’ Guide to Managing Change During Post M&A Integrations

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.