In his latest IngenioUs Blog--University Design article, David J. Staley discusses the trend in higher education of prioritizing programs over faculty-student relationships. Highlighting the case of Wittenberg University, which plans to rely more on online course sharing and outside partners for student instruction, Staley questions the effectiveness of this approach and argues for the importance of faculty-student relationships in learning, belonging, and persistence. He explores the investment in sports infrastructure at Wittenberg and the potential transformation of liberal arts colleges into sports clubs. and concludes by emphasizing the need to elevate human relationships and social capital in enrollment management strategies.

Keywords: higher education, faculty-student relationships, programs, online learning, liberal arts colleges, sports infrastructure, enrollment management

Takeaways:

Sound Bites:

Chapters

00:00The Trend of Prioritizing Programs over Faculty-Student Relationships

03:03The Impact of Faculty-Student Relationships on Learning and Student Success

05:34The Transformation of Liberal Arts Colleges into Sports Clubs

07:27Elevating Human Relationships in Enrollment Management Strategies

Our Season 5 IngenioUs podcast conversations brought us face-to-face with some of the most innovative and thoughtful leaders in the field. As we talked, common threads emerged—leadership principles that are shaping how these forward-thinkers are tackling the rollercoaster ride that is modern academia. In this Season 5 finale, IngenioUs host, Melissa Morriss-Olson, Ph.D. shares the 8 big ideas that surfaced during this season's conversations, ideas that are reshaping the practice of higher education leadership.

See here for the IngenioUs blog where these eight ides are discussed in greater detail.

Keywords: higher education, change, challenges, silver linings, empowering potential, leading with purpose, transformative innovation, innovative partnerships, embracing uncertainty, staying grounded in core values, impactful design thinking, visionary leadership, leading through community engagement, tangible takeaway

Takeaways:

Sound Bites

Chapters

00:00Navigating the Whirlwind of Change

02:44Innovative Partnerships

04:32Impactful Design Thinking

06:45Be a Future Maker, Not Just a Future Taker

07:02Lead with Empathy and Understanding

07:32The Future of Higher Education is in Our Hands

In this final Season 5 episode, we explore the groundbreaking strategic partnership between Bay Path University and Cambridge College. Join host Melissa Morriss-Olson Ph.D. as she sits down with presidents Sandra Doran and Stephen Healey to discuss the visionary decision to join forces, amplify strengths, and create more opportunities for students.

Discover how these two institutions navigated the complex process of aligning their missions, integrating cultures, and charting a bold course for the future of

Whether you're an education leader considering similar collaborations or simply curious about the evolving landscape of higher education, this episode offers

Keywords strategic partnership, higher education, integration, culture, growth opportunities

Takeaways

·       Strategic partnerships in higher education require time, resources, and commitment.

·       Cultural integration is a key focus and requires deliberate effort and ongoing communication.

·       The future vision includes expanding program offerings and providing growth opportunities for faculty and staff.

·       The biggest takeaway is the importance of strategic focus, adaptability, and creativity in navigating a

Sound Bites

·       "It takes time and money, resources that are beyond what one might think."

·       "Don't lose sight of the strategic opportunity because you will have lots of twists and turns in this journey."

·       "We have been successful for 127 years by being entrepreneurial, by seeking out opportunities, by being receptive."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:17 The Strategic Partnership: Backstory and Decision-Making

05:30 Mission, Values, and Culture Alignment

06:27 Lessons from Previous Partnerships and Acquisitions

10:51 Starting the Conversation and Stakeholder Reactions

19:23 Mergers and Acquisitions in Higher Ed vs. Corporate World

20:50 Student-Centered Approach and Opportunities for Faculty and Staff

31:08 Cultural Integration: Building a Common Culture

38:39 Future Vision and Integration of Institutions

44:05 Biggest Learning and Takeaway: Time, Resources, and Strategic Focus

Are you ready to revolutionize your admissions and marketing strategies?

We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming leading-edge webinar, “Using AI in Admissions, Marketing, and Beyond,” featuring industry trailblazers Dr. Reena Lichtenfeld and Roger Lee from Ruffalo Noel Levitz. This highly anticipated session will take place on August 27 at 12 PM Eastern Time.

Dr. Lichtenfeld, Vice President of Consulting Services at Ruffalo Noel Levitz, and Roger Lee, Senior VP of AI Solutions, will guide you through the transformative potential of AI in higher education. With their deep expertise and practical insights, you'll learn how to harness data-driven strategies, enhance personalized outreach, and streamline your admissions processes.

Key Takeaways Include:

This is your chance to gain valuable knowledge and practical tools to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of higher education. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to hear from the experts and elevate your admissions and marketing strategies.

Secure your spot now by clicking the registration link here.

And listen in to this mini recording to get a taste of what you will learn at the webinar.

We look forward to seeing you there and exploring the future of higher education together!

In this episode, we are speaking with a highly creative and innovative thinker and leader, Dr. Hilary Link, president of Drew University. Dr. Link brings a unique perspective to university leadership, drawing from her background in Renaissance Italian literature and art. She'll share insights on navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, reimagining higher education for the 21st century, and the importance of authentic leadership.

From flipped classrooms to a Renaissance-inspired

Keep listening for an inspiring discussion that

Keywords leadership journey, interdisciplinary thinking, perspective, liberal arts education, higher education model, COVID-19 pandemic, communication, collaboration, women leaders, authentic self, innovative institution

Takeaways

·       Passions and interests can guide your leadership journey.

·       Having the ability to see things from different perspectives is crucial in leadership.

·       A liberal arts education provides essential skills for navigating a complex world.

·       Higher education needs to be restructured to meet the changing needs of students.

·       Communication and collaboration are key in leading through challenging times.

·       Women leaders should embrace their authentic selves and seek support from their networks.

·       Leaders should be open to shifting their perspective and rethinking traditional models.

·       Drew University aims to be an innovative institution that transforms higher education.

Sound Bites

·       "I found my voice literally in another culture and in another language."

·       "I consider myself, and I think the people who have worked with me would say, a very iterative and collaborative decision maker and leader."

·       "The skills and types of knowledge and types of thinking and ability to discern fact from fiction, the ability to communicate across difference, analyze and track

Chapters

00:00President Link's Leadership Journey

07:43Leadership Philosophy and Approach

16:39The Value of a Liberal Arts Education

22:21Leading Through the COVID-19 Pandemic

29:26Advice for Women Leaders

35:40Rethinking the Higher Education Model

49:11The Future of Drew University

Joining us for this episode is Dr. Mark Reed, President of Loyola University Chicago, someone whose leadership is deeply rooted in the values and mission of Jesuit education. Dr. Reed’s career journey is a fascinating blend of diverse experiences, all tied together by his unwavering commitment to Jesuit principles. From his early days in service and teaching to his roles at Fairfield University and St. Joseph's University, Dr. Reed has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to education and

In this episode, Dr. Reed shares the pivotal experiences that have shaped his career, the influence of Jesuit values on his approach to leadership, and his vision for the future of Loyola University Chicago. We delve into the unique

Get ready to be inspired by Dr. Reed’s insights on the challenges and opportunities in higher education, his strategic plans for Loyola, and his reflections on the

Keywords leadership journey, Jesuit education, Loyola University Chicago, anchor institution, meeting Pope

Takeaways

·       Jesuit education plays a significant role in Dr. Reed's leadership approach and the integration of Jesuit values into his work.

·       Loyola University Chicago is an anchor institution in the city and offers a unique educational experience.

·       The merger with the University of the Sciences provided opportunities for growth and expansion in health sciences programs.

·       The economic model of higher education is a major challenge, and investment in public higher education is crucial.

·       Personal connections and relationships are important in leadership and can have a lasting impact.

Chapters

00:00Shaping a Career through Personal Experiences and Teachings

09:41Integrating Jesuit Values into Leadership

13:34Loyola University of Chicago: An Anchor Institution and Hub for Jesuit Formation

22:32Meeting Pope Francis: An Experience of an Ignatian Pilgrimage

29:09Strengthening St. Joseph's University: Key Initiatives and Actions

30:14Exploring New Programs and Partnerships

32:54Mergers and Acquisitions

39:24Strained Economic Model of Higher Education

50:32Investing in Education for the Future

56:11Importance of Public Higher Education

Joining us for this episode is Dr. Nathan Long, the President of Saybrook University. Dr. Long's journey

In this episode, Dr. Long shares his personal and professional transformation, the evolution of Saybrook University, and his insights on the future of higher

Get ready to be inspired by Dr. Long's authentic leadership and the innovative strides being made at Saybrook University. Let's dive into the conversation and discover how empathy and innovation can drive meaningful change in higher education.

Keywords leadership journey, residential life, Saybrook University, humanistic psychology, integrative health, social justice, failure, collaboration, pandemic, innovative approaches

Takeaways

·       Residential life can be a valuable proving ground for leadership development in higher

·       The merging of student affairs and academic affairs is important for a well-rounded education.

·       Saybrook University has evolved from a humanistic psychology institute to offer programs in integrative health, psychology, and transformative social change.

·       The institution is committed to social justice and building a diverse and inclusive community.

·       The pandemic has presented challenges and opportunities for Saybrook, and they have

Sound Bites

·       "Residential life is where it all began. It was maybe one of the best proving grounds for skill set development, for learning on the job, for building empathy."

·       "The merging and connection between student affairs and academic affairs was really powerful and helpful to me."

·       "If you're not committed to supporting the health, well-being, and dignity of all human beings, then you're not socially justice-oriented."

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Nathan Long's Leadership Journey

07:40The Evolution of Saybrook University

09:38Building a Diverse and Inclusive Community

10:26The Power of Failure and Collaboration in Higher Education

15:19Innovative Approaches: How Saybrook Adapted and Thrived During the Pandemic

36:45Transformative Idea: Working Harder Than Your Hardest Working Faculty and Staff

In this episode, we speak with Dr. John Maduko, President of the Connecticut Community College system. With

As one of the few college presidents with an MD, Dr. Maduko's path to leadership is both unconventional and inspiring. His transition was driven by a profound

 And Dr. Maduko's current role is perhaps his most ambitious yet—overseeing the merger of Connecticut's 12 community colleges into one cohesive system. This

 In this episode, we explore Dr. Maduko's leadership philosophy, his innovative approaches to student success, and the profound challenges and opportunities presented by this unprecedented merger. He shares his insights on the importance of empathy, the need for authentic leadership, and his vision for a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape.

 Stay tuned as Dr. John Maduko reveals the inner workings of this transformative journey, offering invaluable lessons for anyone passionate about education, leadership, and making a meaningful impact.

 Key Takeaways:

·       Maduko's journey from being a medical doctor to becoming a college president was driven by his desire to be present for his family and his passion for education.

·       The merger of Connecticut's 12 community colleges into one system is a complex and challenging process that requires listening to the concerns and perspectives of

·       Decentralized decision-making and shared governance are essential for successful mergers and

·       A student-centered approach to education, focusing on the needs and goals of students, is crucial for the success of the merged institution.

·       The merger is still in its early stages, and the process of stabilizing and building the new institution will take time.

·       The pandemic had a significant impact on enrollment, but the institution is adapting to the new normal in higher education.

·       The merger of Connecticut's community colleges is a unique case study in higher education, and the challenges and lessons learned will contribute to the future

·       The challenges are correlated with the housing crisis, childcare crisis, and affordability crisis in Connecticut, which affect the students served by CT

·       The pandemic exacerbated these issues and forced CT State to recognize the importance of online education and meeting students' needs in terms of support

·       CT State has implemented innovative practices such as the guided pathways advisor model, mental health support, and the free tuition program to promote student

·       The college is focused on aligning programs with the evolving needs of the local and national workforce, particularly in nursing and health professions,

·       CT State is working to address inequities, connect various systems in the state, and make education about the individual and their success.

·       Advice for emerging leaders in higher education includes being people-centered, having a clear vision, and prioritizing the well-being and success of the people

·       Balancing work and personal life is important, and family plays a significant role in keeping leaders grounded and focused.

·       The transformative idea for higher education is to critically examine and restructure the sector to meet the needs of students and the future.

Chapters

00:00John Maduko's Leadership Journey

05:08Navigating the Complexities of Merging Community Colleges

10:57 Approaching the Impossible Job

15:23The Importance of Listening and Shared Governance

26:57Adapting to the New Normal in Higher Education

27:25Challenges and Enrollment Trends

28:53Impact of Housing, Childcare, and Affordability Crises

33:42Recognizing the Importance of Online Education and Student Support

34:12Innovative Practices for Student Success

37:04Aligning Programs with Workforce Needs

43:14Addressing Inequities and Connecting Systems

44:15Advice for Emerging Leaders in Higher Education

48:35Balancing Work and Personal Life

52:23Restructuring Higher Education for the Future

Joining us for today’s conversation is Allen Adamson, a true marketing wizard and the author of the fantastic new book, Seeing the How: Transforming. Transforming What People Do, Not Buy, To Gain Market Advantage

Allen’s latest book is all about the power of experience innovation, a concept that can transform how we think about the student experience. We often hear about the importance of what we teach, but Allen is going to challenge us to think about how we deliver that education and why the student experience is so crucial in today’s competitive landscape.

We'll explore how universities can distinguish themselves by focusing on the overall experience they offer, from campus life to support services, and even how they

So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that may just leave you feeling a little bit uncomfortable.

Takeaways

·       Experience innovation is about changing how the product fits into the customer's life and the overall experience it provides.

·       In higher education, the focus should shift from the product (education) to the experience.

·       Universities have multiple customers, including students, parents, faculty, and donors, and

·       Executing a brand promise is challenging in a consensus-driven environment, but it's important to focus on one key area of excellence.

·       Word of mouth and social media play a significant role in shaping brand perception.

·       Shared governance can limit the ability of colleges and universities to move forward with their brand promise.

·       Some universities, like NYU, have successfully integrated their brand into the city they are located in, providing a unique experience for students. Having a clear

·       Understanding the customer or student journey and identifying touch points for improvement can lead to significant enhancements in the overall experience.

·       Looking at the market through different lenses can help identify opportunities that may be right in front of us but are often overlooked.

·       Staying true to an organization's roots and leveraging its DNA can drive innovation and differentiation.

·       In higher education, focusing on a specific target audience and innovating on the student experience can help institutions better differentiate themselves.

Chapters

00:00Introduction

01:09Experience

07:20Understanding

13:58Executing

24:08The

29:00Success

30:29The

32:23Creating

34:39Aligning

38:26Looking

48:26Reimagining

53:35Differentiating

In this episode, we delve into the journey of an exceptional higher education leader: Dr. Amy Bragg Carey, President of Kansas-based Friends University, whose leadership is characterized by vision, resilience, and faith-driven decision-making. Dr. Carey has navigated Friends University through a transformative journey, guiding it from a turnaround situation to a thriving institution. Her empowering leadership style, rooted in her deep faith and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment, has made a significant impact on the university's growth and success.

Dr. Carey shares insights into her leadership philosophy, the influence of her early mentors, and the innovative strategies she has employed to drive enrollment and build a strong community. We'll explore how her background in advancement and marketing, combined with her dedication to the university's Quaker heritage, has shaped her approach to leading with clarity and purpose.

Join us as we uncover the story of Dr. Amy Bragg Carey’s empowering leadership at Friends University, and gain valuable lessons on resilience, vision casting, and creating a culture of innovation in higher education.

Keywords: leadership journey, empowerment, vision, faith, Friends University, enrollment management,

Key Takeaways

·       Empowering and equipping team members is crucial for effective leadership.

·       Clarity in vision and goals is essential for guiding the institution.

·       Faith influences decision-making and interactions with others.

·       Friends University focuses on respect, inclusion, service, and excellence.

·       Strategies to increase enrollment include adding market-demand programs and improving retention rates.

·       Building relationships and fundraising are important for the institution's success.

·       The vision for Friends University is to be the preferred Christian university in the region.

·       Recruiting international students and expanding programs are exciting opportunities.

·       Improving facilities, building the endowment, and focusing on character development are part of President Carey's legacy goals.

Sound Bites

·       "Empowering people is important to me"

·       "I see myself as a cheerleader"

·       "We've faced challenges before and we can do it again"

Chapters

00:00 Influential Individuals and the Leadership Journey

05:41 Empowerment, Vision Casting, and Clarity in Leadership

09:10 The Role of Faith in Decision-Making and University Culture

10:45 Unique Culture and Governance of Friends University

13:51 Strategies for Managing Enrollment and Adding New Programs

24:25 Clarifying the Institution's Identity

27:30 Opportunities for the Future: Preferred Christian University and International Students

28:42 Expanding International Student Population

31:44 Applying Research on Turnaround Schools

41:34 Building Relationships and Fundraising

46:51 Strengthening Physical Infrastructure and Endowment

49:50 Fostering Resilience in Students

51:31 The Value of Longevity in the Presidency