IngenioUs

IngenioUs

By Melissa Morriss-OlsonBusinessEntrepreneurship
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IngenioUs episodes

  • Leading from the Inside-Out: Dr. Nathan Long's Journey of Authenticity, Empathy and Innovation

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

    in higher education leadership is both unique and inspiring, beginning with his early days in residential life and culminating in his impactful presidency at Saybrook. With a background that spans residential life, music performance, senior administrative roles, and two presidencies, Dr. Long brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to holistic education and social justice.


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

    education. We delve into the power of storytelling through podcasting, the importance of building capacity across borders, and the critical role of mental health and social justice in today's world.

    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

    education.

    ·       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

    taken innovative approaches to adapt and thrive.


    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


    51 min
  • Navigating Transformation: Dr. John Maduko's Holistic Vision for Educational Innovation

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

    a medical degree and a background in healthcare, Dr. Maduko brings a fresh and holistic perspective to the world of higher education. His journey from medicine to academia is a story of adaptability, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

    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

    personal decision to prioritize family, leading him to discover a new passion for teaching and, ultimately, for leading complex educational institutions.

     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

    monumental task is one of the most complex processes in the history of higher education, requiring not just strategic vision but also a deep understanding of the human element at its core.

     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

    faculty, staff, and students.

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

    effective leadership in higher education.

    ·       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

    of the field. Connecticut State Community College has faced challenges with flat enrollment and a significant loss of community college enrollment in the
    state.

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

    State.

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

    systems, resources, and wraparound services.

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

    success.

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

    manufacturing, and IT.

    ·       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

    served.

    ·       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


    54 min
  • Marketing the Future: Allen Adamson on Experience Innovation and Higher Education

    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

    Alan is not just any marketing expert—he's a visionary who has worked with some of the world's leading brands, and he's here to share insights that are highly relevant for higher education.

    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

    integrate technology. Alan will share practical strategies for understanding and enhancing the student journey, drawing from his vast experience in the corporate world and beyond.

    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.

    Keywords experience innovation, product transformation, marketing, higher education, brand promise, customer
    needs, consensus-driven environment, focus, execution, brand, unique experience, vision, customer journey, touch points, lenses, differentiation, higher education

    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

    the brand needs to work for all of them.

    ·       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

    vision and the authority, resources, and time to execute it are crucial for creating a strong brand and delivering a unique experience.

    ·       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

    and Discussion of Alan Adamson's Book

    01:09Experience

    Innovation: Changing the Focus from Product to Customer Experience

    07:20Understanding

    the Multiple Customers of Universities

    13:58Executing

    a Brand Promise in a Consensus-Driven Environment

    24:08The

    Challenges of Shared Governance in Higher Education

    29:00Success

    Story: NYU's Integration of Brand and City Experience

    30:29The

    Power of Focus and Execution

    32:23Creating

    Signature Experiences

    34:39Aligning

    with DNA and Execution

    38:26Looking

    at the Market Through Different Lenses

    48:26Reimagining

    Digital and Virtual Experiences

    53:35Differentiating

    Through Focus and Innovation

     


    54 min
  • Vision, Resilience, and Faith-Driven Decision-Making: Dr. Amy Bragg Carey's Turn-Around Leadership at Friends University

    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,

    fundraising, Quaker institution, international students, facilities, endowment, character development

    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



    55 min
  • Using Oneself Well: Leadership Lessons from Nazareth University President Beth Paul

    Nazareth University President Elizabeth (Beth) Paul, Ph.D. shares her journey to becoming a college president and her leadership philosophy. She emphasizes the importance of using oneself well and being mission-driven. She discusses the challenges and opportunities of following a long-serving president and the importance of establishing one's own leadership style. President Paul highlights the founding principles of Nazareth University and its commitment to community partnerships and change-making. She also discusses the value of inclusive communities and the impact of learning innovations. President Paul offers advice to emerging leaders and emphasizes the need for intergenerational learning in higher education.

     Keywords: college presidency, leadership journey,
    mission-driven, leadership philosophy, challenges, opportunities, establishing leadership style, founding principles, community partnerships, change-making,
    inclusive communities, learning innovations, emerging leaders, intergenerational learning
     
    Takeaways
    Being mission-driven and using oneself well are important aspects of effective leadership.
    Following a long-serving president presents both challenges and opportunities for establishing one's own leadership style.
    Community partnerships and change-making are key components of Nazareth University's mission.
    Inclusive communities and learning innovations are important for the future of higher education.
    Emerging leaders should not give up and should embrace intergenerational learning.
     
    Sound Bites
    "Being mission-driven and using oneself well"
    "Learning is what it's all about"
    "Establishing one's own leadership style"
     Chapters
    00:00Introduction and Background
    13:24Establishing Leadership Style
    35:24Dealing with Adversity
    43:22Advice for Emerging Leaders
    49:35Intergenerational Learning


    52 min
  • University Design. Redefining Learning for the Knowledge Economy: David Staley on Educational Well-Being and Continuous Learning
    In his recent IngenioUs blog post, David J. Staley discusses the evolving landscape of higher education based on insights from Martin Betts and Michael Rosemann's book, The New Learning Economy: Thriving Beyond Higher Education. Staley introduces the concept of "educational well-being," emphasizing the need for continuous learning to maintain relevant knowledge and skills throughout one's career. He critically examines the traditional higher education model as primarily an "up-front knowledge industry," suggesting it is increasingly inadequate due to rapid knowledge depreciation driven by advancements in AI and automation.
    Staley advocates for Educational-well-being-as-a-Service (EaaS), a subscription-like model that continuously updates educational credentials similar to how healthcare services are administered. This model, he argues, could better serve the modern economy by adapting to ongoing changes and personal learning needs.
    The value of Staley’s thinking lies in his forward-looking approach to educational models, pushing for radical changes that align with the realities of the knowledge economy. His ideas challenge traditional institutions to reconsider their roles and adapt to a system that supports lifelong learning and educational flexibility. This perspective is crucial as it highlights the need for higher education systems to evolve and remain relevant in a rapidly changing global context.
    7 min
  • Pioneering Latino Student Success: The Excelencia in Education Story and Impact

    Welcome to another episode of IngenioUs, where we explore transformative ideas and the people behind them in higher education. Today, we're thrilled to host two remarkable leaders, Sarita Brown , Co-Founder and President and Deborah Santiago, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Office of Excelencia in Education. Over the past 20 years, Excelencia has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Latino student success in American

    colleges and universities.

     In today’s conversation, Sarita and Deborah will take us through the inspiring journey of Excelencia, from its inception to becoming a national leader in advancing Latino student college completion.

    They'll share insights into their strategic approach to data-driven advocacy, the significant milestones they've achieved, and what lies ahead in their mission to accelerate Latino student success.

    Join us as we delve into how their leadership

    and unwavering commitment have transformed educational practices and policies, and continue to impact countless lives across the nation.

    51 min
  • Ancient Wisdom, Modern Leadership: Guiding Education into the Future with President Georgia Nugent

    In this episode, we're joined by a truly inspirational figure in higher education, President Georgia Nugent of Illinois Wesleyan University. President Nugent has charted a unique and groundbreaking path through the academic world, not just breaking glass ceilings but also reshaping the institutions she’s led with her innovative vision and deep-rooted wisdom informed by her studies of the classics.   

     Join us as we explore President Nugent's unexpected journey into academic leadership, from her first days as a student enamored with the classics to her transformative roles at the helm of several universities. We'll delve into how her scholarly background has informed her approach to leadership and decision-making, particularly in navigating the complexities and challenges of modern higher education.

    Hear Dr. Nugent's insights on the evolving role of women in leadership within academia, drawing on her own experiences as a pioneer who has often been the 'first woman' in the positions she has held. From personal anecdotes to strategic advice for upcoming leaders, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and reflections.

    So, whether you're an aspiring leader, an academic, or simply someone interested in the crossroads of classical insight and contemporary challenges, you're in for a treat.  Get ready to learn, be inspired, and maybe even see the academic world a little differently by the end of our time together. Stay tuned!"

    53 min
  • The Power of Strategic Foresight: Shaping the Future of Illinois College with President Barbara Farley

    In this episode, we're joined by a trailblazer in the world of higher education, President Barbara Farley of Illinois College. President Farley's journey to the presidency is not just inspiring; it's a testament to the impact of mentorship, resilience, and the drive to innovate within the academic sphere. As the first female president of Illinois College, her leadership has steered the institution through times of change, emphasizing the importance of community, strategic foresight, and the courage to take bold steps into the unknown.

    Illinois College, the oldest degree-granting institution in the state, stands as a testament of perseverance and innovation under President Farley's guidance. From launching significant initiatives like the Inspire Achievement Campaign to quickly adapting in the face of a global pandemic, the college's story is one of enduring relevance and adaptability. It's a narrative that intertwines the rich history of the institution with a relentless pursuit of excellence in education.

    But what does it take to lead an institution through seismic shifts in the higher education landscape? How do strategic decisions, like bolstering athletic programs or

    launching new academic initiatives, contribute to the vitality and spirit of a college community? And in a world where the role of the college president is more complex and challenging than ever, what lessons can President Farley's tenure teach us about leadership, strategic insight, innovation, and the future of higher education?

    Join us as President Farley shares her insights on these questions and more, offering a glimpse into the mind of a leader who's not afraid to confront adversity head-on and forge a path forward for Illinois College. It's a conversation filled with wisdom, reflection, and a forward-looking perspective that will inspire anyone interested in the transformative power of education.


    58 min
  • AI Best Practices in Course Creation and Delivery. A Free Leading Edge Webinar Preview with Dr. James M Wilson, III

    The process of course creation and delivery involves developing topics, a syllabus, lectures, class activities, discussion topics, assignments, group projects, assessments, and grading, among other tasks. This process is usually done solo. Now, artificial intelligence provides us with a very helpful assistant. The process of teaching cannot be effectively automated, but the many tasks needed to draft course creation and delivery can be automated.

    In our upcoming Leading Edge Thinking in Higher Education webinar, Dr. James Wilson will share best practices including the process and tools that artificial intelligence provides to begin and refine course creation and delivery. This session will show you how to begin the conversation with artificial intelligence to improve your course creation and delivery. In this IngenioUs mini, Wilson shares a preview of the webinar. Register for the webinar here: https://www.baypath.edu/academics/centers-of-excellence/center-for-higher-education-leadership-and-innovative-practice/leading-edge-thinking-in-higher-education-webinar-series/

    3 min

About IngenioUs

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Welcome to IngenioUs — where conversations spark innovation and open doors to the future of higher education. Our podcast is a dedicated space for deep dives with the most original minds and active…