How can colleges and universities stay true to their core missions while navigating rapid change?

In this episode of The Holistic Success Show, Dr. Kelly Dore is joined by Ian Wilhelm, journalist and deputy managing editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education, a leading publication covering colleges and universities.

With more than two decades of experience reporting on higher education, nonprofits, and philanthropy, Ian brings a unique lens to the pressures and possibilities facing institutions today.

Together, Kelly and Ian explore how higher education institutions can adapt to shifting demographics, evolving workforce demands, and growing public scrutiny — without losing sight of their values and purpose.

We'll cover topics like:

• The tension between institutional tradition and innovation

• How higher ed can respond to public skepticism and policy change

• Ways colleges can better communicate their value and impact

• The role of journalism in shaping perceptions of higher education

Whether you're a campus leader, communications professional, or policy enthusiast, this conversation offers grounded insights into what it means to lead with integrity in a time of transformation.

Timestamp of our conversation:

01:36 What are the forces driving institutional change today in higher education?

04:34 How is higher education redefining success?

08:52 How can institutions face these external pressures without losing their identity?

14:52 What are some examples of higher ed institutions taking bold approaches?

18:52 How can institutions better engage with the media?

23:07 What is some advice for institutions facing this moment?

Links

What the Public Really Thinks About Higher Education by Eric Kelderman, with graphics by Jacqueline Elias and Brian O'Leary

Peril and Promise: College Leadership in Turbulent Times by Beverly Daniel Tatum

Speakers:

Dr. Kelly Dore

Co-Founder/VP Science & Innovation at Acuity Insights and Adjunct Professor, McMaster University

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-dore-7971b258/

Ian Wilhelm

Journalist and Deputy Managing Editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianwilhelm/

Visit our blog for more actionable insights:

https://acuityinsights.com/resources/blog/