In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Dr. Anne Kress, President of Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), the third-largest multi-campus community college in the United States and the largest educational institution in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In the conversation, Anne Kress shares the origin of her passion for community college education and its impact on people's lives. Next, Anne Kress talked about the importance of bridging the gaps in the community by providing opportunities for more people to access education and onramps to rewarding careers. Anne Kress finally shared thoughts on partnerships to help develop the future workforce, meet business needs, and support a thriving community.

Some highlights:

-Anne Kress on the impact of her father's certificate from the Milwaukee Institute of Technology

-The Paper Ceiling and why it's essential to break it!

-Benefits of hiring based on skillsets rather than four-year degree

-Anne Kress on leading NOVA through the pandemic

-The role of community colleges in higher education and workforce development

-Anne Kress on NOVA's comprehensive support for learners

-The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the future of education

-How NOVA is shifting its curriculum to keep pace with changes in the economy and the needs of employers

-Innovative partnerships to support students and meet business as well as community needs

-The importance of ensuring access to affordable, high-quality education and workforce training

Mentioned:

Partnering Leadership conversation with Dan Turchin on AI and The Future of Work

Partnering Leadership conversation with Tom Taulli on AI Essentials for Leaders

Connect with Anne Kress:

Northern Virginia Community College

NOVA Presidents Office

Anne Kress on LinkedIn

Connect with Mahan Tavakoli:

Mahan Tavakoli Website

Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn

Partnering Leadership Website

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