EdUp Provost

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Kimberly Griffin and Dr. Brad Johnson discuss the importance of mentorship in higher education, exploring its evolution, defining characteristics of successful mentor-mentee relationships, challenges faced, and the benefits for both mentors and mentees. They emphasize the need for institutions to invest in mentorship programs and to change how faculty are rewarded for mentoring efforts. The discussion also highlights surprising lessons learned from their research on mentorship. Drs. Griffin and Johnson discuss the multifaceted nature of mentorship, emphasizing the importance of diverse relationships, understanding dynamics, and creating a supportive culture. They explore how mentors can navigate differences in identity and background, the role of mentorship in leadership development, and the significance of emotional intelligence. Takeaways• Mentorship is essential for student success and retention.• Successful mentorship is characterized by trust, connection, and reciprocity.• Many faculty members lack training in effective mentoring practices.• Mentorship should be integrated into existing faculty roles and responsibilities.• Psychological capital, such as resilience and self-efficacy, is fostered through mentorship.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Kathleen deLaski discusses her provocative book, Who Needs College Anymore?, which challenges the traditional view of college degrees as the primary pathway to success. She explores the societal implications of this view, the stress it places on students, and the need for alternative pathways such as apprenticeships and industry certifications. DeLaski advocates for a redefinition of the role of universities to include credentialing skills beyond traditional degrees, emphasizing the importance of micro pathways and flexible learning options to meet the needs of diverse learners. In this conversation, Thuswaldner and deLaski discuss the evolving landscape of higher education, emphasizing the importance of access, lifelong learning, and the integration of microcredentials. They explore the need for colleges to adapt to changing societal demands, the significance of employer engagement in providing students with relevant experiences, and the enduring value of liberal arts education. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI on learning and hiring processes, highlighting the necessity for educational institutions to innovate and remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. Takeaways • Alternative pathways like apprenticeships are gaining traction. • Colleges should redefine their role in credentialing skills. • Microcredentials can provide valuable skills recognition. • The traditional college experience may not suit everyone. • Flexible learning options are essential for modern education.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Lauren Brodsky and David Chrisinger, and discuss the critical role of storytelling in academia, particularly in effectively communicating data and engaging diverse stakeholders. They explore strategies for academic leaders to present data compellingly, the importance of understanding audience needs, and the balance between emotional appeal and evidence-based arguments. The discussion also highlights common pitfalls in data presentation, the effective use of visuals, and how to turn failures into opportunities for growth. Takeaways • Storytelling is essential for academic leaders to communicate effectively. • Data must be translated into narratives for better understanding. • Understanding your audience is key to effective communication. • Avoid overwhelming your audience with complex data presentations. • Emotional appeal can enhance the persuasiveness of data.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Christian Busch discusses the concept of serendipity in leadership, emphasizing how individuals and organizations can cultivate a mindset to recognize and act on unexpected opportunities. He explores the importance of trust, clarity, and a culture of psychological safety in fostering innovation and resilience within academic institutions. The discussion also highlights the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, diversity, and overcoming mental shortcuts to create an adaptable academic culture. Dr. Busch provides practical strategies for academic leaders to reframe setbacks as learning opportunities and encourages the development of environments that promote meaningful connections among faculty and students. Takeaways • Serendipity is about active luck that we create ourselves. • Cultivating a serendipity mindset is essential for leadership. • Reframing setbacks can foster innovation and resilience. • Creating a culture of psychological safety encourages open communication. • Building connections between unrelated ideas can lead to breakthroughs.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Mark Kretovics discusses the dynamics of power and leadership within higher education, particularly focusing on the role of provosts. He explores the unique challenges provosts face regarding their perceived and actual power, the importance of building relationships, and the various leadership styles that can be effective in fostering collaboration. Dr. Kretovics emphasizes the need for provosts to adapt their leadership approach based on the situation and the individuals they are working with, highlighting the balance between transformational and transactional leadership. He also underscores the significance of building influence across different stakeholders within the institution. Mark Kretovics and Gregor Thuswaldner discuss the essential qualities and strategies for effective leadership in higher education, particularly for provosts. They emphasize the importance of building trust, collaboration, and humility, as well as the need for authenticity in relationships. The discussion also covers how to drive institutional change while managing crises effectively and aligning leadership goals with the broader mission of the institution. Takeaways • Power is defined as the ability to get people to do things. • Provosts operate in a unique position with limited direct power. • Building relationships is essential for effective leadership. • Provosts should focus on institutional goals, not personal agendas. • Situational leadership allows for adaptability in different contexts.

In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Mike Moss, president of the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP), to discuss the evolving role of provosts in higher education, emphasizing the importance of integrated strategic planning. Moss highlights the need for collaboration across departments, effective stakeholder engagement, and the implementation of strategies that promote student success. He also addresses the challenges faced by provosts in fostering a culture of planning and the significance of scenario planning in navigating future uncertainties in the educational landscape. In this conversation, Mike Moss from SCUP discusses the critical role of scenario planning in higher education, emphasizing the need for institutions to be proactive rather than reactive. He highlights the importance of aligning governance with strategic planning, the flexibility required in planning processes, and the necessity of adapting to post-pandemic changes. Moss also addresses the incorporation of emerging technologies and the diverse needs of institutions, advocating for a community of practice approach to foster connections and share insights. Finally, he shares personal leadership insights and the significance of team dynamics in implementing strategic initiatives. Takeaways • Provosts are increasingly involved in institutional planning. • Effective leadership and communication are essential for collaboration. • Building relationships across departments is crucial for success. • Student success should be the primary focus of planning efforts. • Clarity and brevity in communication enhance understanding.

Alain-Philippe Durand, Dorrance Dean of the College of Humanities at the University of Arizona, advocates for the relevance of humanities degrees in today’s job market. He addresses misconceptions about their value, showcasing successful alumni paths that emphasize critical thinking and adaptability. The discussion highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, the impact of AI on language learning, and the necessity of human connections in a digital world. Durand also introduces the innovative Applied Humanities degree to meet evolving educational needs.

In this conversation, with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, higher education researchers Dr. Jorge Burmiky and Dr. Kevin McClure discuss the essential competencies for college presidents and provosts in higher education. They emphasize the importance of trust-building, effective communication, resilience, emotional intelligence, data acumen, and collaborative leadership. The discussion highlights how these competencies are interconnected and vital for navigating the challenges faced by academic leaders today. The speakers also share insights on how provosts can support these competencies and foster a positive academic environment. Takeaways • Trust is a key competency for academic leaders. • Effective communication is essential for building trust. • Resilience is necessary in today's challenging educational landscape. • Emotional intelligence helps leaders navigate crises. • Data acumen is crucial for informed decision-making.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Karen Weaver delves into the transformative changes in college athletics, examining the evolving role of the NCAA, the effects of athlete transfers and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities, and the integration of athletics with the broader academic environment. Dr. Weaver, a seasoned expert in athletics administration and author of the forthcoming book College Presidents and College Athletics: Money, Power, Politics (Johns Hopkins University Press), provides insights into the impact of media revenues and the shifting landscape of collegiate sports. The discussion highlights the challenges of resource allocation, the promotion of diversity and inclusion, and the critical role of academic leaders in ensuring student-athletes thrive academically and athletically. The episodes also address the legal and institutional changes reshaping the NCAA's authority, conference realignments, and the need for collaboration between academic and athletic leadership. Takeaways 1. Academic leaders must understand the financial dynamics of college athletics. 2. The NCAA’s control is being legally challenged, impacting its authority. 3. Athlete transfers are increasingly common due to NIL opportunities. 4. Media revenues have significantly altered the landscape of college sports. 5. Provosts should ensure that athletes receive promised academic opportunities.

Robert Sutton, an organizational psychologist and Stanford professor, dives into his book, The Friction Project, discussing the difference between good and bad friction in organizations. He shares how leaders can enhance productivity by recognizing and addressing unnecessary friction points in higher education. Sutton emphasizes the importance of collaboration and simplifies bureaucratic processes to foster creativity. He advocates for thoughtful decision-making and shares actionable strategies for academic leaders to create a supportive and efficient environment.