EdUp Provost

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Richard A. Detweiler discuss the importance of liberal arts education, emphasizing the need for emotional engagement in decision-making, the significance of educational context over content, and strategies for fostering leadership and civic engagement among students. Dr. Detweiler advocates for a holistic approach to education that breaks down silos between academic and student life, encourages broadening curricula, and highlights the necessity of marketing liberal arts education effectively. He also addresses the challenges posed by job market demands and offers insights on supporting faculty development to align teaching methods with desired student outcomes. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of liberal arts education and the importance of adapting to societal needs while preserving its core values. Takeaways - Data alone does not create change in education. - Liberal arts education is a living and learning experience. - Educational context has a greater impact than content. - Fostering leadership requires experiential learning opportunities. - Marketing liberal arts education should focus on life outcomes.

In this conversation, Dr. Gail F. Baker and Frank A. Casagrande discuss the critical topic of faculty compensation at the University of San Diego. They explore the need for reevaluation of compensation structures, the importance of engaging stakeholders, common pitfalls in compensation studies, and the challenges faced during the process. They also highlight key metrics for sustainable compensation, the role of fiscal realities, and the positive impact on faculty morale. The discussion emphasizes the importance of transparency, long-term sustainability, and the critical first steps for provosts leading compensation initiatives. Takeaways • The need for reevaluation of compensation structures is essential for fairness. • Engaging stakeholders early on fosters buy-in and collaboration. • Common pitfalls in compensation studies can derail the process if not addressed. • Challenges and resistance from faculty are expected and must be managed. • Key metrics for compensation should focus on equity and sustainability.

In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. John N. Gardner, Founder and Executive Chair of the John N. Gardner Institute for Excellence in Undergraduate Education, discuss the pivotal role of provosts in higher education, emphasizing the importance of student success, equity, and the integration of academic and co-curricular experiences. He highlights the need for provosts to show interest in student success initiatives, cultivate future leaders, and implement high-impact practices that enhance student engagement. Gardner also reflects on the historical context of educational reform and the ongoing pursuit of social justice within the academic landscape. Takeaways • Provosts should prioritize student success as a key interest. • The first-year experience is crucial for student retention. • Equity and inclusion must be central to educational initiatives. • High-impact practices significantly enhance student engagement. • Provosts play a vital role in setting expectations for faculty and students.

In this conversation, Gregor Thuswaldner, Ph.D., interviews Bradley Fuster, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at San Francisco Bay University. They discuss the concept of challenger brands in higher education, exploring how these institutions aim to disrupt traditional models and prioritize student success. Fuster shares insights from his experience in various educational settings, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by higher education today. The discussion also touches on the absence of tenure at SFBU, the inefficiencies of traditional institutions, and the innovative practices that challenger brands employ to enhance student learning and engagement. Takeaways • Challenger brands aim to disrupt traditional higher education models. • Higher education is facing a crisis with high dropout rates. • San Francisco Bay University focuses on student success and innovative practices. • The curriculum must adapt to the rapidly changing job market. • Challenger brands can serve as models for traditional institutions.

This conversation focuses on the ASU+GSV Summit, one of the most important annual edtech conferences. Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner’s guests are Jason Horne and Julia Hieser, who discuss the evolution of the Summit, the impact of technology, particularly AI, on education, and the importance of balancing traditional educational values with technological advancements. They emphasize the need for institutions to adapt to rapid changes, the challenges faced in adopting new technologies, and successful examples of innovation in education. The discussion concludes with insights on how provosts can engage with the Summit and contribute to the future of higher education. Takeaways • The ASU and GSV Summit is a premier event for education innovation. • AI is becoming mainstream in educational technology. • Engagement is a persistent challenge in higher education. • Technology should enhance, not replace traditional educational values. • The future of education will be shaped by collaboration and innovation.

This episode features a conversation with four representatives of faith-based higher education organizations: Donna Carroll, President of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities; Kina Mallard, Executive Director of the North American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities; Lamont A. Wells, Executive Director of the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities; Jeff Arnold, Executive Director of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities. This conversation explores the role of provosts at faith-based institutions, emphasizing their unique strengths, challenges, and opportunities in a secular society. The guests discuss the importance of strategic leadership, inclusivity, and maintaining religious identity while fostering academic freedom. They also highlight innovative practices for financial sustainability and the need to attract a diverse student body. The discussion concludes with personal book recommendations that reflect the speakers' insights and experiences in the field. Takeaways • Faith-based institutions can thrive by adapting to secular changes. • Moral leadership is crucial in today's educational landscape. • Inclusivity in academic culture enhances student engagement. • Provosts play a key role in balancing values and academic freedom. • Diversity should be embraced, not just tolerated, in faith-based settings.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. LaNitra M. Berger discusses her journey from a curious student in San Bernardino, California, to becoming an influential figure in art history and international education. She emphasizes the importance of global education and the transformative experiences it can provide, particularly for underrepresented students. The discussion also covers the critical role of provosts in advancing international education, the need for inclusive practices in study abroad programs, and the impact of technology on global learning. Dr. Berger shares insights on fostering a welcoming environment for international students and building meaningful partnerships between institutions. Takeaways Provosts play a crucial role in advancing global education initiatives. Supporting underrepresented students is essential for equitable access to study abroad. Community philanthropy can significantly enhance study abroad opportunities. Fostering a welcoming environment for international students is vital. Integrating global learning into curricula benefits all students.

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Jonathan Zimmerman, the Judy and Howard Berkowitz Professor in Education at the University of Pennsylvania, discuss the complexities of free speech, cancel culture, and the role of education in fostering open dialogue within universities. Prof. Zimmerman emphasizes the need for academic leaders to navigate the challenges of political pressures while maintaining a commitment to liberal values and quality teaching. He critiques the current state of higher education, highlighting the importance of adapting to modern student needs and the historical impact of social movements on educational practices. Dr. Zimmerman also reflects on the significance of teaching quality and the need for universities to prioritize meaningful education over mere compliance with external pressures.   Takeaways We must recommit to liberal values in education. Fear inhibits learning and open dialogue Free speech is essential for effective education. Cancel culture affects both sides of the political spectrum. Empathy is crucial for academic leaders navigating challenges.

In this engaging conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Marjorie Hass, President of the Council of Independent Colleges, discusses the multifaceted role of provosts in higher education, particularly in independent colleges. She highlights the unique challenges faced by provosts, the importance of aligning institutional mission, culture, and business models, and the critical role of faculty in enrollment strategies. Dr. Hass also addresses the pressing issues of affordability and value in higher education, the need for innovation and adaptability in a changing landscape, and the specific challenges women face in leadership roles. She offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring female provosts and emphasizes the importance of support systems within academic institutions. Takeaways         Building relationships is crucial for provosts, especially in smaller institutions. Alignment of mission, culture, and business model is essential for institutional success. Faculty engagement in admissions can significantly impact enrollment. Understanding the value proposition is key to addressing affordability concerns. Women in leadership roles face unique challenges that require structural support.

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Jeffrey Buller discuss the concept of entrepreneurial academic leadership, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability in higher education. Dr. Buller, a higher education expert for over 30 years, differentiates between genuine entrepreneurial leadership and cliched descriptors. This episode explores the challenges faced by provosts and highlights the importance of balancing profit orientation with institutional mission. Dr. Buller also addresses the necessity of calculated risk-taking, owning mistakes, and the evolving landscape of higher education leadership.   Takeaways Entrepreneurial academic leadership requires flexibility and adaptability. The term 'entrepreneurial' can mean different things to different people. Provosts face unique challenges in balancing diverse academic programs. Profit orientation should focus on reinvesting in the institution. Mistakes are inevitable; owning them is crucial for growth.