Changing Higher Ed

In this episode, Dr. Drumm McNaughton invites Dr. Brit Kirwan back to discuss the dynamic and challenging landscape of higher education. They discuss many of the high-stress challenges higher education presidents are facing today. With more capacity than students and issues like political interference, the decline in public trust, and the threats to academic freedom, the higher education president's role is more stressful than ever before. Overview: Dr. Kirwan shares his wisdom on the evolving landscape of higher education. His perspectives are a guiding light for current presidents and leaders in the field, offering strategies to navigate and overcome the myriad of challenges they face. Key Topics: Political Incursions in Higher Education: Rising political influence on university campuses threatening academic freedom and integrity. The need for university leaders to balance political pressures while upholding educational values. Strategies to navigate and mitigate political interference in academic institutions. Financial and Enrollment Challenges: Innovative approaches to handle fiscal pressures and enrollment declines. Emphasis on strategic planning and adapting to changing financial landscapes in higher education. Identifying alternative revenue streams and efficient resource allocation. Maintaining Academic Independence: Upholding academic freedom in the face of societal and political shifts. The importance of academic integrity as a cornerstone of higher education. Encouraging open dialogue and critical thinking in academic environments. Leadership in Challenging Times: Insights on effective leadership for current and future university presidents. Embracing adaptive leadership styles to address evolving challenges. The significance of visionary and empathetic leadership in higher education. Higher Education's Role in Society: The critical function of higher education in advancing national and global progress. Fostering innovation, scientific advancement, and economic growth through education. Preparing students to be informed, responsible, and active citizens. This episode concludes with a synthesis of the perspectives shared, offering practical solutions and insightful strategies for leaders in the higher education sector. The guidance provided is essential for navigating the complexities of modern higher education and leading institutions towards a prosperous future. Final Thoughts for Higher Education Presidents: Kirwan emphasizes the importance for higher education presidents to remain actively engaged and involved in meaningful pursuits post-retirement. He highlights the necessity of thoughtful planning for life after presidency, underscoring the benefits of leveraging years of experience to make impactful contributions. This advice is coupled with reflections on the rewarding nature of choosing and focusing on areas where one can be most helpful, drawing from the wealth of knowledge and experience gained throughout a career in higher education leadership. Read the transcript → About Our Podcast Guest Dr. William E. "Brit" Kirwan is chancellor emeritus of the University System of Maryland (USM). He is a nationally recognized authority on critical issues facing higher education. He served as chancellor of the University System of Maryland (USM) for 13 years (2002-2015), president of the Ohio State University for four years (1998-2002), and president of the University of Maryland, College Park for 10 years (1988-1998). Prior to his presidency, he was a member of the University of Maryland mathematics faculty for 24 years. Dr. Kirwan is the past chair of, among other boards, the American Council for Higher Education, the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities, the American Association of Colleges & Universities, the Business Higher Education Forum, and the National Research Council Board on Higher Education and Workforce. He also served as the co-chair and chair of the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics from 2004 to 2016. Presently, he chairs a Statewide Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, which has been asked to make recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly to enable Maryland schools to perform at the level of the world's best school systems. About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #HigherEdProblems #HigherEducation #ChangingHigherEd

In this episode of the podcast, Drumm, serving as both host and guest, explores the theme of thankfulness, particularly focusing on its importance in university leadership. He reflects on the challenges faced by university presidents and the significance of gratitude in overcoming these obstacles. Podcast Highlights Drumm discusses the history of Thanksgiving and its global relevance, underlining the benefits of gratitude, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. Emphasizing the role of thankfulness in difficult times, he relates this to the challenges in higher education, such as university closures and enrollment declines. The importance of acknowledging those in service roles is highlighted, from frontline workers to educators. Drumm offers advice to university presidents on understanding campus dynamics, caring for individuals on campus, and practicing humility. He concludes by expressing personal gratitude to his clients, family, and faith, and extends holiday wishes to all listeners. To read the full show notes and transcript, visit https://changinghighered.com/gratitude-in-university-leadership-challenges About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton provides consulting for higher education institutions. To find out more about his services and read other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website, https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #HigherEducation #HigherEdPodcast #HigherEdLeadership

This episode of Washington Update examines significant changes and updates in higher education policy, with a focus on the Higher Education Act of 2019, the FAFSA Simplification Act, and various Title regulations. The discussion highlights the Biden-Harris administration's active role in Negotiated Rulemaking since late 2020, bringing about a comprehensive set of regulations affecting higher education. Washington Updates Discussed: Higher Education Act 2019 Changes: Emphasis on the need for a comprehensive review of the act, touching on Title II (teacher education), Title IV (federal student financial aid), and Title IX (campus security). Negotiated Rulemaking Under Biden-Harris Administration: Overview of the regulatory revisions, including a new oversight set for all higher education institutions, termed as financial value transparency, an extension of the gainful employment regulations. Future Implementation: Discussion on the timeline for the implementation of these regulations, with the complete effect expected by July 1, 2024, and subsequent assessments in 2025 and 2026. Major Regulation Changes: Insight into the recent large set of regulations impacting financial responsibility, administrative capability certification procedures, and ability to benefit regulations. Title IX Updates: Exploration of changes brought about by Title IX, awaiting major revisions related to campus security, including LBGTQ+ communities, and protection against bullying and cyberbullying. Impending FAFSA Updates: Discussion on the forthcoming 2024-2025 FAFSA, reflecting changes from the FAFSA simplification law of 2019, to be released by December 31st. Three Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders: Cybersecurity: Emphasis on compliance with FTC safeguard rules and upcoming changes from the Department of Education. Regulatory Change Impact: Urging financial aid departments to understand the implications of recent proposals, especially on financial responsibility and administrative capability. Borrower Defense to Repayment: Encouraging institutions to review claims thoroughly to understand their substance. Final Thoughts: The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolving landscape in higher education policy, highlighting the need for higher education leaders to stay informed and proactive in adapting to these changes. Read the transcript → About Our Guest Tom Netting TEN Government Strategies CEO Tom Netting, a regular guest on the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, provides updates on the latest coming out of Washington, D.C., and how these will impact institutions and students. Having spent all of his professional career devoted to higher education policy oversight and implementation, Tom Netting has an extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations governing all aspects of higher education. His considerable background and experience have afforded him the opportunity to view the development and implementation of federal higher education and workforce development policy in their entirety – including issues related to higher education and workforce development, health care, veteran affairs policies, and the procurement of federal appropriations. Tom Netting on LinkedIn → About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed® podcast, is a consultant to higher education institutions with a focus on governance, accreditation, strategy, change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #NegotiatedRulemaking #NegReg #HigherEdPolilcy

Facing tough times ahead, higher education enrollment is at a critical juncture, as discussed by seasoned experts Drumm McNaughton, Bill Conley, and Bob Massa in this episode. They examine the current landscape, characterized by fluctuating student numbers, the next two demographic cliffs, and changing educational trends. Drawing from recent reports by the National Student Clearinghouse and the College Board, they explore changing demographics, public skepticism towards higher education, and the unintended results of trending financial strategies. Key Discussion Points Enrollment Trends and Challenges: Significant long-term changes in higher education enrollment patterns post-COVID-19. Decreased enrollment in traditional four-year colleges, with a notable shift towards certificate programs. Racial demographics show flat rates for white students and increases for Asian and Latin/Hispanic students, with challenges persisting for predominantly white institutions. Reframing Financial Dynamics in Higher Ed: Discussion on the disparity between the sticker price and the net price of college education. Increased discounting by colleges is leading to reduced net revenues and potential implications for service and support levels. Highlighting the need for transparent communication about true costs and financial aid opportunities. Strategic Adaptation for Higher Education Institutions: Importance of understanding and adapting to market needs, including an emphasis on employability and alignment with workforce demands. The role of college missions in guiding responses to current challenges and the necessity to revisit and update them as needed. Importance of investing in strong enrollment management leadership. Accelerated Evolution of Higher Learning Structures: Predictions of ongoing demographic declines and their impact on enrollment. The necessity for higher education institutions to innovate and adapt to a potentially prolonged period of stagnation or decline in traditional student enrollment. Emphasis on strategic mergers, collaborations, and program adjustments to remain viable. Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders and Boards Acknowledge and respond proactively to the current demographic and financial challenges. Prioritize transparent communication about the value and cost of education. Embrace adaptability in institutional missions and practices to align with evolving market demands and expectations. Final Thoughts The episode concludes with a call for boldness and creativity in addressing these unprecedented challenges in higher education. The guests emphasized the importance of strategic leadership and innovation in navigating these turbulent times. Read the transcript on our website → About Our Podcast Guests Principals at Enrollment Intelligence Now Robert Massa Dr. Robert Massa, a seasoned professional in higher education enrollment, began his career in 1974 at Colgate University and retired in 2019 from Drew University. His career trajectory included key positions at Union College, Johns Hopkins University, Dickinson College, and Lafayette College. Massa's expertise extends to teaching, currently as an adjunct professor at the University of Southern California. He is known for his insights on data modeling in admissions, financial aid strategies, and non-academic criteria in admissions, contributing to several national publications and speaking at conferences. His educational background includes a BA from the University of Rochester and an EdD from Columbia University. William Conley Bill Conley began his career in education as an AP History teacher and coach at Delbarton School, transitioning into higher education enrollment management in 1980. His notable career includes roles at Lafayette College, Drew University, Case Western Reserve University, and Johns Hopkins University, before retiring in 2020 from Bucknell University. Throughout his forty-year career, Conley significantly improved admissions metrics and developed strategic infrastructures for recruitment and retention at each institution. He has been actively involved in professional organizations, holding leadership positions and contributing to publications in the field of higher education. Conley is a respected voice in higher education, frequently quoted and sought after for his insights and expertise. His educational background includes a BA from Colgate University and an M.Ed. from Harvard University. About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #HigherEdEnrollment #EnrollmentCliff #ChangingHigherEd

Navigating New Frontiers in Higher Education In the quest for sustainability and relevance, universities worldwide are confronting a pivotal moment that calls for a transformative rethinking of their traditional business models. The Ernst & Young white paper: How are you balancing the books for a digital future? discussed in the episode, created in partnership with Times Higher Education, delves into the global challenges facing the sector. The findings underscore a pressing narrative: enrollment numbers are plummeting, costs are escalating, and the old ways of cost-cutting are no longer sufficient lifelines. The Crux of Financial Sustainability Rising costs, shrinking domestic enrollments, and stagnant government funding are painting a stark picture for universities. With employment rates soaring, the allure of higher education is under scrutiny, especially as alternative learning pathways burgeon. The conversation with Catherine Friday reveals that the value proposition of universities is increasingly contested, leading to softer financial outcomes and the necessity for strategic innovation. A Paradigm Shift: Strategy, Scale, and Digitalization The traditional response to financial duress, such as downsizing and selling assets, is a mere stopgap, insufficient for long-term viability. Instead, universities are being urged to leverage their underutilized assets, like sprawling campuses now operating at a fraction of their capacity. The success stories of today's educational landscape are those institutions that understand their target students, deliver high-end educational experiences, and cultivate distinctive, tailored offerings. The Digital Transformation of Education Digital integration stands as a cornerstone of the modern educational transformation. It's not merely about transitioning analog to digital, but reimagining the very essence of educational delivery. Leading universities are employing digital strategies to create personalized, accessible, and engaging learning experiences, harnessing AI, data analytics, and innovative technologies like AR and VR to enhance the academic journey. Empowering Educators and Students Alike A resounding theme throughout the episode is the importance of teaching educators how to effectively employ digital tools to foster personalization and engagement. Students crave meaningful connections with faculty who are not just knowledgeable but also adept at nurturing these connections through digital means. Universities that excel in equipping their educators with these skills are seeing improved retention and student outcomes. The Power of Collaboration and Distinctiveness Mergers and partnerships are emerging as strategic maneuvers for universities to achieve scale and distinctiveness. The episode highlights examples like the merger of Wheelock College and Boston School of Education, which combined high-quality curriculum with robust enrollment figures, underscoring the potential of such collaborations. Rethinking Leadership and Engagement As universities navigate these changes, the role of leadership is pivotal. Transformation must be championed from within, with faculty and staff actively engaged in shaping and embracing the new direction. True leadership in higher education is about fostering collaboration, supporting innovation, and guiding institutions toward a sustainable and impactful future. Three Key Takeaways for University Presidents and Boards: Prioritize People: Focus on the individuals within the institution — the academics, students, and administrative staff — recognizing that they are the cornerstone of any transformative change. Ensuring that the needs and skills of these people are at the forefront can guide a university through change successfully. Embrace Discomfort in Change: When strategies for change evoke discomfort, it often indicates a move toward meaningful progress. Leaders should not shy away from decisions that challenge the status quo if they believe these changes can lead to a better future for the institution. Seek External Validation: Utilize external resources like consulting firms or peer networks for a "sanity check" on new strategies. This peer review approach can provide critical insights and validation, ensuring that new initiatives are sound and have considered various perspectives. This comprehensive exploration not only encapsulates the current state of higher education but also charts a course for institutions to stay afloat and thrive amidst the changing tides. It emphasizes the urgency for non-Ivy League universities to recalibrate their strategies, embrace digital innovation, and foster deep connections with their academic communities to secure a prosperous future in the rapidly evolving educational landscape. Read the transcript on our website → About Our Podcast Guest Catherine Friday EY Oceania Managing Partner, Government and Health Sciences; EY Global Education Leader Catherine has spent much of her career providing services to state and federal departments and regulators, ministerial councils, not-for-profits and NGOs in every state and territory in Australia, and in New Zealand. The implications of the work she does are far-reaching, delivering the best outcomes for citizens across education, health, human services, defense, transport and infrastructure, and central agencies. Catherine Friday on LinkedIn → About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #ShiftsInHigherEducation #HigherEdBusinessModel #HigherEdSustainability

Innovating Higher Education for a New Era When it comes to higher education, innovation isn't just about generating ideas; it's about knowing how to implement them effectively. In a world that's rapidly changing, colleges and universities need to adapt to meet the needs of today's students. Dr. Philly Mantella, the President of Grand Valley State University, is at the forefront of this innovation, breaking down the structural barriers of traditional education models and creating a student-centric approach to overcome enrollment challenges. Breaking Barriers and Embracing Change The landscape of higher education has shifted dramatically over the years, and it's essential to break away from the traditional structures that were designed for a different demographic. This innovation recognizes the need to adapt to today's age and demographic. A Student-Centric Approach One of the key aspects of this innovation is a student-centric approach. The focus is on the students themselves. By addressing their needs, aspirations, and challenges, new ways are being found to create a supportive and engaging educational experience. Preparing Graduates for the Business World In today's competitive job market, it's not just about earning a degree; it's about being business-ready. The commitment is to ensure that graduates from Grand Valley State University possess the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen careers. This means building a curriculum that goes beyond traditional subjects and includes essential skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and digital literacy. Redefining the Public Good While higher education has long been associated with the concept of the public good, this innovation takes a broader view. Yes, it involves civic engagement and community service, but it also means producing graduates who are ready to contribute to the workforce and society. It's about equipping students with the skills they need to make a meaningful impact beyond the classroom. Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders Embrace innovation as a way to break down structural barriers and adapt to the changing landscape of higher education. Prioritize a student-centric approach that addresses the unique needs and challenges of today's students. Ensure that graduates are not just academically prepared but also business-ready, with skills that go beyond traditional disciplines. Implementing innovation in higher education is not an option; it's a necessity. This approach serves as inspiration and how-to for colleges and universities looking to thrive in a new era of learning, prepare students for success in their careers, and benefit society. Read the transcript on our website → About Our Podcast Guest Philomena V. Mantella is Grand Valley State University's fifth president and the first woman to hold the position. Mantella is a recognized leader in strategic planning, market expansion, and educational innovation. Her drive and expertise come from more than 30 years in higher education administration, serving as an officer at public and private universities in New York, New Jersey, Michigan, and Massachusetts. Dr. Philomena Mantella on LinkedIn About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of the Changing Higher Ed® Podcast, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #HigherEducation #InnovationinHigherEd #ChangingHigherEd

In this conversation between Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Dr. David R. Decker, the President of Franklin University, we explore three strategic moves aimed at driving higher education enrollment. Franklin University, which primarily serves non-traditional, part-time adult learners, offers a unique perspective on higher education. Podcast Highlights Applying the 4 Ps of Marketing to Higher Education David Decker discusses how applying the traditional marketing framework of the 4 Ps (Product, Price, Place, and Promotion) to higher education programs can lead to success. He highlights that in addition to content, academic programs should consider their structure, transferability, micro-credentials, and prior learning assessments as part of the product. This broader perspective allows universities to better align with the needs of students and employers. "Backing into Costs" for Tuition Decker emphasizes that pricing in higher education should go beyond an institution's needs. Instead, it should consider fixed points in the universe, such as IRS guidelines for tax deductions, Pell Grants, and the ideal price of zero that students aim for. Franklin University aligns its tuition rates with these fixed numbers, aiming to make education more accessible and affordable for students. This approach ensures a market-driven pricing strategy. Leveraging Alliances and Promotion David Decker highlights the importance of building alliances with community colleges, corporations, and other professional organizations. These partnerships enhance the credibility of the institution and provide students with clear pathways for credit transfer and career development. Additionally, promotion in higher education extends beyond traditional advertising, involving relationships, articulation agreements, and community college alliances to effectively reach prospective students. Three Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders: Think Beyond Content Encourage academic institutions to expand their thinking about academic programs beyond content. Consider the structure, transferability, and practicality of programs to better meet the needs of students and employers. Embrace a Market-Driven Pricing Model Move away from self-absorbed pricing models and align tuition rates with fixed points in the education ecosystem, making education more affordable and accessible to students. Build Strategic Partnerships Foster alliances with community colleges, corporations, and organizations to enhance credibility, promote transferability, and provide clear pathways for students to succeed in their academic and professional journeys. David Decker's insights from his experience at Franklin University shed light on innovative strategies that higher education leaders can adopt to drive enrollment, reduce costs, and provide high-quality education. Read the transcript on our website → About Our Podcast Guest David R. Decker joined Franklin University as its President in 2007. Under his leadership, Franklin focuses on the demonstrable achievement of student outcomes, through which graduates are empowered to rise in their professions and strengthen their contributions to their families, communities, and employers. Franklin University has become a doctoral-granting university under Dr. Decker's tenure and has also established a world-class Instructional Innovation Center focusing on enhancing student learning and student success. Dr. Decker graduated from Grinnell College, holds the M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Kansas, and earned the M.B.A. from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Guest Social Media Link: David Decker on LinkedIn About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #HigherEdEnrollment #ChangingHigherEd #HigherEducation

This thought-provoking conversation dissects the structural disruptions in the higher education landscape. Drawing parallels with the entertainment industry, McNaughton and Smith explore the strategic turbulence ahead for higher education leaders. Key Discussion Points: Introduction to structural disruption and its defining role in today's higher education. A glance back at the entertainment industry and how technology shifted the ground beneath it. Unraveling the parallels: Both sectors controlled critical, scarce resources, but how are they adapting or resisting change? The tale of Joyce Carol Oates: A microcosm of the larger issue in higher education, exploring the challenge of exclusive access to premier knowledge resources. The urgent need for change: Tackling the financial and moral challenges in higher education and understanding the roots of increasing public distrust. Bright spots on the horizon: Institutions that are harnessing technology for more inclusive and affordable education. Three Critical Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders: Recognizing the challenges Understanding their systemic nature Embracing technological solutions This episode serves as a wake-up call for higher education transformation. Drawing lessons from past industries, there's a pressing need to redefine missions, methods, and mindsets to ensure your institution remains relevant, accessible, and equitable in today's digital world. About Our Guest Dr. Michael D. Smith is J. Erik Jonsson Professor of Information Technology and Marketing at Carnegie Mellon University's Heinz College of Public Policy and Management. Smith is coauthor of the book "Streaming, Sharing, Stealing: Big Data and the Future of Entertainment" (MIT Press, 2016) and author of the new book "The Abundant University: Remaking Higher Education for a Digital World" (MIT Press, 2023). Michael D. Smith on LinkedIn → About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed® podcast, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy, change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. The Change Leader's Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/ Twitter: @thechangeldr Email: podcast@changinghighered.com #StructuralDisruption #HigherEducation #HigherEdPodcast

Strategies for Seamless K-12 to Higher Ed Transitions, Embracing Online Learning, and Building Strong Institutional Foundations The second half of this two-part series with Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU)'s Chancellor Terrence Cheng explores the strategy CSCU uses to better communicate to high schoolers how connected K-12 is to higher ed to ensure equity and accessibility for all students. Cheng also shares how his system is revolutionizing its online learning model to better serve local businesses and CSCU's students across numerous campuses. Evolving Online Learning Beyond COVID-19 Specifications Although in the early stages, CSCU is working to deliver online learning that's effective, accessible, and cost-efficient. Cheng communicates to his presidents that the system-wide implementation of the online program does not have to be the same at every campus. These online programs need to amplify each institution's unique offerings, assets, and stakeholders rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all solution. Creating a Clear Pathway to Community College Using the Common App, CSCU created a legislature-driven, GPA-calibrated automated admission program that will be implemented at the state's 17 technical schools and CSCU's 17 community college campuses. Upon graduation, students will be automatically accepted at their local community college. CSCU is also bringing its IBM P-Tech partnership with Norwalk Community College and Norwalk High School to scale. The goal is to effectively convey that there's a very clear bridge to higher education after 12th grade, almost like a "13th grade." Five Recommendations for Higher Education Leaders and Boards Trust your instincts. Remind yourself that you got to be where you are today by doing things a certain way, so it's okay to rely on your instincts. However, it's still important to listen. Make changes sooner rather than later. If you know that you need to make some staff or organizational changes, give yourself enough time to gather the data. But don't take too long because that can have detrimental effects. Own the narrative of your story. Don't let others tell your story for you. Get out there. Be upfront. Be ruthlessly honest with the data. Have integrity in what you say. But make sure you say what needs to be said. Have a good mentor. It's helpful to have current and/or past presidents and chancellors who can provide support for you and even suggest what to steer clear of. This advice is critical, regardless of whether you've been a president or chancellor before. Every campus is different. Build a strong relationship with your board chair. This is probably one of, if not the most critical, relationship a university president can have. It doesn't mean that you tell him or her what to do, or vice versa, but if the two of you can be joined at the hip, it's going to make things far smoother for you in the long run. At a Glance How higher ed is not meeting 21st-century students and what can be done to remedy this. What higher ed needs to start destigmatizing to truly succeed. Why having a "winning team" mentality is so important for higher ed. Read the transcript → About Our Guest Terrence Cheng Terrence Cheng is president of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, which oversees 12 community colleges, four state universities, and Charter Oak State College and serves more than 72,000 students. About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed® podcast, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. #HigherEducation #ChangingHigherEd #TheChangeLeader

Learn how CSCU's unification of its once-siloed community college is building a sustainable higher education model and helping improve retention and enrollment. The first half of this two-part series with Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU)'s Chancellor Terence Cheng explores how CSCU partners with local businesses to ensure equity and workforce preparation for its majority-minority student population. Forming Effective Partnerships with Local Businesses At UConn Stamford before coming to CSCU, Dr. Terrence pinpointed local businesses in the Stamford, Connecticut, area like NBC Sports and then identified the type of skills NBC Sports wanted to connect them with the programs UConn Stamford offered that could best meet their needs. 98% of CSCU's students come from Connecticut and will remain there, so CSCU strives to create a strong relationship with local businesses where these businesses feel compelled to call the system if they have any needs. Dr. Terrence describes it as building "muscle memory" for them. Higher ed leaders need to help local businesses realize a simple if/then value proposition if they partner with your system. You want them to say, "If I call CSCU, I will get this." Improved Retention Through Streamlined Transfers CSCU helped unite the system's 12 legacy community colleges into one singularly accredited multi-campus institution. A united system provides a more streamlined and efficient shared services model on the back end that anticipates providing improved academic performance, retention, graduation rates, and job placements. Most community college students cannot take 12 or even 9 credits at a time and regularly move across the state for various reasons. A unified curriculum makes transferring easier. To streamline transferring, higher ed must first identify the percentage of community college students who want to transfer but haven't and those who transfer within and outside your system. After performing this analysis, remove obstacles that complicate transferring, such as "the last-credit conundrum." This can be accomplished by breaking down the perception that a course taken from a community college is not good enough for a university. Also, more effectively communicate the seamlessness of your continuum from community colleges to four-year institutions to help attract and retain students. At a Glance How systems like CSCU need to position themselves in relation to major flagship universities in their state like UConn CSCU's unique history when Governor Daniel Malloy created CSCU's system more than 10 years ago The challenges of navigating a siloed university system that is deeply rooted in its ways Read the transcript on the website → About our Guest Terrence Cheng Terrence Cheng is chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, which oversees 12 community colleges, four state universities, and Charter Oak State College and serves more than 85,000 students. About the Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/. #HigherEdSustainability #HigherEducation #WorkforceReadiness