Changing Higher Ed

Changing Higher Ed is dedicated to helping higher education leaders improve their institutions. We offer the latest in higher ed news and insights from top experts in higher education who share their perspectives on how you can grow your institution. Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton is a top higher education consultant, renowned leader, and pioneer in strategic management systems and leadership boards. He's one of a select group with executive leadership experience in academe, nonprofits, government, and business.

Innovation in Higher Education: How Leaders Build the Capacity to Adapt 11/18/2025

Innovation in Higher Education: How Leaders Build the Capacity to Adapt Higher education leaders are being asked to innovate faster than their institutions are built to move. This episode of Changing Higher Ed explores how presidents and boards can change that. Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with Erika Liodice, Executive Director of the Alliance for Innovation and Transformation (AFIT), about how institutions can strengthen their innovation capacity through futures thinking, cross-sector insight, and structured team-based planning. Topics Covered: How futures thinking helps leaders anticipate demographic, workforce, and technology shifts Why innovation efforts fail without planning discipline and shared vision How AFIT institutions use cross-sector learning to improve student experience and operations What VR, AI, and immersive environments reveal about modernizing curriculum and applied learning How team-based learning accelerates decision-making and supports strategy execution Why a long-horizon strategy must be paired with near-term planning cycles How leaders can strengthen coordination across academic, student services, and operational units Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leadership: Presidents and boards must anchor innovation in a future-oriented view of trends—environmental scanning, demographic forecasting, and technology signals should shape planning decisions. Innovation succeeds when the right teams plan together. Cross-functional alignment and shared ownership accelerate execution and prevent fragmented efforts. Institutions should treat innovation as an operational discipline tied to strategy, not a series of isolated pilots. Clear priorities, resource pathways, and coordinated leadership are essential. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, senior leadership teams, and academic and operational administrators responsible for strengthening institutional resilience, planning capacity, and innovation strategy. Read the transcript: #HigherEducation #InnovationInHigherEd #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/39039290

Accreditation Trends and WASC Priorities for Student Success 11/11/2025

Accreditation Trends and WASC Priorities for Student Success are shifting under rising accountability pressures, financial constraints, and increased scrutiny of student outcomes. This episode of the features , President and CEO of the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), in a strategic conversation with about how institutions can strengthen accreditation readiness and support stronger student success. This episode is essential for presidents, provosts, trustees, and senior leaders responsible for accreditation, mission alignment, evidence systems, governance oversight, and long-term institutional resilience. Topics Covered How WSCUC evaluates institutional effectiveness, learning outcomes, and mission alignment The post-pandemic readiness gaps shaping student progression and support needs Program-level earnings, debt, default rates, and transparency expectations How institutional evidence must reflect the students served Financial pressures affecting academic quality, resource planning, and program viability Expectations for continuous improvement and documented assessment cycles The role of governance in sustaining accreditation and institutional credibility Real-World Examples Discussed The Key Indicator Dashboard and how program-level data informs institutional planning Program earnings and debt trends affecting default risk after the repayment restart How military-connected learner documentation informs competency evaluation Institutions balancing support structures with financial pressures and staffing constraints Mission drift and its impact on planning, budgeting, and academic decision pathways Three Key Takeaways for Higher Ed Leaders Institutions must understand their students clearly and align academic design, support systems, and assessment with documented learning needs. Program-level debt, earnings, and completion patterns should drive decisions about program viability, financial planning, and long-term strategy. Continuous improvement requires evidence-based action; leaders must ensure that learning assessment results lead directly to curricular and support refinements. Read the transcript or the extended show summary: #HigherEdLeadership #Accreditation #WSCUC /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38966990

The Real Cost of Overlooking Teaching Quality in Higher Ed 11/04/2025

The Real Cost of Overlooking Teaching Quality in Higher Ed Improving how teaching happens in the classroom is one of the most effective ways to increase student retention, stabilize tuition revenue, and strengthen institutional reputation—yet most universities don’t manage it strategically. In this episode of , speaks with , Associate Professor at the University of Iowa and author of The Missing Course, about how teaching quality has fallen outside institutional oversight and what presidents and boards can do to make it a core part of strategic leadership. They explore how governance structures, incentive systems, and faculty preparation create a blind spot that limits progress on student success. Gooblar and McNaughton outline what leadership can do to realign teaching, strategy, and accountability to improve learning and institutional performance. Topics Covered: Why first-year GPA, driven by classroom experience, predicts retention and completion. How tenure and incentive systems discourage teaching innovation. The leadership role in integrating pedagogy into strategic and financial planning. Practical ways to invest in teaching infrastructure and faculty capacity. How governing boards can hold institutions accountable for the conditions that enable great teaching. Why It Matters: When institutions manage teaching with the same rigor as finance and enrollment, they see measurable gains in persistence, lower cost per graduate, and stronger mission credibility. Teaching quality is not just a faculty concern—it’s a leadership lever for institutional performance. Three Takeaways for University Presidents and Boards: Make teaching measurable and managed. Track instructional quality alongside financial and enrollment metrics. Align incentives with institutional goals. Reward teaching innovation in evaluation and promotion. Invest in the conditions for learning. Fund the infrastructure and faculty capacity that make engagement and feedback possible. Read the full episode summary and transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #StudentSuccess #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38885375

Free Speech on College Campuses: Insights from FIRE's 2025 Report 10/28/2025

Aligning Higher Education Strategy and Programs with Workforce Needs and Student Value 10/21/2025

Aligning Higher Education Strategy and Programs with Workforce Needs and Student Value Host welcomes , president of the University of North Texas and former Texas commissioner of higher education. This episode of the helps higher education presidents, boards, and senior leaders rethink how to connect institutional mission with workforce readiness. It explores how institutions can better align employer partnerships, faculty innovation, and experiential learning to ensure graduates gain both economic and civic value from their degrees. Listeners will hear how the University of North Texas is translating statewide strategy into campus-level change—showing what’s possible when leadership, faculty, and employers collaborate to strengthen outcomes for students and the workforce alike. Keller shares how Building a Talent Strong Texas redefined higher education’s value proposition by tying attainment goals to time-to-value, graduate earnings, and measurable student outcomes. He also discusses UNT’s Texas Talent Accelerator, faculty externships, and cross-campus structures that link curriculum, research, and employer engagement. Together, these efforts demonstrate how thoughtful strategy, data-informed planning, and shared governance can create lasting institutional and workforce impact. Topics Covered Measuring value through outcomes and earnings using time-to-value analysis Aligning programs with workforce needs through employer partnerships and data Texas Talent Accelerator: coordinated collaboration across institutions Faculty externships connecting academic insight and workforce practice Embedding civil dialogue and collaboration into student learning Three Key Takeaways for Leadership Use outcomes and earnings data to guide academic and financial strategy. Build employer partnerships that sustain workforce readiness. Support faculty collaboration and innovation through aligned governance and incentives. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #StrategicPlanning #WorkforceReadiness #StudentOutcomes #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38629220

Holistic Enrollment Strategy and Management: Filling the Enrollment Pipeline 10/14/2025

Holistic Enrollment Strategy and Management: Filling the Enrollment Pipeline At one of the smallest graduate schools in the nation, a system built to serve just over a hundred students is redefining how higher education can grow. CUNY’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism has proven that scale isn’t the key to enrollment stability—structure is. By integrating admissions, student affairs, career services, and alumni engagement into one cohesive unit, the school has created a holistic enrollment strategy and management model that continuously fills its pipeline while centering student success. In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, speaks with , Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Success at CUNY Journalism, about how this model works—and how any institution can apply its principles. They discuss how cross-departmental collaboration, empathetic leadership, and data-informed decision-making can transform student outcomes, strengthen retention, and build lasting alumni engagement. Topics Covered How CUNY Journalism unified admissions, student affairs, career services, and alumni engagement under one leadership structure What makes holistic enrollment management more sustainable than traditional recruitment-focused models How shared accountability and communication strengthen belonging and retention The role of empathy and equity in leading institutional change Why belonging—not policy—is the real driver of retention Using alumni engagement as a continuous extension of recruitment and career development How shared services allow small institutions to deliver enterprise-level results The role of data-informed and equity-driven strategies in student success How CUNY Journalism is expanding access through bilingual online and tuition-free programs What presidents and boards can learn about aligning mission, management, and measurable outcomes Three Key Takeaways for Leadership Student Success Is a System, Not a Silo Enrollment, retention, and alumni engagement are interdependent. Breaking down silos creates a self-sustaining pipeline that continuously reinforces institutional value. Data and Equity Drive Smarter Decisions Evidence without equity misses the point. Data should inform which students thrive—and equity ensures that more of them can. Empathetic Leadership Sustains Change In times of transition, empathy and communication hold institutions together. Listening builds trust, and trust drives performance. Recommended For: Presidents, boards, provosts, and senior enrollment leaders seeking sustainable systems that connect recruitment, student success, and alumni engagement across the student lifecycle. Read the transcript: #EnrollmentStrategy #StudentSuccess #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38555350

Executing a Debt-Free Higher Education Turnaround with Real Estate 10/07/2025

Executing a Debt-Free Higher Education Turnaround with Real Estate When every board discussion centers on deficits, deferred maintenance, or another “strategic realignment,” higher education leaders start asking what it would take to fix the system instead of just managing decline. In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with Beth Martin, President of Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), who led her institution through a complete financial and operational turnaround—eliminating institutional debt through strategic real estate use, risk planning, and sound financial governance. Martin’s experience offers a rare look at what it takes to execute a true higher education turnaround. She shares how NDNU’s leadership aligned governance, mission, and financial strategy to not only survive but rebuild a sustainable model focused on graduate and online growth. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, CFOs, and institutional leaders facing financial strain, considering asset monetization, or preparing for large-scale organizational change. Topics Covered: How NDNU executed a debt-free turnaround through real estate strategy and risk planning Applying business planning and systems theory to higher education transformation Managing institutional debt while investing in academic and technological infrastructure Governance structures that enable speed, trust, and accountability during turnaround Aligning presidents, boards, and sponsoring orders in complex financial transactions Leading cultural and organizational change while maintaining mission and morale Real-World Examples Discussed: NDNU’s 46-acre land transaction that retired institutional debt and funded new programs Sequencing real estate sales to support strategy instead of short-term survival Governance reform guided by a skills matrix and board-chair alignment Realigning academic programs around graduate and online learning Faculty and staff engagement during institutional transition Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Treat land monetization as strategy, not salvage. Link every major financial decision to a defined business plan and measurable outcomes. Integrate business and risk planning into every turnaround. Build contingencies for timing, regulation, and accreditation challenges. Strengthen governance alignment. A unified president and board chair, supported by a skills-based board, determine turnaround success. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #HigherEdTurnaround #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38464320

Cybersecurity Risk Management in Higher Education—It's Not Just an IT Problem 09/30/2025

Cybersecurity Risk Management in Higher Education—It's Not Just an IT Problem Higher education institutions are increasingly at risk from cyberattacks that threaten enrollment, accreditation, financial aid compliance, and reputation. In this episode of the , speaks with at and former higher education CISO, about why cybersecurity must be treated as an enterprise risk—not just an IT issue. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, and senior leaders who need to understand how cyber risk intersects with governance, strategic planning, crisis management, and accreditation readiness. Topics Covered: Why higher education is a prime target for cyberattacks How ransomware and data breaches disrupt core institutional functions The governance responsibilities of boards in overseeing cybersecurity Cyber implications for strategic planning and reputation management Why accreditation and compliance can be undermined by cyber breaches Protecting research and intellectual property from cyber threats Building a campus culture of shared cybersecurity responsibility The leadership succession gap in higher ed cybersecurity Core practices every institution should adopt during Cybersecurity Awareness Month Real-World Examples Discussed: United Healthcare and Social Security data compromises PowerSchool breach exposing minors to identity theft Target and Home Depot breaches as case studies in reputational damage F-35 design theft highlighting the value of intellectual property Scam examples including PayPal fraud, fake purchase confirmations, and LinkedIn phishing Leadership succession in action: Cathy Hubbs’ retirement and Harry Hoffman’s appointment Three Key Takeaways for Higher Ed Leadership: Plan for resilience, not just prevention—institutions must continue to operate during and after cyber incidents. Make cybersecurity a shared responsibility—leaders must ensure accountability across the campus community. Include cyber in board oversight—cyber risk is part of governance, enterprise risk management, and accreditation readiness. Read the transcript or extended show summary: #HigherEdCybersecurity #BoardGovernance #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38405045

Higher Education Fundraising and Strategic Planning Alignment 09/23/2025

Higher Education Fundraising and Strategic Planning Alignment Higher education institutions face strained budgets, declining enrollments, and shifting donor behavior—making fundraising a strategic priority, not just an operational function. In this episode of the , Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with , CEO of and former university president, about how presidents and boards can strengthen higher education fundraising by Topics Covered: Why fundraising must be integrated into institutional strategic planning The shift from the 80/20 rule to today’s 95/5 donor reality The concept of “mattership” and why donors need assurance that their lives matter Eagles vs. Sparrows as a framework for donor tiers Updating the Five I’s of fundraising with creativity and emotional intelligence Why presidents should dedicate two hours a week to intentional donor cultivation How boards can become fundraising multipliers through accountability and “Perk Banks” The growing importance of local impact in donor decision-making Real-World Examples Discussed: A philanthropist redirecting gifts locally to ensure her contributions “mattered most” The researcher who cried after 16 years without ever being thanked for her role in million-dollar gifts A president telling his young faculty member, “You’re asking today,” in a million-dollar donor meeting The lasting impression of a three-sentence handwritten note from President George H. W. Bush Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Fundraising must be elevated into strategy, not treated as a background function. Presidents should focus time and energy on cultivating high-capacity relationships while modeling gratitude across the institution. Boards need clear expectations and creative tools to fully activate their networks and influence. Read the transcript: #HigherEducationFundraising #HigherEdStrategicPlanning #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38287490

How AI Dashboards Can Strengthen Board Governance 09/16/2025

International Student Recruiting in Higher Education—23 Touchpoints, Visa Barriers, and Retention Risks for Boards 09/02/2025

International Student Recruiting in Higher Education—23 Touchpoints, Visa Barriers, and Retention Risks for Boards Families are writing universities directly to ask if it’s safe to send their children to the United States. Institutions are also facing longer visa backlogs and growing competition from abroad. In this episode of the , Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with , Dean for International Programs and Development at St. Martin’s University, about how leaders can strengthen international enrollment pipelines, improve retention, and protect graduate research capacity. Topics Covered: The 23-touchpoint recruitment model that keeps students and families engaged until they commit How graduate applicants often choose the first institution to deliver admissions and aid Families’ growing concerns about campus safety and how institutions can respond Why outcome-driven marketing and peer-to-peer outreach build more trust than traditional tactics The effect of shrinking U.S. research funding on graduate student pipelines Retention strategies such as host family placements, faculty check-ins, and cultural immersion Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Presidents and trustees should engage directly with international students to understand barriers and improve the climate. Retention investments—host families, advising, and cultural programming—are as critical as recruitment for revenue stability. Boards must integrate international enrollment into institutional strategy, requiring documented plans, outcome-based marketing, and active policy advocacy. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, enrollment leaders, and academic administrators responsible for sustaining institutional revenue, research, and reputation through international education. Read the transcript: https://changinghighered.com/international-student-recruiting-in-higher-education/ #HigherEducation #InternationalStudentRecruiting #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/38022715

Enrollment Management Solutions in the Enrollment Cliff Era 08/26/2025

Beyond the Headlines: Reframing Enrollment Management in the Enrollment Cliff Era 08/19/2025

Caltech’s Approach to Stronger Private Board Governance 08/12/2025

How University Leaders Can Transform Institutions with Program Realignment and Scalable Mental Health Services 08/05/2025

How University Leaders Can Transform Institutions with Program Realignment and Scalable Mental Health Services 40% of California’s licensed doctoral psychologists come from one university that nearly failed a decade ago. Their turnaround didn’t come from diversifying programs or chasing enrollment—it came from making the hardest decision in higher ed: cutting what wasn’t excellent. In this episode of the , speaks with , President and CEO of Alliant International University, about how institutional leaders can drive by making tough calls, realigning programs, and embedding scalable mental health support into their core operations. Drawing from Alliant’s strategic shift, Vaughn explains why program focus and transparent leadership are more effective than traditional diversification models. He shares how embedding mental health services into academic programs created both a market advantage and a support system for students, faculty, and staff. Topics Covered: Why eliminating underperforming programs can drive institutional transformation How strengthens financial stability and market positioning Embedding scalable mental health services into academic programs and operations The leadership imperative: transparency, inclusion, and decisive action Codifying organizational values to guide behavior and decision-making with professionalism and respect Real-World Examples Discussed: Alliant International University’s strategic focus on licensure-driven programs The integration of Alliant Clinics, providing community mental health services Leadership communication practices to maintain trust during operational changes Partnering with psychology schools for scalable mental health service delivery Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Codify and normalize institutional values so that decision-making and behaviors align across all levels. Be transparent with stakeholders about challenges and solutions, fostering trust and shared ownership of outcomes. Involve the entire institution—including part-time staff—in transformation efforts to ensure unified execution during critical periods. This episode offers a practical framework for institutional leaders navigating transformation, operational challenges, and the rising demand for campus-wide mental health support. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, provosts, CFOs, student affairs leaders, and higher education executives focused on institutional sustainability and student success. Read the transcript: #UniversityTransformation #HigherEdLeadership #MentalHealthSupport #ProgramRealignment #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37627025

Helping First-Gen and Low SES Students Succeed: A Regional Model That Works 07/29/2025

Helping First-Gen and Low SES Students Succeed: A Regional Model That Works With first-generation and low SES students facing steep barriers to completion and career entry, Great Jobs KC has built a replicable model that starts in high school, continues through college, and delivers real workforce outcomes. In this episode of the , Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with about how regional collaboration, wraparound services, and employer partnerships are beyond graduation. Phalen outlines how Great Jobs KC collaborates with 24 higher education institutions, over 150 employer partners, and K–12 feeder systems to support students from high school through college graduation and into strong first jobs. Through initiatives like KC Scholars and the Great Jobs KC scholarship, the organization provides $50,000 per student for tuition, transportation, and wraparound support—including case managers, success coaches, and career placement services. This episode offers practical, data-backed insights for institutional leaders working to improve retention, increase degree completion, and strengthen job placement results for underserved students through strategic regional partnerships. Topics Covered: The unique needs of first-generation and low SES students Designing holistic support systems that extend beyond financial aid How to build college-employer partnerships that deliver job outcomes Regional collaboration between 24 colleges and over 150 employers The role of scholar advocates and success coaches in student persistence How investing $50,000 per student can produce high ROI Measuring impact: retention, completion, and employment rates Real-World Examples Discussed: Great Jobs KC’s partnership with regional colleges, including UMKC, Avila, William Jewell, and Donnelly College How the KC Scholars program helps high school students complete FAFSA, ACT prep, and college planning Employer partnership models, including apprenticeships, internships, and work-based learning The importance of wraparound services like transportation and mental health support in student success Scholar experiences navigating college with the help of long-term coaching Three Key Takeaways for Higher Ed Leadership: Institutions that want to serve first-gen and low-income students need more than scholarships—they need scalable systems of support. Long-term coaching and employer-aligned programs can dramatically improve retention, completion, and career outcomes. Regional collaboration between colleges, K–12 schools, and employers isn’t just ideal—it’s necessary to build equitable education-to-career pipelines. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, trustees, enrollment and student success leaders, and system executives seeking replicable strategies to improve access, retention, completion, and career outcomes for first-generation and low SES students. Read the transcript on our website: #HigherEdLeadership #StudentSuccess #FirstGenStudents #LowSESStudentSuccess #RegionalCollaboration #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37545655

Washington Update: July 2025 Reconciliation Bill’s Impact on Higher Ed 07/22/2025

Washington Update: July 2025 Reconciliation Bill’s Impact on Higher Ed Higher education leaders are facing the most sweeping set of federal regulatory and funding changes in over a decade. In this Washington Update episode of the , Dr. Drumm McNaughton welcomes back frequent guest Tom Netting, president of TEN Government Strategies, to discuss the July 2025 budget reconciliation bill—federal legislation that significantly alters student loans, Pell Grants, institutional accountability, and the rules governing program eligibility. While not a formal reauthorization of the Higher Education Act, the bill introduces statutory earnings-based accountability for degree programs, lifetime loan caps, professional judgment changes, and new eligibility requirements for short-term Pell programs. Netting also discusses concurrent developments in accreditation and distance education oversight, including the rise of a new accreditor in Florida and its potential implications for NC-SARA and federal triad stability. This episode is a must-listen for presidents, trustees, CFOs, and compliance officers preparing for upcoming reporting deadlines, new negotiated rulemaking cycles, and long-term institutional planning under new federal constraints. Topics Covered How the July 2025 reconciliation bill rewrites federal student aid and accountability rules What the new earnings-based accountability measure means for degree programs Pell Grant expansion for short-term workforce programs and the required outcomes thresholds The elimination of Grad PLUS loans and new lifetime borrowing caps for students and families Changes to professional judgment authority and how institutions can apply it by cohort New 90/10 revenue guidance and how it affects distance education classifications Delayed implementation of Borrower Defense and Closed School Discharge regulations The emergence of Florida’s state-based accreditor and its expected NACIQI review Why NC-SARA recognition may be impacted by nontraditional accreditation The likelihood of a second reconciliation bill or technical corrections package Three Key Takeaways for Leadership Institutional leaders must prepare now for dual accountability frameworks and new reporting obligations. Expanded professional judgment offers new flexibility but must be applied with consistency and clear documentation. Accreditation and state authorization pathways are shifting—compliance teams must monitor evolving standards across federal and state lines. This episode provides critical insights for leaders navigating a changing regulatory environment, with practical implications for finance, compliance, and academic planning. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, chief financial officers, compliance officers, and accreditation liaisons responsible for institutional strategy and Title IV eligibility. Read the transcript:  #HigherEdPolicy #July2025ReconciliationBill #FinancialAidCompliance #FederalLegislation #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37465310

Building a Connected College by Aligning Strategy and Services 07/15/2025

Building a Connected College by Aligning Strategy and Services Most colleges rely on more than 20 disconnected systems to support students, creating confusion, reducing engagement, and lowering graduation rates. In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, speaks with is the founder of brightspot Strategy (acquired by in 2020) and the author of about how building integrated systems where strategy, services, and technology work together can improve student outcomes without increasing institutional complexity or cost. Felix, who has worked with more than 100 institutions including MIT, NYU, and the University of Virginia, draws on his background in architecture and design thinking to offer practical solutions for breaking down silos and creating seamless student experiences. This conversation provides actionable strategies for institutional leaders seeking to move from fragmentation to alignment while managing limited resources. This episode is particularly valuable for presidents, trustees, and senior administrators looking to redesign operations and improve student success through systemic coordination rather than adding more programs and services. Topics Covered: Why the "additive culture" in higher education creates operational sprawl and student confusion How design thinking can transform institutional strategy and student experience Practical approaches to breaking down silos without major reorganizations Using RACI models and governance structures to enable faster, smarter decisions The critical importance of aligning strategic planning with budget decisions Reframing risk as a condition for progress through prototyping and piloting Strategic partnerships as tools for expanding capacity without internal complexity Real-World Examples Discussed: NYU's transformation of computer labs into "connect and create" collaborative spaces UVA's co-location of different advising functions for seamless student support Purdue University's Communicators Council as a model for decentralized coordination Colorado State's IT governance process for strategic technology investments The pitfall of institutions with both writing centers and writing labs in the same building Quinnipiac's healthcare partnership providing both services and talent pipeline Amarillo College's community partnerships that increased graduation rates from 14% to 65-80% Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Create a focused strategy that prioritizes where to invest, makes hard tradeoffs, and aligns budget with institutional goals Break the cycle of fragmentation by consolidating services and systems to improve access, reduce duplication, and enhance outcomes Reframe risk as progress by encouraging piloting and iteration to unlock innovation without waiting for consensus or perfection This episode offers institutional leaders a clear, actionable framework for moving from fragmentation to alignment while improving student outcomes through strategic execution rather than adding complexity. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, chief academic officers, student affairs leaders, and institutional planning teams focused on improving student success through systemic coordination. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #StudentSuccess #InstitutionalStrategy #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37291700

Using AI to Fix Admissions and Enrollment Without Losing the Human Touch 07/08/2025

Using AI to Fix Admissions and Enrollment Without Losing the Human Touch AI can change how colleges and universities approach enrollment, making it faster, fairer, and more aligned with student success. In this episode of , Dr. Drumm McNaughton talks with , about how institutions can use artificial intelligence to improve admissions, automate routine tasks, and personalize support without losing the human touch. Drawing on real-world implementations at Western Governors University, Franklin University, and others, Fernando outlines how AI enables institutions to make faster admissions decisions, better assess student fit, and improve long-term outcomes. He also explains where human judgment still matters and why redesigning broken enrollment processes is critical before adding automation. This episode offers practical insights for presidents, provosts, enrollment leaders, and trustees seeking to modernize recruitment, increase yield, and align institutional capacity with student expectations. Topics Covered Why enrollment strategy must prioritize student fit, not just volume How AI improves speed to decision and impacts yield What admissions tasks are appropriate for automation The strategic value of chatbots and real-time decision systems How to avoid automating broken or biased processes Balancing technology with human counseling in admissions Real-world examples of AI implementation in higher education Real-World Examples Discussed Western Governors University’s scalable, self-paced enrollment model Franklin University’s five-minute transfer evaluation and admissions decision NYU’s BobChat and chatbot-supported student services National University’s approach to AI infrastructure Three Key Takeaways Think from the outside in. Understand student motivations and design enrollment to reflect their needs and expectations. Use speed as strategy. Institutions that respond quickly improve yield, reduce melt, and gain a competitive edge. Embed AI in operations. Treat AI as infrastructure built to support staff, not replace them. Read the transcript: #HigherEdEnrollment #AIinHigherEd #AdmissionsStrategy #HigherEducationPodcast #InstitutionalEffectiveness /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37280975

How Utah State Is Using a Connected Campus to Boost Student Engagement and Persistence 07/01/2025

How Utah State Is Using a Connected Campus to Boost Student Engagement and Persistence Digital transformation in higher education often focuses on technology. But for Utah State University, the transformation has been about outcomes: improving retention, strengthening equity, and building scalable systems of support without overhauling infrastructure. In this episode of the ,  speaks with , about how the institution designed and implemented a connected campus strategy that integrates advising, communications, and academic support into a single mobile-first platform. Drawing on her decades of experience in higher ed and edtech leadership, Eborn shares how USU replaced nine siloed tools with five integrated platforms, enabling early alerts, AI-powered nudges, and real-time visibility across departments. She explains how this model supports faculty, staff, and especially underserved student populations—including first-generation, commuter, and online learners—by surfacing what students need, when they need it. This conversation is especially relevant for institutional leaders looking to align digital infrastructure with student success goals, without ballooning their tech stack or losing sight of their mission. Topics Covered: Why USU’s connected campus approach focuses on student equity and support How the university integrated CRM, LMS, advising, and communications systems The role of AI nudges and early alerts in preventing student disengagement How faculty and staff use the system to support students in real time What the rollout process looked like—and why stakeholder involvement was key What’s next: building toward a full 360-degree student lifecycle view Real-World Examples Discussed: A first-generation student juggling three jobs flagged by the early alert system and connected to scholarship resources in time Student dashboards that surface personalized academic, advising, and financial steps A platform expansion that now includes parents, alumni, and prospective students High adoption rates driven by student feedback and design input Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Technology should be integrated, not layered—start with user needs and existing infrastructure. Faculty and staff buy-in depends on systems that make their work easier, not more complicated. Student success improves when support is timely, personalized, and accessible—especially for those who need it most. This episode offers a practical look at what’s possible when digital transformation is driven by strategy, not software—and why connected campuses may be one of the most effective ways to support today’s diverse student population. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, CIOs, trustees, enrollment managers, and student success leaders building or scaling student-centered infrastructure. Read the transcript: #ConnectedCampus #StudentSuccess #HigherEdTechnology #HigherEducationPodcast #DigitalTransformation /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37171660

Strategies to Help Adult Learners Re-Enroll and Graduate 06/24/2025

Strategies to Help Adult Learners Re-Enroll and Graduate How Cross-Sector Partnerships Help Adult Learners Return, Persist, and Complete Degrees With over 41 million adults in the U.S. holding some college credit but no degree, colleges and universities are under pressure to implement effective adult learner enrollment strategies. In this episode of the , Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with about how institutions can re-engage students who have stopped out through cross-sector partnerships that support enrollment, retention, and degree completion. Drawing on their real-world experience in higher education and workforce development, McNaughton and Brown discuss how adult learners face unique barriers—including affordability, caregiving responsibilities, and outdated enrollment systems—and how intermediaries like nonprofits and employers can play a crucial role in supporting their return to college. The episode outlines practical, replicable strategies that institutional leaders can adopt to build sustainable pipelines for adult learner success. This conversation is especially valuable for higher ed presidents, provosts, and enrollment leaders tasked with addressing demographic shifts and declining enrollments while aligning with workforce and community needs. Topics Covered: The economic and social reasons over 41 million Americans have stopped out Why adult learners need support from application through graduation How partnerships with nonprofits, employers, and funders extend institutional capacity The importance of stackable credentials aligned to labor market needs Why re-enrollment strategies must include systems changes and credit articulation Reducing friction in the application, financial aid, and credit transfer processes Real-World Examples Discussed: Graduate Philadelphia’s intermediary role connecting students, colleges, and employers How employers can provide scheduling flexibility and tuition assistance Use of workforce credentials as an on-ramp to degrees Models for credit articulation and co-governed partnerships Community-based navigation support that increases persistence and completion Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Build integrated partnerships that extend institutional reach. Nonprofits, workforce boards, and employers provide essential wraparound services that help adult learners succeed. Design stackable pathways that start with workforce credentials. These programs allow adults to earn income and confidence while progressing toward a degree. Fix enrollment systems that weren’t built for adults. From transcript access to unpaid balances, institutions must streamline re-entry to remove avoidable barriers. This episode provides a framework for institutional leaders seeking actionable strategies to re-enroll adult learners and support them through to graduation. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, chief enrollment officers, board members, continuing education leaders, and workforce development professionals focused on adult learners and institutional sustainability. Read the transcript: #AdultLearners #HigherEdEnrollment #WorkforcePartnerships #HigherEducationPodcast #DegreeCompletion #ChangingHigherEd /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37096785

High Structure Course Design for Student Engagement, Retention, and Success 06/17/2025

High Structure Course Design for Student Engagement, Retention, and Success Higher education leaders are searching for better ways to engage students, improve retention, and close equity gaps—especially in the wake of COVID-related learning disruptions. In this episode of the podcast, speaks with , Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies and Teaching Professor in Chemical and Biological Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines. They discuss Dr. Shaffer’s book, , which offers a proven framework for transforming student outcomes. High structure course design—built on clarity, repetition, feedback, and engagement—originated in STEM education but is now widely recognized as effective across disciplines. This approach doesn't water down rigor; it scaffolds the learning process so students at all levels can succeed. The result: better retention, higher achievement, and greater equity in academic outcomes. This conversation is especially relevant for institutional leaders seeking to and boost institutional performance. Topics Covered: Why many students struggle in gateway courses and what faculty can do differently The long-term effects of post-COVID learning disruptions on student readiness Three structural layers that drive student engagement and retention Four foundational principles that support learning across all disciplines How high structure pedagogy closes equity gaps without lowering standards The undervalued impact of teaching-focused faculty on student success Infrastructure and leadership decisions that enable faculty innovation How structured courses also improve career readiness and workforce outcomes Real-World Examples: 40–60% failure rates improved through course redesign A biology field course that teaches both science and professional skills Centers for teaching and learning that support faculty-wide improvements Three Takeaways for Leadership: Course design is one of the most powerful and underused levers for retention and equity. Teaching-focused faculty are essential institutional assets and must be supported. Scalable infrastructure for instructional quality is not optional—it’s a strategic necessity. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, academic leaders, board members, and faculty development directors who want scalable ways to boost student success and institutional outcomes. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #RetentionStrategies #StudentSuccess /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/37027025

Shared Services and Consolidation Strategies for Small Colleges 06/10/2025

Shared Services and Consolidation Strategies for Small Colleges Shared services and consolidation strategies are helping struggling small colleges stabilize operations, reduce costs, and pursue sustainable growth—without compromising institutional identity or student outcomes. In this episode of the , host speaks with , about how these approaches are being used to help small colleges strengthen efficiency and financial sustainability. Drawing on his experience helping small colleges modernize their operations through cloud-based student information systems, Duggan explores how shared services, academic partnerships, and digital transformation are enabling institutions to manage costs and expand capacity. He also offers insights into how leadership teams and boards are approaching these strategies in the current financial and demographic environment. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, and senior leadership teams evaluating whether shared services or consolidation strategies could support their institution’s long-term mission and sustainability. Topics Covered: The financial and operational pressures driving small colleges to explore shared services and consolidation How administrative shared services are helping reduce overhead and improve service quality Strategic approaches to institutional consolidation and how they can support enrollment and operational goals Academic resource-sharing models and their role in expanding offerings while managing instructional costs Innovative financial and academic strategies to strengthen institutional resilience The role of cloud-based systems and digital transformation in supporting shared services and operational agility How presidents and boards are facilitating leadership conversations about shared services and consolidation Key considerations for aligning shared services and consolidation initiatives with institutional mission and values Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Clarify institutional mission and target audience to guide strategic planning and resource allocation. Prioritize student success and retention as core drivers of institutional resilience. Evaluate shared services and consolidation strategies as potential options for improving efficiency and long-term sustainability. This episode offers valuable insights for institutional leaders exploring new operational models to support their mission and navigate today’s higher education landscape. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, board members, chief financial officers, provosts, and senior administrative leaders focused on institutional sustainability and operational strategy. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #SharedServices #ConsolidationStrategies #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36901720

Adding Leadership Development to Academic Curriculum Design in Higher Ed 06/03/2025

Adding Leadership Development to Academic Curriculum Design in Higher Ed While higher education leaders often cite leadership development as a priority, few institutions treat it as a teachable, measurable skill. In this episode of , host speaks with about why leadership education should be integrated into the academic curriculum—and how institutions can implement it effectively. President Emeritus of Tulane University, Cowen shares insights from leading the university through Hurricane Katrina and from his new book, Lead and Succeed, which outlines strategies to develop leadership skills in students and early-career professionals. He dispels the “born leader” myth and offers a framework for embedding leadership development at every level of the institution. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, and academic leaders seeking to build leadership capacity across campus. Topics Covered: Why higher education often fails to treat leadership as a strategic priority How to embed leadership development into the academic curriculum Emotional intelligence and the behavioral traits of effective leaders Leadership lessons from Tulane’s post-Katrina recovery Creating institutional systems that reinforce leadership behaviors The role of succession planning in long-term institutional health Real-World Examples Discussed: Tulane University’s relocation to Houston and Cowen’s daily crisis communication strategy The development of a for-credit leadership course and workbook, Lead and Succeed Mentorship from Dr. Norman Francis, president of Xavier University for 50 years Cowen’s “thinking out loud” email updates during crises at Tulane and Case Western Scaling structured leadership practices across institutions Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Formalize leadership education. Establish structured academic courses with measurable outcomes. Integrate mentoring and reflection into the curriculum to build leadership competencies. Develop repeatable crisis leadership practices. Use structured daily meetings and transparent communications to align institutional response during disruption. Implement strategic succession planning. Treat leadership transitions as long-term planning initiatives. Build internal pipelines and normalize leadership exits to support institutional continuity. This episode offers a practical framework for establishing a leadership-ready culture in higher education academic curricula. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, deans, academic affairs leaders, trustees, and student success strategists. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #AcademicCurriculum #StudentDevelopment #LeadershipEducation #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36769805

When DEI Is Off the Table: How Higher Ed Leaders Can Still Drive Institutional Change 05/27/2025

When DEI Is Off the Table: How Higher Ed Leaders Can Still Drive Institutional Change Higher education’s approach to DEI is under fire—from political pressure, public skepticism, and internal fatigue. But abandoning DEI isn’t the only option. In this episode of , Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with about how higher ed institutions can continue to drive inclusive institutional change—without relying on traditional DEI frameworks that may no longer be viable. Sturm, author of What Might Be: Confronting Racism to Transform Our Institutions, reframes DEI as a long-term, systems-level strategy rooted in leadership, trust, and organizational learning. She introduces the concept of “full participation,” where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to the institution’s mission—and outlines the leadership mindsets and practices necessary to build that reality. Through examples from UMBC, Columbia, and court systems, Sturm shows how change begins with local experimentation, paradox navigation, and support for “organizational catalysts” who bridge across roles and perspectives. She also explores how discomfort, conflict, and even failure can become engines for cultural learning—if leaders are willing to embrace vulnerability and complexity. Topics Covered: Why current DEI models fall short in higher education The paradox of racial salience and its impact on reform How institutions can foster “full participation” Why local experimentation drives scalable change The role of discomfort and rupture in institutional learning How to resource and support internal change agents What boards and presidents must do to align DEI with strategy Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Train leaders to recognize and hold paradox—not resolve it Invest in internal catalysts who can bridge across silos and groups Reframe DEI as mission-aligned infrastructure, not add-on programming Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, board members, DEI officers, and change leaders looking to move beyond check-the-box diversity efforts and create meaningful, sustainable institutional change. Transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #HigherEdChangeManagement #HigherEducationPodcast #DEI /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36648030

Aligning Higher Ed with Workforce Needs and Nontraditional Learners 05/20/2025

Aligning Higher Ed with Workforce Needs and Nontraditional Learners Higher education is facing a growing disconnect between traditional academic pathways and the needs of today’s learners and employers. In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with Kathleen deLaski, founder of Education Design Lab and author of Who Needs College Anymore?, about how institutions can realign academic programs to better serve nontraditional students and meet workforce demands. Drawing from her experience supporting over 1,200 colleges and regional systems, deLaski explores how modular credentials, skills-based learning, and short-term pathways can make higher education more accessible and valuable to adult learners. The conversation highlights how institutions can use design thinking, industry data, and step-ladder credentialing to connect academic outcomes to employment opportunities—without abandoning their core mission. This episode is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, and academic leaders tasked with redesigning programs and structures to improve learner outcomes, increase enrollment, and strengthen workforce relevance. Topics Covered: The rise of nontraditional students and the failures of a degree-first model How institutions can implement skills-based learning and credential transparency Examples of how colleges like Western Governors University are aligning learning with job market demands The importance of employer engagement in curriculum design Why internal silos and legacy structures hinder meaningful innovation How to use step-ladder pathways to improve access, confidence, and long-term outcomes Real-World Examples Discussed: Western Governors University’s use of skills profiles tied to labor market data How community colleges are building modular micro-pathways in partnership with employers The impact of state policy and funding shifts (e.g., Virginia, Colorado, Texas) on institutional priorities Three Key Takeaways for Higher Ed Leadership: Aligning academic programs with workforce needs requires intentional curriculum design and employer input. Modular, stackable credentials offer nontraditional students realistic entry points and long-term pathways to degrees. Institutional structures must adapt to support new models—program redesign alone is not enough. This episode offers actionable insight for institutional leaders committed to expanding access, improving workforce outcomes, and strengthening institutional sustainability. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, trustees, academic planners, workforce and career pathway leaders, and board members addressing enrollment challenges and labor market alignment. Read the transcript on our website: #HigherEdLeadership #AcademicRedesign #WorkforceAlignment #NontraditionalStudents #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36592085

Confronting the Storm: Resistance to Change and Current Attacks on Higher Education 05/13/2025

Confronting the Storm: Resistance to Change and Current Attacks on Higher Education Higher education faces increasing external pressures and diminishing public trust—creating an urgent need for institutional adaptation. In this episode of the , speaks with , former president of Macalister College and author of "," about why resistance to change has made colleges and universities particularly vulnerable to current attacks. Drawing on his 17 years of presidential experience and current perspective as a Harvard visiting professor, Rosenberg analyzes the economic, political, and structural factors undermining public confidence in higher education while offering candid observations about what institutional leaders must do differently to navigate this challenging landscape. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, and institutional leaders seeking to understand both external threats and internal barriers to necessary change. Topics Covered: The multiple factors driving declining public confidence in higher education How political polarization and economic concerns about affordability create challenges Why traditional governance structures struggle to implement transformational change The impact of low completion rates (under 60% nationally) on public perception The relationship between boards and presidents during challenging periods Why institutions need to collaborate more effectively against external threats Real-World Examples Discussed: Columbia University as a target of coordinated attacks on higher education Wellesley College's $100,000 comprehensive fee and its impact on public trust The contrast between campus protests today and those of the 1960s Institutions with 30% completion rates that would signal catastrophic failure in other industries The success of community-connected support structures at Amarillo College Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Presidents must be honest and transparent with stakeholders about institutional challenges. Board members have a responsibility to defend institutional mission—service is a privilege that carries obligations. The board-president relationship is the single most important factor in institutional effectiveness. This episode provides thoughtful analysis for institutional leaders navigating external pressures while managing internal resistance to necessary change. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, board members, chief financial officers, and enrollment leaders concerned about institutional sustainability and public perception of higher education. Read the transcript: https://changinghighered.com/resistance-to-change-attacks-on-higher-education/ #HigherEdLeadership #InstitutionalChange #BoardGovernance #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36514920

Strategic Affiliation in Higher Education: What Colleges Can Learn from The Colleges of Law and TCS Education System 05/06/2025

Strategic Affiliation in Higher Education: What Colleges Can Learn from The Colleges of Law and TCS Education System Strategic affiliation in higher education offers an alternative path for institutional sustainability—one that maintains mission and autonomy while accessing shared infrastructure and support. In this episode of the podcast, speaks with about his institution’s affiliation with The Community Solution Education System (TCS) and what other leaders should know before pursuing similar strategies. Drawing on his experience as both a college president and former system executive, Nehmer shares how the affiliation was structured, how accreditation and compliance were handled, and what shared services have allowed The Colleges of Law to professionalize operations without sacrificing identity. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, trustees, and institutional leaders considering affiliation models to improve long-term viability. Topics Covered: Why The Colleges of Law pursued affiliation before it became a necessity The dual-board governance structure that balances autonomy and accountability How legal safeguards protected institutional assets during transition Shared services provided through The Community Solutions system and how they’re managed Accreditation coordination with WASC and the implications of a system model Academic collaboration across system institutions without curriculum loss Leadership communication and the president’s role in system-level engagement Real-World Examples Discussed: Asset protection using a legacy nonprofit entity Cross-listed family law course shared with affiliated institutions Accreditation contingency planning in case of system dissolution Strategic planning coordination across multiple colleges Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Presidents must actively educate stakeholders about how system affiliation works. Legal and governance structures matter—protect assets and clarify responsibilities. Affiliation doesn’t require cultural compromise; it enables operational focus. This episode provides practical insights for institutions exploring strategic affiliation as a pathway to long-term resilience without sacrificing independence. Recommended For: Presidents, trustees, board members, general counsel, provosts, and system executives considering affiliation or system alignment models in higher education. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #StrategicAffiliation #Governance #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36410240

Higher Education Strategic Planning That Drives Growth and Faculty Buy-In 04/29/2025

Higher Education Strategic Planning That Drives Growth and Faculty Buy-In isn't just about setting goals—it's about building the kind of stakeholder engagement and leadership alignment that can drive lasting institutional change. In this episode of , speaks with , President of the College of Charleston, about how a collaborative planning process helped increase enrollment, launch new academic schools, and move the college toward national university status. Drawing on his background in both industry and higher education, Dr. Hsu shares insights into balancing urgency with collaboration, the importance of faculty engagement, and the realities of leading strategic change within shared governance environments. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, boards, provosts, and leadership teams navigating strategic growth, governance challenges, or long-range institutional transformation. Topics Covered: How strategic planning anchored the College of Charleston’s enrollment growth and academic expansion Why broad faculty engagement strengthens institutional resilience and accelerates change Lessons from balancing urgency for change with the realities of shared governance How industry experience shaped Dr. Hsu’s leadership approach in higher education Governance missteps: What happens when leadership bypasses consultation—and how to correct course Long-term growth planning and the move toward national university status Real-World Examples Discussed: College of Charleston’s creation of Schools of Health Sciences, Natural and Environmental Sciences, and Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics The enrollment surge from 11,000 to 32,000 applications annually under Dr. Hsu’s leadership Policy changes at Charleston to formalize academic reorganization processes after early challenges Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Build stakeholder ownership early: Strategic planning must involve faculty, staff, students, alumni, and governing boards to ensure success. Respect governance processes: Even well-intentioned leadership actions can falter without proper consultation and transparency. Balance urgency with collaboration: Sustainable change in higher education requires leaders to move decisively while honoring shared governance culture. This episode offers practical strategies for institutions seeking to strengthen their strategic planning efforts and drive sustainable growth through collaborative leadership. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, trustees, board members, strategic planning leaders, and senior administrators focused on institutional transformation and governance alignment. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #StrategicPlanning #SharedGovernance #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36309320

Capital Funding Strategies in Higher Education: How Universities Are Solving Infrastructure and Student Housing Challenges 04/22/2025

Capital Funding Strategies in Higher Education: How Universities Are Solving Infrastructure and Student Housing Challenges With state capital support on the decline and infrastructure aging out of usefulness, higher education leaders are under pressure to find new ways to fund capital projects—without compromising mission, control, or long-term sustainability. In this episode of , Dr. Drumm McNaughton explores creative capital funding strategies institutions are using to meet urgent facility and housing demands. His guest, —shares how colleges and universities across the country are structuring public-private partnerships (P3s), securing transformational donor gifts, and leveraging local bond initiatives to move large-scale capital plans forward. This conversation is especially relevant for presidents, CFOs, trustees, and VPs of facilities navigating deferred maintenance, campus growth, or strategic repositioning. Brent brings 30+ years of architectural and capital planning experience to the conversation, offering insights from some of the most innovative projects in higher ed capital development. Topics Covered: Why traditional state funding is no longer enough—and what institutions are doing about it How public-private partnerships (P3s) work, and which types of projects they’re best suited for Case studies from USC, UC Irvine, University of Michigan, UC Merced, and more Donor and corporate partnership models that align with institutional missions How local bond initiatives are changing the future of community colleges What boards and presidents need to know about aligning capital projects with strategy and risk Real-World Examples Discussed: USC’s Iovine and Young Academy, funded by a $70M gift from Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre UC Irvine’s interdisciplinary health sciences building—merging donor intent and design University of Michigan’s Ford Robotics Building, a co-developed corporate-academic research hub UC Merced 2020, a $1.3B P3 that doubled the university’s physical capacity Cal State San Marcos’ early mixed-use P3 development for housing and retail A facilities deal struck to replace plant equipment at cost and pay via utility savings General Motors University as an early model of industry-aligned higher ed Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Ensure capital alignment with strategy: Every capital initiative should support the university’s mission, enrollment trajectory, and long-term vision. Build in lifecycle costs: Deferred maintenance and energy savings must be part of the upfront planning—not afterthoughts. Communicate across stakeholders: From boards and donors to students and local communities, transparency is essential to success. This episode provides both a strategic framework and actionable insight into how today’s institutions can overcome capital constraints through innovation, collaboration, and long-range thinking. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, CFOs, trustees, board chairs, and facilities executives leading campus master planning, housing expansion, or long-term capital strategy. Read the transcript: #HigherEdLeadership #PublicPrivatePartnerships #HigherEducation #HigherEducationPodcast /episode/index/show/changinghighered/id/36155165

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