Hi there Reader, Higher education is caught in the middle of transformation—and behind the scenes, political dynamics, AI, and private equity are playing Some colleges will thrive, others will struggle. This edition breaks down where things are headed and what it means for you. The ‘Broken Rung’ in Higher Ed LeadershipMcKinsey’s The Broken Rung sheds light on why leadership pipelines stall and how institutions lose out on top talent. The report’s latest findings reveal:
🔎 The takeaway? Institutions that invest in clearer leadership pathways and data-driven talent strategies will win. Others risk losing top talent to more agile competitors. What Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) Means for Higher EdThe latest CB Insights CVC Report 2024 highlights a surge in university partnerships with corporate investors. Here’s what’s happening:
The risk? Universities that don’t adapt could see revenue shifts away from traditional degree models toward microcredentials and employer-backed education. 🔎 The takeaway? Colleges must rethink their engagement with industry—passively watching isn’t an option. Those who build meaningful partnerships will lead the next wave of education. (Ping me directly for more insights here) Roger Best on Navigating Higher Ed’s Leadership MazeIn a conversation with Roger Best, President of UCM, we explored how leadership changes the game in higher ed. Key takeaways:
Leadership isn’t just about decision-making—it’s about strategic visibility and value articulation in a fast-changing education market. The Future of Higher Ed: AI, Jeff Selingo & Market DisruptionsJeff Selingo, higher ed expert and author, recently discussed where universities are headed. Some key themes:
🔎 The takeaway? Universities need to rethink their student pipeline, pricing models, and AI adoption—or risk irrelevance. Closing Thoughts: Leadership, industry partnerships, and AI adoption will define which institutions thrive and which struggle. The schools that embrace data, agility, and bold strategy will lead the next era of higher education. Curious: What challenges are you working through, and what is the "cost" of failing? Reply and share... -Mike O’Connor O'Connor & Associates |
With 17 years of insider experience, I specialize in enhancing university operations and strategic planning through innovative, data-driven solutions. Receive succinct, powerful insights on using analytics and artificial intelligence to streamline operations, increase ROI, and make informed strategic decisions. Ideal for C-suite aiming to do more with less and navigate the complexities of modern higher education.
Hi there Reader, Higher Ed’s Financial Model Is Cracking—Fast. From rising tuition thresholds to deep federal cuts, higher education’s financial landscape is shifting beneath our feet. Institutions that don’t adapt will struggle to survive. 🚨 What’s Inside This Week: Harvard raises its tuition-free threshold: What it signals for the sector. Ben Kennedy’s latest insights: The hard truths about financial sustainability. Federal layoffs gut the Education Department—what it means for data and...
Hi there Reader, Most universities are misaligned—and it’s costing them. I sat down with Ben Kennedy, CEO of Kennedy & Company, to talk about the real financial risks facing colleges today. Key Takeaways: Our pricing model is broken – Schools at 75% tuition discounting can’t sustain it. Yet most don’t have a plan to stop the bleeding. Your brand is your lifeline – If students think your institution is struggling, they won’t enroll. The wrong cost-cutting decisions make that perception...
Reader, Higher education is facing a perfect storm.... Rising costs, AI disruption, and now, direct political intervention into university operations. This week, we’re breaking down: 🚨 The $5B Funding Battle Over Columbia University The Trump administration has launched an unprecedented federal funding review into Columbia over its response to campus protests. If the administration follows through on its threat to cut funding, the impact could redefine the federal-university relationship—with...