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.
Public Trust in Higher Ed Is Waning—How to Rebuild It? (Well, That's Complicated)
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Hallå Reader, Diving into this week’s insights tailored for forward-thinking leaders in higher education… Federal Investment in Regional Technology Hubs: A Game-Changer for Economic Development The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a significant investment in twelve new regional technology hubs across the United States, aimed at creating high-paying jobs and fostering economic innovation in underserved communities. This initiative, part of the CHIPS and Science Act, is designed to decentralize tech innovation and ensure that economic growth benefits a broader range of regions. Each hub will focus on a specific area of technological advancement, from advanced manufacturing to clean energy, with the goal of transforming these regions into economic powerhouses. For higher education leaders, this move presents an opportunity to align academic programs with emerging industry needs, forging partnerships that can drive both regional development and institutional growth. Engaging with these hubs could be pivotal for institutions looking to position themselves at the forefront of innovation and workforce development. Automation is Getting Easier (And Cheaper): Example: Gunloop Gumloop, an AI automation platform that began as a small side project, has quickly grown into a robust tool for businesses of all sizes. By allowing users to create powerful AI workflows with a simple drag-and-drop interface, Gumloop eliminates the need for coding expertise. This platform democratizes AI, enabling non-technical staff to automate complex tasks, from invoice processing to SEO content generation, and beyond. For higher education leaders, this tool offers exciting possibilities for streamlining administrative processes, enhancing data analysis, and improving operational efficiency—all without requiring additional technical resources. As AI becomes increasingly integral to institutional success, tools like Gumloop could be a game-changer in maximizing productivity while minimizing costs. Higher Education's Value Under Scrutiny: What Leaders Need to Know A recent survey conducted by Langer Research Associates for The Chronicle of Higher Education reveals significant public skepticism about the value of higher education. While 79% of respondents with a bachelor’s degree believe their degree was worth the cost, a striking 58% of those who attended college but did not complete a degree feel that their education was not worth the financial investment. This sentiment is further complicated by the 66% of individuals who cite affordability as a major barrier to higher education. Additionally, the survey indicates a shift in perceptions, with 47% of respondents believing that other pathways, such as trade schools or apprenticeships, offer comparable or better opportunities than a traditional bachelor’s degree. These findings suggest that higher education institutions must address affordability and demonstrate clear value to prospective students in order to maintain their relevance and appeal in an increasingly competitive landscape. Ready to discuss how these insights can be implemented at your institution? Let’s chat! Schedule a time on my calendar here. Best, -Mike O’Connor O'Connor & Associates |
Hi, I'm Mike!
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, In this edition, I’ve gathered insights on leadership, marketing optimization, and the enrollment shifts that are coming our way. Here’s a look at what’s caught my attention this week. 1. Data-Driven Leadership: Key Takeaways from Jason Morrison, President of Trinity Valley Community College In my recent conversation with Jason Morrison, we discussed the evolving role of leadership in community colleges. Here are the top takeaways: Adaptability: Leaders must be flexible and...
Greetings, Reader, Higher education continues to be at an inflection point. This week, we're diving into some of the most compelling ideas reshaping the field, including: Changing workforce needs 2nd/3rd order effects of Technological disruption Shifting expectations of students, faculty, and society. Stop Emailing and Start Aligning: Leadership Lessons from Brendan Kelly What’s the real job of education? For Brendan Kelly, President of the Arkansas State University System, it’s about...
Hi there Reader, This week’s newsletter dives into themes shaping the future of our institutions: Staying true to your mission Small yet powerful productivity shifts, and Private equity's increasing influence in education Ferraris vs. Toyotas, and the Future of Education What makes a university stand out in today’s crowded education market? According to Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System (APUS), it’s not about trying to be everything to everyone. In our recent...