Hi there Reader, Diving into this week's insights tailored for forward-thinking leaders in higher education... Higher Education Innovation NewsletterFederal Innovation Push Brings ‘Moment of Change’ for Community CollegesThe NSF’s CHIPS and Science Act investment is revolutionizing community colleges by funding regional innovation engines to support emerging tech and workforce training. Initiatives like the Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medicine Engine exemplify how these investments create jobs, drive economic growth, and advance technology. This aligns perfectly with our economic development work where we leverage data/AI analysis, identify potential regional partners, and create credit-bearing coursework marrying workforce demands with institutional missions... Curious to learn more? Reply "Share" and I'll share our framework... Generative AI: Key Trends and Insights for Higher Ed LeadersGenerative AI is rapidly transforming industries, with market value expected to exceed $200 billion by 2030. As AI tools like ChatGPT gain traction, they offer innovative ways to enhance institutional productivity and engagement at low cost. The implications for higher education are profound—ranging from integrating AI into curricula to leveraging AI for administrative efficiency and student support. Software Product Marketing Managers: A Massive Field with No Programs.As launching new products becomes more challenging, the role of product marketing managers (PMMs) has emerged as crucial for software companies. PMMs provide essential expertise in navigating the complex path to market acceptance, ensuring that products meet customer needs and achieve commercial success. Yet: there are VERY few academic programs/pathways for entering this vital field - and fewer emphasizing the intersection of technical proficiency and market strategy. Curious: What sparked something of interest? Let's Take Your Institution to the Next LevelReady to discuss how these insights can be implemented at your institution? Let's chat! Schedule a time on my calendar here. -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, Happy Fall, my friend... A few insights at the fringes of the Academy. Sara Howard on Agile Leadership in Higher Ed Sara Howard, Chief of Staff at Tally, offers critical insights into driving change in complex environments. Agility in Higher Ed: By blending design thinking with Scrum Agile, Sara has successfully shortened the timeline for institutional change, turning years into months. Crisis Leadership: Her experience during the pandemic and after George Floyd’s murder...
Hi there Reader, I hope opening went as well as possible... Per usual, I'm writing with a few updates at the fringes of the academy... Balancing Operational Costs with Excellence: Insights from Michael Avaltroni In my recent conversation with Michael Avaltroni, President of Fairleigh Dickinson University, we dove deep into the complex balancing act of managing operational costs while delivering top-notch educational experiences. Michael shared how institutions must navigate the push and pull...
Hi there Reader, Fall is coming, my friend! I spent some time studying Nathan Grawe's "The Agile College" massive data sets. A few counterintuitive takeaways (accompanying data visualizations below). Impact of Parental Education on Enrollment in National Universities: Students whose parents hold a bachelor's degree are much more likely to attend national universities (ranked between 51st and 100th) compared to those whose parents do not have a degree. This disparity could influence the...