The Community College Competitive Advantage (And How to Steal It)


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Diving into this week's insights tailored for forward-thinking leaders in higher education...

Higher Education Innovation Newsletter

Federal Innovation Push Brings ‘Moment of Change’ for Community Colleges

The 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...

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Generative AI: Key Trends and Insights for Higher Ed Leaders

Generative 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.

50+ Mind Blowing AI Stats

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.

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-Mike O’Connor

O'Connor & Associates

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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.

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Welcome, Reader. Per usual, we explore how institutions can stay ahead in a dynamic Higher Ed environment... From aligning academic programs with workforce needs to downstream impacts of nuclear tech infrastructure too third order effects of a Trump Victory... This edition is a bit all over the place. 1. Mapping Academic Programs with Workforce Demand: A Strategic Playbook for C-Suite Leaders Ensuring that your academic programs align with in-demand, high-compensation careers is essential for...

Hi there Reader, Welcome back to the latest edition, where we explore the intersections of technology, finance, and strategy shaping the future of higher education. From leveraging agile methodologies to optimize campus operations to assessing how endowments are navigating turbulence to AI hacks, here are a few insights I'm excited to share... Columbia's Endowment Strategy: A Bold Public Equity Play As Ivy League endowment reports start rolling in, Columbia University is leading the pack with...

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Hi there Reader, I hope everything is going as well as possible... How Menlo College’s Startup Mindset is Preparing Students for the Future In a recent conversation, Steven Weiner, President of Menlo College, shared how he’s leveraging Silicon Valley’s startup mentality to redefine higher education. Menlo’s approach centers on mandatory internships, real-world experience, and its proximity to Silicon Valley’s tech giants—ensuring students graduate with both degrees and job offers. Key...