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A few insights, from the outskirts of the Academy...

Principles for Strategic Decision-Making

Nabeel Qureshi’s “Principles” offers a practical framework for leaders. A former Palantir executive, Nabeel emphasizes clear values in decision-making and execution.

For Higher Ed Leaders:

• Adopt “systematic skepticism” when evaluating data or making decisions under uncertainty.
• Build “optionality” into strategic planning to adapt to demographic and economic shifts.
• Consider sharing with your students (It's amazing).

​Dive into Nabeel’s full principles here​

Reframing College Acceptance Rates

It’s becoming easier to get into college—but not at every institution.​
New data from the American Enterprise Institute and NACAC reveals that acceptance rates at most nonprofit four-year colleges have increased over the last decade, reflecting declining enrollment trends.

• Key Stats:
  • The median acceptance rate climbed by 7.6 percentage points from 2012 to 2022.
  • 87% of four-year colleges accept at least half their applicants.
  • Public perception remains skewed, with 45% of young adults thinking admissions are harder than for previous generations.
• Challenges for Equity:
  • The rise of early decision admissions limits options for low-income and first-generation students.
  • Institutions like Tulane now fill nearly 70% of their incoming classes through early decision.

Takeaway: While declining enrollment may ease competition for students, institutions must focus on access and affordability to remain competitive in a smaller pool.

​Full Story via The Washington Post​

Labor Market Watch: What Higher Ed Needs to Know

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ JOLTS Report provides critical insights for workforce planning.

Key Trends:

• Job Openings Drop: 9.6 million in September 2024, down from 10.3 million in August.
• Implications for Higher Ed: A tightening labor market has potential for increased credentialing, given historic trends of upskilling during periods of reduced hiring.

2nd/3rd Order Effects:

• A potential uptick in demand for credentialing and non-degree programs.
• Institutions with strong employer partnerships will have an edge in reskilling the workforce.

​View the full JOLTS report​

The Business of Weight Loss and Cultural Impact

While this may seem outside the higher ed sphere, Ozempic’s influence on workplace productivity and healthcare costs is creating ripples that are hard to ignore...

The Take:

• Employer Impact: If workforce health improves, it could reduce workplace absenteeism and insurance costs.
• Student Considerations: Wellness trends like this may influence health-focused curricula and campus programming.

​Full article on Quartz​

Margins & Mission: More from David Armstrong

In my recent conversation with David Armstrong, President of St. Thomas University, we explored his approach to balancing mission and business acumen in higher education.

Key Takeaways:

• Mission-Driven Finances: “No margin, no mission” drives a focus on core financial sustainability while leveraging partnerships for growth.
• Enrollment Innovation: St. Thomas uses data-driven recruitment and financial aid optimization to grow enrollment while maintaining accessibility.
• Authentic Differentiation: 50% of St. Thomas’s students are non-Catholic but are drawn to its faith-based standards and educational quality.

Leadership Insight: David’s leadership showcases how institutions can maintain their values while innovating to remain financially resilient.

​Clip from David; More from David.

Closing Thought

As higher education leaders, we’re navigating a landscape that demands adaptability, resilience, and vision. Let’s keep fostering communities of purpose and innovation, even as challenges mount.

Feedback? Want to talk?

​Let’s connect​

Best,

-Mike O’Connor

O'Connor & Associates

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