Hi there Reader,

In this edition, we dive into key themes reshaping higher education: from leveraging AI to amplifying partnerships and fostering a purpose-driven learning culture.

Here are the insights your institution needs to navigate today’s challenges with resilience and vision.

Finding Purpose and Grit in a Rapidly Evolving Landscape: Mike Shannon, President, University of North Georgia

In a recent conversation with Mike Shannon, we discussed a renewed vision for higher ed that’s both purpose-driven and resilience-focused.

Mike shared his commitment to making UNG a place where students don’t just learn—they discover their purpose and develop grit. Here are the standout themes:

1. Purpose-Driven Learning: For Mike, education extends beyond career prep. It’s about helping students discover a sense of purpose that informs their academic journey and future roles. From advising to leadership development, UNG embeds this mission deeply into its fabric.
2. Resilience and Grit: Drawing from his military background, Mike emphasizes the need for students to face and overcome challenges. UNG is shaping a new generation ready to tackle real-world issues head-on, rooted in the belief that resilience builds true leaders.
3. Redefining Higher Ed’s Value Proposition: Against increasing ROI scrutiny, UNG’s unique approach marries traditional academics with a mission-centered on adaptability. Mike’s team is blending rigorous academic expectations with community-focused initiatives to prepare students for a rapidly changing landscape.

​Excerpt from Mike; Full Conversation.

AI’s Transformational (and Disruptive) Role in Higher Ed

The Chronicle’s latest article, “AI May Ruin the University as We Know It,” explores how rapidly integrated AI systems are revolutionizing—and potentially undermining—higher education.

The analysis outlines the risks and rewards of “University as a Service” models, where the core academic mission could be overshadowed by external tech agendas.

• Key Concern: With AI embedded in core systems, from Google to Canvas, institutions risk outsourcing not only their tech but also their mission. The model shifts universities to a subscription-based service, potentially affecting how education is valued and delivered.
• Impact on Academic Integrity: AI’s capabilities, from autosummarization to content generation, might compromise traditional learning practices, challenging the roles of lectures, discussions, and deep intellectual engagement.
• Takeaway for Leaders: As C-Suite leaders consider AI’s potential, the challenge is to harness its advantages for operational efficiency without diluting the institution’s core educational mission.

​Full article here​

Unapologetic Rules of the Road for Higher-Ed Partnerships (Chronicle Feature)

Insights from Keith Curry, President, Compton College

Keith Curry’s leadership at Compton College is a model for effective, community-centered partnerships in higher ed.

Curry’s partnership playbook isn’t just about meeting academic needs—it’s about embedding the college into the very fabric of the community, from K-12 to workforce development.

1. Break Down Silos for Community Impact: By fostering cross-sector partnerships, Curry exemplifies how breaking silos can open new avenues for underserved student populations. His approach transforms institutions into essential community pillars.
2. Sustainability and Transparency: To avoid “one-off” partnerships, Curry advocates for formal structures (e.g., MOUs) that ensure longevity beyond individual leaders, embedding the partnership ethos deeply within the institution.
3. Data-Driven and Community-Centric Models: Success, for Curry, is defined by shared milestones and clear accountability. His work on Compton’s dual-enrollment program, which now sees over 120 high school graduates and a 30% dual enrollment rate, exemplifies sustainable, impact-driven results.
   ​Explore Curry’s model for partnership-driven success and why it’s a timely strategy for community-focused institutions.

​Full download here.

New Tech on the Horizon: Amazon’s Drone Delivery Expands

As Amazon pushes the envelope on drone technology, the question arises: How might institutions leverage similar innovations?

From drone-based campus deliveries to future applications in campus security or environmental monitoring, these developments prompt exciting opportunities.

​More here​

Election Update: What Trump’s Return Means for Higher Ed

As we look ahead to a new political administration, the education sector braces for potential shifts.

Trump’s upcoming term brings immediate questions around federal funding, DEI policies, and the future of student loan forgiveness initiatives.

1. Federal Funding and Regulation: Expect renewed scrutiny of budgets and policies around federal support, likely impacting public and private institutions differently. Early indicators suggest increased demands for fiscal transparency and potential shifts in research and government funding.
2. DEI Implications: Leaders may need to re-evaluate DEI initiatives as policy changes emerge around Title IX and other federal regulations. Strategic alignment and early preparation will be essential in responding to potential policy shifts while preserving institutional values.
3. Political Engagement: Notably, data shows high political engagement among younger generations, with recent surveys indicating that over 60% of young people feel motivated to vote and engage in political discourse. For colleges, this suggests both a challenge and an opportunity: addressing divisiveness while fostering an environment for healthy debate.

For C-Suite leaders, the weeks ahead are critical.

Now is the time to assess your institution’s agility and prepare to navigate what’s next...

Curious: What are your concerns for the next 3-6 months?

-Mike O’Connor

O'Connor & Associates

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