Hi there Reader,

Higher education leaders face challenges that demand both foresight and adaptability.

From systemic student success models to the ripple effects of global economic policies, this week’s newsletter dives into topics reshaping our institutions.

Spotlight: Montgomery College’s Dr. Jermaine Williams

What does transformative leadership look like?

Dr. Jermaine Williams, President of Montgomery College, offers a masterclass in leading with purpose, equity, and data-driven strategies.

Key Takeaways from Our Conversation:

• Building Student Pipelines Early: Montgomery College is redefining access by engaging students and their families before 7th grade. Programs like career coaching and early college exposure ensure long-term impact.
• Measuring What Matters: Dr. Williams’s team uses robust, transparent metrics to track outcomes like dual enrollment growth, economic mobility post-graduation, and intergenerational impact.
• Holistic Support Programs: Recognizing the barriers students face, the college tackles food insecurity and supports parenting students with tailored resources—from food markets to multi-generation-friendly campus facilities.

Dr. Williams’s leadership shows that systemic change in higher ed starts with aligning institutional missions to community needs, all while prioritizing equity and impact.

​Clip Here; Full-Convo​

FAFSA Rollout 2025–2026: What Higher Ed Leaders Need to Know

After technical challenges plagued the 2024 FAFSA rollout, changes are coming for 2025–2026, aiming to improve user experience and application accessibility.

Highlights for C-Suite Leaders:

• Improved Application Process: More streamlined access for first-generation students and families unfamiliar with FAFSA requirements.
• Updated Pell Grant Calculations: Expected to better reflect income and demographic shifts, creating opportunities for institutions to attract and retain underserved students.
• Institutional Alignment: Colleges need to ensure their financial aid offices are ready for new regulations and prepared to guide students through these changes effectively.

Dive into FAFSA’s changes and implications here.​

Small Businesses: A Missed Opportunity for Higher Ed?

A recent report from McKinsey urges small businesses to “think big,” identifying untapped markets and scaling strategies...

But what about higher ed’s role in these ecosystems?

Potential Collaborations:

1. Upskilling Entrepreneurs: Community colleges and universities can partner with small business ecosystems to deliver short-term certifications in finance, digital marketing, and management.
2. Innovation Incubators: Small businesses increasingly need access to R&D resources—an area where universities can step in to bridge the gap.
3. Workforce Alignment: As small businesses grow, higher ed can position itself as the go-to provider of skilled, job-ready talent.

The takeaway?

Institutions that partner strategically with small businesses can become catalysts for regional economic growth while building enrollment pipelines.

Explore the McKinsey report and its implications for higher ed.

The Ripple Effects of Proposed Tariffs on Higher Education

President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs could impact higher education.

While the focus has largely been on manufacturing, higher education must prepare for second and third-order effects.

Key Impacts to Watch:

1. Operational Costs: Tariffs on imports like technology and lab equipment may strain already tight budgets, forcing tough choices on educational investments.
2. International Enrollment: Strained trade relations with China could impact international student enrollment—threatening tuition revenue and campus diversity.
3. Research Funding: Imported research materials will become more expensive, potentially reducing collaboration and innovation at a time when global partnerships are essential.
4. Policy Shifts: Tariffs are a signal of broader priorities that may reshape how higher education institutions access federal and state resources.

What Should Institutions Do?​
Conduct dependency analyses to identify vulnerabilities in imported goods and international student pipelines.

Proactive planning can mitigate these risks while preserving institutional stability.

Read the full breakdown of these proposed economic changes here.

Closing Note

As higher education continues to evolve, the interplay between community impact, global economics, and student success remains at the forefront.

Let’s keep the conversation going....

What’s top of mind for you and your team right now?

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Best,

-Mike O’Connor

O'Connor & Associates

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