Hi there Reader,

In this edition, we focus on the tools, perspectives, and insights needed to navigate higher education’s evolving challenges.

From leveraging mission-driven growth to the future of the Chief of Staff role, this issue has strategies to stay resilient and forward-thinking.

David Armstrong, St. Thomas University: Mission-Centered, Fiscally Sound

David Armstrong’s work at St. Thomas University offers a powerful case study in mission-driven turnaround within faith-based higher ed.

Over six years, he’s led St. Thomas through record enrollment and impactful campus developments by focusing on purpose, partnerships, and financial stability.

1. Mission-Driven Growth: Armstrong’s vision hinges on building a strong mission-centered culture. Half of St. Thomas’ student body identifies as non-Catholic, yet they’re drawn to the ethical, purpose-driven foundation of the institution, which boosts both engagement and retention.
2. Leveraging Strategic Partnerships: Armstrong’s partnerships, such as the University Housing Solutions model for residence halls, mitigate financial risks while allowing for substantial growth. This model demonstrates how creative financing can help mission-based schools expand their reach without compromising on financial health.
3. Financial Discipline Meets Mission Fulfillment: With his philosophy of “no margin, no mission,” Armstrong shows the importance of financial oversight. His strategic investments in scholarships, infrastructure, and enrollment management underscore the value of aligning budget with mission—a blueprint for mission-driven financial resilience.

For institutions facing financial pressures, Armstrong’s approach highlights a model that blends fiscal responsibility with purpose, yielding both stability and growth.

​Clip from David; More from David.

Bryon Grigsby, Moravian University: Blending Tradition with Innovation

At Moravian University, Bryon Grigsby’s leadership is redefining what it means to be a “traditional” institution in modern higher ed.

With a focus on digital transformation, mental health support, and career-ready programming, he’s positioning Moravian to meet contemporary student needs without losing its liberal arts heritage.

1. Student-Centric Innovations: Grigsby’s emphasis on experiential learning and real-world readiness enhances Moravian’s value to today’s students. By integrating practical applications into the curriculum, he prepares students for seamless transitions into the workforce.
2. Holistic Student Support for Retention: Grigsby’s investment in mental health and wellness initiatives extends support beyond the academic sphere, addressing student well-being holistically. This approach not only improves retention but also aligns with broader goals of creating a supportive campus environment.
3. Digital Transformation: Recognizing the need for digital literacy, Grigsby has championed tech-driven solutions to modernize Moravian’s operations and student experience. His forward-thinking investment in digital tools equips students with skills critical for the future workplace.

Grigsby’s model at Moravian combines heritage with forward-thinking initiatives, providing insights for institutions aiming to maintain tradition while embracing change.

​Bryon Clip; Full Conversation.

Key Ballot Measures for Higher Ed Funding: What College Leaders Need to Know

The recent elections included several ballot measures affecting higher ed funding across multiple states:

1. Nevada: Passed a measure allocating dedicated funding to support community colleges, which could set a trend for states aiming to strengthen their workforce through expanded community college access.
2. California: Approved funds for construction and modernization projects, addressing infrastructure challenges and supporting future campus growth.
3. Rhode Island and Arkansas: Both states focused on boosting support for local institutions to enhance workforce readiness.

​Full details here​

Chief of Staff: Role Evolution and Strategic Impact in Higher Ed

McKinsey’s recent study on the Chief of Staff (CoS) role reveals how this position has evolved to become a strategic pillar in organizational leadership.

For higher ed institutions, where presidents and C-Suite teams face increasingly complex landscapes, the CoS can be pivotal in bridging operational needs with strategic vision.

1. Expanded Scope and Influence: Today’s CoS roles go beyond administrative tasks, focusing on initiatives such as stakeholder engagement, data analysis, and operational oversight.
2. Strategic Coordination: By facilitating cross-departmental alignment, CoS leaders enable faster response times to market changes, helping institutions remain agile.
3. Data-Driven Decision-Making: A CoS skilled in data analytics brings added value, helping to inform decision-making with real-time data insights that support broader institutional goals.

​Explore McKinsey’s full article here​

Final Thought: Election Outcomes and the Road Ahead for Higher Ed

With new leadership on the horizon, higher ed is poised for potential shifts in funding, regulatory, and DEI policies.

Early indicators suggest an intensified focus on fiscal transparency and potential shifts in Title IX that could impact DEI efforts across campuses.

For college leaders, now is the time to assess agility, prepare for policy adjustments, and strengthen engagement channels with both students and staff.

Best,

-Mike O’Connor

O'Connor & Associates

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