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 SoundDavid 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.
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 InnovationAt 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.
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 KnowThe recent elections included several ballot measures affecting higher ed funding across multiple states:
Chief of Staff: Role Evolution and Strategic Impact in Higher EdMcKinsey’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.
Explore McKinsey’s full article here Final Thought: Election Outcomes and the Road Ahead for Higher EdWith 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 |
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.
Hi there Reader, Higher ed is under scrutiny— but is it under siege? In the past two weeks, we’ve seen elite institutions challenge direct federal overreach, new alliances emerge across sectors, and fresh innovations redefine how we think about student success and fiscal sustainability. This week’s newsletter surfaces: System-level redesign insights from Meacie Fairfax (Complete College America). A rallying cry from 200+ presidents against government interference. And a wildly underrated data...
Hi there Reader, Welcome back. This week, we're digging into the intersection of institutional strategy, federal overreach, and student loan reform. From campus data labs to billion-dollar showdowns with the federal government, the higher ed playbook is being rewritten in real time. Let's get into it. Rethinking the College Business Model with Matt Hendricks Founder, Perspective Data Sciences What if you could scan every college’s contracts, staffing levels, and pricing models—and flag costly...
Hi there Reader, The past two few weeks have ushered in significant changes for higher education institutions, with federal actions impacting operations, international students, and diversity initiatives. Here's a high-level overview of. Massive Layoffs at the Department of Education... To Continue? The Trump administration continues to make substantial cuts within the U.S. Department of Education, aiming to reduce its workforce by nearly half. Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated that...