EdUp Provost

20. “Relationships Matter for Student Success:” A Conversation with Isis Artze-Vega and Peter Felten

In this conversation, Dr. Isis Artze-Vega and Dr. Peter Felten discuss the significance of relationship-rich education in fostering student success. They emphasize the need for academic leaders to create environments that prioritize meaningful connections among students, faculty, and staff. The discussion covers strategies for supporting first-generation and non-traditional students, the importance of intentionality in building relationships, and the role of faculty and staff in nurturing these connections. They also explore the challenges of diversity in faculty-student relationships and the necessity of recognizing and rewarding those who contribute to a relationship-rich culture. The conversation concludes with insights on mentoring, online learning, and the concept of relationship accelerators as tools for enhancing student engagement and success.
 
Takeaways
Provosts must model relationship-rich behaviors to foster a culture of connection.
Strategies should be designed to help students understand the importance of relationships for their success.
First-generation students often need guidance on how to build academic relationships.
Intentional connections are crucial for student retention and success.
Creating a relational culture is essential, especially in large institutions.

19. Navigating the Future of Higher Education Accreditation: A Conversation with Sonny Ramaswamy

In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy discuss the evolving landscape of higher education accreditation, particularly in light of recent changes that have eliminated regional boundaries for accrediting agencies. Dr. Ramaswamy emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards and accountability in education while also addressing the challenges faced by accrediting bodies in the current political climate. The discussion also touches on the potential for three-year degrees and other innovative educational models to enhance accessibility and reduce costs. In this conversation, Dr. Ramaswamy discusses the evolving landscape of higher education, focusing on the push for three-year degrees, the rise of micro-credentials, and the importance of quality assurance in educational programs. He emphasizes the need for institutions to adapt to changing student needs and market pressures, particularly in light of declining enrollments. Dr. Ramaswamy advocates for a student-centered approach to education, highlighting the importance of meeting students where they are and ensuring that educational offerings provide real value. He concludes by reflecting on the transformative power of education in improving lives and communities.
The two articles he mentions can be found here:
https://nwccu.org/news/v6i1-letter-from-the-president/
https://nwccu.org/news/v6i4-letter-from-the-president/
Takeaways
Quality assurance is a fundamental responsibility of accrediting agencies.
Accreditation must focus on student outcomes and accountability.
The narrative around higher education's value proposition is shifting.
Disaggregated data is crucial for understanding student success.
Three-year degrees are gaining traction as a viable option.

18. Provosts and Liberal Arts Education: A Conversation with Richard A. Detweiler

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Richard A. Detweiler discuss the importance of liberal arts education, emphasizing the need for emotional engagement in decision-making, the significance of educational context over content, and strategies for fostering leadership and civic engagement among students. Dr. Detweiler advocates for a holistic approach to education that breaks down silos between academic and student life, encourages broadening curricula, and highlights the necessity of marketing liberal arts education effectively. He also addresses the challenges posed by job market demands and offers insights on supporting faculty development to align teaching methods with desired student outcomes. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of liberal arts education and the importance of adapting to societal needs while preserving its core values.
 
Takeaways
Data alone does not create change in education.
Liberal arts education is a living and learning experience.
Educational context has a greater impact than content.
Fostering leadership requires experiential learning opportunities.
Marketing liberal arts education should focus on life outcomes.
 
 

17. The Provost’s Role in Promoting Equitable Compensation Practices: A Conversation with Gail F. Baker and Frank A. Casagrande

In this conversation, Dr. Gail F. Baker and Frank A. Casagrande discuss the critical topic of faculty compensation at the University of San Diego. They explore the need for reevaluation of compensation structures, the importance of engaging stakeholders, common pitfalls in compensation studies, and the challenges faced during the process. They also highlight key metrics for sustainable compensation, the role of fiscal realities, and the positive impact on faculty morale. The discussion emphasizes the importance of transparency, long-term sustainability, and the critical first steps for provosts leading compensation initiatives.
Takeaways
The need for reevaluation of compensation structures is essential for fairness.
Engaging stakeholders early on fosters buy-in and collaboration.
Common pitfalls in compensation studies can derail the process if not addressed.
Challenges and resistance from faculty are expected and must be managed.
Key metrics for compensation should focus on equity and sustainability.

16. The Provost as Change Agent: A Conversation with John N. Gardner

In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. John N. Gardner, Founder and Executive Chair of the John N. Gardner Institute for Excellence in Undergraduate Education, discuss the pivotal role of provosts in higher education, emphasizing the importance of student success, equity, and the integration of academic and co-curricular experiences. He highlights the need for provosts to show interest in student success initiatives, cultivate future leaders, and implement high-impact practices that enhance student engagement. Gardner also reflects on the historical context of educational reform and the ongoing pursuit of social justice within the academic landscape.
 
Takeaways
Provosts should prioritize student success as a key interest.
The first-year experience is crucial for student retention.
Equity and inclusion must be central to educational initiatives.
High-impact practices significantly enhance student engagement.
Provosts play a vital role in setting expectations for faculty and students.

15. Disrupting the Status Quo in Academia: A Conversation with Bradley Fuster

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner interviews Dr. Bradley Fuster, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at San Francisco Bay University. They discuss the concept of challenger brands in higher education, exploring how these institutions aim to disrupt traditional models and prioritize student success. Fuster shares insights from his experience in various educational settings, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by higher education today. The discussion also touches on the absence of tenure at SFBU, the inefficiencies of traditional institutions, and the innovative practices that challenger brands employ to enhance student learning and engagement.
 
Takeaways
Challenger brands aim to disrupt traditional higher education models.
Higher education is facing a crisis with high dropout rates.
San Francisco Bay University focuses on student success and innovative practices.
The absence of tenure allows for more flexibility in faculty governance.
Curriculum must adapt to the rapidly changing job market.
Challenger brands can serve as models for traditional institutions.

14. Engaging Students in a Tech-Driven World: A Conversation with Julia Hieser and Jason Horne

This conversation focuses on the ASU+GSV Summit, one of the most important annual edtech conferences. Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner’s guests are Jason Horne and Julia Hieser, who discuss the evolution of the Summit, the impact of technology, particularly AI, on education, and the importance of balancing traditional educational values with technological advancements. They emphasize the need for institutions to adapt to rapid changes, the challenges faced in adopting new technologies, and successful examples of innovation in education. The discussion concludes with insights on how provosts can engage with the Summit and contribute to the future of higher education.
 
Takeaways
The ASU and GSV Summit is a premier event for education innovation.
AI is becoming mainstream in educational technology.
Engagement is a persistent challenge in higher education.
Technology should enhance, not replace traditional educational values.
The future of education will be shaped by collaboration and innovation.

13. Provosts Keeping the Faith: A Conversation with Donna Carroll, Kina Mallard, Lamont A. Wells, and Jeff Arnold

This episode features a conversation with four representatives of faith-based higher education organizations: Donna Carroll, President of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities; Kina Mallard, Executive Director of the North American Association of Methodist Schools, Colleges, and Universities; Lamont A. Wells, Executive Director of the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities; and Jeff Arnold, Executive Director of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities. This conversation explores the role of provosts at faith-based institutions, emphasizing their unique strengths, challenges, and opportunities in a secular society. The guests discuss the importance of strategic leadership, inclusivity, and maintaining religious identity while fostering academic freedom. They also highlight innovative practices for financial sustainability and the need to attract a diverse student body. The discussion concludes with personal book recommendations that reflect the speakers' insights and experiences in the field.
 
Takeaways
Faith-based institutions can thrive by adapting to secular changes.
Moral leadership is crucial in today's educational landscape.
Inclusivity in academic culture enhances student engagement.
Provosts play a key role in balancing values and academic freedom.
Diversity should be embraced, not just tolerated, in faith-based settings.

12. The Provost's Role in Global Learning: A Conversation with LaNitra M. Berger

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. LaNitra M. Berger discusses her journey from a curious student in San Bernardino, California, to becoming an influential figure in art history and international education. She emphasizes the importance of global education and the transformative experiences it can provide, particularly for underrepresented students. The discussion also covers the critical role of provosts in advancing international education, the need for inclusive practices in study abroad programs, and the impact of technology on global learning. Dr. Berger shares insights on fostering a welcoming environment for international students and building meaningful partnerships between institutions.
Takeaways
Provosts play a crucial role in advancing global education initiatives.
Supporting underrepresented students is essential for equitable access to study abroad.
Community philanthropy can significantly enhance study abroad opportunities.
Fostering a welcoming environment for international students is vital.
Integrating global learning into curricula benefits all students.

11. Between Free Speech and Cancel Culture. A Conversation with Jonathan Zimmerman

In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner and Dr. Jonathan Zimmerman, the Judy and Howard Berkowitz Professor in Education at the University of Pennsylvania, discuss the complexities of free speech, cancel culture, and the role of education in fostering open dialogue within universities. Prof. Zimmerman emphasizes the need for academic leaders to navigate the challenges of political pressures while maintaining a commitment to liberal values and quality teaching. He critiques the current state of higher education, highlighting the importance of adapting to modern student needs and the historical impact of social movements on educational practices. Dr. Zimmerman also reflects on the significance of teaching quality and the need for universities to prioritize meaningful education over mere compliance with external pressures.
Takeaways
We must recommit to liberal values in education.
Fear inhibits learning and open dialogue.
Free speech is essential for effective education.
Cancel culture affects both sides of the political spectrum.
Empathy is crucial for academic leaders navigating challenges.