THE CHANGE LEADER

Category: Transformation

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 210-Transformative Change Models in Higher Education-Part 2 with guests F. Joseph Merlino and Deborah Pomeroy

Transformative Change Models in Higher Education – Part 2:

Changing Higher Ed podcast 210 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guests F. Joseph Merlino and Deborah Pomeroy

In Part 2 of this series, we dive deeper into the strategies and approaches for driving transformative change in higher education, focusing on preparing teachers for the 21st century. You’ll gain valuable insights and real-world examples drawn from extensive research and practical experiences.

Topics we cover include:

– Understanding change theory and the process of change in relation to higher ed, recognizing that transformative change takes time, requires support and acceptance of mistakes as part of the learning process.

– The importance of aligning change initiatives with the institution’s core identity, mission, and legacy, as exemplified by the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP).

– The important role of service learning in transforming teacher preparation programs, enhancing both pedagogy and research through rich, reciprocal relationships between universities and high

June 4, 2024 December 11, 2025
Changing Higher Ed 209 - Four Quandaries Facing Higher Ed Presidents - Transforming Teacher Preparation for the 21st Century with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guests F. Joseph Merlino and Deborah Pomeroy

Four Quandaries Facing Higher Ed Presidents – Part 1:

Changing Higher Ed podcast 209 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guests F. Joseph Merlino and Deborah Pomeroy

In this two-part series, Drumm dives into the complex challenges faced by university presidents and higher education leaders in driving transformative change. Our guests F. Joseph Merlino and Deborah Pomeroy share their insights and experiences, shedding light on the four primary quandaries that leaders must navigate to ensure successful transformational teacher preparation programs for their institutions.

Key takeaways:

– The tension between mission and revenue, and how to balance the historic purpose of education with the growing demand for job readiness.

– Strategies for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and integration, breaking down silos to drive innovation and problem-solving.

– Approaches for addressing college access and equity while maintaining academic excellence in the face of shifting demographics and student preparedness.

– Insights into managing the financial challenges of admitting out-of-state students while

May 28, 2024 December 11, 2025
Changing Higher Ed podcast 208-Living on the Edge-Design Thinking for a New Era in Higher Ed with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Cesar Santalo

Living on the Edge: Design Thinking for a New Era in Higher Ed:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 208 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Cesar Santalo

In this episode, we dive into the world of design thinking for transformational strategic planning and change management. Cesar Santalo, Dean of the College of Communications and Design at Lynn University, shares his unique perspective as an artist and educator on leveraging this innovative approach to drive rapid change and better serve students.

Key takeaways:

– Discover the 5-step process of design thinking and how it fosters empathy, creativity, and continuous improvement.
– Learn how Lynn University used design thinking to develop its strategic plan, engaging over 650 stakeholders.
– See examples of design thinking in action, from reimagining freshman courses to creating a student-run advertising agency.
– Understand the key traits needed for effective design thinking and how to cultivate an innovative culture.
– Get

May 21, 2024 December 11, 2025
Changing Higher Podcast 207 - Civil Discord - Bridging Ideological Divides in Higher Education with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Daniel Oppenheimer

Civil Discord – Bridging Ideological Divides in Higher Education :

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 207 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Daniel Oppenheimer

  In a nation grappling with deepening political polarization, America’s colleges and universities find themselves on the front lines of a battle over free speech, academic freedom, and the very meaning of liberalism itself. A staggering 52% of college students now believe their campus climate stifles free expression, according to a 2021 survey by the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE).   Against this backdrop of rising tensions and self-censorship, the University of Texas at Austin recently hosted a groundbreaking symposium called “Civil Discord” – a unique collaboration among three academic entities united in their commitment to open inquiry, civil discourse, and bridging ideological divides.   The event brought together scholars, thought leaders, and students from across the political spectrum for a series of frank yet collegial conversations on

May 14, 2024 June 30, 2026
Changing Higher Ed podcast 202-Beyond Career and Job-Ready Graduates-Beating the Underemployment Odds

Beyond Career and Job-Ready Graduates: Beating the Underemployment Odds:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 202 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Kevin Grubb

  According to a new report, a startling 43% of college graduates are underemployed in their first job. It’s no surprise career readiness has become a critical priority for universities across the country. With the cost of education rising and underemployment rates soaring, institutions have a responsibility to ensure students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to succeed in their careers and lives beyond graduation. Under the leadership of Associate Vice Provost for Career and Professional Development Kevin Grubb, Villanova has developed a holistic approach to career readiness that integrates career development throughout the student’s academic and career journey, from orientation to graduation and beyond. Villanova University is transforming the student experience by integrating career and professional development throughout students’ academic journeys. By embedding these essential

April 9, 2024 December 11, 2025
Lifelong Learning Models for a Changing Higher Ed Marketplace | Changing Higher Ed Podcast 200 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Amrit Ahluwalia

Lifelong Learning Models for a Changing Higher Ed Marketplace:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 200 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Amrit Ahluwalia

In the 200th episode, Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Amrit Ahluwalia discuss the transformation of higher education into a key player in lifelong learning and workforce development. They address the shift in educational models to meet the needs of a rapidly changing job market, where over 60% of jobs will require new skills by 2025. The conversation focuses on redefining the role of universities to support continuous upskilling and reskilling, moving away from strictly traditional degrees towards a more flexible and accessible approach to education.

Ahluwalia and McNaughton explore how universities can evolve from their traditional role as knowledge gatekeepers to facilitators of lifelong learning. They highlight the importance of continuing education divisions in expanding access to learning and acting as drivers of socioeconomic mobility.

The episode underscores the need

March 26, 2024 December 11, 2025
Changing Higher Ed Podcast 198- NYU’s Alternate Pathways to a Top-Tier Degree - Part 2 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Dr. Douglas Harrison

NYU’s Alternate Pathways to Top-Tier Degrees – Part 2:

Changing Higher Ed podcast 198 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Dr. Douglas Harrison

New York University’s School for Professional Studies continues to break new ground in democratizing access to elite education, with a keen focus on serving first-generation and low-income students. Building on the momentum of innovative educational strategies, Part 2 dives into the further evolution of NYU’s commitment to meeting the multifaceted needs of today’s learners.

This next phase unveils how NYU leverages cutting-edge online learning platforms, advanced credit for prior learning, and robust support services to tailor the educational journey to each student’s unique circumstances. From forming strategic partnerships with public and private sectors to enhance career readiness, to implementing flexible pricing and financial aid models that ease the financial burden of higher education, NYU is crafting pathways for success that are as unique as the student body it serves.

Discover

March 12, 2024 January 5, 2026
Changing Higher Podcast 194- Adapting to Disruption-Unity University's Remarkable Success-Part 1 with Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Dr. Melik Khoury

Adapting to Disruption: Unity University’s Remarkable Success – Part 1:

Changing Higher Ed podcast 194 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Dr. Melik Peter Khoury

  Transforming Higher Education Through Disruption and Growth: The Unity Environmental University Success Model In an era where higher education institutions are challenged to adapt to disruption, Dr. Melik Khoury, President of Unity Environmental University, offers an inspiring narrative of transformative growth and forward momentum in an agile and sustainable higher education business model. Steering Unity from 540 students and a $14 million budget to an impressive enrollment of over 7,500 and a budget of $58 million, Dr. Khoury has cut tuition in half and significantly reduced institutional debt. This exceptional growth, achieved amidst and in the wake of a global pandemic, illustrates a comprehensive transformation of conventional governance and operational norms in higher education. Join us as in this two-part series as Dr. Khoury elucidates how adopting a disruptive

February 13, 2024 December 11, 2025
Changing Higher Ed Podcast 189 The State of EdTech- OPMs - Risk Planning and Generative AI | with Drumm McNaughton and Phill Hill

The State of EdTech: OPMs, Risk Planning, and Generative AI:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 189 with host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and guest Phill Hill

In this episode of Changing Higher Ed podcast, listeners will gain an overview of how technology is reshaping the EdTech arena and the potential risks of the current state of OPMs. Dr. Drumm McNaughton discusses contemporary EdTech trends and predictions with Phil Hill, publisher of Phil on EdTech Blog and partner at MindWires LLC. They explore topics ranging from the recent changes in the OPM market due to enrollment, regulations, and cost of money, the potential transformations brought about by generative AI in higher education, to how universities can navigate the existential changes impacting the industry, underscoring the importance for institutions to develop effective risk management strategies. Technology’s Role in Enabling Enrollment Growth Franklin University exemplifies how technology can be leveraged to enhance enrollment and streamline educational processes. The university

January 9, 2024 June 27, 2026
Changing Higher Podcast 187- 2023 Higher Education Year in Review & 2024 Predictions

2023 Higher Education Year in Review and 2024 Predictions:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 187 with Host Deborah Maue and Guest Dr. Drumm McNaughton

  Join us in our 2023 Higher Education Year in Review and Predictions for 2024. In this sixth annual year-end podcast, Deborah Maue, Aurora University Senior Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing, takes the mic as our special host of the Changing Higher Ed podcast to interview Dr. Drumm McNaughton as they review (and grade) last year’s 2023 higher ed prognostications. The duo share their insights on 2023, discuss the unexpected developments, and what to prepare for with the higher education predictions for 2024.   Reviewing Dr. Drumm McNaughton’s Predictions for 2023 Continuing Decline in College Enrollment: A Closer Look at 2023’s Trends 2022 Prediction for 2023: College enrollment will continue to decline. Grade given by Deb Maue: A. In 2023, college enrollment continued its downward trajectory. Despite a contrasting

December 26, 2023 January 5, 2026
Strategic Adaptation of Higher Education - Navigating 2024 and Beyond - The Transformation of Higher Education by Tamara Taylor

Strategic Adaptation in Higher Education: Navigating 2024 and Beyond:

Embracing Transformation and Resilience in Higher Education Business Models

  A Fundamental Rethink of the Higher Education Business Model In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, institutions must embrace educational innovation and strategic adaptation to change. This involves recognizing new realities in the academic world to stay relevant and effective. The landscape of higher education is being reshaped by several formidable challenges that necessitate a fundamental rethink of the higher education business model. To understand why change is not just necessary but imperative, it is essential to dissect the issues that are causing institutions to falter and compelling them to seek new paths to sustainability. With evolving financial models, colleges and universities–beyond the Ivy League–need to explore sustainable solutions that balance educational quality with fiscal responsibility.   Shrinking Tuition Income from Declining Enrollments and Shifting Demographics One of

December 14, 2023 June 10, 2026
Changing Higher Ed Podcast 180 with Drumm McNaughton and Catherine Friday - A Global Shift in Higher Education Requires a New Business Model

A Global Shift in Higher Education Requires a New Business Model:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 180 with Drumm McNaughton and Catherine Friday

Navigating a Global Shift in Higher Education The traditional business model of higher education is facing an unprecedented challenge on a global scale. For universities that don’t have the cushion of the Ivy League list, the stark reality of declining enrollment and soaring costs looms large. Today’s educational leaders are grappling with a landscape where class sizes have shrunk to nearly 70-80% of what they were just half a decade ago. This contraction is not a mere ebb and flow but a clarion call for a fundamental change in how these institutions operate.   Cutting costs, a go-to strategy in lean times, has reached its limits. Universities are discovering that austerity measures alone can’t bridge the gap between dwindling revenues and rising expenses. There’s a pressing need to reassess underutilized

November 7, 2023 June 10, 2026
Advancing Research for Tier Two Institutions with NSF | Changing Higher Ed Podcast 165 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan

Funding Research for Tier Two Institutions with NSF:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 165 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan

Tier two (R2) research and smaller institutions, including two-year, minority-serving, and tribal colleges, can now build solid research infrastructures and perform groundbreaking discoveries through research enterprises on the same scale as larger R1 and flagship universities.   In this episode of Changing Higher Ed®, Drumm speaks with Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF). They discuss how his organization helps democratize ideas in higher education, enabling all colleges and universities to solve real-world problems and revitalize their communities.   The NSF achieves this through funding and grant programs like the Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity (GRANTED) and Enabling Partnership to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC).   Dr. Panch also discusses NSF’s mission and vision. He talks about its recent $44 million program that helps fund projects across the US.

July 25, 2023 December 11, 2025
 Improving Institutional Accreditation Transparency - A Call for Change and the Need for Accountability - The Change Leader circled with links to accreditation components

Improving Institutional Accreditation Transparency:

A Call for Change and the Need for Accountability

Why is accreditation transparency important? Accreditors serve as the gatekeepers for over $150 billion in financial aid. Institutional accreditation is the gold standard for higher education institutions in the US and globally. Indeed, without accreditation, most employers and other universities and colleges will not accept a degree from a graduate, whether for employment or graduate school. Colleges and universities are only eligible for federal financial aid if accredited by a Department of Education-approved accreditor. And most importantly, they will attract quality faculty or students to deliver degrees only if an institution is accredited.

July 6, 2023 September 19, 2023
Cover Image for Preserving Democracy: The Vital Role of Liberal Arts in Higher Education - Changing Higher Ed Podcast 156 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Jeff Scheuer

Preserving Democracy: The Vital Role of Liberal Arts in Higher Education:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 156 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Jeff Scheuer

In this podcast, Dr. Drumm McNaughton talks with Jeff Scheuer about what role the liberal arts should play in relation to STEM and vocational education, how liberal arts help graduates become better citizens, what courses fall within the jurisdiction of the liberal arts, and why the liberal arts are and should remain engrained in the American identity.

May 23, 2023 December 11, 2025
The Value of Micro-Credentials for Higher Ed Institutions - Changing Higher Ed Podcast 154 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Matt Frank | Podcast cover with images of host and guest with show title

The Value of Micro-Credentials for Higher Ed Institutions:

Changing Higher Ed Podcast 154 with Host Dr. Drumm McNaughton and Guest Matt Frank

Higher ed can be better positioned to meet, enroll, retain, and help future generations of students successfully maneuver the ever-changing business world by embracing micro-credentials appropriately and programmatically.

Micro-credentials are also money-making opportunities for colleges and universities that can help address deficits and fund other pursuits.

May 9, 2023 December 11, 2025
How Innovation and Shared Governance Influence Turnaround Success

How Innovation and Shared Governance Influence Turnaround Success:

The National Louis University Story

Successfully reinventing a college or university into a truly innovative school after cutting a significant portion of programs sounds near impossible. However, the experiences at National Louis University (NLU), a four-campus private institution in Chicago, proved that presidents and other decision-makers can turn around an institution without having the complete buy-in of faculty and staff.

February 20, 2023 April 8, 2024

Categories

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Get the Latest News, Posts, and Podcasts in Our Monthly Newsletters