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Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Nuno Fernandes, President of American Public University System (APUS), joins our host, Joe Gottlieb, for an inspiring conversation on leading with purpose, resourcefulness, and humanity. With a unique path from humble beginnings in Portugal to the helm of one of the largest online universities in the U.S., Fernandes shares how his global journey shaped his passion for accessible, affordable education.Listeners will learn how APUS innovates under financial constraints, why cultivating a culture of kindness and trust is central to organizational success, and how clear vision and shared values fuel meaningful transformation at scale. Fernandes offers honest reflections on leadership, the power of listening, and why change—when led with heart and discipline—can be a force for good in higher education.References: Nuno FernandesAmerican Public University SystemSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Join our host Joe Gottlieb as he welcomes back Wayne Bovier, Co-founder and CEO of Higher Digital, for a wide-ranging conversation about the past, present, and future of transformation in higher education. As a returning guest and original voice behind the podcast's founding, Wayne reflects with host Joe Gottlieb on how far the industry has come—and how much change still lies ahead.Listeners will gain insight into the dual “category five hurricanes” impacting higher ed: disruptive policy shifts and the sweeping rise of AI. Wayne and Joe explore how institutions can evolve by embracing business-minded strategies, rethinking accreditation, and adopting emerging disciplines like strategic portfolio management. Most importantly, they encourage faculty, administrators, and leaders to see AI not as a threat, but as a tool to unlock student success, operational efficiency, and lifelong learning.Join us for an honest, forward-thinking dialogue aimed at helping higher ed both adapt and thrive.References: Wayne BovierHigher Digital America's Talent Moonshot - How the United States Can Win the Global Competition for Prosperity and Security​ Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Joe sits down with Dwane Sterling, Chief Information Officer at Skidmore College, for an insightful conversation about the evolving role of IT leadership in higher education. With a background spanning retail, healthcare, and now academia, Dwane brings a unique, cross-industry perspective to what it means to be a truly strategic CIO.Dwane and Joe explore how social capital functions as a critical currency for leaders navigating digital transformation. Listeners will gain valuable insights into:How to foster trust and collaboration across campus without depleting your social capital reserves.The essential shift from "the department of no" to a facilitative, partnership-driven IT culture.What it takes to grow from a technical specialist to an institutional change leader.The role of operational excellence and emotional intelligence in building credibility and trust.How CIOs can influence culture and strategy in environments traditionally slow to change.Whether you're an IT professional, campus leader, or anyone interested in the intersection of technology and institutional transformation, Dwane's thoughtful perspective and practical wisdom will resonate deeply.References: Dwane SterlingSkidmore CollegeSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Joe Gottlieb talks with Alin Vrancila, CEO of Jessup Global and former provost at Multnomah University, about how a challenging institutional merger catalyzed innovation in online learning and pedagogy.Alin shares how Multnomah's financial and enrollment struggles led to a merger with Jessup University—but rather than a mere transition, the partnership sparked bold change. Together, they launched JSA+AI, the first fully AI-enabled learning management system in U.S. higher ed, and introduced Neogogy, a new student-centered educational framework designed for the AI age.This episode explores how AI is redefining faculty roles, reducing administrative burden, and making online learning more interactive, efficient, and human.What You'll Take Away:Mergers can be more than survival tactics—with vision and alignment, they can become platforms for transformation.AI doesn't replace educators—it repositions them to focus more on mentorship, expertise, and student impact.A strong innovation model includes a sandbox—Jessup Global operates as a branch campus to test, refine, and scale new approaches before full rollout.References: Dr. Alin VrancilaJessup UniversityFind out more about Neogogy here: www.neogogy.ai    https://neogogy.ai/whitepapers  Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Joe Gottlieb sits down with Dr. Shawn Powell, President of Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell, to explore how his institution thrives as a rural yet resourceful community college. Dr. Powell shares how ENMU-Roswell leverages its unique location on a former Air Force base to connect students with aviation maintenance careers, partners with local industries in healthcare and agriculture, and tackles technology access gaps to support student success.Listeners will gain insights into workforce-aligned education, strategies for bridging digital divides, and the power of community engagement in shaping higher education's role in regional economic development. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of transformation and impact!Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode, host Joe Gottlieb speaks with Dr. Karlyn Crowley, Provost at Ohio Wesleyan University, about "Adaptive Leadership: How to Win Trust and Accomplish Change." Dr. Crowley, the first woman provost in Ohio Wesleyan's 182-year history, shares how she has successfully led major institutional changes during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic.Dr. Crowley reveals her journey from passionate horseback rider to academic leader, explaining how her early discipline and boldness shaped her leadership philosophy. She discusses implementing five significant change initiatives in five years, including program prioritization, curriculum revision, and faculty handbook overhaul. Throughout the conversation, she shares practical "leadership cheat codes" from Ron Heifetz's adaptive leadership model, emphasizing the importance of correctly identifying problems, regulating distress, getting perspective, and giving work back to those affected.With candor and authenticity, Dr. Crowley discusses the challenges of leading through resistance, the loneliness of leadership, and the importance of maintaining joy in administrative work. The conversation concludes with her optimistic outlook for Ohio Wesleyan's future, highlighting their impressive student retention improvements and innovative equity initiatives.References: Dr. Karlyn CrowleyOhio Wesleyan UniversitySubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!David Weil, Vice President of Information Technology and Analytics at Ithaca College, joins the TRANSFORMED podcast to discuss the role of quiet leadership in navigating digital transformation 2.0, in an era increasingly shaped by AI.In this conversation with host Joe Gottlieb, President and CTO of Higher Digital, Weil shares insights on:How quiet leadership fosters trust, collaboration, and innovation in institutional changeThe evolving role of AI, including Agentic AI, in accelerating digital transformation and reshaping institutional processesPractical strategies for leading digital change, including pilots, proof-of-concepts, and intentional leadershipWeil provides real-world examples from Ithaca College, including AI-driven student support initiatives and the successful integration of analytics with IT. His approach offers higher education leaders a thoughtful perspective on advancing transformation while keeping people at the center.References: David WeilIthaca Collegehttps://er.educause.edu/articles/2024/2/digital-transformation-20-the-age-of-aiSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Fairmont State University President, Dr. Michael Davis, shares his journey as a first-time president, offering insights on building 'cultural change before structural change' and embracing Fairmont's unique 'Artisan University' identity. Discover how patience and relationships drive meaningful progress as our host, Joe Gottlieb, engages with Dr. Davis to explore best practices and the value of patience. Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Dr. Vin Del Casino, Provost at San José State University, joins our host, Joe Gottlieb, Higher Digital President and Chief Technology Officer, for a dynamic conversation on Creating Student Success in a Digital Now.Dr. Del Casino shares his vision for building a student-ready campus, ensuring institutions take responsibility for student success rather than placing the burden on learners. He explores how San Jose State, the original Silicon Valley start-up, is tackling digital transformation, integrating AI into education, and leveraging partnerships—like their collaboration with Adobe—to enhance student engagement and workforce readiness.Learn how to shift your institution from a deficit mindset to a new accountability model, why connection and community are vital to student success, and much more. References: Dr. Vincent Del CasinoSan José State UniversityBecoming A Student-Ready College: A New Culture of Leadership For Student Success Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode, Jon Allen, Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at Baylor University joins host Joe Gottlieb, President and CTO of Higher Digital. Together, they dive into Baylor's journey to becoming a national R1 research institution, a transformation that has bolstered both academic and athletic competitiveness while maintaining its faith-based mission. Listen in for:The strategic and practical steps Baylor undertook to achieve R1 status three years ahead of schedule.How technology, people, and processes intersected to drive meaningful change.Lessons learned from navigating challenges like ERP transformations and adapting to the demands of a cloud-based, post-pandemic world.Jon's expertise, drawn from his leadership role and tenure at Baylor, underscores the importance of trust, vision, and candid communication in transformative initiatives. This conversation is a must-listen for higher ed leaders seeking inspiration and actionable strategies for their own digital transformation journeys.References: Jon AllenBaylor UniversitySubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Joe Gottlieb sits down with Steve Munson, Vice President and Chief Information Officer at American University. Steve shares insights from his ambitious journey leading simultaneous major system transformations, including the implementation of Workday for ERP and Salesforce Education Cloud for admissions CRM.Listeners will learn how American University's "Challenge Accepted" ethos empowers their culture, the strategies they employed to manage risk, and the importance of aligning leadership and supplemental staffing to maximize organizational capacity for change. Gain practical takeaways on achieving digital transformation success, selecting the right technology partners, and cultivating a culture capable of embracing change.Discover how clear priorities, strong leadership, and a relentless focus on success have propelled American University forward in this transformative era.References: Steve MunsonAmerican UniversityEngage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Dr. Peter Kilpatrick, President of the Catholic University of America, discusses the development of their groundbreaking ethical AI degree program, launching in Fall 2025. Dr. Kilpatrick shares his journey from professor to university president and explores the motivations behind this innovative program. Listeners will learn how the degree combines technical expertise in AI with philosophy and ethics, aligning with Catholic University's mission to foster truth and integrity in higher education. The conversation highlights the societal implications of AI, the program's role in preparing students for ethical application across disciplines, and its unique positioning within the broader landscape of higher education. References: Dr. Peter KilpatrickThe Catholic University of AmericaSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Miroslav Humer, Vice President and CIO at Case Western University joins host, Joe Gottlieb, President and CTO at Higher Digital, to explore how Case Western is leveraging objective prioritization to advance its research agenda, delving into the critical role of relationships, trust, and structured processes. Listeners will gain insights into fostering collaboration, balancing IT resources, and driving innovation through technology, including the impactful use of AI and the revolutionary early adoption of HoloLens devices in education and research. References: Miroslav HumerCase Western UniversitySubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Dr. Bao Johri, Chief Information Officer at Fresno State University, joins our host and delves into the university's strategic approach to digital transformation (DX), emphasizing the power of intentionality. Dr. Johri shares how Fresno State's DX strategy aligns culture, people, process, data, and technology to foster a community-driven, collaborative environment that thrives on innovation and adaptation. Highlighting real-world programs like the Automated University Initiative and AI-focused initiatives, she underscores how intentional partnerships and student-staff collaboration lead to sustainable change. The discussion offers key insights for higher ed leaders on how to empower faculty, support students, and build resilient, inclusive institutions prepared for rapid technological evolution.References: Dr. Bao JohriFresno State UniversitySubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Dr. Jeff Thompson, Executive Vice President and Provost at the University of Nevada, Reno, discusses the evolving role of land grant institutions in the 21st century with our host, Joe Gottlieb, President and Chief Technology Officer of Higher Digital. Dr. Thompson shares his passion for "Land Grant 2.0," a vision for how these historic universities can adapt to modern technology while continuing to uplift rural communities. With enthusiasm, he describes the exciting changes in mining technology and the challenges of preparing students for a rapidly shifting workforce. He also highlights the importance of digital equity, sharing the success of the Digital Wolf Pack initiative, which ensures every student has the tools they need to thrive. This engaging conversation offers a thoughtful look at how institutions can embrace technology to sustain their mission and create meaningful opportunities for all in an AI-driven future. References:Jeff ThompsonUniversity of Nevada, RenoSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Unlock the secrets to a family-like academic environment where support is not just an option but a guarantee. Join us as Provost Dr. Rondall Allen of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore takes us on a journey through the institution's innovative approach to higher education. As an 1890 land grant institution, UMES is dedicated to creating a nurturing atmosphere deeply rooted in the cultural significance of HBCUs. Dr. Allen shares compelling stories about initiatives that address student needs, from concierge services to supporting homeless students during holidays, all designed to ensure every learner feels heard and valued. Hear firsthand how HBCU faculty have uniquely influenced Dr. Allen's life, and be inspired by remarkable student success stories, including those who have achieved prestigious fellowships.Explore the transformative strategies UMES employs to expand educational opportunities for diverse learners. With a strategic focus on accessibility and affordability, the university has developed a “one-stop shop” for non-traditional students, offering flexible online STEM programs. Discover the exciting partnerships with institutions like the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine aimed at cultivating African-American physicians. Learn how UMES is tackling the pilot shortage by engaging high school students, particularly women and minorities, with aviation pathways and a new aviation maintenance technician certificate. This episode highlights UMES's unwavering commitment to fostering seamless transitions and comprehensive support, positioning itself as a leader in addressing regional and professional demands.Dr. Rondall AllenUniversity of Maryland Eastern ShoreSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Dr. Joe Whitehead, Senior Advisor to the President for Regional Science Initiatives and former Provost at Bowling Green University joins host, Joe Gottlieb, to discuss the importance of project timing in higher ed, contrasting examples of rushed versus well-planned projects and their impacts on higher education outcomes. Listen in to learn from Dr. Whitehead's experience about the major positive impacts of proper planning, a holistic approach to problem-solving, and balancing innovation with data security.References: Dr. Joseph WhiteheadBowling Green State UniversitySubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Host Joe Gottlieb sits down with Glendalí Rodriguez, Provost at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, to explore the dynamic process of comprehensive academic planning. Rodriguez shares how her team developed a forward-looking roadmap to guide the institution over the next five years, balancing academic goals with operational realities. Listeners will learn about the importance of data-driven decision-making, collaborative leadership, and aligning strategic goals with actionable initiatives. With practical insights on managing change, fostering industry partnerships, and evolving academic programs, this episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone working to adapt their institution to a rapidly changing educational landscape.Tune in for a conversation that emphasizes both the challenges and triumphs of higher ed transformation, and be inspired by Rodriguez's inclusive approach to building a more resilient future for students and faculty alike.References:Glendalí RodriguezUniversity of Wisconsin - StoutSubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Join our guest, Christina Baum, CIO and VP of Digital Transformation at Utah Valley University as she details her perspective on the IT role in relation to sustainable strategic change. Across each institution, IT is uniquely positioned to serve as a catalyst because goals that translate to action have a vital IT component, and the craft and talent of IT has evolved to support those goals with a structured approach. References: Christina BaumUtah Valley UniversitySubscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Questions? Feedback? Send us a text!Our guest, Dr. Diana Rogers-Adkinson, former Provost for Commonwealth University, goes into depth with our host, Joe Gottlieb, on the incredible journey she led  to integrate programs across three newly merged institutions. Drivers for the integration were to better serve student populations in a fiscally responsible and sustainable way. Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and digital transformation best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Question? Feedback? Send us a text!Joe Gottlieb, President and CTO of Higher Digital, talks with Jim Brigadier, CEO of Ready Education about How Engagement Transforms Student Success. Jim discusses the importance of mobile engagement in student success (backed by data), the challenges institutions face today, and innovative strategies to enhance student retention. Tune in to discover how your institution can benefit from the expertise of Higher Digital partner, Ready Education, and their student engagement platform. References:  Jim Brigadier CEO, Ready Education  Sage Journals: A study mentioned as providing evidence on the importance of learner engagement in online education.  Education Data Initiative and Inside HigherEd: Published statistics showing that 35% of students do not feel a sense of belonging at their school. Tyton Partners:  Driving Toward a Degree study, which found that over 35% of student survey respondents were unaware of available critical support services. Listening to Learners 2023 report, which addresses ways institutions and their members can bolster belonging among learners to increase persistence and retention, contributing to overall student success. National Center for Education Statistics: Provided data showing that in the 2022-2023 academic year, 53 percent of US college students were taking at least one class online. Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and change management best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Question? Feedback? Send us a text!Dr. Michael Lacourse, Provost at Utah Tech University, joins Joe Gottlieb to walk through a series of strategic planning cycles and the meaningful impact the entire institution realized as the strategy evolved over time. Learn from Dr. Lacourse about the planning process and its outputs as well as the impressive results for Utah Tech, its students, staff and faculty, and the community.References: Dr. Michael LacourseProvost, Utah Tech University Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and change management best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

Fred Rocha, former CIO at Coast Community College District and current senior consultant at Higher Digital, joins Joe Gottlieb to discuss how evolving business reporting can lead to better data governance in higher education. They explore common challenges institutions face, like siloed data and manual reporting processes, and offer insights on how to improve data management practices, especially vital in the era of SaaS solutions. They highlight both technical approaches and human factors in achieving effective data governance, emphasizing that it's a responsibility shared by all staff, not just IT departments. References: Fred Rocha, Senior Consultant, Higher Digital Coast CommunityCollege District  Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and change management best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, we break the mold and welcome two esteemed guests from Butler University: Dr. Brooke Barnett, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Melissa Beckwith, Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer.The discussion revolves around the concept of Dual Transformation and how Butler University is using that concept to not only maximize resilience today but also build the institution's growth engine for tomorrow. Our guests delve into the creation of Butler Ventures, a multi-faceted initiative aimed at driving innovation and change at Butler. The conversation includes key challenges faced during this transformative journey, including the need for system upgrades and effective change management. They even touch on surprise challenges, including having too many good ideas to explore!References:Dr. Brooke BarnettMelissa BeckwithButler University Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and change management best practices.Find and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Dr. Andrea Scott, Former Provost and new Special Advisor to the President and distinguished professor of marketing at George Fox University, shares her real-world experiences of challenges many provosts face and how she navigated those, especially knowing your audiences and their preferred way(s) of receiving information.References:Dr. Andrea ScottDrandreascott.com Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time!Subscribe or follow TRANSFORMED wherever you listen, to get the latest episode when it drops and hear directly from leaders and innovators in higher ed tech and change management best practices.https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-digital-inc/

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Josh Wilson, former Associate CIO at Brandeis University, Board Vice Chair for Apereo Foundation, and Senior Engagement Manager for Higher Digital, shares his leadership philosophy and who he sees as the most compelling audience for such development. In addition, he shows how this active and open leadership approach improves outcomes, especially when paired with Higher Digital's proven change management methodology for higher ed institutions modernizing systems and moving toward SaaS solutions.  References:Josh WilsonFlywheel Strategies website Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! 

Description for Web Page: In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Patricia Patria, Chief Information Officer at Babson College, talks about the pros and cons of the AI experiment she has been leading since the fall of 2023, bringing AI into diverse courses for students at all levels. Learn how this experiment resulted in defined needs, tools and policies around AI to ensure a positive experience for students as well as faculty, balancing the potential for AI with inherent risks.References:Patty PatriaBabson CollegeBabson College websiteEngage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! 

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Dr. Ali Houshmand, President at Rowan University, highlights the value of candid assessments of what internal teams can deliver and what they can't. With that understanding, leaders can develop partnerships that are aligned with the institutions goals to fill gaps, following best practices and encouraging mutual growth. Centering strategy and decisions around guiding principles can build confidence in any institutional leader, banishing imposter syndrome with proven outcomes. References:Dr. Ali HoushmandRowan UniversityRowan University websiteEngage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! 

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Dr. Tamara Brown, Provost and SVP of Academic Affairs at the University of Texas, Arlington– explains why she firmly believes anything is possible when a provost owns transformation, guiding the entire institution towards alignment in support of leadership's vision for the academic mission. Experiment, and fail if necessary, but learn through the process. Listen in to pick up additional pointers from an experienced and influential leader! Dr. Brown: linkedin.com/in/tamara-brown-463708UTA: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-texas-at-arlington            http://www.uta.edu Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time!  

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Dr. Ann Marie Klotz, Vice President for Development, Enrollment and Student Success at Naropa University – shares the transformation journey of Naropa University with our host, JoeGottlieb, as she discusses the institution's shift in its business model through and beyond the pandemic. Key points include embracing change as higher ed evolves, staying flexible to encourage staff retention, and focusing on students during recruiting efforts. References:Dr. Ann Marie Klotz​Naropa University Naropa University websiteEngage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! 

In this episode of TRANSFORMED, Dr. Maléka Ingram, Executive Dean of the Online Campus at Adler University, walks us through the journey Adler University took, working with two different external teams to develop and manage the online education program in the early years, with initial positive results but also growing negative impacts. By learning from those experiences and building a new core competency, Adler now manages all aspects of the online campus in-house, from the infrastructure itself to all the functions that make up an effective academic program, including recruiting students, designing the curriculum, and all the rest.  Dr. Maléka Ingram​ Adler University​  Adler University website 

In this episode in the Presidential Series of TRANSFORMED, Darby Dickerson – president and dean of Southwestern Law School – shares the institution's new, unique offering of an online, ABA-accredited law degree for nontraditional students, with full-time or part-time options. Listen in to hear how Dean Dickerson applied tried and true change management techniques to develop the new programs, including recognizing the need to change, involving enthusiastic staff, adjusting processes, and leveraging technology to lead to a strategic advantage.  References: Darby Dickerson​  Southwestern Law School​ Southwestern Law School website Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time!  Subscribe to TRANSFORMED wherever you get your podcasts to hear from higher ed leaders as soon as new episodes drop.

In this episode in the Presidential Series of TRANSFORMED, Dr. John Jackson – president of William Jessup University – lists many barbarians at the higher ed table, and even counts himself as one. He shares his FDA approach – flexible, distributed and accessible – that drives his leadership decisions at Jessup University, while running the institution like a business with a focused mission, understanding of their ideal customer, and an innovation imperative. References:Dr. John Jackson​William Jessup University​Barbarians at the Gate, Bryan Burrough and John Helyar, 1989 ​Grace Ambassador, Dr. John Jackson, 2023Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time! 

In this episode, Casey Green – creator of the Campus Computing Project and award-winning industry analyst in higher ed – dives deep into past myths, present trends, and future practices that for higher ed leaders to consider as they drive their institutions' strategy, evolution, and operation. Casey covers all the bases from multiple perspectives, exploring these topics and their impacts on CIOs, provosts, CFOs, presidents and governing boards.   References: Casey Green – creator of the Campus Computing Project and award-winning industry analyst in higher ed https://www.campuscomputing.net/caseygreenCampus Computing Project ​https://www.campuscomputing.net/ ​On moving only certain applications to the cloud:​Dr. Miloš Topić, Vice President for Information Technology & Chief Digital Officer, Grand Valley State University, TRANSFORMED Episode 66, 9:05​Article summarizing latest Wavestone survey on data analytics:​Survey: GenAI Is Making Companies More Data Oriented, Thomas H. Davenport and Randy Bean, Harvard Business Review, 1/15/24​On funding a data scient program centrally to incent collaboration among deans:​Dr. Anthony Wutoh, Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Howard University, TRANSFORMED Episode 47, 17:25​Articles summarizing how Georgia State University dramatically improved student retention across all demographic categories:​Still Not Using Data to Inform Decisions and Policy, Kenneth C. Green, Inside Higher Ed/Digital Tweed Blog, 2/25/20​Georgia State, Leading U.S. in Black Graduates, Is Engine of Social Mobility, Richard Fausset, New York Times, 5/15/18​On higher ed executives needing to get a technology tutor:​Presidents and Digital Learning: Get a Student Tutor, Kenneth C. Green, Inside Higher Ed/Digital Tweed Blog, 4/12/18​On faculty members innovating with subdivided classrooms:​Dr. Bill Coppola, President, Tarrant County College, Southeast Campus, TRANSFORMED Episode 50, 4:22

In this episode, Dr. Junius Gonzales – Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Montclair State University – describes his experience as a higher ed leader, including his beliefs that change and innovation are best accomplished with diverse talent, starting with projects that are likely to succeed and establish momentum, while following clearly established and foundational principles and working towards bold strategic goals.  Engage with host, Joe Gottlieb, at discussion@higher.digital at any time!Guest links: linkedin.com/in/junius-gonzales-564530  https://www.linkedin.com/school/montclair-state-university/  https://www.montclair.edu/ 

In this episode, Bryon Grigsby – President at Moravian University – offers his perspective on the value of a liberal learning and applied arts education coupled with faculty who embrace the societal changes impacting students, especially adult learners, in real-time. Grigsby contends higher education has an even greater societal role now, as technology makes information, and disinformation, more readily available.  References: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryongrigsby/ https://www.linkedin.com/school/moravian-university/  https://www.moravian.edu/  

In this episode, Miloš Topić – Vice President for Information Technology & Chief Digital Officer at Grand Valley State University – reveals his actions and approach to higher ed leadership, including acting in the best interest of whole institution vs. holding onto a functional focus, shining a spotlight on institutional relevance, and nurturing flexibility to minimize friction throughout the digital transformation journey. 

In this episode, Dr. Lisa Vollendorf – President at Empire State University – highlights her institution's focus not only on “first-time, full-time" students, retention, and graduation rates, but more importantly on what best serves the four generations of students enrolled. Combine programs that support that driving value with their partnerships with companies, unions, state agencies, and others, and see how Dr. Vollendorf and her colleagues work to diversify the capabilities of the workforce.  

Higher Digital has just published the next episode of its podcast, TRANSFORMED. Every other week we interview experts on higher education, digital transformation, and the challenges and promises represented by both. In this episode of our special Presidential Series, Len Jessup – President at Claremont Graduate University – while first to ask if he is a “mutation,” shares how he came to his current role while explaining the evolution of the presidential career path, driven by governance boards' desires for change agent leaders. 

Higher Digital has just published the next episode of its podcast, TRANSFORMED. Every other week we interview experts on higher education, digital transformation, and the challenges and promises represented by both. In this episode, Tom Andriola – Vice Chancellor and Chief Digital Officer at the University of California, Irvine – shares how aligning across the critical elements of people, culture, technology and data acts as a catalyst for positive change.  References: linkedin.com/in/tomandriola www.uci.edu  

In this episode, Dr. Monique Sendze – Vice President for Information Technology and CIO at California State University, Chico – discusses her approach to effectively driving organizational change by creating a project and change management office to take an overarching view across the institution. 

In this episode, Dr. Rafik Mohamed – Provost and VP of Academic Affairs at Cal State San Bernadino – offers suggestions on how best to leverage stakeholder buy-in as a change enhancer and accelerator.References:Dr. Rafik Mohamed, Provost and VP of Academic Affairs at Cal State San BernadinoCalifornia State University, San Bernadino

In this episode, Dr. Saul Jimenez-Sandoval – President of California State University, Fresno – explains how Ai could serve as the critical catalyst for higher education reform.References: Dr. Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval, President, California State University, FresnoCalifornia State University, Fresno

In this episode, Dr. Lin Zhou - CIO of The New School - discusses the preparation of fourth generation enterprise technologists in the context of evolving IT organizations, quantum computing and the design, social research, arts, and public engagement programs offered by his institution.Dr. Lin Zhou, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, The New SchoolThe New School

In this episode, Dr. Bashar Hanna - President of Commonwealth University - discusses the importance of maintaining the cultural traditions, mascots and branding of the three institutions that are consolidating to form this new school serving Central Pennsylvania.References:Dr. Bashar Hanna, President of Commonwealth UniversityCommonwealth University of Pennsylvania

In this episode, Dr. Pardis Mahdavi - President-select at the University of La Verne - discusses the need for and specific uses of partnership network effects to serve the underserved and reverse the education decline.References:Dr. Pardis Mahdavi, President-select of the University of La VerneUniversity of La Verne

In this episode, Dr. Marlene Tromp - President of Boise State University - discusses how she is applying a humanist approach to digital transformation to continue the tradition of “Broncos bucking above their weight.”References:Dr. Marlene Tromp, President of Boise State UniversityBoise State UniversityTromp attends G7 Summit - Boise State News

In this episode, Dr. Vince Kellen - Chief Information Officer at University of California San Diego - discusses the leadership behaviors, steps and consistency required to transform IT cultures, teams and portfolios. Dr. Vince Kellen, Chief Information Officer at University of California San Diegohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vincekellen/University of California San Diegohttps://ucsd.edu/21st-Century Analytics: New Technologies and New Rules, by Vince Kellen, Educause Review, 5/20/2019https://er.educause.edu/articles/2019/5/21st-century-analytics-new-technologies-and-new-rulesImproving Personal Agility, by Vince Kellen, Educause Review, 3/20/2023https://er.educause.edu/articles/2023/3/improving-personal-agility

In this episode, Andrea Ballinger - Vice Provost and Chief Information Officer at Oregon State University - emphasizes the importance of understanding your capabilities and capacity while sustainably empowering digital stakeholders.