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.

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.

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.