IngenioUs

Melissa Morriss-Olson
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Welcome to IngenioUs — where conversations spark innovation and open doors to the future of higher education. Our podcast is a dedicated space for deep dives with the most original minds and active changemakers in academia. Each episode is a journey through the ideas and actions of those at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in higher ed. Join us as we explore academic innovation, uncovering insights and inspirations from those who dare to think differently.

  1. What Makes a University Worth Attending? | University Design

    HÁ 6 DIAS

    What Makes a University Worth Attending? | University Design

    In this episode, David J. Staley reads his latest University Design blog article for the Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practice (CHELIP). What does it really mean to attend a particular university? During the pandemic, one of Staley's students captured something essential: "I don't feel like I attend the Ohio State University." His frustration reveals a deeper truth about higher education that most metrics and rankings completely miss. In this article, Staley explores a provocative thesis: universities are in the reputation business, operating on intangible capital rather than tangible assets. Drawing on economic theory from Haskel and Westlake's "Capitalism Without Capital," he argues that the real value of a university lies not in its buildings, publication counts, or job placement statistics, but in something far more elusive—its phenomenology, brand, and ineffable experience. KEY TOPICS EXPLORED: The pandemic's revelation about what students truly value in university attendanceWhy traditional metrics fail to capture institutional valueHow intangible capital defines the modern economy—and universitiesThe gap between reputation and current reality at many institutionsArizona State's transformation from punchline to innovation leaderVanderbilt's satellite campus strategy and the question of whether reputation can transcend placeWhat university leaders must understand about phenomenology and brand ABOUT UNIVERSITY DESIGN:University Design is a blog column by David J. Staley exploring innovative approaches to higher education strategy, structure, and future possibilities. Published through the Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practice (CHELIP). This podcast features audio readings of selected articles from the column. AUTHOR/READER:David J. Staley is a historian, futurist, and author focused on the future of higher education and innovation in university design. READ THE FULL ARTICLE: https://ingeniousu.wpcomstaging.com/ RELATED READING: Haskel, J., & Westlake, S. (2018). Capitalism without capital: The rise of the intangible economy (Paperback ed.). Princeton University Press.

    8min
  2. Lifting Barriers. Naming Possibilities. The Leadership Journey of Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg

    28 DE OUT.

    Lifting Barriers. Naming Possibilities. The Leadership Journey of Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg

    Content Warning: This episode contains references to suicide and sexual assault within the context of student mental health and recovery. The discussion focuses on hope, resilience, and the impact of supportive relationships in higher education. What happens when a leader sees potential in people who've never seen it in themselves? In this deeply moving episode of IngenioUs, Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg shares how a single moment—when a mentor casually said "when you're a college president"—fundamentally shifted her understanding of her own possibilities. Now, as Chancellor of the University of Washington Bothell, she deliberately practices naming potentialin others, especially those who don't see themselves reflected in traditional leadership roles. Dr. Esterberg's leadership philosophy is grounded in her training as a sociologist and shaped by profound experiences with students overcoming tremendous obstacles. She shares theunforgettable story of a student who was the child of Cambodian refugees, struggling with the intergenerational trauma of genocide. That student brought her a jar of tiny origami stars and cranes—made to fight suicidal thoughts—and years later, Dr. Esterberg watched her cross the stage to receive a master's degree in social work. That jar still sits in her office today as a reminder of the transformative power of authentic relationships in higher education. In this conversation, Dr. Esterberg explores: ​The transition from "I towe"—moving from faculty to administrative leadership and discovering the joy of lifting barriers at scale​Why she believes leadership happens at all levels of campus, from physical plant staff leadingsustainability initiatives to students finding their voice​How her research on the LGBTQ+ homophile movement of the 1940s-50s provides historical perspective and hopeduring challenging times​The importance of listening—not just to hear, but to truly understand opinions that differ from your own​Her completion of an Ironman Triathlon and how endurance athletics mirrors her approach to leadershipchallenges​Essential tools for the leadership toolbox: deep listening skills, social media awareness, and genuine love foreducation, faculty, and students​Why creating environments where people can see themselves as leaders is critical to fulfilling higher education's transformative promise Dr. Esterberg's message is both challenging and hopeful: leadership is not the province of a select few but a possibility and responsibility that exists within all members of academiccommunities. By creating spaces where authentic relationships flourish and barriers to success are systematically dismantled, higher education can truly serve all students—especially those who have historically been marginalized or overlooked. This episode will inspire anyone who believes in the power of education to transform lives and the responsibility of leaders to see and name potential in others. ABOUT DR. KRISTIN G. ESTERBERG Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg is Chancellor of the University ofWashington Bothell. A sociologist by training, she has served in leadership roles at multiple institutions including as Provost at Salem State University and in administrative positions at UMass Lowell. Her research focuses on LGBTQ+ social movements, and she is a passionate advocate for creating inclusiveacademic environments where all students can thrive. An accomplished endurance athlete, she recently completed an Ironman Triathlon.

    44min
  3. Anything is Possible: Building Unshakeable Optimism in Uncertain Times - The Leadership Journey of Dr. Patty Lynott

    7 DE OUT.

    Anything is Possible: Building Unshakeable Optimism in Uncertain Times - The Leadership Journey of Dr. Patty Lynott

    In this inspiring new episode, host Melissa Morriss-Olson sits down with Dr. Patty Lynott, President of RockfordUniversity, to explore how unwavering optimism and strategic risk-taking can transform both careers and institutions. What You'll Learn: How career setbacks can become unexpected launching pads for extraordinary growth.Why "hands-off" leadership often produces the most remarkable results. The art of spotting and developing untapped potential in others. How to build genuine confidence that can withstand any challenge. What it takes to lead authentically without playing political games. Strategies for maintaininghope during higher education's most uncertain times. Key Takeaways: Confidence is the non-negotiable foundation of effective leadership. The best leaders take calculated risks on people others have overlooked. Sometimes the jobs we don't get redirect us toward our true calling. Authentic leadership becomes possible when you stop building your resume and start serving your mission."Anything is possible" isn't just optimism—it's a practicalleadership philosophy. About Our Guest: Dr. Patty Lynott serves as President of Rockford University and brings decades of higher education leadership experience, including 15 transformative years atSouthern New Hampshire University. Known for her direct communication style and talent for developing emerging leaders, she's passionate about the vital rolesmall private colleges play in American higher education.

    42min
  4. The Soloversity: Imagining a One-Person University Powered by AI

    3 DE OUT. · BÔNUS

    The Soloversity: Imagining a One-Person University Powered by AI

    What happens when an entire university could be run by a single academic, supported almost entirely by AI? In this provocative installment of his University Design column, David Staley explores the emerging concept of the “soloversity”—a higher education institution operated by one human professor with a network of AI agents handling teaching support, administration, research, and student services. Drawing parallels to Silicon Valley’s “solopreneurs” and cyber-physical enterprises, Staley asks whether higher education might soon witness entrepreneurial academics launching their own solo institutions. Could these soloversities become the next educational unicorns? And what does this possibility reveal about the future of academic work, institutional scale, and the very foundations of the university? Listen in as Staley reads his essay aloud, bringing to life his vision of higher education’s possible futures. 📖 Read the full article here: The Soloversity by David J. Staley

    7min
  5. The Opportunity Economist - A Conversation with University of Saint Joseph President Dr. Rhona Free

    16 DE SET.

    The Opportunity Economist - A Conversation with University of Saint Joseph President Dr. Rhona Free

    Join host Melissa Morriss-Olson for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Rhona C. Free, president of the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, Connecticut. As the first non-Catholic president of this Catholic institution founded by the Sisters of Mercy, Dr. Free has transformed USJ into what the Carnegie Foundation recently recognized as an "opportunity college"—one of only 16% of institutions nationwide that successfully combines high access for diverse students with high post-graduation earnings. In this episode, Dr. Free shares her remarkable journey from first-generation college student and immigrant to transformational university president. Her unique background as an economist trained in both radical social justice economics and traditional market analysis has shaped her approach to institutional leadership, combining strategic decision-making with unwavering values. Listeners will discover how Dr. Free navigated the historic 2018 transition from women's college to coeducational institution, including the data-driven analysis that informed this pivotal decision and the comprehensive strategy that ensured its success. She reveals the fascinating story behind recruiting legendary UConn basketball coach Jim Calhoun and explains how strategic investment in athletics complemented rather than competed with academic excellence. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Free demonstrates what colleagues describe as her "calm and steady" leadership style, rooted in thorough consultation, deliberate decision-making, and her grandmother's wisdom that "an ounce of performance is worth a pound of preaching." She discusses how her economics training helps her understand institutional behaviors and student motivations while maintaining focus on creating opportunities for those who might otherwise be overlooked. The episode explores themes of values-based leadership, strategic transformation, the intersection of mission and financial sustainability, and the profound impact of believing in student potential regardless of background. Dr. Free's insights offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in educational leadership, institutional change management, or creating equity in higher education. Key topics include the founding mission and current culture of USJ, the role of athletics in institutional transformation, navigating controversy through consultation and transparency, applying economic principles to educational leadership, creating scholarship programs that expand access, and maintaining personal grounding through family support and daily practices like running. This conversation illuminates how effective leadership combines strategic thinking with genuine care for others, demonstrating that institutions can be both mission-driven and financially successful when guided by leaders who understand that investing in people creates the highest returns. About Dr. Rhona C. Free: Dr. Free serves as president of the University of St. Joseph in West Hartford, Connecticut. She holds advanced degrees in economics and previously served in leadership roles at Eastern Connecticut State University. Under her leadership, USJ has been recognized as Connecticut's only "opportunity college" by the Carnegie Foundation and American Council on Education. About Ingenious U: Ingenious U explores the stories and strategies of higher education's most innovative leaders, examining how they navigate challenges, drive transformation, and create lasting impact in theirinstitutions and communities.

    50min
  6. New Year, New Perspectives: David Staley on The Agentic Student

    4 DE SET. · BÔNUS

    New Year, New Perspectives: David Staley on The Agentic Student

    In this month’s University Design column, David Staley explores the provocative idea of The Agentic Student. With AI agents increasingly embedded in our daily lives, what happens when students begin sending them to class—not just to take notes, but to participate, ask questions, and even take exams? Staley examines the possibilities and challenges of this emerging “representative education,” where human learners are joined (or even replaced) by their AI counterparts. What does this mean for learning, teaching, and the future design of higher education? Listen as David reads his essay aloud and invites us to imagine what comes next.

    5min
  7. Beyond Perfect: How Embracing Vulnerability Became a University President's Superpower: A Conversation with University of Bridgeport President Danielle Wilken

    2 DE SET.

    Beyond Perfect: How Embracing Vulnerability Became a University President's Superpower: A Conversation with University of Bridgeport President Danielle Wilken

    About This Episode Join host Melissa Morriss-Olson for an extraordinary conversation with Dr. Danielle Wilken, President of the University of Bridgeport, as she shares her remarkable journey from a 20-year career at Goodwin University to leading one of higher education's most compelling turnaround stories. This episode offers rare insights into transformational leadership, authentic communication, I don't know which one is this Danielle is 16and the delicate balance of executive leadership and motherhood. About Our Guest Dr. Danielle Wilken serves as President of the University of Bridgeport, where she has led a dramatic institutional transformation since 2021. Prior to her presidency, she spent nearly two decades at Goodwin University, risingthrough the ranks to become Provost and developing her expertise in Universal Design for Learning. Her leadership philosophy centers on transparent communication, collaborative decision-making, and the belief that educationserves as a pathway to transforming lives, families, and communities. Key Themes Explored The Power of Long-Term Institutional Commitment Danielle discusses her unusual 20-year tenure at Goodwin University and how deep institutional knowledge andrelationship-building prepared her for transformational leadership. She challenges the conventional wisdom of frequent career moves in higher education and explains why mission-driven commitment often creates more effective leaders than title-chasing advancement. Building Trust Through Transparent Communication The conversation explores how Danielle established trust during the complex partnership between GoodwinUniversity and University of Bridgeport, including the challenging bi-weekly town halls during the transition period. She shares specific strategies for maintaining honesty while navigating uncertainty and how transparency became the foundation for cultural transformation. Innovation Through Inclusive Leadership Learn about the "UB Shark Tank" initiative where faculty and staff pitch ideas directly to cabinet leadership, and discover how this approach has generated concrete results including student-ledcompanies, new athletic programs, and revenue-generating academic initiatives. Danielle explains how decentralized innovation creates buy-in and surfacesopportunities that senior leadership might otherwise miss. Universal Design for Learning as Institutional Philosophy Danielle shares her passion for Universal Design for Learning, explaining how this pedagogical approach movesbeyond labeling students to leveraging their individual assets. The discussion reveals how UDL principles have influenced not just curriculum design but institutional culture and decision-making processes. Authentic Leadership and Work-Life Integration In one of the most candid discussions about executive leadership and motherhood, Danielle addresses the myth thatwomen can "have it all" simultaneously. She shares practical insights about managing competing priorities, building goodwill with family members, and using authenticity as a leadership strength rather than vulnerability. The Legacy of Mentorship and Family Influence The episode includes touching reflections on how daily conversations with her father shaped Danielle's leadership approach and decision-making process. She also discusses being mentored by three women leaders at Goodwin and how observing different leadership styles helped her develop her own authentic approach. Leadership Lessons This conversation offers valuable insights for current and aspiring leaders about the importance of presence over administrative isolation, the power of listening and connecting seemingly unrelated ideas, and the necessity of celebrating wins while navigating ongoing challenges. Danielle's approach demonstrates how vulnerability and authenticity can become leadership superpowers when combined with clear vision and consistent execution.

    52min
  8. Leading with All of Me: Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills on Authentic Leadership and Lasting Impact

    19 DE AGO.

    Leading with All of Me: Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills on Authentic Leadership and Lasting Impact

    In this episode of the IngenioUs podcast, host Melissa Morriss-Olson sits down with Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills, president of Aurora University and the first Latina to lead the institution.Susana’s inspiring journey—from immigrating to the United States during the Salvadoran Civil War to becoming a transformative leader in higher education—offers a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and purpose-drivenleadership. Listeners will hear: How her early experiences in a country whereacademic freedom was under attack shaped her lifelong commitment to open dialogue and diverse perspectives.Why becoming Aurora’s first Latina president was a deeply personal and “full-circle” moment forher—and what it means for students to see themselves reflected in leadership.The two-sided “superpower” she brings to the presidency: leading with authenticity and seeingthe humanity in others.The powerful lesson she learned about building initiatives that last beyond a leader’s tenure.How she is creating a groundbreaking career ecosystemthat integrates career readiness into every aspect of the student experience.Practical,empowering advice for aspiring women leaders, especially first-generation professionals and leaders of color.Susana’s leadership story is a reminder that lasting impact comes from aligning who you are with the work you do—and frombuilding institutions where everyone has the freedom to bring their wholeselves to the table. About the Guest: Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills is the 14th president of Aurora University in Aurora, Illinois, and the first Latina to hold the role. An accomplished scholar and leader with a background in sociolinguistics, she has devoted her career toadvancing student success, institutional transformation, and inclusive community engagement. Before joining Aurora University, she served in senior leadership roles at Ball State University, Oregon State University, and Northern Arizona University. Her leadership is anchored in authenticity,equity, and the belief in higher education’s power to change lives—not just for individuals, but for entire families and communities. Tune in to be inspired, challenged, and reminded of the transformative power of authentic leadership in higher education. Listen now and subscribe to IngenioUs wherever you get your podcasts.

    56min
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Sobre

Welcome to IngenioUs — where conversations spark innovation and open doors to the future of higher education. Our podcast is a dedicated space for deep dives with the most original minds and active changemakers in academia. Each episode is a journey through the ideas and actions of those at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in higher ed. Join us as we explore academic innovation, uncovering insights and inspirations from those who dare to think differently.

Informações

  • Criado por
    Melissa Morriss-Olson
  • Anos de atividade
    2020 - 2025
  • Episódios
    221
  • Classificação
    Livre
  • Copyright
    © Melissa Morriss-Olson
  • Site do podcast
    IngenioUs

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