EdUp Provost

Association of Chief Academic Officers (ACAO)

The EdUp Provost Podcast is a proud member of the EdUp Experience® podcast family, America’s leading higher education podcast network. Brought to you by the Association of Chief Academic Officers (ACAO), EdUp Provost offers a platform for sharing best practices, discussing current academic challenges, and promoting the educational and organizational interests of Chief Academic Officers. Each episode provides thought-provoking conversations with leaders in higher education, equipping CAOs with insights and resources to navigate societal challenges and enhance their institutions.

  1. 5d ago

    1. The Economic Case for Educational Attainment: A Conversation with Eloy Ortiz Oakley and Zach Mabel

    In this EdUp Provost episode, which marks the beginning of the fifth season of ACAO's official podcast, host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner interviews Dr. Eloy Ortiz Oakley and Dr. Zach Mabel about "The Golden Ticket," a study commissioned by College Futures Foundation and conducted by Georgetown University, examining the economic impact of California reaching a 70% educational attainment goal. The conversation explores how closing this attainment gap could generate $4.4 trillion in economic benefits for the state, with implications spanning tax revenue, workforce participation, and reduced incarceration costs across demographic lines. Oakley and Mabel discuss why the timing of this research is especially significant amid a gubernatorial election cycle and offer guidance for provosts and other higher education leaders on using this data to advocate for their institutions, realign academic programs with labor market demands, and address longstanding disparities in access and outcomes for underrepresented students. Attainment drives massive economic returns: Reaching California's 70% educational attainment goal could generate $4.4 trillion in economic impact, benefiting the state broadly across tax revenue, workforce participation, and reduced incarceration costs. The benefit isn't limited to degree-holders: Higher educational attainment lifts outcomes for all Californians, not just those who earn credentials, making it a collective economic and social investment. Provosts need to reframe their advocacy: Institutional leaders should move past abstract claims of "value" and instead use concrete economic data to demonstrate how their programs impact student mobility and opportunity. Programs must track labor market demand: With 85% of good jobs projected to require postsecondary credentials by 2031, academic portfolios need regular realignment with real workforce needs rather than credentialing for its own sake. Closing equity gaps requires structural change: Addressing disparities among demographic groups calls for disaggregated data analysis, tailored student support systems, and stronger community partnerships.

  2. May 20

    7. From Upheaval to Action: A Conversation with Arthur Levine

    In this episode, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Dr. Arthur Levine, President of Brandeis University and a leading voice in higher education. They discuss Dr. Levine's latest book, co-written with Scott Van Pelt, titled From Upheaval to Action: What Works in Changing Higher Ed. How can institutions successfully navigate demographic, technological, and cultural upheavals? Thuswaldner and Levine explore practical strategies for leadership, faculty engagement, technology integration, and institutional transformation. This episode offers a comprehensive guide for academic leaders, faculty, and policymakers navigating the future of higher education amidst unprecedented change. Key Takeaways: Many institutions visited during the research lacked a clear sense of direction in responding to demographic, economic, technological, and global changes — revealing a widespread leadership gap across higher education. The new book, From Upheaval to Action, moves beyond diagnosis to offer concrete strategies drawn from fieldwork at over 60 institutions across all regions and types. The provost role is arguably the hardest in higher education, requiring a president and provost to function as true "dance partners" for meaningful institutional transformation to occur. Real change at the academic core requires alignment across vision, budget, enrollment management, and marketing — no single leader can drive transformation alone. Looking beyond campus walls to understand what for-profit and alternative education providers are doing is essential for any institution serious about preparing for the future.

  3. Apr 23

    6. AI, Accreditation, and the Art of Dreaming Big: A Conversation with Marjorie Hass

    In this special edition of EdUp Provost, recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Marjorie Hass, President of the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), to explore the evolving role of AI in higher education — and what it means for institutions committed to their core values. Dr. Hass highlights CIC's partnership with ASU+GSV, which supports bringing presidents and provosts to the summit, and the need for stable, flexible ed tech partners. Hass also addresses the potential disruption of accreditation reforms by the current administration and stresses the importance of ethics and bottom-up innovation in CIC institutions. She encourages provosts to dream and envision new educational models.   Takeaways - Provosts must be intelligently engaged in AI discussions to ensure institutional values are not compromised by technological adoption. - The nimbleness of independent colleges means individual faculty or staff can drive meaningful, campus-wide change. - The current administration's interest in reshaping accreditation poses real risks, and provosts must be prepared to advocate collectively. - As presidencies become more outward-facing, provosts are increasingly the primary defenders and shapers of academic mission and culture. - Provosts are uniquely positioned to envision bold new educational models and should embrace that creative, forward-looking responsibility.

  4. Apr 8

    5. Mission, Culture, and the Art of Leading Change: A Conversation with David J. Dausey

    In this conversation, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Dr. David Dausey, Provost and President-Elect at Duquesne University, for a rich and candid discussion about mission-driven leadership, the evolving role of the provost, and the mindset required to navigate transformative change in higher education. Dr. Dausey shares his deeply held conviction that fidelity to institutional mission must be the provost's north star, while emphasizing that social and emotional intelligence are equally essential leadership tools. He reflects on the importance of listening — whether conducting a presidential listening tour or receiving critique — and offers practical wisdom for new provosts on the value of patience, process, and taking change one step at a time.   Takeaways: The most important quality of a provost is an unwavering commitment to the institution's mission; it must be lived, not just stated. Technical expertise matters, but the ability to understand and respond to the lived realities of others is what truly defines effective academic leadership. Whether embarking on a new role or receiving criticism, intentional listening is the foundation of servant leadership. Culture change takes time; start one piece at a time and resist the urge to do everything at once. How decisions are made shapes how people experience them, even when the result is the same.

  5. Mar 18

    4. Navigating History and Innovation: A Conversation with Catharine E. O'Connell

    In this episode, EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner sits down with Catherine E. O'Connell, Provost of Illinois College, as she shares the rich history, unique traditions, and bold initiatives shaping this historic institution. Now in her 10th year as Provost, Dr. O'Connell leads an institution approaching its bicentennial in 2029—the first college in Illinois to grant degrees and home to the oldest college buildings on any campus. Founded by Yale ministers who came west to "civilize the frontier," Illinois College was built on a foundation of abolitionist principles that sparked controversy in its early years and continues to inform its mission today. In this candid conversation, Dr. O'Connell discusses the unique challenges of academic leadership at a small liberal arts college, from managing the competing priorities of diverse constituencies—students, alumni, faculty, trustees, and community members—to navigating the increasingly volatile landscape of institutional messaging in the social media age. She shares hard-won insights on building and trusting your leadership team, the loss of anonymity that comes with the provost role, and offers essential advice for new academic leaders entering this complex position. Takeaways: Illinois College blends its historic roots with forward-thinking programs to boost student success. O'Connell emphasizes the importance of collaboration and navigating diverse priorities in academic leadership. The college's new nursing program launch during the pandemic showcases adaptability and community support. Illinois College is incorporating AI into education to prepare for a digital future. The conversation highlights the changing skills needed for effective leadership in small liberal arts colleges.

  6. Feb 25

    3. Navigating Online Education: A Conversation with Audra Spicer

    In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Audra Spicer, the Provost and Acting President of CSU Global, discusses the unique model of CSU Global as a fully online university, its focus on career readiness, and the importance of flexibility for adult learners. She shares her journey within the institution, the challenges of transitioning to a leadership role, and the significance of student-centric decision-making. The conversation also touches on recent achievements, the role of AI in education, and advice for aspiring academic leaders, emphasizing the need for collaboration and continuous learning in the evolving landscape of higher education. Takeaways Flexibility is crucial for adult learners pursuing education. Student success is the top priority in decision-making. Recent achievements include a career-connected campus designation. AI should be embraced as a tool for efficiency. Provosts need to focus on budget management and institutional priorities.

  7. Feb 18

    2. Bridging Research and Academic Administration in India: A Conversation with Raul Villamarin Rodriguez

    In this conversation, Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner interviews Dr. Raul Rodriguez, the Vice Provost of Woxsen University in India. They discuss the unique aspects of Woxsen University, including its residential campus and the challenges and opportunities of operating in the Indian higher education landscape. Raul shares his journey from a psychologist to an academic leader, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research, particularly in necrobotics. The conversation also touches on the balance between administrative duties and research, the agility of curriculum development in India, and the integration of AI in education. Raul provides insights into the ethical considerations of AI and the governance structure within Indian universities, concluding with advice for academic leaders. Takeaways Balancing administration and research is a continuous challenge for academic leaders. Leadership in academia requires a team-oriented approach. The Indian education system is more agile in curriculum development compared to the West. AI integration is essential for modern education and administration. Governance in Indian universities is a mix of autonomy and administrative oversight.

  8. Jan 28

    1. Transforming Education: A Conversation with Dr. Iris Lafferty

    In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner (La Roche University), Dr. Iris Lafferty, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Capella University, discusses her educational philosophy, the unique mission of Capella, and the importance of competency-based education for working adults. She shares insights on balancing compliance with innovation, the challenges faced by Chief Academic Officers, and the role of AI in education. Dr. Lafferty emphasizes the need for strategic leadership in a rapidly changing environment and offers advice for aspiring academic leaders. Takeaways Balancing compliance and innovation is crucial in higher education. AI should enhance human capabilities in education. Listening deeply is essential for effective leadership. The triangulation of curriculum, faculty, and operations is vital for student success. Understanding the needs of the workforce is critical for program development.

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About

The EdUp Provost Podcast is a proud member of the EdUp Experience® podcast family, America’s leading higher education podcast network. Brought to you by the Association of Chief Academic Officers (ACAO), EdUp Provost offers a platform for sharing best practices, discussing current academic challenges, and promoting the educational and organizational interests of Chief Academic Officers. Each episode provides thought-provoking conversations with leaders in higher education, equipping CAOs with insights and resources to navigate societal challenges and enhance their institutions.

Information

  • Creator
    Association of Chief Academic Officers (ACAO)
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2014 . All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    EdUp Provost

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