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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.