Beyond the Classroom: Building Leadership | Office Hours Podcast

A Fairer Formula: Rethinking Higher Ed Funding | Office Hours Podcast

As Illinois lawmakers work toward a May 31 budget deadline, conversations surrounding how the state funds public universities have taken on renewed importance. In this episode, A Fairer Formula: Rethinking Higher Ed Funding, SIU System President Dan Mahony discusses with experts about how higher education funding models operate across the nation and the efforts underway at the Capitol to modernize the way Illinois distributes funding to public universities. Joining the conversation are national higher education funding expert, Denisa Gandara from the University of Texas at Austin and Robin Steans from Advance Illinois. Together, they discuss why many states are rethinking university funding formulas, and what these changes could mean for students, affordability, workforce development and the future of public higher education in Illinois.

Who’s the Boss: Inside University Power & Governance | Office Hours Podcast

In this episode of Office Hours, SIU System President Dan Mahony explores one of the most misunderstood aspects of higher education: how leadership and decision-making work.  While many assume the president sits at the top, universities operate through a more complex structure, one that includes governing boards and shared leadership.  Joined by Dr. Felecia Commodore, an expert in higher education governance from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, along with SIU System Board Chair Judge Phil Gilbert and former Chair Roger Tedrick, this conversation offers both research-based insight and real-world perspective on:  * The role of boards of trustees  * How major decisions are made  * What makes a board effective or ineffective  * Why collaboration between leadership and governance matters  Whether you work in higher education or simply want a better understanding of how universities operate, this episode provides a clear and candid look behind the scenes.  🎧 Watch and listen to learn more.

Beyond the Bracket: The Future of College Athletics | Office Hours Podcast

What is the future of college athletics—and how do we get there? In this special episode of Office Hours, SIU System President Dan Mahony takes the guest seat as faculty leaders Cherese Fine (SIUE) and Julie Partridge (SIUC) lead a thoughtful discussion on the current state and future direction of college sports. As a lover of sports and higher education leader, President Mahony shares his perspective on: * The financial realities facing athletic programs * The evolving student-athlete experience * The sustainability of current models * Why institutions must be intentional moving forward With March Madness as the backdrop, this episode goes beyond the bracket to explore the bigger picture of college athletics in America. 🎧 Listen and subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of higher education, innovation and student success.

Paying for College: Myths & Realities | Office Hours Podcast

In this episode of Office Hours, SIU System President Dan Mahony explores one of the biggest questions facing students and families today: How do you pay for college? Many people believe college is becoming less affordable, but the reality is more complex. National data shows that net tuition and fees at public universities have declined in recent years, and most students receive some form of financial assistance. In fact, across the Southern Illinois University System, over 90% of first time undergraduate students receive support to help cover the cost of college. President Mahony is joined by higher education leaders and financial aid experts who share practical insights about scholarships, financial aid, student loans and programs that make college more accessible. The conversation also features an inspiring SIU student who explains how she has found creative ways to cover her college costs without taking on loans. Whether you are a student, parent, educator, or advisor, this episode offers helpful guidance, real-world strategies, and encouragement for navigating the college financial planning process.

Beyond the Classroom: Building Leadership | Office Hours Podcast

In this episode of Office Hours, SIU System President Dan Mahony explores how leadership, service and involvement outside the classroom help students develop the skills employers value most — including communication, teamwork, problem-solving and leadership. Joining the conversation are student affairs leaders from SIU Edwardsville and SIU Carbondale, along with student trustees from both campuses. Together, they share powerful stories about experiential learning, stepping outside comfort zones and turning student involvement into lifelong skills.