College Viability, LLC’s Post

While this announcement most certainly brings about reflections on the changing dynamics within higher education. #highereducationleadership continues to be challenged to navigate shifts in demographics, technology, and societal needs. The closure of the Waukesha campus reminds us of the importance of strategic planning and collaboration within the academic community. It underscores the necessity for institutions to remain agile and responsive to the needs of their students and the broader community. As we navigate these transitions, let's collectively champion a vision where higher education is not only accessible but also adaptive and responsive to the needs of our diverse student body. By fostering a culture of innovation, we can ensure that our institutions remain pillars of knowledge and empowerment. Academic Impressions is interested in assisting #higheredleaders design constructive conversations, share best practices, and collaborate to inspire positive change that leads institutions into the new era of #highereducation #Innovation #Leadership #EducationTransformation

It is surprising to see only 3 comments on this post from Gary Stocker while his posts on private college closures (like Birmingham-Southern) typically see more. Privates like publics play a crucial role in shaping the academic landscape and growth opportunities for students. Their impact on individuals' lives and community as a whole cannot be overstated. Therefore leadership regardless of private or public should be held accountable equally. Now exists the opportunity for reflection and reinvention. The need for reinvention of leadership development, innovative business practices and approaches to education and community engagement is paramount. #highereducation #futureoflearning #highereducationleadership

GOT BUDGET? Balancing a budget is key to long term sustainability in #highereducation. While growing enrollment is critical, institutions often also have to make hard but necessary reductions in cost. The Casagrande Institute for Higher Education Effectiveness can help ensure good stewardship of resources allocated to executive, faculty and staff compensation. Not too little and not too much. Reach out to David J. Bauer, Ph.D. or Frank A. Casagrande learn more about how we can help

Is this a trend? Legislatures in states where community college enrollment was dropping most are taking action to reverse decades-long defunding and make public college more affordable. We saw "free college" programs provide the same enrollment boost in Massachusetts and Maine a few months back, too. Community colleges have lost nearly 40% of their enrollment over the last decade. A majority of states now offer some version of free or "last dollar" coverage for community college. The ones that offer it free, outright to everyone, seem to be having the most success. Maine Community College System Minnesota State Community and Technical College Education Design Lab #Communitycollege

In the race to higher education, Central Valley students are struggling, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. It’s heartbreaking to see bright futures dimmed by a lack of access to quality education. This is why school choice is so critical— it’s not just a decision; it’s a lifeline. This article highlights, "where you go to school, to no small extent, is going to determine what kind of possibilities you have for going on to college,” Johnson said. In Kern County, the A-G completion rate is dismal and has declined over the last three years, with fewer than 4 out of 10 student qualifying for college (36.6%). Now more than ever, we need schools that are committed to lifting our students up and preparing them for a future where college is the expectation not the exception. We can’t afford to wait for big districts, bogged down by bureaucracy and red tape, to fix the issues they helped create. Our kids deserve better, and they deserve it now. The time for more school choice has never been more crucial —because our children’s futures can’t wait. https://lnkd.in/g_icNHcT

Check out our article in the The Chronicle of Higher Education and see how Hudson Valley is redefining the narrative around community colleges. It’s time to get the “just” out of “just community college.”

Experts predict over 400 more college closures by 2030. If your college is struggling, now is the time to develop a strong turnaround plan. If closure is imminent, plan now to do so with compassion and dignity. If your institution needs help, consider reaching out as soon as possible to ensure the best outcomes for your students, faculty, and staff.

"The results of this study demonstrate that CVCC creates value from multiple perspectives. The college benefits regional businesses by increasing consumer spending in the region and supplying a steady flow of qualified, trained workers to the workforce" (CVCC Executive Summary, Lightcast). Additionally, hot-off-the-press BLS data show that Virginia's unemployment rate is still well below the national average, and manufacturing and trades hiring is increasing (bls.gov). This is a no-brainer! The ROI in Virginia's community colleges, and specifically in Central Virginia Community College is undeniable and necessary to assure continued economic growth in the Lynchburg, VA region. At CVCC, in the #Mechatronics program and all of our Career & Technical Education and Workforce Development programs, we are doing everything humanly possible to meet the demand for a well-trained technical workforce, but we can't do it alone. We rely heavily on our wonderfully supportive Industry Partners, area economic development partners, and most importantly, state funding. Yes we can! Together. Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance Pam Bailey Traci Blido #CVCC #CTE #technicaleducation #industry4point0 #studentsuccess #advancedmanufacturing #economicdevelopment #workingtogether #lyhregion #amherst #appomattox #bedford #campbell

This is an interesting article that highlights the struggles of two-year liberal arts colleges in Wisconsin; however, the devil is in the details. Despite recent campus closures, Wisconsin's funding for two-year programs is notably higher than in most states. According to the State Higher Education Finance (SHEF) Report, Wisconsin is one of only nine states that provide more state support for two-year programs per FTE enrollment ($9,662) compared to four-year programs ($7,732). Moreover, Wisconsin ranks in the top 10 for two-year sector program funding but falls in the bottom 10 for four-year sector programming. This disparity raises a compelling question: Is this contrasting approach to funding by the current Wisconsin legislature intentional, or is it the result of decisions made in the distant past? #HigherEducation #EdFinance #EducationPolicy #AcademicFinance #StateSystems