EdUp Provost

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. John Skrentny discusses the disconnect between the number of STEM graduates and the actual demand for STEM workers, emphasizing systemic issues within higher education and the role of provosts. He critiques the prevailing shortage rationale for STEM education and advocates for a focus on foundational skills that prepare students for a volatile job market. The discussion also highlights the importance of embedding ethics into STEM curricula and the interconnectedness of universities, employers, and investors in shaping the workforce. Takeaways• There is a significant disconnect between STEM graduates and the actual demand for STEM workers.• The shortage rationale for STEM education is often overstated and needs critical analysis.• Universities should focus on sustaining careers, not just launching them.• STEM graduates may not want to pursue traditional STEM jobs, highlighting the need for diverse career paths.• Embedding ethics into STEM education can help students understand the societal impact of their work.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Musa Al-Gharbi discusses his book 'We Have Never Been Woke', which critiques the prevailing narratives in higher education regarding social justice and progressivism. He introduces the concept of 'symbolic capitalism' and explores the disconnect between intentions and outcomes in educational institutions. Dr. Al-Gharbi highlights the hostility faced by socially conservative views in academia and emphasizes the importance of belongingness over mere inclusion. He critiques the effectiveness of current DEI initiatives and calls for a reevaluation of credentialing practices that perpetuate inequality. In this conversation, Dr. Al-Gharbi discusses the perception of academia, the political biases within higher education, and the implications of these biases on public trust. He emphasizes the need for universities to acknowledge their shortcomings while defending their value and academic freedom. Dr. Al-Gharbi also reflects on the historical context of social dynamics and the importance of understanding these patterns to avoid repeating past mistakes. Takeaways• The title 'We Have Never Been Woke' challenges existing narratives.• Higher education often perpetuates inequality despite progressive intentions.• There is a significant disconnect between intentions and actual outcomes in academia.• Belongingness is a crucial factor for student success and retention.• Current DEI initiatives often fail to produce desired outcomes and can be counterproductive.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Jessica Riddell discusses the importance of hope in leadership within higher education, emphasizing that hope is an active practice rather than a passive stance. She explores the challenges faced by academic leaders, the need for a shift from scarcity to abundance, and the role of students as truth tellers in navigating systemic change. Dr. Riddell also imagines a new paradigm for universities, termed 'Hope University', which focuses on co-creation and inclusivity in educational practices.Takeaways• Hope is not a soft concept; it is expansive enough to hold despair.• Toxic positivity can erase the discomfort necessary for transformation.• Provosts and academic leaders must model abundance and generosity.• We need to change our narratives from scarcity to abundance.• Hope University would prioritize co-creation and inclusivity.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Joshua Brown discusses his book, 'Capitalizing on College: Higher Education Went from Mission Driven to Margin Obsessed.' They talk about the financial pressures reshaping higher education, the tension between mission-driven values and the need for financial sustainability, and the transformation of campuses to attract students. Dr. Brown shares insights from his research, including misconceptions about financial sustainability, strategies for balancing academic missions with financial needs, and the importance of educational opportunity over mere access. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovation in higher education while remaining true to institutional values.Takeaways• The transition from mission-driven to margin-obsessed institutions is significant.• Financial pressures are reshaping the landscape of higher education.• Institutions must balance their mission with financial sustainability.• Innovative strategies are necessary for institutions to thrive financially.• Provosts should focus on creating caring university environments.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Tricia Bertram Gallant and Dr. David A. Rettinger explore the importance of academic integrity in the age of AI, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift in educational institutions. They discuss how provosts can support faculty and students in viewing integrity as a learning goal rather than merely a rule to follow. Dr. Bertram Gallant and Dr. Rettinger highlight the challenges faced by faculty in redesigning courses and assessments, the role of AI in shaping academic integrity policies, and innovative assessment methods that promote integrity. The discussion also touches on the need for effective training and support for faculty to integrate integrity into their teaching practices. Dr. Rettinger and Dr. Bertram Gallant discuss the evolving landscape of higher education, emphasizing the need for academic integrity and ethical reasoning in students. They explore the challenges faced by educators in adapting to new educational paradigms and the importance of intentional teaching of ethical decision-making skills. The discussion also touches on generational differences in perceptions of academic integrity and offers actionable steps for institutions to foster a culture of integrity. Takeaways• Faculty need time and support to address integrity.• Provosts can influence institutional integrity policies.• Learning should be the focus of integrity policies.• AI tools present both challenges and opportunities.• Course design must prioritize student engagement.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Emmanuel Nartey discusses the transformative potential of Generative AI in higher education, emphasizing the need for inclusivity, equity, and ethical considerations. He outlines the guiding principles for integrating AI into teaching and learning, advocating for a shift from traditional assessment methods to innovative pedagogical approaches that prioritize personal development and lifelong learning. The discussion also addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, urging institutions to embrace change and prepare students for a future where AI plays a significant role. In this conversation, Dr. Nartey discusses the ethical use of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability. He explores how educators can balance AI's benefits with the need for critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. The discussion also covers the necessity of faculty development programs to facilitate AI integration in teaching practicesTakeaways• Generative AI can redefine teaching and learning.• AI should be used ethically and responsibly in education.• Inclusivity and equity are crucial in integrating AI.• Assessment should evolve beyond traditional methods.• Transparency in AI usage is essential for academic integrity.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Daniel Reinholz discusses the challenges and strategies for institutionalizing equity in education through Equity Learning Communities (ELCs). He emphasizes the importance of data-driven approaches, faculty buy-in, and the need for ongoing support and resources to foster meaningful change in teaching practices. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in education, the limitations of traditional faculty development models, and the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in promoting equity. Dr. Reinholz shares insights on measuring long-term success and navigating resistance to inclusive teaching practices, ultimately envisioning a future where equity is integral to the educational experience.Takeaways• Equity work is challenging and requires ongoing commitment.• Workshops alone often lack lasting impact on teaching practices.• Data can motivate faculty to change their teaching methods.• Faculty buy-in is crucial for successful equity initiatives.• Equity Learning Communities can scale successes across institutions.

This conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner explores the current state of 2SLGBTQ+ students in Canada, focusing on the challenges they face, particularly at the intersections of race, disability, and socioeconomic status. The discussion highlights the impact of recent policy changes on trans rights and the importance of creating affirming environments within educational institutions. The role of institutional leadership in fostering inclusion amidst political tensions is emphasized, along with actionable ways for allies to support 2SLGBTQ+ communities. The conversation concludes with book recommendations that inspire resilience and hope.Takeaways• The needs of 2SLGBTQ+ students are growing due to various societal pressures.• Intersectionality plays a crucial role in the experiences of 2SLGBTQ+ students.• Recent policy changes are likely to harm trans rights and student experiences.• Creating affirming environments is essential for student well-being.• Institutional leadership must actively support 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Mike Wysocki discusses the critical need for integrating career readiness into higher education. He emphasizes the importance of intentional career planning, the role of faculty in mentoring students, and the necessity of developing professional skills alongside academic knowledge. The dialogue explores how institutions can better prepare students for their future careers by embedding career exploration early in their educational journey and fostering connections between academic programs and career services. In this conversation, Mike Wysocki and Gregor Thuswaldner discuss the critical importance of career readiness skills in education. They explore the gaps in current educational practices, emphasizing the need for real-world experience, networking opportunities, and institutional support for students. The dialogue highlights the necessity for academic institutions to adapt to changing job markets and to provide flexible career education that prepares students for future careers, including those that do not yet exist. They also touch on the importance of alumni networks and the role of provosts in enhancing career guidance for students.Takeaways• Career readiness is essential for students in higher education.• Many institutions maintain a division between career services and academic affairs.• Students often drift into careers without proper exploration.• Career exploration classes should be offered to students.• Professors play a crucial role in mentoring students.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Marybeth Gasman discusses the urgent challenges facing HBCUs and minority-serving institutions in the current political climate. She emphasizes the importance of leadership in standing up against fear and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. The discussion also covers the impact of recent executive orders on higher education policies, the financial challenges faced by HBCUs, and the significance of maintaining the designation of minority-serving institutions. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Gasman discusses the critical importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education, particularly in the context of faculty hiring and systemic racism. She addresses the challenges posed by political pushback against DEI initiatives and emphasizes the need for institutions to remain committed to these values. Dr. Gasman also highlights the significance of academic freedom in fostering critical thinking and the role of academic leaders in protecting this freedom. Additionally, she shares personal strategies for resilience in the face of adversity and recommends impactful literature that inspires and informs.Takeaways• Many people are afraid in today's political climate.• Leaders of minority-serving institutions must be strategic.• HBCUs have a history of resistance and moral leadership.• Executive orders are reshaping higher education policies.• HBCUs serve a large number of low-income students.