The Collaborative’s Post

Bluffton University was one of only a handful of Mennonite/Brethren universities when I was working at Eastern Mennonite University. Sounds like there will be one less after this year. "With the unanimous support of our respective Boards of Trustees, The University of Findlay and Bluffton University have entered an agreement to pursue a merger of Bluffton University operations with University of Findlay. Findlay and Bluffton would become one higher education community on two campuses, pending all regulatory approvals,. This decision signals a bold vision for our shared future. University of Findlay and Bluffton University share similar roots as institutions founded in Christian faith and are welcoming to all. Both institutions believe in cultivating communities of respect. Through this merger, University of Findlay and Bluffton University would be positioned to increase educational opportunities that prepare our current and future students to lead and serve in their local communities and beyond. Our students and employees would benefit from access to expanded resources on both campuses located 20 miles apart in Northwest Ohio. This is a transformational moment for both Findlay and Bluffton. We are confident that our strong roots and enduring values will ground us in the face of change. We see a brighter future ahead — one where University of Findlay and Bluffton University would establish an even stronger premier institution of higher education in Northwest Ohio." https://lnkd.in/gMPjMmen

Wichita State University achieved a remarkable milestone by raising over $100 million in a Capital Campaign back in 1989, making it the 11th University to reach this feat. The Wichita Eagle delves into the intriguing story behind how this city university accomplished such a significant fundraising endeavor typically associated with larger, more renowned institutions across the country. Under the leadership of newly appointed President Warren Armstrong, who was inspired by Boeing CEO Lionel Alford, the university embarked on a transformative journey towards becoming an Urban Research University. Despite facing opposition from various entities including the Kansas Board of Regents, University of Kansas (KU), Kansas State University (KSU), and a portion of the WSU faculty, Armstrong persisted in his vision. He enlisted the expertise of Bob Hartsook, fresh from a highly successful national campaign, to spearhead the fundraising efforts crucial for the university's advancement. Amidst political challenges and controversies, WSU secured doctoral status with a narrow 5-4 vote from the KBOR, marking a pivotal moment in its trajectory. The culmination of these efforts came to fruition in the mid-2000s under the guidance of John Bardo, leading to the establishment of the Innovation Campus. Today, thanks to the foresight of President Warren Armstong in 1985, Wichita State University stands as the second-largest university in Kansas, the second-largest sponsored Research University in the state, and a prominent Urban Research University in the nation. This remarkable journey underscores the power of a visionary mindset in shaping the course of an institution's success. #VisionaryLeadership #HigherEducationTransformation

EXCELLENT session and panel filled with useful information early education advocates can take back to their states to validate conversations toward implementation. #naeycAC #CDAcredential #ECEcompetence

This year, the University of Michigan - Center for Academic Innovation celebrates the 10-year anniversary of the Academic Innovation Fund (AIF), which has supported nearly 400 faculty-led projects from all 19 schools and colleges across U-M. In a conversation with Inside Higher Ed, James DeVaney, Founding Executive Director of the U-M Center for Academic Innovation, reflects on establishing the AIF, the projects it has enabled, what the next 10 years will bring and what other universities might take from this work. myumi.ch/Rm465

James DeVaney: "Whether at a large public university like Michigan or a smaller institution, the principles of the AIF—empowering faculty, fostering collaboration, building resilience, and expanding access—can be widely applied." Recently: The AIF "capabilities and infrastructure are now helping us navigate the rise of AI and other technological advancements. For example, we’ve partnered with faculty to create over 35 open online courses on generative AI in the workplace this year alone. Through AIF-supported projects, we’ve now reached over 20 million enrollments with learners across the globe." The Future: "We’ll grow our portfolio of online and hybrid degree programs to increase access to high-quality education for a diverse, global student body. Leveraging cutting-edge educational technologies will enhance learning experiences for millions worldwide. We also plan to strengthen strategic partnerships with companies and organizations to meet workforce development needs and create avenues for sustainable growth and revenue generation." #AcademicInnovation #AccessToEducation

MIT is now FREE! 👏🏾👏🏽👏🏼 Higher education enrollment is declining nationwide … while tuition continues to soar. This is why Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s decision to make college free for all but the most privileged families is a phenomenal demonstration of leadership. Especially because jobs in engineering, science and business are a notable pathway for upward social mobility - even more so for families of color and recent immigrants. Universities like MIT now generate revenue from donations, grants, rents, intellectual property, investments and other sources - making it easy to forgo the comparatively minor amount they raise from tuition.

🎓 As we reflect on a transformative 2024 at the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, we’re celebrating the progress made through the American Talent Initiative. Since 2016, ATI, co-led by Aspen and Ithaka S+R, has worked to increase enrollment and graduation rates for low- and moderate-income students. ATI's member institutions enrolled an additional 8,163 low-income students last year. Even with the hard years of the pandemic, the colleges have added 18,100 Pell students since ATI's inception—a testament to our shared commitment to developing talent and advancing economic mobility. This progress would not be possible without the leadership and support of Mike Bloomberg and Bloomberg Philanthropies, whose investment drives this critical work forward. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to advancing these efforts with our partners at Ithaka S+R and beyond, creating more pathways to success for more students nationwide. Learn more about ATI: https://lnkd.in/eTa8wi8i

The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) in Queens is more than just a museum— it’s a place where dreams take shape and where young minds are empowered to explore, experiment and innovate. This year NYSCI celebrates 60 years of nurturing New York’s youth and has honored Boingo Wireless with its 2024 Vision and Venture Award for leadership in technology innovation and transformative connectivity solutions that inspire the next generation, and improve everyday life for New Yorkers and the tri-state region. “Boingo deeply appreciates NYSCI’s work in Queens and throughout all boroughs to prepare our young citizens by building their confidence and encouraging the pursuit of STEM careers. For 60 years, NYSCI has been committed to our youth—and a commitment to our youth is a commitment to New York’s future. It’s an honor for Boingo to be recognized for the important role we play in connecting this great city, helping it become smarter, greener and safer.” – Boingo CEO Mike Finley

Great things often happen when several key elements come together.Passion and Purpose working together,you’re deeply passionate about what you’re doing and have a clear sense of purpose, it drives you to overcome obstacles and stay committed.What do you think are the key factors that contribute to achieving great things?

See how our xFoundry@UMD students are tackling grand challenges, as covered by Banner: