Higher Education Digest – March 2023 – 10 Inspiring Educational Leaders – 2023

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March 2023 Vol - 5 Issue - 3

Inspiring Educational Leaders 2023

Head of Advisory Board

Dr. Manoj Varghese, Ph.D

Managing Editor

Sarath Shyam

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Dr. John Andrews

Anuja Mulmule

Emma James

Andrew Scott

Amrin Ahmed

Naomi Wilson

Stanly Lui

Steve Hope

Sabrina Samson

Keith Alexander

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Being a leader in the higher education space is all about making an impact and setting an excellent example for others. An individual’s actions and behaviors as a leader should inspire and motivate others, whether teaching students or managing staff.

Dr. Selina Neri, Professor of Leadership and Corporate Governance at Hult Ashridge Executive Education, says, “Leadership is about the capacity to envision the future in the service of others and the willingness to engage the hearts and minds of teams, communities, and organizations toward that future.

Dr. Neri believes that leadership development can only be centered around personal and professional growth, an arduous journey of getting to know yourself, and the first condition to aspire to lead others. This issue of Higher Education Digest Magazine features Dr. Selina Neri on the cover, where she sheds light on the recently trending topic, ‘Leadership development and corporate governance’ and shares her thoughts on why understanding leadership impact is key, what it

The Impact Creators

means, how to do it (tools) and how it serves career, personal and professional development.

Taking the conversation about higher education leadership further, we have identified 10 Inspiring Educational Leaders in 2023 who have been excellent in overcoming the challenges of the pandemic and drafting effective policies to balance standard education practices with innovative new approaches. A great example is the story of Dr. Jack Thomas, who is positioning Central State University as a beacon of change in today’s world. As the president of Central State University, Dr. Thomas has instituted nine strategic priorities, ranging from re-branding the University to developing an Honors College, all targeted at positioning Central State University as a first-class institution. The issue also has expert insights and opinions from academicians and industry leaders that would give our audience a birdseye view of the latest trends in the education sector.

Enjoy Reading.

Sarath Shyam

ADVISORY BOARD

Mr. Amulya Sah, PGD PM & IR, PG Diploma in PM&IR (XISS Ranchi)

Chief Human Resources Officer, Former Head HR group Samsung R&D Institute India,Transformative HR Leader, Change agent, Digitization facilitator, Engagement architect, Trainer and Diversity champion.

Dr. Varughese K.John, PhD, MBA, MPhil, MCom, LLB. Former Program Director, MS in Management Program, GSATM - AU

Mr. Dean E. Hoke, M.S, B.A Co-Founder of Edu Alliance, LTD, UAE and Managing Partner of Edu Alliance Group, USA

Major General (Rtd.) Dr. Sunil Chandra, VSM (Vishishta Seva Medal), Ph.D, M. Phil, MA, M.Ed, PGBDA

Ex-M D Army Welfare Education Society, ExCOO GEMS Education - India, Ex- Addl Dir Gen - Army Education, Mentor - Adventure-Pulse

Dr. Ajay Shukla, Ph.D, MBA, BE. Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Higher Education UAE

Dr. Venus M. Alboruto, PhD, Master Teacher, Researcher, Innovator, Trainer.

Mamta Thakur Former CEO ( ASEAN), Arc Skills

Shanthi Rajan (MSHRM, FHEA, AMCILT) Director, Institution Development, University of Stirling, RAK Campus, UAE.

Dr.

Nagi, Ph.D, MBA, BSc. Former Program Director of Ph.D, Recipient of Fulbright Fellowship Award & Dan Evans Award for Excellence and Writer columnist.

CEO at BMR Innovations, Ex Senior General Manager at Panasonic, LG, The Hindu, TATA, Author: Moment of Signal & The Roaring Lambs, Motivational Speaker & Leadership Consultant.

Ph.D (Marketing)., SFHEA (UK), MBA (Marketing), PGHRM, BA (Marketing & Economics)

Dr. Hans A. Andrews Ed.D. Distinguished Fellow in Community College Leadership, Olney Central College, Illinois,USA

Senior Director - Global Partnerships, Advisory & Consulting - Connecta®, Head of Advisory BoardHigher Education Digest® & K12 Digest® , Adjunct Faculty - Assumption University, Former CIO - Athena Education, Former Global Director TechnologyGEMS Education

Mr. Sreedhar Bevara, MBA, B.Com

Kuldeep

Dr. Khyati Shetty

Dr. Manoj Varghese, Ph.D

Professor of Leadership and Corporate Governance, Hult International Business School

WHY THE WORLD NEEDS GAME CHANGING LEADERSHIP IMPACT

DR. Selina Neri

DR. JACK THOMAS President, Central State University

MENTOR’S MANTRA

HOW A SCHOOL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM CAN PREPARE STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS

Martin Doherty,

Executive

School Principal

ACADEMIC VIEW

AI:

Jonathan Dempsey, Executive Officer to the Registrar, Brunel University London

LEARNER ‘HACKS’ FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

Dr. Joe Sallustio, Senior Vice President, Lindenwood Global & University Strategic Enrolment Management, Lindenwood University

ARGUING ITS PLACE IN HIGHER EDUCATION

HOW TO PREPARE FOR LANDING A DREAM JOB BEFORE GRADUATING

Certified Career Coach, AskDrCris

READY AND WILLING? HIGHER EDUCATION’S (INCREASING) CHALLENGES TO RECRUIT INDIVIDUALS AS THE NEXT DEPARTMENT CHAIR

Dr. Crystal Green Brown,

Jeffrey Harris, Managing Partner, Harris Search Associates

Steve Grubbs, CEO, VictoryXR

DR. Selina Neri

Professor of Leadership and Corporate Governance, Hult International Business School

WHY THE WORLD NEEDS GAME CHANGING LEADERSHIP IMPACT

Dr. Selina Neri is a global, dynamic, multicultural thought leader, business executive, board member, author, dean, professor, and executive coach with diverse experience in large and small, international organizations across industries, including the information technology, higher education, hospitality, tourism & luxury industries. Profound understanding of leadership development, transformation and change management in multi-stakeholder and cross-cultural environments. Recognized for being an inspirational, engaging, collaborative, authentic and well- respected leader. Non-executive director with profound understanding of corporate governance, promoting education, accountability, integrity and transparency to stakeholders and society at large. Executive coach with vast experience in complex and sensitive business and political environments, championing leaders to fulfill their full potential within the context of macroeconomic opportunities and challenges, organizational priorities, personal and professional purpose.

Professor of Leadership and Corporate Governance at Hult Ashridge, part of Hult International Business School. Strong work ethic coupled with a can-do attitude and entrepreneurial spirit. Winner of the 2021 Professor of the Year award (Hult Dubai campus), the 2020 Professor of the Year award (Hult London campus) and the 2020 Hult Faculty of the Year award (global).

In an exclusive interview with Higher Education Digest Magazine, Dr. Selina Neri sheds light on the topic, ‘Leadership development and corporate governance’ and shares her thoughts on why understanding leadership impact is key, what it means, how to do it (tools) and how it serves career, personal and professional development. She also reveals her personal and professional journey, female role model, her take on success, and a lot more. Following are the excerpts from the interview.

Dr. Selina, you have taught and researched extensively on the topic, ‘Leadership development and corporate governance’. Can you please tell our readers what does it mean?

Leadership is perhaps the single most important topic in the social sciences and historically one of the more poorly understood. To this day, there is a widespread belief that leadership has a lot to do with job roles and titles, hence, to be or behave as a leader we need a C-level “indicator” in front of our name. This is the opposite of what constitutes true leadership. Leadership is about the capacity to envision the future in the service of others and the willingness to engage the hearts and minds of teams, communities and organizations towards that future. Leadership development can only be centered around a journey of personal and professional discovery and growth, a difficult journey of really getting to know yourself, the first condition to aspire to lead others. In my corporate and academic work, I have made developing leaders the cornerstone of what I do because I truly believe that how

organizations, communities and countries are lead will decide the future of humanity. Similarly, corporate governance has historically also suffered from an outdated, not so polished definition and image. At its core, governance remains about control of management to protect shareholders rights and has developed as a field with quite a degree of mystique, of secrecy, with images of boards and investors operating behind closed doors. I research and practice corporate governance from a different and quite new angle. Looking at the unfortunately frequent governance scandals around the world, it is clear that society and the media are very interested in opening the black box of governance. People have the right to understand how the power that sits with governance can be used to the benefit of all those who have a “stake” in an organization, being shareholders, employees, suppliers, regulators, customers. There cannot be true governance without true leadership because the practice of governance formally sits with those at the apex of a corporation, in most regulatory systems above

Looking at the unfortunately frequent governance scandals around the world, it is clear that society and the media are very interested in opening the black box of governance

CEO level, and these individuals are expected to serve the organization. Governance is now understood to be about the exercise of corporate power to the benefit of stakeholders. Deciding to say no to a client is an act of governance in view of the legal and ethical ramification of that decision; agism at work is an act of (poor) governance; building an inclusive culture starts with the board; employee engagement is also an act of governance because engaged employees will feel free to speak truth to power. Both leadership and governance are about serving others. The problem is that human nature gets in the way even of the best intentions.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, why is it important to understand the impact of leadership? And what are some of the key strategies to develop the leadership skills?

Over the past ten years leadership research has started to focus on impact. Historically we have studied (and companies have focused on) experience, expertise and personality to understand and predict leadership behaviour. We knew that something was missing, something related to people’s natural inclination to make a difference that matters or simply to leave their mark as leaders. We are all naturally inclined to make an impact in different ways, and our natural energy comes from different sources. These can be learning, the pursuit of excellence, the capacity for original and transformational thinking, a drive to turn ideas into reality, energy from orchestrating others in an inclusive and cohesive manner, or energy to experiment, taking ideas and turning them into reality. These different types of energy map out

one’s potential in terms of making an impact or the degree to which we feel what we call ‘energetic activation”. It is this energy that brings action at work and it maps out how we make an impact. It is the most fascinating leadership development area of the recent past. We are now able to measure impact and map out five proclivities, in other words five ways in which people make an impact at work, namely Game Changers (transform the future), Strategists (map the future), Implementers (deliver tangible outcomes), Polishers (create a future to be proud of) and Play Makers (getting the best from others). Every business needs all five impact types to be successful. The key is understanding if each unit/team has the right blend, at the right time to achieve its business objectives in a specific context. Understanding our impact is key to develop leadership skills. It allows to understand one’s approach to leadership, creativity & innovation, engaging & influencing, getting things done, thriving not surviving and attitudes to teamwork. The business applications of impact data are endless, from business strategy to recruitment, succession planning, cultural transformation, digital transformation, equality, diversity and inclusion, talent development, operational improvement, sales effectiveness. Impact data at individual and team level helps us answer questions such as: can this person deliver? Can this person make it to Partner? What will this team value? What are this team’s strengths? What sort of tensions are likely to arise? What does this leader need from their leader? Do we have the right people in the right roles? Who can transform the business? Do we have a culture for experimentation?

I have placed my career at the service of others, whether clients, investors or students. I love what I do because life is short, and we must be selective in terms of how we invest our time

Please tell us about your professional/personal background.

I am a “corporate academic”, and I do not fit into boxes! I come from humble origins and have built myself from the ground up both personally and professionally by going through very tough times and surviving what life has so far thrown at me. From a very young age I was a “different” child, battling with physical disability, a difficult family background and a very inquisitive mind. At the age of 12 I negotiated with my father to go to London (by myself!) to study English for three months…I fell in love with the language, the city and the gracious family who hosted me during that summer. Being away from home taught me so much about myself and forged my capacity to figure things out. I also learnt that the world is a big place and that there are many ways of living life. I started my career in New York in the tech industry….went from an entry level role to Executive Vice President in a relatively short time, relocated over ten times to different countries, learnt four languages and eventually left tech because I wanted to experience a different industry. Enter luxury and the travel industry, where I also landed my first non-executive director role, as board member of a Swiss listed company. After a couple of wrong relationships, I met the love of my life, my husband Carl. I was 39. It was love at first sight and I am blessed to have found in this human being my biggest supporter, my best friend and the man who knows how to make me laugh. I entered academia by chance, after meeting a Professor of Marketing from HEC Paris who needed my expertise in the classroom. At 49 I embarked on my doctoral studies, eager to learn the art and science of research and was awarded my PhD three years later. What started

as weekend work at HEC Paris became my purpose and since 2012, I have been fully active in academia, for the past ten years with Hult International Business School as the Dean and Executive Director of the Dubai campus and a faculty member. Currently I am a Professor of Leadership and Corporate Governance with Hult Ashridge, one of the top executive education players in the world, and I also collaborate with 24 Ore Business School, the most innovative business school in the Italian market. I only have one speed, fast, a curse and a blessing, but I have learnt to be patient with myself and with others. I have also learnt to un-become anything that isn’t me, so that I can truly discover and be who I was meant to be.

What energizes you in the course of your career?

Passion, ambition, experimenting, wanting to make a real difference, and taking risks. I have placed my career at the service of others, whether clients, investors or students. I love what I do because life is short, and we must be selective in terms of how we invest our time.

Over the years, have you encountered any barriers to your success or growth as a female leader?

I have never let being me being used as a barrier. From the beginning I made being me my secret weapon, turning my differences into unique selling points. My mindset refused to see barriers that others might have thrown at me, hence I made a conscious effort not to waste my energy with people who would want to penalize me for being me. Easier said than done but the efforts have paid off. I have worked for many people but only two were true leaders and to this

The capacity to focus on my career, my personal life, my health, the people that matter to me is of paramount importance. Focus, and keep distractions at bay

day have remained in my life as friends, role models and mentors.

What leadership lessons have you learnt across your career? There is always a solution. Find it. Create it. There is always a way, so the future does not look so scary! I also learnt that leading is challenging, is solitary and is exhausting. You are the rock of the people around you… so finding my own rock (my husband) was a paramount moment in my life. Suddenly I could be me, let my hair down and just “be”.

Who was an inspiring woman leader to you growing up and who inspires you now?

My first English teacher was my role model, an English woman living and working in 1970s Italy, where immigration was not as common as it is now. She taught me to stand in my own true colours and not to apologize for being me. She opened up the English language for me and I felt like Alice in Wonderland! My current role models are all my students and clients, young and young at heart. They teach me that I have a responsibility to develop the leaders that will inherit this planet…. Making a difference in their lives is my purpose.

How do you define success?

What is your take on the ways to achieve long-term success?

Success to me is about feeling comfortable in my own skin, truly valued for what I bring to the table and being able to keep learning. Long term success is about understanding that life (and a career, which is part of life!) is a marathon not

a sprint. Resilience is key and we must play the long game, hence mens sana in corpore sano, as the Romans said, healthy mind in a healthy body. In the early days of my career success also meant financial independence but I never let money be a goal in itself. I have turned down jobs that were very well paid simply because I did not feel them, or I did not feel inspired by the people I was supposed to work for or with.

What is the best decision that you have made in your career till date?

Marrying the man I love, my husband and remaining geographically mobile (in this order!)

Tell us about Selina outside of work, your motivations and what you would like to achieve in the future.

I am a private person and I protect my private life. I give 100% of me to my work, but I have learnt to establish healthy boundaries. My physical and mental practice is very important (I have to stay young or, better, age gracefully!) and finding time to walk, to do reformer, pilates, yoga and the gym is as important as eating my meals and sleeping 7-8 hours per night. I am motivated by learning; hence my future will continue to be filled with learning opportunities!

I can also say without the shadow of a doubt that I will continue to be vegan, as I have been for the past 25 years.

You have had a remarkable career trajectory over the years. What is the secret mantra behind your success?

Do not plan too much and be comfortable with not knowing. Professionally I have always known what I did not want. But the rest has

Learn to be a learner. Learning how is much more important that learning what. Nurture the capacity to learn and your character

been a combination of destiny and remaining open to possibilities. So far, I have made 4 industry changes, so I also learnt to go with my gut, against all odds and that if I put my mind to something I make it happen. In addition, stay focused. The capacity to focus on my career, my personal life, my health, the people that matter to me is of paramount importance. Focus, and keep distractions at bay.

What advice would you give to future entrepreneurs and leaders?

Learn to be a learner. Learning how is much more important that learning what. Nurture the capacity to learn and your character. Hire character train competence. People of character will learn anything there is to learn, but if you do not have character, you cannot lead.

MANTRA

How a School Leadership Program Can Prepare Students for Success

Martin Doherty, Executive School Principal

Martin Doherty has over 20 years’ experience of managing schools in over 13 countries across five continents, including North America, Europe, Asia, the GCC/Middle East, and Africa. He helps schools broadentheirstudentbodies,improvebestpractices, modernize the teaching and learning environment, and cultivate an overly “happy” school climate while also helping them obtain a global perspective. Also, he is a former Senior Project Manager / Business Process Manager, for over 10 years with Fortune 500 companies (head offices: IBM, Bell Mobility, Sprint PCS, TELUS Mobility, Canada Life, Minacs) in Toronto, CANADA, and the USA.

MENTOR’S

I’ve had the honor of serving as a school director for 20 years in over 13 nations & 5 continents, including North America, Europe, Asia, the GCC/Middle East, and Africa. I assist schools in gaining a global perspective while expanding their student body, enhancing best practices, upgrading the teaching and learning environment, and fostering an excessively “positive” school climate.

I have launched new schools and managed improvement projects on all varieties of international curriculum schools. I specialize in new school start-ups and school improvement initiatives. I often observe recurring issues that many international schools abroad tend to overlook.

I place a strong emphasis on student life skills - increasing confidence, self-esteem, and motivation, all characteristics that create direct and lasting results at home, in school, and in life.

Unfortunately, most schools today focus solely on academic results and fail to acknowledge (or comprehend) that the most important determinant of a student’s success in life is whom they become as a person. This narrow-minded approach is setting students up for failure in the long run, as they may excel academically, but lack the necessary skills and qualities to navigate the real world.

Academic scores / Intelligence Quotient (IQ) is often used as a predictor of success in an intellectual career, however, it is not the only

I place a strong emphasis on student life skills - increasing confidence, self-esteem, and motivation, all characteristics that create direct and lasting results at home, in school, and in life

predictor and cannot foretell how successful one will be in life. Other factors such as emotional intelligence, motivation, persistence, social, communication, and leadership skills all play a crucial role in determining overall success in life. I would say more so than academics.

The most important determiner of a student’s success in life is whom they become as a person.

Leadership and character development are essential for success in life, as they provide individuals with the skills and qualities necessary

to navigate the challenges they will face. While academics are important, they do not provide the same level of preparation for life. Leadership and character development include traits such as selfawareness, emotional intelligence, communication and collaboration skills, problem-solving,

decision-making, initiative, and creativity. These skills are crucial for success in both personal and professional life and are more important than a good academic record. Investing in leadership and character development will lead to a more successful and fulfilling life.

Leadership development is crucial for children and youth, as it helps them grow into confident and capable adults who can positively impact their communities. The purpose of a school leadership program is to provide students with the skills and experiences they need to become effective leaders.

Components of Leadership Development for Children and Youth

Self-awareness and emotional intelligence are key components of leadership development. Students must understand their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as how to manage their emotions in order to be effective leaders. Communication and collaboration skills are also essential for leadership, as they allow students to work effectively with others to achieve a common goal. Problem-solving and decision-making abilities are also important for leaders, as they allow students to navigate complex situations and make sound decisions. Initiative and creativity are also important for leaders, as they allow students to think outside the box and come up with new and innovative solutions to problems.

Steps for Implementing a School Leadership Program

To implement a school leadership program, it is important to identify and recruit students who can be effective leaders. This can be

To integrate leadership development into the school culture, it is important to build a program that aligns with the school’s mission and values

A school leadership program can provide students with the skills and experiences they need to become effective leaders

done through a variety of methods, such as student surveys or teacher recommendations. Once students have been identified, it is important to provide them with training and development opportunities. This can include

workshops, mentoring, and leadership camps. It is also important to incorporate leadership opportunities into the curriculum, such as through service learning projects or student government. To create a supportive school

culture that values leadership, it is important to encourage parent involvement and support.

Evidence-Based Approach

An evidence-based approach is essential for a successful leadership development program. This includes collecting and analyzing data, identifying and measuring desired outcomes, and utilizing research to inform program design and implementation. By using data and research to guide the program, it is possible to ensure that it is effective and has a lasting impact on the students.

Integrating Leadership Development into the School Culture

To integrate leadership development into the school culture, it is important to build a program that aligns with the school’s mission and values. This includes creating opportunities for students to demonstrate and apply their leadership skills, such as through service learning projects or student government. Additionally, it is important to encourage a culture of mentorship and support for developing leaders. This can be done through programs such as peer mentoring or teacherstudent mentoring.

Cornerstone Leadership Programs I Implement in All Schools

● Since I am a 3rd-degree black belt in Kempo Karate (2nd in Kung Fu), with kickboxing, Jujitsu, etc.); one of the first programs I implement in a school is an in-depth Leadership Martial Arts program, based on the same curriculum format I created and used at my own Martial Arts school in Canada.

● At the same time, I will implement a “Character theme of the Month” that emphasizes

teacher/parent discussion sheets, student worksheets, student assembly presentations, and awards based on the monthly Character word theme.

● I also ensure the school’s Mission and Vision are updated to incorporate a focus on Leadership development.

Value of Adding a Martial Arts Program to the School

Adding a martial arts program to the school can provide a unique and valuable opportunity for leadership development. Martial arts not only teach physical skills, but also discipline, focus, and respect. These are all important traits of a leader. Additionally, martial arts can be a great way to build selfesteem and confidence, which are crucial for leadership development.

I also implement something called “The Black Belt Principles of Life” – 5 keywords that is a summary of the Samurai Code of Honor (Bushido code) … that is ordinated from Confucianism Principles of a Good Life. I will discuss this in a future article.

Other Examples Leadership Building Activities

● Outdoor education programs: such as hiking, camping, or survival skills training, which can teach valuable lessons in teamwork, problemsolving, and decision-making.

● Entrepreneurship programs: which can teach students how to think critically, take initiative, and develop their own ideas.

● Mock trial or debate teams: which can teach students how to communicate effectively and think critically.

● Monthly charter development themes integrated into the activities and culture of the school.

Conclusion

Leadership development is essential for children and youth to help them become confident and capable adults. A school leadership program can provide students with the skills and experiences they need to become effective leaders. It is important to identify and recruit students who have the potential to be effective leaders, provide them with training and development opportunities, incorporate leadership opportunities into the curriculum, and create a supportive school culture that values leadership. An evidencebased approach is essential for a successful leadership development program, which includes collecting and analyzing data, identifying and measuring desired outcomes, and utilizing research to inform program design and implementation. Integrating leadership development into the school culture can be achieved by building a program that aligns with the school’s mission and values and creating opportunities for students to demonstrate and apply their leadership skills. Adding a martial arts program to the school or other leadership-building activities such as outdoor education, entrepreneurship or mock trial teams can provide unique and valuable opportunities for leadership development. Schools should consider implementing leadership development programs for children and youth to help them become leaders in their school, community, and most of all their life.

Leadership development is essential for children and youth to help them become confident and capable adults

How to Prepare for Landing a Dream Job before Graduating

Dr. Crystal Green Brown, Certified Career Coach, AskDrCris

Not all college graduates land a position after graduating, and of those who do, only 27% work in their desired field. College students can land a dream job before or by the time they graduate. But success can be attributed to the level of commitment and the extent of preparation. College graduates

can enjoy working in their desired field if they put a few strategic plans in place and commit themselves to implementing measures before graduation. Because of my experience helping 100s of college students and clients, I’ve identified some of the best ways to help upcoming college graduates best prepare for landing their dream job.

Connecting with alumni can be a great networking resource. Alumni can share advice and encourage future graduates to prepare for the job market

Dr. Crystal Green Brown teaches career and internship courses at LIM College in NY, New York, and the Woven Incubator in Charlotte, NC. She is also the Founder and Certified Career Coach for AskDrCris Consulting and Amazon’s #1 best-selling author of Visual Prayer: How to Create a Spiritual Vision Board. Green Brown earned her Ph.D. from Kent State University in Curriculum Development with a specialization in Career Development. As a career researcher, she has worked in the career development field for more than a decade and developed a unique career identification model that guides job seekers to identify their dream job and position them to thrive in their best-fit work environment. With 99% results from her research, this career identification model now serves as thebasisforhercareerdevelopment strategy consultations and has produced a 97.5% client success and placement rate.

Networking

Attending networking events hosted by colleges or events specific to a student’s desired field will offer opportunities to meet like-minded professionals. College students should also attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and consider volunteering for community events. Getting involved in the community, either through volunteering or participating in local events, can provide opportunities to meet professionals in their field. Students can also utilize LinkedIn. This social media platform is a great tool for networking with professionals in their desired fields. Students can connect with professionals, join groups related to their field, and even reach out to professionals directly for advice or inquire about job opportunities. Handshake, similar to LinkedIn, is an online career management platform for higher education students and alumni. It is quickly becoming the #1 way for college students to find jobs and interact with potential employers. College students can use Handshake as a tool for networking as well.

Connecting with alumni can be a great networking resource. Alumni can share advice and encourage future graduates to prepare for the job market.

To gain the best benefit from networking, college students should maintain constant contact with industry professionals, alumni, and anyone that could impact their chances of landing a dream job.

Mentor

A mentor can provide valuable guidance and support as a student navigates the job search process. Mentors can offer insight into the industry,

A resume is the best marketing tool to introduce yourself to a potential employer. Develop your resume and cover letter for the specific industry where you seek employment

provide feedback on resumes and cover letters, and offer advice on networking and interviewing. Additionally, a mentor can help students to make connections in their field, which can be crucial in landing a dream job. Mentors also provide career advice and can help students understand the skills and experience they need to develop success in their chosen field.

Internships

Internships are a great way for students to develop skills and professional experiences before graduating from college. Students gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields, which can make them more attractive to potential employers. These opportunities allow students to explore different fields and gain insight into different roles. Some internships may develop into full-time positions upon graduating or provide students with clarity if a role turns out to be less attractive.

Primarily, internships provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen field, such as teamwork, interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and time management. And offer a competitive advantage, as many employers prefer to hire candidates with relevant work experience.

Identify Dream Job Organizations

Students should consider developing a list of desired organizations where they would prefer to land a position upon graduating. Research these organizations and familiarize themself with the company culture, values, mission, and vision. Identify if the organization’s goals and values align with yours. And question if you are more or less excited about joining an organization after gaining insight. Students can use resources such

as Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Handshake, and the company’s website. It’s also helpful to conduct informational interviews and talk to people in the industry or alumni who have experience working at a specific organization.

Resume

A resume is the best marketing tool to introduce yourself to a potential employer. Develop your resume and cover letter for the specific industry where you seek employment. Highlight skills and experience relevant to the desired job.

Use a professional resume template to ensure a polished and professional look. Include a personal summary that briefly shares your professional background and highlights the most relevant skills and experience.

Contact information should include a professional email address and only share the city and state where you reside. A home address is not necessary. Also share a contact telephone number.

Use bullet points and clear headings to organize skills and experience. Include keywords throughout that matches the job description. Highlight accomplishments by including metrics or quantifiable data to showcase achievements in previous positions. Include relevant education, certification, and training received.

Add extracurricular activities or relevant volunteer experience to demonstrate character and work ethic. Limit the resume to one or two pages, ensuring it is clear, professionally formatted, and easy to read or scan. Double-check spelling and grammar for errors. Before applying for a position, ask a mentor or professor to review it carefully.

Landing a dream job, or at least a position in your major is possible. Just start early, stay committed to the process, and prepare.

Website: https://www.hw.ac.uk/dubai/

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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Website: https://woodbury.edu/

Location: California, USA

About the Institute: Woodbury University was established in 1884 by entrepreneur and educator F.C. Woodbury. Started as Woodbury’s Business College to grow the Los Angeles’ flourishing business community.

Prof. Ammar Kaka

Dr. Barry Ryan, J.D. Provost and Vice Principal, Heriot-Watt University Dubai President, Woodbury University

Ben Iverson Director of International Programmes & Enrolment, Augustana University

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Dr. Cristina Alfaro Associate Vice President, San Diego State University

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Location: California, USA

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Dr. Eric Darr Director of Financial Aid, CUNY Bronx Community College President, Harrisburg University

David Woods

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Minnu Paul Director of Global Education Methodist University

Dr. Jack Thomas President, Central State University

Website: https://www.centralstate.edu/

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Location: North Carolina, USA

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Location: Ohio, USA

About the Institute: The Central State University offers majors operating under four colleges within its disciplines namely, the College of Engineering, Science, Technology and Agriculture; College of Education; College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences and College of Business

Victor Koksharov

Dr. Youcheng Wang Rector Ural Federal University Dean Rosen College of Hospitality

Management

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Dr.

Jack

Thomas President, Central State University

Owning the Vision to Sculpt a Better Tomorrow

Dr. Jack Thomas is positioning Central State University to be a beacon of change in today’s world. Thanks to his family’s support and the encouragement of his mentors, Dr. Thomas rose through the ranks of academia to become the president of Central State University, Ohio’s only public Historically Black University and 1890 Land-Grant Institution. Today, as the president of this historic institution, Dr. Thomas leads a team of motivated professionals to educate and inspire future generations of leaders and changemakers.

Dr. Jack Thomas was a first-generation college student and the product of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). He

Dr. Thomas was the president of Western Illinois University after serving as the provost and academic vice president at WIU. Currently, he serves as the president of Central State University, Ohio’s only public HBCU and 1890 LandGrant Institution

Dr. Jack Thomas, President, Central State University

was born and raised in rural Lowndes County, Alabama, one of the poorest counties in the state, where neither of his parents could attend college; they were working the fields amidst the tumultuous battles of the Civil Rights Movement. From an early age, Dr. Thomas’s mother encouraged him to focus on school

and attend college. “She told me, ‘I want you to finish high school and go to college. Somebody has to do something a little different from what your father and I have done,’” reminisces Dr. Thomas. As his first mentors, his parents instilled the value of hard work and encouraged him to strive for excellence.

Honoring one’s Heritage

Throughout his educational and professional career, Dr. Thomas was blessed to have strong African American mentors who supported and guided him. After earning his BA in English from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, his MA in English education from Virginia State

Dr. Thomas has initiated two significant projects at Central State University: their online learning Model and the Honors College

When he accepted the position as the Ninth President of Central State University, Dr. Thomas was starting his tenure during a major pandemic, with Zoom meetings and conference calls that lasted all day, instituting mask mandates, moving courses to synchronous and asynchronous delivery, and making plans to test and eventually vaccinate an entire University community

University, and a Ph.D. in English from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Thomas has held various positions in higher education at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) and HBCUs. He was the senior vice provost for academic affairs and professor of English, and interim dean of the College of Continuing Education and Distance Learning at Middle Tennessee State University.

Most recently, Dr. Thomas was the president of Western Illinois University after serving as the provost and academic vice president at WIU.

Currently, he serves as the president of Central State University, Ohio’s only public HBCU and 1890 Land-Grant Institution. “In all my roles, I have centered the values of hard work and mentorship that were instilled in me. I strive to mentor the next generation of leaders, especially those from first-generation backgrounds as I am,” shares Dr. Thomas.

Leading with a Mission

As the president of Central State University, Dr. Thomas came in with a bold vision to reinvigorate the institution. He instituted nine strategic priorities, ranging from re-branding the University to developing an Honors College, all targeted at positioning Central State University as a first-class institution. The changes he proposed and instituted were not easy, but he knew they would be worth it because of his experiences

Dr. Thomas’ mission is to elevate the university culture so that the institute does not just survive as a University but thrives

at other universities. Upon taking office, Dr. Thomas worked to understand the University and its people. This included involving community members in decision-making to ensure that they knew their voices were heard and valued. “I gave USD 50,000 of my salary back to the University to demonstrate my commitment to Central State University and to encourage a culture of giving,” adds Dr. Thomas.

Dr. Thomas has initiated two major academic projects at Central State University: their online learning model and the Honors College. The University launched Central State Global in February of 2021, enhancing its commitment to providing online degrees that are affordable,

rigorous, and engaging. With the effects of COVID-19 and other socio-economic challenges, online learning allows more people to obtain a college education. As a leader in online education, Central State Global provides quality education to individuals worldwide.

“We developed the Honors College to provide an interdisciplinary home for highly motivated, high-achieving students,” shares Dr. Thomas. The Honors College enables Central State University to recruit high-achieving students from across the world. The Honors College currently has over 300 students, including a recipient of the Boren Award to study abroad in Tanzania and a recipient of the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship.

Central State University, a proud HBCU, fosters academic excellence

within a nurturing livinglearning environment and graduates a diverse population prepared for leadership, research, and service in Ohio and beyond

Navigating Uncharted Territory

When he accepted the position as the Ninth President of Central State University, Dr. Thomas was starting his tenure during a major pandemic, with Zoom meetings and conference calls that lasted all day, instituting mask mandates, moving courses to synchronous and asynchronous delivery, and making plans to test and eventually vaccinate an entire University community.

“My first official day as President, I recall vividly. I was greeted by an empty campus and did not receive the customary, warm face-to-face welcome from faculty, staff, and students. As a leader, you must be prepared to respond swiftly and with urgency to any and all circumstances. I worked quickly to make personal connections with Central State students, faculty, and staff.” shares

Dr. Thomas. Though times were challenging, Dr. Thomas ensured that communication was smooth and pressed on, increasing enrollment, founding the Honors College, launching the University’s online distance learning model, and much more.

One of the most pivotal moments in Dr. Thomas’s academic career was taking the position of provost and academic vice president at Western Illinois University, a PWI in Macomb, Illinois. “I had to make the difficult decision to uproot my family from Tennessee to the Midwest. My wife, Linda, encouraged me to take the opportunity, as it would advance my career, and she was right,” says Dr. Thomas. He ascended to the presidency

as an internal candidate, working closely with the outgoing president, Al Goldfarb, to ensure a smooth transition.

Another pivotal moment for Dr. Thomas was taking the position of president of Central State University. When he was offered the position, many of Dr. Thomas’s colleagues told him not to take it. However, his good friend and longtime mentor, Freeman Hrabowksi, encouraged him to take the leap. His mentor saw that Dr. Thomas could add value at Central State, building on the University’s rich heritage to position it as a premier institution of higher education.

A Choice for the Best

Central State was founded in 1887 as the Combined Normal and Industrial Department at Wilberforce University, named in honor of the great abolitionist William Wilberforce. At its inception, the Combined Normal and Industrial Department was “open to all applicants of good and moral character,” indicating no limitations regarding race, color, sex, or creed. It was clear, however, that the department and its successors were designed to serve the educational needs of African American students.

For over 135 years, Central State University has enriched minds and changed lives. Its vision is to be the premier LandGrant institution in teaching, learning, and research that embraces diversity and innovation in a global society. Central State University, a proud HBCU, fosters academic excellence within a nurturing living-learning environment and graduates a diverse population prepared for leadership, research, and service in Ohio and beyond.

Central State University has students from across the world. In the fall of 2021, there was representation from 17 countries in the student body. “Our largest international student population is from the Bahamas. Our Admissions and Enrollment Management teams have been cultivating a relationship with the Bahamian government to encourage Bahamian students to attend Central State University, especially to take advantage of areas that are nationally in demand but not readily available in the Bahamas, such as fine and performing arts, specialized education, water resource

Central State University is currently embarking upon an aggressive building campaign to expand the campus’s physical capacity and footprint

management, accounting, entrepreneurship, and engineering,” explains Dr. Thomas.

Central State University’s Center for International Education is integral to the institution’s mission to provide a complete, well-rounded undergraduate experience with a strong global perspective. The Center supports international students, providing orientation for the academic and cultural environment in the United States.

As an 1890 Land-Grant Institution, Central State University is committed to agriculture and mechanical education with an emphasis on serving populations from diverse backgrounds and experiences. “Our faculty are engaged in cutting-edge research in various disciplines, including agriculture, math, and engineering. We encourage a research culture that promotes sustainability and centers the populations we serve,” shares Dr. Thomas. Recently, a research team led by Dr. Brandy Phipps, an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, obtained a USD 10 million USDA grant to investigate hemp as a sustainable way to nourish farm-raised fish. Not only will the research findings address food inequities across the country, but the research team is composed of members of other HBCUs, land-grant institutions, and the College of Menominee Nation, supporting minority-led STEM research.

Central State University is currently embarking upon an ambitious building campaign to expand the campus’s physical capacity and footprint. It is a $65 million investment called Project Innovation. Project Innovation will include seven buildings –the Honors Residential Hall and Administrative Complex, College of Health and Human Services, CSU Recreation and Wellness Center, Facilities and Logistics Center, Stadium Residential Hall

East, Honors Residential Hall West, and Shorter Road Apartments. The Honors Residential Hall and Administrative Complex was completed in November 2022, marking the first of the seven buildings. Project Innovation is the execution of a bold vision to make Central State University a unique destination, and it signifies the institution’s commitment to its vibrant future.

Tomorrow’s Game Plan

Dr. Thomas’s mission is to elevate the University culture so that the institution does not just survive as a University but thrives. “We must not settle for adequate or good enough. We must strive for excellence in all that we do – even if it is challenging at times. We must adapt to the everchanging world and workforce,” he explains. By listening to industry experts, the University plans to prepare students to succeed in a global economy and be informed, principled citizens of the world.

As universities adjust to changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Central State University is continuing to expand its online degree and certificate programs through Central State Global. The institution is also responding to the community’s needs that the pandemic brought to light by highlighting Counseling Services to support the mental health of students and emphasizing community engagement and programming to reduce isolation.

Under Dr. Thomas’s leadership, Central State University is boldly stepping into the future. Central State is expanding its course offerings, increasing its focus on research, and enhancing the student experience. In the midst of the ever-changing higher education landscape, Central State University is prepared to adapt accordingly, because, as Dr. Thomas says, Innovation is in Our DNA™.

Learner ‘Hacks’ for Higher Education

Dr. Joe Sallustio, Senior Vice President, Lindenwood Global & University Strategic Enrolment Management, Lindenwood University

Dr. Joe Sallustio is one of the nation’s foremost higher education experts. He has led a broad range of educational institutions giving him a unique and effective breadth of knowledge in on-ground and online higher education administration. Joe holds an EdD in organizational leadership from Northcentral University, anMSinorganizationalleadershipfromRegisUniversity,andaBSinspeechcommunicationsfromtheState University of New York College at Oneonta. He is also co-founder and host of “The EdUp Experience,” the nation’s leading higher education podcast. Early after its founding, The EdUp Experience Podcast introduced its President Series and gave voice to what’s happening at the very top of the industry — how problems are solved, how students are served in new ways, how institutional visions are giving way to a collective reenvisioning of the entire industry. In Nov 2022 he and his co-founder also published a book under the name “Commencement: The Beginning of a New Era in Higher Education”

What do you get when you cross a Generation Z student with (what some believe) will be the Golden Age of Educational Technology?

The answer is that you get a motivated, time and price-sensitive student smarter with technology than the institutions

trying to serve them. Add to this equation that the cost, relevance, and value of a college degree are questioned, creating the ideal scenario for learner “growth hacks” in higher education.

Today’s students want us (post-secondary educators) to make things simple for them – and if we don’t do it, they’ll do it themselves. Tell a

ChatGPT, released by the company OpenAI (and backed by Microsoft) is one of the most relevant and horrifying examples of technology innovation and institutional response that exists presently

Gen-Z-er that you walked 2 miles in the snow to get to school and you’ll find that they are not impressed. They’ll probably reference their electronic scooter fully equipped with allterrain tires as the reason they’ll never have to go through the same (unimpressive?) hardship that you did. Tell one of these current or future students that they have to click more than twice or use more than one app to get something done and they will find something more efficient. Even social media is becoming easier and easier to experience – think about how one might take

a picture, edit it, add text or transcription, filter the photo to add graphics or background, and post it on multiple channels of social media all within one giant customizable process.

ChatGPT, released by the company OpenAI (and backed by Microsoft) is one of the most relevant and horrifying examples of technology innovation and institutional response that exists presently. Why horrifying, you ask? Because we are watching a wide-ranging adoption and denial of using ChatGPT – just look at the New York Public School System that announced that

Consumer (student) expectation that institutions of higher education offer credit for prior learning is another “hack” – as is competency-based education that “hacks” the time required for degree completion

ChatGPT is being banned due to concerns about students cheating. Tell today’s current and future students that they can’t use something, and they’ll find ways to access it. As a professional reading this article, can you remember the last time you went to a meeting without your laptop or cell phone? Technology, in this day and age, is as common as eating or drinking…maybe even breathing.

Back to the point about learners hacking their higher education growth. Credential Engine, a non-profit that attempts to catalog credentials offered to learners through various pathways, notes that there are 1.076 million credentials in the United States alone. The non-credit credential movement is a “hack” of the traditional higher education degree model. Consumer (student) expectation that institutions of higher education offer credit for prior learning is another “hack” – as is competency-based education that “hacks” the time required for degree completion. In my recent book, Commencement: The Beginning of a New Era in Higher Education, co-written by Kate Colbert, I referenced a story of a business that capitalized on disruption:

“Back in the “old days, when you wanted to watch a movie on a Friday night with your family, you’d all get in the car and head down to your local video store and pick up the new release on VHS. Eventually, the smaller and higher-definition DVD came onto the scene (laserdiscs were in between) and an upstart company thought it might be convenient for you to not leave your house and instead receive your DVD in the mail. Like me, you probably loved the idea of this mail-delivered movie, and you stopped going to the video store. Have you heard this story?

Then, technology advanced again and, in the early 2000s, we experienced the proliferation of the internet, the evolution of the iPhone, and, you guessed it, streaming video. The company that was sending out DVDs in the mail cannibalized that business and went “all in” on streaming, while the video story company doubled down on its traditional business model.

Any idea what companies I am referencing in this story? Yep, you guessed it. Blockbuster and Netflix. It’s a classic story of embracing disruption, adopting emerging technology, and taking calculated risks.

What will be the story of higher education 10 years from now? More importantly, what will the story of your institution be 10 years from now?

Conclusion

This story is all about how both business/ industry, and consumer value relevance combined with convenience. The desire for relevance and convenience is what drives how we experience and expect technology to enhance our lives. The same is true for higher education and students – and though this article references the digital native expectations of Gen-Z, let’s be honest and recognize that all generations today have some type of technological expectation for their learning – just think about the number of times you sat and read paper directions versus looked something up on YouTube. Rather than be worried about ChatGPT or other AI technologies, higher education should be working to integrate them into their teaching and learning methodologies – because the student will use the technologies to complement or supplement their learning despite how we (higher education) feel about it.

AI, the Metaverse, and the Classroom: The Collision Arrives

Steve Grubbs, CEO, VictoryXR

Two people walk into an emergency room and approach the desk. They are completely unrelated to each other, but it’s not unusual for an emergency room to have two people in one night complaining of chest pains. For a triage nurse, acting quickly means the difference between life and death.

There is one doctor on duty in this emergency room and two patients. The triage nurse quickly begins interviewing each patient, waiting for the responses. As the nurse begins to learn more, it becomes apparent that one patient is having a heart attack that will kill her, while the other simply has heartburn or acid reflux.

By using an AI avatar with subject matter expertise, nurses can have a more engaging and interactive learning experience, and practice their skills in a safe, simulated environment before dealing with actual patients

Steve Grubbs is the CEO of VictoryXR and a pioneer in the world of AR & VR education. Steve is the son of a school teacher and formerly served as chair of the House Education Committee in the Iowa Legislature, where he authored the state’s first school technology funding bill.

While this scenario regularly plays itself out in hospitals around the world, in this particular case, it is a simulation in a virtual reality emergency room, complemented with avatar patients powered by artificial intelligence and language. What that means, very simply, is that real students - training to be nurses or nursing techs - can have useful conversations with avatars using voice and language, rather than text.

[Generated from ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence creation tool]

An AI avatar with subject matter expertise can be used to train nurses in a number of ways. Here are a few examples:

● Virtual patient simulations: The avatar can be programmed to simulate different patient scenarios and conditions, allowing nurses to practice and hone their skills in a safe and controlled environment. The avatar can provide feedback on the nurses’ decisions and actions, helping them identify improvement areas

● Interactive lectures: The avatar can be used to deliver interactive lectures on various medical topics, such as anatomy and pharmacology. The avatar can respond to questions, provide explanations and examples, and provide resources for further learning.

● Role-playing: The avatar can be used to simulate different patient-nurse interactions, such as taking vital signs, administering medication, and communicating with patients. This can help nurses to develop their communication and interpersonal skills, which are critical for effective patient care.

● Career Advancement: The avatar can be used to provide training in specialized areas such as critical care, pediatrics, and

emergency medicine, allowing nurses to advance their careers.

By using an AI avatar with subject matter expertise, nurses can have a more engaging and interactive learning experience, and practice their skills in a safe, simulated environment before dealing with actual patients. Additionally, an AI avatar can help to bridge the gap between the classroom and clinical training and provide a new way to interact and learn. [End of writing from ChatGPT and back to Steve Grubbs]

Steve Wozniak, the inventor of the Apple I & II computers, says that one should rarely try to invent technology 3-5 years down the road, but rather focus on that which is possible in the next 12 months. AI-driven talking avatars in a virtual reality environment are just now becoming possible due to the significant advances in artificial intelligence.

Consider the possibilities of this advancement: tutors suddenly become more personal and affordable. Access to a private tutor, previously available to the well-off or those with access to governmentsponsored programs. Not only can a student be immersed in an environment where they can learn hands-on, but they have an avatar nearby ready to have a conversation about the challenges they are facing.

Or, a chemistry professor exists as an AI avatar in the lab, assisting with experiments, teaching, and being a conversational partner throughout the process.

For many, the best way to understand this is to think in terms of Star Trek’s, Data. While Data was not an avatar, he is described as a self-aware, sapient, sentient, and anatomically fully functional male android.’ AI avatars

Not only can a student be immersed in an environment where they can learn hands-on, but they have an avatar nearby ready to have a conversation about the challenges they are facing

have a long way to go to become sentient and anatomically fully functional, but the sapient, or intelligent, part has arrived today.

Consider this example: the construction industry has a shortage of qualified carpenters. High school students can enter a carpentry apprenticeship in a metaverse world, learn how to use the tools, learn geometry involved, and have constant sidekick assisting and coaching. This student graduates from the metaverse program understanding all of the basics and then finishes the apprenticeship on-site with an experienced carpenter.

In the VictoryXR metaverse system, we will initially roll out AI avatars for scenario training in various healthcare environments. Whether it’s an emergency room, dentist’s office, or nutrition specialist, having scenarios that allow students to move at their own pace

creates greater access to students who might otherwise be left out due to family, expense, or job commitments. For the initial market beta test, March 2022 is when we expect it to come into use with existing users.

Looking ahead, we expect the technology to advance alongside augmented reality glasses. Ultimately, your AI assistant may always be as close as a tap on the side of your glasses or controlled through a voice command. Even more - and perhaps with a lot more ethical considerations - people will have the option to have a loved one come back as an AI for conversations, advice, and healing. For now, we will focus on educating and training the world to make learning a fun and accessible experience. And maybe, patients in emergency situations will find more and better-trained healthcare providers.

AI: Arguing its Place in Higher Education

JonathanDempseyisahighereducationmanagerintheUKwithnearly20yearsofexperience across a variety of business areas from ITsupport to housing, student well-being to student data. His passions lie in the support of student success which is borne out not only in his professional work but also in his academic for which he is currently undertaking a professional doctorate in Higher Education Management at the University of Bath. As well as supporting students Jonathan also supports the development of his fellow professionals through his position as a trustee with the Association of University Administrators (AUA), the representative voice of HE professionals in the UK.

The integration of AI into higher education is a topic that is being met with both excitement and apprehension. While it is clear that these technologies have the potential to bring significant advancements

to the sector, there are also concerns that must be addressed. Some of these concerns include:

● The potential for reduced critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students who rely too heavily on AI assistance.

Jonathan Dempsey, Executive Officer to the Registrar, Brunel University London

AI is coming and arguably, in the form of ChatGPT, it’s already here. So, trying to put the genie back in the bottle seems like a futile if not impossible task

● The risk of decreased engagement and motivation in learning when using AI.

● The need for proper training and education on the limitations and ethical considerations of AI for students.

While these concerns are valid, it is important to also consider the potential benefits of using AI in higher education. The arguments for and against the use of AI in the sector are ongoing and will be continued to be debated

argument, ChatGPT. So, can ChatGPT convince me and you that it shouldn’t have a place in higher education or can the fact it can argue that case shows its potential worth for the sector and further.

Let’s find out!

In favor of the use of AI in HE

AI is coming and arguably, in the form of ChatGPT, it’s already here. So, trying to put the genie back in the bottle seems like a futile if not impossible task. If it is now out there then we need to begin understanding it and consider how it can, within the higher ed context, be best used to support our students.

In considering how it can be best used we should probably consider one of the biggest concerns of a tool like ChatGPT, cheating. There are already plenty of articles with worries that students will be able to ask ChatGPT to write their assignment for them by just giving them the question and a few additional prompts.

It has already been seen that it can produce essays of a decent standard worthy of more than pass marks and possibly more concerning different every time someone asks if it potentially thwarts plagiarism detection systems that are commonplace in most VLEs.

To continue the debate, I will put forward my arguments for the place of AI in higher education. In respect of balance, this article will put forward the argument against the use of AI in higher education.

To make it a little more interesting, and as an experiment, I will invite the current biggest name in the AI space to put forward this opposing

However, one of the counterarguments could be that for many years people have said that with the massification of higher education, we are just producing graduates who can regurgitate information without growing their criticality. ChatGPT just speeds his process up and gets the job done. When these graduates go into the workplace for the first few years this may be just what their employers want. Someone who can pump out information in a

An opposing viewpoint to the idea that AI like ChatGPT should be embraced in higher education is that it could ultimately harm the integrity of the education system and devalue degrees

standard way without thinking more widely or critically about the subject.

Why wouldn’t you use it to do this task?

If we do want to create critically-minded graduates then ChatGPT should not be feared but seen as a call to action for educators and institutions. This could be the catalyst to rethink how we assess students, and no this is not a call for more exams where you remove the risk of AI, but reconsidering how you get students to show their understanding. This could be through vlogs, presentations, or artistic representations. Who knows what else but it would be interesting to start finding out what it could be.

Educators could also help students understand how such a tool could help them in their assessments. So rather than them going to ChatGPT for a direct answer to their assessment question it could be looking at how they could prompt it for feedback on their ideas, for example, “what do you think of my answer so far? Am I being clear enough about topic x?”.

This could be the critical friend they need for their essays when they need it at 3 am in the morning and not at office hours in a week’s time, 24 hours before the deadline.

This support can also extend to students in a variety of other ways. Maybe the student is the first in their family to go to university and traversing all the policies and support is just too daunting or a completely foreign language to them. So, for example, a student could ask ChatGPT “I’m not well and my uni assignment is due tomorrow. I won’t complete it what should I do?”

And here is an answer from ChatGPT, “It’s important to prioritize your health. If you’re not feeling well, it’s best to rest and take care

of yourself. You should contact your professor or academic advisor as soon as possible to explain your situation and ask for an extension or alternative arrangements. They may be able to offer you an extension on your assignment or make an alternative. It’s also a good idea to let your classmates know if you won’t be able to attend any group meetings or work on group projects.”

This is a well-thought-out answer that guides the student to where they could seek support but also let them know of their own responsibilities with their peers. This answer took a few seconds to be generated. A heck of a lot quicker trying to navigate an institution’s website especially if you don’t know the correct terminology.

If it can help to remove barriers for students and allow them to ask questions they are not certain of or too nervous or ashamed to ask then it could become a great leveller within higher education.

Now I am not ignoring the potential risks, however, if we ignore the tool then the risks will still occur albeit potentially amplified and under the radar but rather than going through them, I will let ChatGPT state its counter-arguments and the risks of AI and itself within higher education.

Against the use of AI in HE

ChatGPT was asked to write an opposing viewpoint to the above, here is its response:

An opposing viewpoint to the idea that AI like ChatGPT should be embraced in higher education is that it could ultimately harm the integrity of the education system and devalue degrees. While it may seem convenient to use AI to help support students, the potential for cheating and the lack of critical thinking skills developed by relying on AI outweigh the benefits. Additionally, using AI for support could also perpetuate educational

inequalities, as those who have access to these tools may have an unfair advantage over those who do not.

It is important to remember that the purpose of higher education is to promote critical thinking and the ability to analyze and evaluate information. By allowing students to use AI to write their assignments, we risk creating a generation of graduates who lack the ability to think critically and independently. This will not only affect the quality of graduates, but also the reputation of the higher education system.

Moreover, the potential for cheating is a major concern. AI-generated essays may be able to bypass plagiarism detection software, and educators may struggle to distinguish between an AI-generated essay and one written by a student. This could lead to widespread cheating and a further devaluation of degrees.

Furthermore, using AI for support could also perpetuate educational inequalities, as those who have access to these tools may have an unfair advantage over those who do not. This could lead to an even greater divide between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds.

Conclusion

while the use of AI in higher education may seem like a solution for support, the potential

for cheating and lack of critical thinking skills developed outweigh the benefits. It is important to focus on developing new methods of assessment that encourage students to engage with the material in a deeper and more meaningful way.

The use of AI like ChatGPT in higher education is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides, even when the other side is provided by the tool itself.

On one hand, it can provide efficient support for students, especially in navigating university policies and procedures and removing barriers for students who may not have access to support otherwise.

However, it also raises concerns about the integrity of the education system and the devaluation of degrees. AI-generated essays may be able to bypass plagiarism detection software, and it could also stifle creativity and critical thinking, which are important skills for success in the real world.

Overall, while the use of AI in higher education has great potential it will always be important to carefully consider the potential consequences. The mere fact it can argue for its non-inclusion is almost an argument for it to be here. Either way tools like this are here to stay and so we need to be ready for them.

The use of AI like ChatGPT in higher education is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides, even when the other side is provided by the tool itself

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

Ready and Willing? Higher Education’s (Increasing) Challenges to Recruit Individuals as the Next Department Chair

Jeffrey Harris, Managing Partner, Harris Search Associates

For over 25 years, our executive search and management consulting firm has been entrusted by the foremost global higher education institutions to recruit its senior most leadership talent. Increasingly, we are engaged following the unexpected departure of an important institutional leader, the establishment of a new department or center, where timely completion of an assignment is imperative, or

where an internal search committee has tried, but not succeeded, to recruit on its own. In every assignment, we are charged with facilitating a process that ensures a robust, diverse, pool of candidates and the selection of an outstanding new leader aligned with the institution’s values and strategic priorities. Curiously, over the last several years, Department Chair searches have become the fastest-growing aspect of our executive

Curiously, over the last several years, Department Chair searches have become the fastest-growing aspect of our executive search practice

Jeffrey Harris is the founder and Managing Partner of Harris Search Associates where he leads the firm’s HigherEducation,AcademicMedicine, and Healthcare Administration practices.Foundedin1997andmodeled after the first premier managementconsulting firms, Harris Search Associates is a leading global executive search and boardadvisoryconsulting firmfocusedsolely on the recruitment of senior leadership talent to support the growth of the foremost universities, academic medical centers, medical schools, research institutions, and healthcare enterprises driving global innovation and discovery. Based in Columbus,Ohio,andwithregionaloffices in San Francisco and Dallas, the firm has successfully completed over 900 assignments. Jeffrey leads a diverse, seasoned team of over 20 seasoned consultants and staff who combine the recruiting and leadership assessment expertise from the largest, most well-recognized retained search organizations with highly respected, former university Presidents, Provosts, Deans, Vice Presidents, and senior administrators from across the country.

search practice. It has become such a common occurrence, that clients who have traditionally retained our firm for Decanal, Provost, Vice President, and Presidential level searches, are now frequently engaging us successfully recruit Department Chairs.

This led us to ask clients what it is about the current challenges of identifying and persuading individuals to serve in the role of department chair that now more than ever prompts the use of an external search partner. Their answers spoke volumes.

The job of Department Chair is an important one and so is selecting the right one

Why do so many Department Chair searches on campus continue to fail? There are likely several factors, but principally among them may be that the rewards for chairing a department are often seen as minimal. Moreover, faculty members rarely receive formal preparation to prepare them to successfully assume the role. And in some instances, a reluctance to assume the role may be due to a perceived lack of definition around authority, expectations, accountability, and institutional support. By contrast, remaining as a professor, recognized scholar-researcher, and having opportunities to serve on the editorial boards of prestigious academic journals along with professional satisfaction, enduring relationships, and recognition from peers may be viewed as more personally appealing. Despite apprehensions by many faculty to assume the role, the contribution and impact of the Department Chair remain a truly important one. A Department Chair serves as the front-line leader and bridge between faculty and senior administration, considered as the middle manager charged with

A Department Chair search, whether assisted by a search firm or not, provides a transformative opportunity for the campus

assigning teach loads, managing promotion and tenure decisions, mentoring faculty and staff, interfacing with students, tending to budgets, and hiring faculty and staff.

The significance of the chair can also extend beyond the department, as many chairs make up the future pools of decanal and provost candidates. The experience gained by a department chair is often indicative of how an emerging leader will serve in a deanship where communication and persuasion are premium skills, and most provosts will have served as a chair. Given the increasing lack of appeal to serve as chair by many faculty members, enticing individuals to assume the role will likely require rewards throughout and at the end of the term of service.

In many instances, the selection of a chair, as suggested above, may involve a process of persuading a current member of the department to serve a term (or more) as chair. Tales of drawing straws with the loser agreeing reluctantly to serve are not uncommon. Examples abound of a department chair position remaining unfilled or someone serving as an acting or interim chair without foreseeable end has become an alarming trend, especially in instances where no one else is willing to take on the job. In these cases, outside assistance may not be required.

Another sign of the significance of the role of the department chair may be seen in instances when a university chooses to seek a chair from outside the institution rather than from within. Such a choice may reflect the resistance or absence of tenured faculty members to fill the chairmanship who can bridge divisions within a department or provide a departure point from the directions the department had pursued previously.

But as the role of department chair has grown, and in many instances, the reputation of a college

or university is a function of the strength of departments, so has the awareness that external help is often required to recruit a chair. However, beyond those academic matters are questions about how candidates for the chairmanship view the job and are likely to carry it out. And then there are the cases where a dean and a provost determine that no one in each department is ready to assume a chairmanship or the department needs new insight and leadership and must a chair from outside the institution. In those cases, a search firm may be of assistance.

Making the case for assistance in the recruitment of Department Chairs and suggestions for future searches

A Department Chair search, whether assisted by a search firm or not, provides a transformative opportunity for the campus. Indeed, there is no recipe that ensures a successful outcome; the process remains more art than science. However, careful organization and institutional support can increase the likelihood of identifying the most highly sought-after candidates to assume the role. Increasingly, it is commonplace to invest in an experienced executive search partner with the requisite expertise, history of similar completed assignments, and professional networks, as well as commitment to the attraction of a robust diverse, the pool of candidates to ensure successful outcomes for the search.

Regardless of approach (with or without the assistance of an executive search partner), at a minimum, efforts should begin with multiple stakeholder interviews. The information gained from stakeholders will serve as a key asset for potential candidate engagement and discussion. Clarity around the preferred candidate qualifications, including academic credentials,

Once the search has been completed, to ensure the greatest likelihood of a successful future tenure, campus administration should commit to a thoughtful transition, onboarding, and development plan to support the new Chair

national/international research prominence, and appropriate leadership experience, as well as short-and near-term expectations, should then be distilled into a compelling leadership profile for the position to share with prospective candidates. This should then be followed by a deliberate and concentrated recruitment effort to engage a cohort of internationally esteemed academic leaders who may be convinced to confidentially

entertain a compelling alternative opportunity. Finally, once the search has been completed, to ensure the greatest likelihood of a successful future tenure, campus administration should commit to a thoughtful transition, onboarding, and development plan to support the new Chair. The job of the Department Chair is an important one and so is selecting the right one. Happy hunting!