Drawing from his own journey as a community college graduate, Dr. Barrick shares how MCC is rethinking student success through holistic support, community connection, and a deep commitment to listening to student voices. The conversation dives into enrollment growth, student housing, mental health, AI readiness, food insecurity initiatives, and why community colleges must adapt to students not the other way around.

At the heart of the episode is a powerful belief that education works best when students feel supported, connected, and never alone in their journey.

Sheri shares how TSC built a campus-wide “Culture of Care” model focused on connection, academics, resources, and engagement helping students navigate everything from academic planning to food insecurity and mental health support. The conversation also dives into leadership, AI in student services, career readiness, and the evolving role of community colleges in preparing students for an unpredictable future.

At the heart of the episode is a powerful reminder that student success starts with understanding and supporting the whole student not just academically, but personally, emotionally, and professionally.

Adam shares how his own transformational college experience shaped a career dedicated to creating access and opportunity for students. Together, Ben and Adam discuss Berkshire’s remarkable recent growth, the impact of Massachusetts’ free community college initiative, and why investing in advising, mental health, and essential needs support is critical to improving student outcomes.

The conversation also dives into leadership, student development theory, AI in higher education, and the importance of preserving human connection in an increasingly digital world.

At the heart of the episode is a simple but powerful idea: higher education works best when students feel seen, supported, and connected to a community that believes in their potential.

Throughout the episode, Ben and Mark explore how Delaware Tech has spent the last two decades intentionally improving graduation and completion rates by rethinking how the institution supports students academically and holistically.

The episode also explores the long-term impact of Achieving the Dream, the importance of mission-driven leadership, and why community colleges remain one of the most transformational forces in education today.

As a first-generation college student who began her own journey at Nassau Community College, Dr. Mangino brings both personal experience and institutional leadership to the discussion.

Now leading one of the most diverse community colleges in the United States, she shares how Queensborough Community College is building a culture of care that supports students from more than 117 countries and over 80 language backgrounds.

Throughout the episode, Ben and Christine explore how data can be used not just to measure outcomes, but to uncover barriers and drive meaningful institutional change.

From equity dashboards and first-year experience programs to redesigned gateway courses and proactive student support systems, the conversation highlights how Queensborough is working to close achievement gaps and improve retention for all students.

This conversation is essential listening for educators, student success leaders, and anyone passionate about building more equitable and human-centered college experiences.

A proud descendant of the Spirit Lake Dakota Nation and a first-generation college graduate himself, Dr. McDonald shares how his own journey through higher education shaped his leadership philosophy and deep commitment to serving Native students.

From overcoming personal challenges to navigating higher education systems for the first time, Russ reflects on the mentors, support systems, and cultural foundations that helped shape his path.

Throughout the episode, Ben and Russ explore how United Tribes Technical College supports students through a holistic and culturally grounded approach to education combining strong student support systems, workforce-ready programs, and deep community connection.

With nearly 70% of students identifying as first-generation and low-income, the conversation highlights the importance of meeting students where they are while helping them build long-term success pathways.

This episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about Indigenous education, student support, and building more human-centered pathways through higher education.

With over 25 years in higher education, Dr. Jackson shares how Nashville State is transforming from an access-focused institution to one centered on completion and post-graduation success.

From launching a bold Vision 2030 strategy to scaling student support through success coaches and data-driven decision-making, this conversation explores what it truly takes to improve outcomes at scale.

A key theme throughout is the shift toward becoming a “student-ready” college one that adapts to the realities of students’ lives, rather than expecting students to fit traditional systems. From expanding physical access through new campuses to rethinking how institutions measure success beyond graduation, Dr. Jackson highlights the importance of proximity, persistence, and purpose in student success.

This episode is a powerful reminder that student success is everyone’s responsibility and that meaningful change requires consistency, collaboration, and a willingness to innovate (and fail) along the way.

With over four decades in higher education, Dr Reber shares how HCCC has transformed outcomes by removing barriers, scaling student support, and building a deeply student-centred culture.

From tackling food and housing insecurity to doubling completion rates, this conversation highlights how equity-driven leadership can create real, generational impact.

A powerful discussion on access, resilience, and what it truly means to meet students where they are.

Ben and Amanda explore her work leading campus-wide initiatives that promote socio-academic integration and belonging, from student leadership organizations and international student programming to intramural sports and first-generation support. Drawing on her background in advising, coaching, admissions, and orientation, she shares practical insights on how student affairs and academic services can align to create inclusive, student-centred environments.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, innovation in student experience, and why supporting diverse learners through intentional design is key to driving long-term student success.

A proud native of Arizona’s Gila Valley and an EAC alumnus, President Haynie has led the institution through a period of transformation — modernizing its image, expanding degree offerings, and strengthening its influence in state and national education policy. Under his leadership, Eastern Arizona College has continued its 137-year legacy of community impact while embracing innovation and student-centred success.

Ben and President Haynie discuss what it means to lead with purpose, the evolving role of community colleges in the U.S., and how institutions can remain agile, relevant, and mission-driven in a changing higher education landscape.

Ben and Nuno discuss how APUS, one of the largest and most mission-driven online universities in the United States, is expanding its impact on military, veteran, adult, and international learners while advancing quality, engagement, and student success. Nuno shares his insights on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance access and personalization, and reflects on the leadership lessons from his journey across global education, technology, and business.

Ben and Michael explore his journey from Executive Director of the Florida Consortium of Metropolitan Research Universities to leading student success efforts at Texas State. They discuss how Dr. Preston leverages technology, strategic planning, and cross-campus partnerships to create a university-wide culture of success, while ensuring equitable access for underserved communities.

Ana reflects on her journey as a first-generation student and how it inspires her equity-driven leadership. From building inclusive programs to championing social justice at the institutional level, she shares actionable strategies for creating belonging and breaking down systemic barriers. This conversation highlights how campus leaders like Ana are driving innovation, connection, and meaningful change for the next generation of learners.

Ben and Seth explore how his mission-driven approach fosters strong partnerships, personalized support, and a vibrant campus culture that guides students from exploration to enrollment — and onward to long-term success. Drawing on his expertise in enrollment management and student development, Seth shares strategies for creating pathways that not only attract prospective students but also sustain retention and achievement once they arrive.

With a strong background in enrollment management, leadership, and student recruitment, Harry has spent his career driving initiatives that foster student persistence and achievement. Skilled in operational management and technology systems such as Ellucian Banner, he combines strategic oversight with a student-centred approach to create programs that support retention and growth.

Ben and Harry discuss his research interests in student recruitment and persistence, his approach to building high-performing teams, and how effective management and innovation can elevate the student experience.

In this episode, we meet Cynthia Aguilar, Associate Vice President and Dean of Students at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). With nearly two decades in student affairs, Cynthia is driving initiatives that strengthen belonging, leadership, and well-being across campus. From overseeing student engagement and media to supporting student parents and promoting equity, her leadership embodies UTEP’s mission of accessible, high-quality education for all.

Join Ben and Cynthia as they explore what it means to lead with empathy, empower student voices, and redefine the modern university experience.

A culturally responsive higher education leader, Matt has spent his career designing and implementing high-impact programs that drive equity, belonging, and long-term student achievement. His innovative curriculum for first-generation students has been adopted by colleges and universities across the nation, setting new standards for inclusive education and student support.

Ben and Matt explore what it means to lead with purpose, the importance of equity-informed decision-making, and how institutions can turn advocacy into actionable change.