Discover Gareth’s perspective on preparing students for an increasingly unpredictable future and what it truly takes to bridge the gap between higher education and the changing world of work. Drawing on his leadership across employability, enterprise, career development, and industry partnerships, Gareth shares why graduate success is about far more than securing a first job it’s about helping students discover who they are, adapt to change, and build meaningful careers.

The conversation explores the realities facing universities today, from shifting labour markets and AI to the challenge of preparing students for careers that may not yet exist.

Gareth also shares how the University of Sunderland works closely with industry and its local community to ensure students graduate with the confidence, adaptability, and real-world experience needed to thrive in an evolving economy.

A thoughtful conversation on employability, lifelong learning, and why universities must prepare students not just for their first destination, but for a lifetime of opportunity.

Discover Dr. Hughes’ perspective on leading student success in a rural community college environment and what it truly takes to create meaningful outcomes beyond graduation. Drawing on her background in business, workforce development, and higher education leadership, Dr. Hughes shares how Bay College is aligning academic programs with workforce needs, building structured student pathways, and preparing students for long-term career success.

The conversation also explores the evolving role of technology and AI in education, the importance of holistic student support, and why community colleges remain powerful engines of opportunity and economic mobility. At the heart of it all is Dr. Hughes’ belief that student success is about more than earning a credential it’s about removing barriers, fostering engagement, and helping learners achieve their goals.

A thoughtful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the transformative impact of community colleges.

A national award-winning educator and first-generation college graduate, Trayon leads one of the most comprehensive student success portfolios at UMKC spanning academic advising, career services, student support, supplemental instruction, and new student orientation.

He shares compelling stories from the classroom that underscore the importance of flexibility, self-awareness, and responsibility in student-facing roles.

Whether adapting an icebreaker to ensure accessibility or taking a chance on a student who simply needed belief and opportunity, Trayon demonstrates how small moments of intentionality can have lasting impact.

Ben and Dr Loope unpack what student-centred success looks like in a rural context from centralized advising that supports learners through the critical first 16–20 credits to a last-dollar scholarship model that covers tuition and fees for most credit students (9+ credits) and fully funds initial workforce certifications (50+ contact hours). The result: more credits taken, faster completion, and dramatically improved retention contributing to BCCC’s recognition as SmartAsset’s #1 community college in the nation for affordability, class size, and outcomes.

Listeners will also hear a powerful student story that inspired BCCC’s plan to convert a nearby house into temporary housing for homeless students, Dr Loope’s view that grades should reflect learning not be the goal, and his call for faculty–student services alignment and thoughtful adoption of AI to build critical thinking and career readiness. It’s a candid look at how a rural college can change lives one learner, one partnership, one pragmatic innovation at a time.

Ben and Dr. Galizio discuss how the League works behind the scenes to shape policy, funding, and governance in Sacramento, and how that work directly impacts student experience at scale. From championing transfer pathways and workforce-aligned education to expanding access to community college–conferred bachelor’s degrees, the conversation highlights how statewide systems can evolve to meet the needs of place-bound, working, and returning learners.

This conversation is a thoughtful, systems-level look at student success—one that reminds listeners that community colleges are not only engines of workforce development, but democratic institutions that expand opportunity, mobility, and lifelong learning for millions of students across California and beyond.

Ben and Kimberly explore her track record of creating impactful, student-centred programs that serve adult learners, transfer students, and first-year undergraduates alike. With a passion for improving processes and delivering high-quality services, she shares her insights into designing campus-wide initiatives that truly move the needle on student success.

Since taking office as Highland’s ninth president in 2020, Dr. Kuberski has steered the college through a defining era—guiding it from accreditation challenges to national recognition as the #1 Community College in Illinois. Under her leadership, Highland has expanded academic programs, secured millions in federal and state grants, and invested over $18 million in campus modernization and student-centered facilities.

Ben and Dr. Kuberski discuss her remarkable 41-year journey in higher education, the power of culture and community in driving institutional success, and how transparency, empowerment, and collaboration can transform an organization from within.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, leadership, and the legacy of a president who leaves Highland positioned for a strong and sustainable future.

Ben and Ryan explore the art of building collaborative partnerships across institutional divisions, the importance of equity-driven student success frameworks, and how to balance data-informed decision-making with the human stories behind the numbers. As an assistant professor and doctoral advisor in the School of Education, Ryan also shares his passion for mentoring the next generation of higher education leaders.

Since stepping into this role in April 2025, Stephen has focused on strengthening student persistence, academic momentum, and holistic success within one of the nation’s leading engineering and computer science schools. A proud UT Dallas alumnus, he brings a deep understanding of the student journey and a commitment to building systems that support learners at scale especially in rigorous, high-demand academic environments.

A respected scholar and thought leader, Dr. Gavin has authored two influential books on race and higher education, challenging institutions to rethink their role in creating equitable systems of learning. His leadership at Delta College reflects his lifelong commitment to using education as a tool for transformation — bridging access, inclusion, and innovation to empower both individuals and communities.

Ben and Dr. Gavin discuss the future of higher education as a catalyst for justice, the responsibility of institutions to uplift every learner, and the role of authentic leadership in shaping a more compassionate and equitable academic landscape.

Lyndin and Michelle explore the evolving role of libraries in shaping belonging, advocacy through storytelling, and the power of joyful, purpose-led teams.

Ben and Dr. Holloman explore his journey from faculty roles across multiple universities to becoming a nationally recognized leader and 2023 NASPA Pillar of the Profession.

Ben and Guillermo explore the vital role of inclusive leadership in higher education, the complexities of intersectionality, and how research can inform policy to create more equitable workplaces. As a published researcher, policy advisor, and Vice President of EPHEA, Guillermo shares insights on building belonging across borders, industries, and identities, offering a compelling vision for what inclusive excellence looks like in practice.

Joel and Natalie unpack how student success is measured beyond simple pass rates. From short-term engagement indicators to long-term retention and progression outcomes, Natalie explains how her team reaches nearly 84% of the student cohort each year, combining relational advising with sophisticated data analysis to identify students who may need support before they ask for it.

The conversation closes with a powerful reminder for students: it’s normal to feel both excitement and nerves at the start of university, and the key is to engage early, lean into orientation, and set yourself up for success from day one.

Since becoming the sixth president of State Fair Community College in 2022, Dr. Bates has led a bold expansion of facilities and programs focused on workforce training and regional economic growth. The conversation dives into a $60M investment in new and renovated facilities anchored by a successful $20M capital campaign for agriculture and mechanics training that has helped fuel a 20% enrollment increase in just three years.

A major theme of the episode is student-centered leadership. Drawing on his 23 years as Vice President of Instruction and Student Services, Dr. Bates shares how initiatives like Caring Campus for both staff and faculty embed empathy, visibility, and responsiveness into everyday student interactions, reinforcing a culture where students feel known, supported, and valued.

One of the most powerful moments comes as Dr. Bates shares deeply personal student success stories—from adult learners finding a way out of difficult circumstances to former students returning with renewed purpose—underscoring the transformational role community colleges play for individuals, families, and entire communities.

This episode is a compelling look at how values-driven leadership, community partnerships, and practical education can create opportunity at scale—one student, one pathway, and one region at a time.

Ben and Dr Rebecca discuss how Santa Fe Community College stands out globally through innovative sustainability efforts, including a controlled environment agriculture program and a campus-wide microgrid powered by solar and battery storage projects that reflect both environmental responsibility and long-term institutional resilience.

They also explore the role of executive leadership in driving systemic change, building strong campus cultures, and aligning education with economic mobility and workforce readiness.

This conversation offers a powerful perspective on values-driven leadership, the future of community colleges, and how intentional reform can create meaningful outcomes for students and communities alike.

Since 2015, Dr. Galizio has led the League in advancing the mission of California’s community colleges—championing access, equity, and effective governance across a system that serves millions of learners. 

Ben and Dr. Galizio discuss the intersection of higher education and public policy, the evolving role of community colleges in social and economic mobility, and the importance of principled governance in leading complex systems, Dr. Galizio offers a rare perspective on how leadership, history, and public argument shape the future of higher education.

A thoughtful conversation with one of the sector’s most respected voices on governance, policy, and community college leadership.

A proud native of Arizona’s Gila Valley and an EAC alumnus, President Haynie has led the institution through a period of transformation modernising 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 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.

Ben and Dr. MeMe explore her leadership philosophy, rooted in inspiring teams, developing impactful curriculum, and leveraging data to inform decision-making. With expertise spanning higher education administration, grant-funded budget management, fundraising, and customer service excellence, she shares how she builds environments where students and staff alike can thrive. 

Ben and Dr. Soucy discuss her journey in higher education leadership, from mentoring students through personal and academic challenges to championing programs that strengthen campus inclusivity. 

Drawing on her expertise in volunteer management, operational excellence, and creative problem-solving, Amanda shares how she leverages the transformative power of art and education to strengthen community ties and increase students’ sense of belonging. Ben and Amanda explore the unique challenges and opportunities of supporting first-generation students, the role of creativity in student success, and how intentional design of programs and experiences can change lives.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about equity, community building, and the belief that when you blend operational rigour with artistic vision, you create spaces where every student feels they belong.

A transformative, people-focused leader, Michelle brings extensive senior executive experience across government (Commonwealth and State) and the private sector, spanning governance, service delivery, corporate, IT, and program management. Before Charles Sturt, she served as Deputy Registrar at the Australian Business Registry Services (Australian Taxation Office), overseeing nine million ABN holders and three million companies. With prior roles like Deputy Commissioner at the ATO, General Manager at Parks Victoria, and First Assistant Secretary at PM&C, Michelle’s passion for inclusivity shines—especially in uplifting First Nations staff and communities. Armed with an MBA, Masters in HR, and accounting credentials, she’s driving impactful change at Charles Sturt.

Ben and Dr Skari explore MHCC’s breakthrough priorities from Breaking Ground on bond-funded projects and Breaking Free through modernised systems and technology, to Breaking Barriers that support clear student pathways and Breaking Bread through strengthened community partnerships. At the heart of the conversation is equity, ensuring access, opportunity, and success for every student, regardless of background or circumstance.

This episode is a powerful look at servant leadership, community stewardship, and how colleges can build the next fifty years of impact by moving forward togetherone breakthrough at a time.

Dr. Serrata has led EPCC through a period of national recognition, earning distinctions such as Aspen Prize finalist, AACC Student Success Award, and multiple equity honours. Under his leadership, EPCC has become the number one community college in the nation for Hispanic student enrollment and associate degrees awarded, with a deep focus on first-generation student success.

Ben and Dr. Serrata explore how decades of student-success initiatives from Achieving the Dream to Guided Pathways have shaped EPCC’s long-term strategy, and why saying no to misaligned initiatives can be just as important as adopting new ones. 

With nearly two decades of experience across student affairs, organizational leadership, and community engagement, Dr. McConnell-Black brings an approach that is authentic, creative, and refreshingly unconventional. As Vice President for Student Life at Reed College, he oversees a deeply integrated ecosystem of academic support, residential life, accessibility services, and co-curricular learning grounded in the belief that students are whole people, not “brains on sticks.”

Ben and Dr K unpack what makes Reed College globally distinctive—from its uncompromising academic rigour and senior thesis requirement to its intentional de-emphasis on grades in favour of feedback, curiosity, and learning. The conversation dives into Reed’s culture of intellectual dissent, relational education, and the power of place, where even crossing a canyon becomes part of the student experience.

The episode also explores the role of technology and AI in student life, balancing optimism with intentionality, and why data must always be paired with lived experience and storytelling. Dr. K shares a powerful reminder that chasing metrics alone misses the point—real student success is found in relationships, growth, and belonging.

As the first woman president in Laredo College’s 78-year history and a proud alumna, Dr. Ramirez’s journey has come full circle from student to educator to president. Leading an institution rooted in the historic Fort McIntosh and located at the nation’s largest inland port of entry, she shares how Laredo College has evolved from reskilling returning WWII veterans to preparing today’s learners for careers in logistics, trade, healthcare, law enforcement, and emerging AI-driven industries.

Ben and Dr. Ramirez discuss the critical role community colleges play in workforce development, especially in geographically isolated regions, and how applied bachelor’s degrees, industry-aligned programs, and strong employer partnerships are creating affordable, career-advancing pathways for students. Dr. Ramirez also reflects deeply on her personal journey from teaching and publishing to enrollment leadership—and how lived experience informs her student-centered approach to access, equity, and holistic support.

This conversation dives into the real barriers students face financial insecurity, self-doubt, food and housing instability, and mental health challenges—and how removing those barriers can transform lives. Dr. Ramirez closes with a powerful reminder of the responsibility educators carry, and how belief, opportunity, and persistence can change the trajectory of generations.

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.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on the intersection of coaching, cultural advocacy, and data-driven leadership and how empowering students to lead can transform both educational outcomes and community connections.

A nationally recognised leader in learning and teaching, student success, and widening participation, Jessica is a passionate advocate for equity, inclusion, and student partnership. At La Trobe, she has led the development of sustainable, efficient service delivery models that elevate the student and staff experience.

Driven by purpose and a deep belief in psychological safety as the foundation for organisational culture, Jessica is known for fostering innovation and mentoring the next generation of leaders across higher education. Her contributions have been recognised through numerous prestigious awards, including the AFR Emerging Leader Award and an Australian Award for Excellence in Teaching. A Fellow of the International Federation of National Learning and Teaching Fellows, Jessica brings a creative and collaborative approach to educational transformation and access.

With more than 30 years of leadership experience in community colleges across Idaho, Maryland, and Washington, Dr. MacLennan brings a deep understanding of access, equity, and opportunity in higher education. A U.S. Army veteran and former adult learner, he has built his career on the belief that education has the power to transform lives and strengthen communities.

Ben and Dr. MacLennan explore how meaningful community engagement, workforce partnerships, and student-first leadership can reduce barriers to learning and create pathways for success. They also discuss the evolving role of community colleges in today’s educational landscape and how innovation and compassion must go hand in hand to meet the needs of every student.

With expertise spanning transformational leadership, professional staff development, crisis response, orientation design, and holistic student support, Shené and Bernadette share how their collaborative approach strengthens student experiences from day one. They discuss the importance of embedding equity and student voice into every initiative, using data to drive impact, and creating spaces where students feel empowered to navigate, thrive, and lead.

Tune in for a candid and inspiring conversation on the future of student affairs, the art of balancing operations with empathy, and why believing in your students and your team can change everything.

Her journey of building support systems that go beyond academics, weaving inclusion, equity, and community into the fabric of student life. Drawing on her extensive experience in higher education leadership, Shoshana shares strategies for fostering belonging in STEM, scaling initiatives without losing their personal touch, and aligning institutional vision with student needs.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about innovation in student support, the power of inclusive program design, and why creating pathways for every student to thrive is both a responsibility and a privilege.

With more than three decades of experience across public and private higher education, Dr. Selmon’s journey into leadership was shaped by a deeply personal motivation the pursuit of a better life. Growing up in a family of eleven, education became a shared mission and a powerful vehicle for economic mobility. Since becoming president of MCC in 2022, he has led with humility, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.

Ben and Dr. Selmon discuss how MCC is advancing student success through the Jayhawk Hub, a comprehensive basic-needs support ecosystem powered by 37 community partners, as well as the college’s forward-looking approach to AI-ready teaching and learning. Together, they unpack what student success truly means—meeting learners where they are, supporting their goals, and creating outcomes that lead to transfer, workforce readiness, and family-sustaining wages.

This conversation highlights how community colleges, when deeply connected to their regions and guided by compassionate leadership, can serve as engines of equity, talent development, and lasting opportunity.

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.

With nearly 15 years of higher education experience, Cynthia has built her career around advocacy, leadership, and empowering students to thrive. A proud UTEP alumna, she now leads critical programs that shape student success from leadership development and student conduct to health, wellness, and community engagement.

Ben and Cynthia discuss her journey from classroom teacher to senior higher education leader, her passion for supporting Hispanic and first-generation students, and her vision for creating inclusive, empowering spaces where every student can succeed.

A visionary community college leader, Dr. Spearman is deeply committed to empowering students and educators alike—developing and implementing a clear, student-centered vision that turns learning into a lived reality. His leadership is grounded in collaboration, positivity, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of education to shape both personal and professional growth.

Ben and Dr. Spearman explore the importance of intentional leadership, fostering belonging through professional development, and how a shared vision can elevate institutions, communities, and the students they serve.

Together, they explore how regional universities like CQUniversity play a transformative role far beyond classrooms, supplying skilled workforces, driving community-focused research, fueling local economies, and serving as anchors of opportunity. 

Ben and Alison discuss what makes SUNY Ulster distinctive from its unique role serving both rural communities and the city of Kingston, New York, to its deep-rooted connection with local residents who view the college as a life-changing institution. Alison shares how accessibility, visibility, and listening to students directly shape her day-to-day presidency, from open-door conversations to addressing food insecurity in real time.

A powerful thread throughout the conversation centers on student success by design, not luck. Alison reflects on a former student whose journey was altered through timely intervention, financial support, and consistent human connection and how that experience shaped her belief that institutions must intentionally build systems that surround every student with support.

This episode is a thoughtful and grounded exploration of leadership rooted in empathy, community, and the belief that higher education works best when students are truly seen, supported, and believed in.

Dr Bazile leads more than 200 professional staff and over 1,000 student employees at Ithaca College, advancing student engagement, leadership, well-being, and success. With previous leadership roles at St. Francis College and deep involvement in national student affairs organizations, he brings both academic and practitioner perspectives to the work of student success.

The conversation begins with what makes Ithaca College distinctive—from its renowned performing arts and communications alumni to its commitment to creating an environment where students feel safe, supported, and intellectually challenged. Dr. Bazile shares how Ithaca embraces the idea of community over individuality, grounding its culture in the belief that students should never have to navigate college alone.

This conversation is a moving reminder that student success is built on relationships, empathy, and shared responsibility—and that the most meaningful impact often happens outside the syllabus.

A passionate higher education advocate, Matt has built and led high-impact initiatives that redefine how institutions support student success. With over eight years of experience in curriculum and program development, he has designed best-practice frameworks for first-generation student support now implemented across colleges and universities nationwide.

Ben and Matt discuss the power of equity-driven education, the role of data-informed advocacy in shaping inclusive learning environments, and how universities can align strategy with compassion to drive real student outcomes.

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.

Ben and Ana explore her inspiring journey as a first-generation student and how it fuels her passion for equity-driven leadership. From developing inclusive programs to advocating for social justice at the institutional level, Ana shares actionable strategies for fostering belonging and driving meaningful change.

With an extensive career spanning leadership roles across Australian and UK universities, Romy is a recognised expert in educational transformation, learning innovation, and academic leadership. At Flinders, she leads the university’s academic enterprise, driving strategic priorities that enhance teaching quality, student success, and curriculum innovation.

Prior to this role, he held multiple positions at the University of Newcastle, where he led the University’s employability, enterprise and entrepreneurship functions and spearheaded major initiatives aligned with the University's Vision and Strategy. Gareth is also an Honorary Fellow of Enterprise Educators UK and a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce. 

In this role he is responsible for the academic activities of the University including its education programs, encompassing: enabling and pathways programs; the Wollotuka Institute for advancement and leadership of Indigenous education; and education innovation and technology. His portfolio includes student health and wellbeing, work integrated learning, careers and employment, academic administration and student conduct. Prof Hoffman’s responsibilities include academic promotions and staff and student equity, diversity and inclusion.

Ben and Han Kiat explore how NUS supports students in navigating academic challenges, building community, and preparing for life beyond graduation. With a focus on inclusive engagement and future-ready skills, Han Kiat shares his insights on leading student-centric initiatives, developing resilient support systems, and shaping the next generation of leaders in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on purposeful leadership, the value of community, and how Singapore’s flagship university is preparing students to thrive in a complex, interconnected world.

A seasoned higher education leader, Mark brings a proven track record as a Director/Registrar, driving excellent outcomes and spearheading transformative change. With deep expertise in student lifecycle management, governance, and regulatory landscapes, he blends sharp analytical skills with financial acumen to deliver IT and business projects that boost customer experience. A forward-thinking manager, Mark excels in building networks across sectors, government, and borders, while leading diverse teams with positivity and empowerment. His knack for negotiation, stakeholder communication, and mentorship fosters supportive environments where results shine—making him a dynamic change agent shaping Sydney’s academic operations.

With a leadership philosophy rooted in access, equity, and workforce readiness, Dr. Enamait is redefining how community colleges prepare students for meaningful futures—locally and nationally. His work champions the importance of policy advocacy and collaboration across institutions to empower students from all backgrounds, particularly in underserved regions.

Ben and John discuss the evolving role of community colleges in shaping the next generation of workforce leaders, the power of rural education innovation, and how strong, values-based leadership can drive transformation across the higher education landscape.

Dinesh is a doctor, lawyer, disability advocate, and researcher and was the first quadriplegic medical intern in Queensland. Dinesh is a senior advisor to the Disability Royal Commission, an ambassador to the Human Rights Commission’s Includeability program and a founding member of Doctors with Disabilities Australia. He was the third Australian to be awarded a Henry Viscardi Achievement Award and was the Queensland Australian of the Year for 2021. 

Joel and Colette explore what makes UNSW’s model distinctive. Rather than operating as a single centralised program, peer mentoring at UNSW has grown organically through student clubs and societies resulting in nearly 50 unique programs, many created and led by students themselves. From Women in Aviation to cross-faculty Digital Society initiatives and niche interest-based communities, the ecosystem reflects the diversity of student identity and ambition.

The episode closes with a powerful reflection on modern student life. In a world where students feel pressure to be “career-ready” before they graduate, Colette offers a different perspective: university should also be enjoyed. Beyond internships, leadership roles, and résumés, there is value in learning for its own sake and embracing the unique, fleeting experience of being a student.

Since assuming the presidency in 2015, Dr. Utash has led WSU Tech through a remarkable period of growth and change, including its pivotal 2018 affiliation with Wichita State University. Under her leadership, WSU Tech has become Kansas’ largest technical college and the managing partner for the National Center for Aviation Training, setting the national standard for innovation in applied learning.

Ben and Dr. Utash discuss her unique blend of higher education and private industry experience, her leadership of multimillion-dollar grant initiatives such as the National Aviation Consortium, and her influential role in workforce policy from serving on the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board to testifying before the U.S. Senate on the future of skilled aviation workers.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about visionary leadership, the transformative role of technical education, and how WSU Tech continues to drive economic and community growth across the region and beyond.

A proven leader with a passion for collaboration, Dr. Goldsmith has led teams to deliver transformative outcomes through innovative policy development, budget stewardship, and strategic partnerships that center student achievement. Her leadership philosophy—grounded in compassion, accountability, and service—reflects her lifelong commitment to building strong, inclusive communities.

Ben and Carole discuss the power of local engagement, the future of community colleges, and how strong leadership can foster environments where students, staff, and communities thrive together.

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.

Ben and Shelley discuss her path from earning a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy/Higher Education Administration at UMass Amherst to becoming an influential voice in social justice and student advocacy.

Lyndin and Rosie explore what it takes to design scalable engagement initiatives that are meaningful and adaptable — especially as the university looks ahead to its bold transformation in 2026. Rosie shares how she merges operational precision with human-centred design, ensuring that every touchpoint enhances the student experience while aligning with institutional goals.

Ben and Dr. Blondin discuss what makes Clark State unique, from nationally distinctive programs in modelling and simulation and addiction and integrated treatment studies to one of the largest nursing programs in Ohio. The conversation dives deep into Clark State’s One Front Door strategy, an equity-centred approach that ensures every learner, whether credit or workforce-focused, receives the same level of access, support, and dignity from day one.

As she reflects on her upcoming retirement after two decades as a college president, Dr Blondin shares hard-earned leadership wisdom, the mentors who shaped her journey, and the advice she gives every student: always sit at the table and never confuse who you are with the job you do.