Sessions

The role of chief academic officer has never been more demanding. Today’s CAOs are asked to lead institutional transformation while managing shrinking budgets, faculty burnout, public skepticism about higher education, and tensions around shared governance. Even when the path forward is clear, the leadership required to move a campus forward—ethically, empathetically, and decisively—is anything but […]

Equity in student access to wellbeing resources is a perennial issue for higher education and a challenge that, in spite of multiple constraints, is one that can’t afford to ignored. Addressing this issue requires stepping out of the usual and engaging imagination and collaboration to develop new approaches. This session uses an interactive panel and […]

Saint Francis University (PA), through its Center for Academic Success (CAS) and partnership with student life, uses a holistic approach for student success, progression, and retention. CAS monitors every student through third-party applications and proactive texting campaigns. OASIS and SAGE programs offer inclusive support and peer mentoring. These efforts, along with a deliberate leveraging of […]

This session will empower chief academic affairs officers and student affairs/student success officers to transform their institutions through holistic, mission-driven approaches that address the complete student experience. Examples of Keuka College (NY)’s successful initiatives will be shared—including brief program overviews and outcomes data—along with discussions on how to leverage grant funding and change management theory […]

In our polarized era, colleges and universities must bolster students’ capacity for engaging across deep disagreement, cultivating curiosity and tolerance for perspectives different from their own. Higher education institutions cannot achieve these aims without chief academic officers taking a leading role in setting a strategy for free expression, civil discourse, and dialogue across difference, and […]

This session will provide an overview of current legal topics in higher education that administrators need to understand as they make policy, programmatic, and day-to-day decisions at their institutions. Participants will explore relevant legal requirements and practical approaches to meeting student success goals in an environment that is strategic, innovative, and legally compliant.

In an era of intense political tension, institutional and personal uncertainty, and relentless demands on higher education leaders, how does one stay rooted in purpose, connected to joy, and aligned with values? This interactive workshop invites chief academic officers, student life administrators, and their teams to breathe, reflect, and recommit to practices that will sustain […]

Four affinity group meetings will be held during this time. Click to view details.

Boxed lunches will be provided for all Institute participants. Seminar topics will be assigned to different tables. Participants may choose a table based on the topic that piques their interest and on which they desire to have further conversation with colleagues.