May Madness Exacerbating More Mayhem
We have already noted multiple times this year that there is lots of consternation not only about the financial risks facing colleges and universities, but also about what the impact will be on students and families. Now the situation is further exacerbated with even more economic uncertainty due to multiple new decisions by the country’s president and his “education” leadership team. No question, we are now in a time of high anxiety and uncertainty about higher ed institutions’ success today — and definitely tomorrow.
The good news is that many institutional leaders, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are stepping up and pushing back on the uninformed perspectives that have been publicly stated via the planned media sessions. So many people are now concluding that enough is enough. Some suggested changes and revisions are good, but the overall decision to cut back on so many things during these trying times is a catalyst for what is the next chapter in the history of higher education. Now is the time to foster more initiatives that facilitate people working together. Collaborating to find the right solutions is not the norm today, but it is a necessity for individual institutions, towns, and communities. What happens at each institution impacts the community today and tomorrow.
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People involved with higher education are concerned about the possible dose of reality that many foolish things being talked about might be implemented nationally or within each state. No matter what, continue to stay positive, embrace innovation, and have a mindset about being edupreneurial. In addition, focus on alumni and friends of the college or university because the more they know about the institution’s situation, many will be predisposed to helping your college or university overcome obstacles and helping you create enhanced value and more longevity. If campus communities step up to address the May madness and mayhem in a positive manner, good solutions will happen today and tomorrow.
