How Institutional Collaboration is the Future of Higher Ed

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About the Episode: 

In this episode, Dustin sits down with Dr. Michael Horowitz, Founder and Chancellor of The Community Solution Education System, to discuss the transformative power of collaboration in higher education. Dr. Horowitz shares updates on the system's expansion, its innovative governance model, and the critical role of shared infrastructure in fostering growth. Together, they explore how partnerships, technology, and bold thinking are key to thriving in a challenging higher ed landscape.

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Key Takeaways

• Rebranding and Growth: The TCS Education System is now The Community Solution Education System, reflecting its mission to build collaborative, networked solutions in higher education. A sixth institution, University of Western States, has joined the system.
• Shared Infrastructure: The system emphasizes shared infrastructure (not just shared services), streamlining operations like HR, technology, finance, and marketing while allowing institutions to focus on student success.
• Leveraging Technology: From AI in medicine to Workday and Salesforce adoption, the system is investing in cutting-edge tools to enhance operations and improve the student experience.
• Big, Bold Partnerships: Institutions are encouraged to look beyond their own walls and form innovative partnerships with other colleges, universities, or even non-traditional entities like retirement communities.
• Sustainability Through Collaboration: Smaller institutions benefit from shared expertise, resources, and infrastructure, ensuring financial health and academic innovation in challenging times.

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What is The Community Solution Education System?

Dr. Michael Horowitz explains how The Community Solution Education System integrates six nonprofit colleges and universities under a shared governance model. Each institution retains its local leadership and autonomy while benefiting from centralized infrastructure in areas like technology, finance, and legal support. This allows the institutions to focus on academic innovation and student success while addressing the inefficiencies and financial pressures that challenge many standalone institutions.

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Why is a networked approach crucial for higher education?

Dr. Horowitz emphasizes that higher education has traditionally operated in silos, limiting collaboration and innovation. The Community Solution model removes these barriers by formalizing cooperation through shared governance and infrastructure. This approach fosters economies of scale, reduces redundancy, and encourages institutions to share expertise and resources, ultimately enhancing their ability to serve students and communities.

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What are the benefits of shared infrastructure?

The system’s shared infrastructure includes advanced tools like Workday and Salesforce, which many smaller institutions could not afford on their own. By pooling resources, member institutions gain access to cutting-edge technology, centralized marketing, and streamlined operations. For example, Pacific Oaks College achieved maximum accreditation for the first time, thanks in part to the robust infrastructure provided by the system.

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How is AI transforming the system’s programs?

AI is playing a significant role in shaping the system’s healthcare-focused institutions, such as Kansas Health Science University. From faster, more accurate cancer diagnoses to its first AI in Medicine Conference, the system is positioning itself as a leader in integrating AI into healthcare education. Beyond academics, AI is also being explored for operational improvements in areas like admissions and student support.

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How does the system balance centralization with institutional autonomy?

While the system centralizes key functions like technology and finance, it allows institutions to maintain their unique identities and day-to-day governance. This balance enables institutions to tailor their programs and services to local needs while benefiting from the collective strength of the system. For example, while multiple institutions may offer similar programs, they do so with distinct approaches that align with their missions and student populations.

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What advice does Dr. Horowitz have for other institutions?

Dr. Horowitz encourages higher education leaders to look beyond their campuses and seek meaningful partnerships with other institutions or organizations. By embracing collaboration, colleges and universities can share resources, reduce costs, and innovate in ways that would be impossible on their own. He also highlights the importance of adopting bold strategies and rethinking traditional governance models to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.

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About the Show: The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell‍

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Some of our favorites include Generation AI and  I Wanna Work There. 

Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

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