Learning Resources

Abstract: In the labyrinth of higher education, where silos and pigeonholes abound, the principle “formfollows function” reveals a path toward greater coherence. This article explores the intersection of the completion agenda and institutional effectiveness, arguing that the key to unlocking sustainable student success lies in integrated, purpose-driven organizational design. By leaning into the evolution of institutional effectiveness, we propose that colleges and universities can transcend fragmented initiatives and cultivate a culture where cohesion is not just a buzzword but a foundational strategy for achieving educational outcomes that truly matter.

Abstract: Integrated Planning processes in higher education can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, making it challenging to identify where to begin. This webinar brings together leaders from three different institution types to explore how each began their unique planning journeys. Whether you are just starting or refining your process, this session offers critical insight into how different institutional types navigate this critical phase.

Abstract: The value of collaborative planning is in the process and the outcome. An intentional, co-creation design improves your odds of developing a meaningful plan—a plan of action and impact. By leveraging connection and collective cognition, more voices are engaged, diverse viewpoints and ideas are collected, and shared understanding is fostered. This leads to enhanced plan quality and ownership of the direction and action. The article explores the benefits of collaborative planning, the amplification of social capital, and the application of a design framework and tools for purpose-driven collaboration.

Abstract: Georgia College & State University, a public liberal arts institution, began an integrated,
collaborative, and future-focused strategic planning process during a time of uncertainty (COVID-19, enrollment declines, financial shortfalls, etc.). This planning included shared leadership across campus to develop and implement the plan, data-informed decision-making by a diverse group of steering committee members representing all areas of campus, visits to strategically identified aspirant universities, and ongoing stakeholder engagement that included student input. These strategies leveraged the inherent qualities of a liberal arts institution while addressing the challenges and opportunities that exist in public higher education.

Abstract: Student wellness and campus security remain a paramount issue in higher education, especially at space-constrained urban institutions that have less influence over the legibility of their campus edges. Both planning design professionals and higher education administrators are seeking to make their campuses safer and increase inclusion and belonging amongst their student communities, but are coming at those goals from different perspectives. 2022-2023 SCUP Fellow, Joel Pettigrew, conducted research that explores these differences and offers ideas for processes that center on students’ sense of security within an equitable perspective.

This webinar panel features a spectrum of professionals from these industries, offering both planning and higher education expertise to ensure student safety in urban campus edge design. The discussion will focus on how campus ecology and student development theories can inform students’ sense of security, balanced with planning principles like Crime Prevention Through Environment Design (CPTED) which guide the students’ built environment.

Abstract: Explore how aligning Strategic Enrollment Management with institutional strategic planning can drive sustainable growth and long-term success. Discover proven frameworks integrating data-driven decision-making with cross-functional collaboration to enhance student recruitment, retention, academic programing, and space planning. Join us to learn actionable strategies that will transform your institution’s enrollment outcomes while supporting its broader mission and vision.

Abstract: Join Dr. Lynn Akey and Salvador Aceves, Ed. D. for a conversation highlighting insights from SCUP’s Fall Trends in Higher Education Report. This document provides an overview of the important external forces that impact institutional operations—it’s an essential tool for strategic planning, scenario planning, and contingency planning.