Blackstone Valley Prep Mayoral Academy’s Post

Take a look back on 2023 with Michael Weatherhead, MBA. There is no doubt I have seen a massive shift in the educational landscape. Namely, the rise of Micro-credential programming explicitly geared towards industry needs has been undeniable. At OEG, I am proud at how we have embraced this shift through our experiential programming and robust partnerships with academic institutions like the Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa, UNBC Continuing Studies, Peel College of Professional Studies, and International Business University , as well as establishing our industry footprint, officially joining the Kanata North Business Association What's really excited me though has been getting to witness the synergy between companies gaining skilled assistance and students acquiring hands-on learning opportunities. For instance, we've seen students apply machine learning techniques to enhance satellite annotations, showcasing the practical application of their academic knowledge in real-world scenarios. Particularly noteworthy as well has been our partnered Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program with UNBC Continuing Studies and ECO Canada. This fully funded program gives participants a chance to build a sustainable business and grow their entrepreneurial skills while receiving mentorship from industry experts. This is what modern learning looks like - it’s about connecting academic theory with practical industry skills. We're not just preparing students to get jobs; we're equipping them to excel in them with in-demand skills. As we look to the future, OEG is all about pushing the boundaries of educational pathways, linking up even more with industry, and prepping a workforce that’s ready for whatever comes next. #EducationEvolution #RealWorldLearning #FutureOfWork

🌟 Celebrating 10 Years of Excellence at IFSA Network 🌟 🎉 Today marks a significant milestone in our journey – the 10th anniversary of the International Finance Student Association. A decade ago, we embarked on a mission to connect the brightest minds in finance with industry leaders, fostering a global community dedicated to learning and empowerment. From our humble beginnings at Erasmus University Rotterdam to establishing chapters across continents, we've strived to create opportunities for growth, connection, and professional development. 🌍✨ 🏆 Through initiatives like the Global Case Competition at Harvard and the IFSA Traders' Cup, we've seen incredible talent and dedication. The IFSA Youth Empowerment Program has been pivotal in teaching vital financial skills to the younger generation, preparing them to be the changemakers of tomorrow. As we look back on the connections we've made, the challenges we've overcome, and the successes we've celebrated, we are overwhelmed with gratitude. 🙏 To our members, partners, and supporters: thank you for believing in the vision of IFSA. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in our achievements. 🚀 We're not just celebrating past accomplishments—today, we are also looking forward to the opportunities and adventures that await. Are you inspired to lead and create impact in your university's finance community? Consider launching an IFSA chapter at your university. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/e4epZqWy #IFSA10Years #FinanceLeaders #GlobalCommunity #Empowerment #AnniversaryCelebration #FinanceEducation #NetworkBuilding #CareerDevelopment #GlobalFinance #Leadership #UniversityLife #StudentLeadership #FinancialLiteracy #CaseCompetition #YouthEmpowerment #InnovationInFinance

As we noted last month, no question these are trying times that so often diminish positive thinking for so many. The lingering uncertainty about the future of higher ed that is often skewed by a variety of political perspectives, the continuing delay of the “new” FAFSA, the decline in the number of high school graduates, and numerous fiscal challenges all impact people’s desire to stay positive about the future of higher education and its inherent value. But now is the time to engage in self-reflection, put things in perspective, and stay positive about today and the future. Ironically, AGB’s new executive vice president Mary Papazian wrote her article called “Rethinking Our Needs for a New Era” in AGB’s Trusteeship magazine and shared this observation: "Yet challenging times also can—indeed must—become moments for innovation and a renewed commitment to mission, particularly around student success, even if some of our practices might require fundamental redesign.” As we have always noted, it does take a village to come together to accomplish success. People support what they help create, and if each institution commits to involving students, faculty, staff, cabinet, board members, alumni, partners, and friends, then viable solutions that are innovative and relevant today will further enhance the authentic value of a college degree. So as we approach the holiday season, stay positive, embrace innovation, and best wishes for an edupreneurial 2024 that will solidify your institution’s legacy. #highereducationleadership #highered #collegesanduniversities #AGB https://lnkd.in/gjUj5up8

🌟 We’re Thrilled to Announce Our BIBAs 2024 Nominations! 🌟 We are incredibly honoured to share that West Lancashire College has been nominated for the BIBAs 2024 in not one, but two separate categories! This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our amazing team and the transformative journey we’ve been on. Here’s what these nominations mean to us: 1. Recognition of Excellence: These nominations highlight the exceptional efforts of our staff who go above and beyond to ensure our students receive the best education and support. 2. Transformative Growth: Over the past few years, we have made significant strides in improving our facilities, curriculum, and student services. 3. Innovative Practices: Our commitment to incorporating innovative teaching methods and technologies has set us apart as a leader in education. 4. Community Impact: We take pride in our strong community engagement and the positive impact we have on local businesses and families. 5. Future-Ready Graduates: Our focus on preparing students for the future ensures they leave us with the skills and confidence to succeed in their chosen paths. This acknowledgment inspires us to continue striving for excellence and making a difference in the lives of our students and community. As an educator, what does external (to the industry) mean to you? #BIBAs2024 #WestLancsCollege #EducationalExcellence #CommunityImpact

🌍 Reflections from the GCF Fellowship: Connecting Innovation and M&E 🌍 Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to take a course on Global Citizenship Schools Navigator for Educators in the GCF Fellowship, where we delved into the transformative power of the Global Innovator Mindset. One aspect that deeply resonated with me, especially from my perspective in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), is the emphasis on experimentation and reflection. 🔄 Innovation Thrives on Experimentation and Reflection As someone dedicated to Monitoring &Evaluation (M&E) this principle aligns perfectly with our core practices. The Global Innovator Mindset encourages us to experiment with new ideas and approaches, and then reflect on their impact. This mirrors the M&E process, where we continuously assess and analyze the effectiveness of programs and initiatives. 📊 Reflective Action in M&E In M&E, we focus on gathering data, evaluating outcomes, and refining strategies based on evidence. By reflecting on what works and what doesn't, we can continuously refine and improve our innovative efforts. This ensures that our actions are not only effective but also aligned with our set objectives and broader goals. 🔍 Continuous Improvement The iterative cycle of experimentation, reflection, and refinement is crucial. It allows us to adapt and evolve, ensuring that our programs meet the needs of our intended beneficiaries/communities. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of intentions but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement. 💡 M&E: A Catalyst for Innovation Monitoring and Evaluation play a pivotal role in driving innovation within educational institutions. By systematically collecting and analyzing data, M&E provide valuable insights that inform decision-making and strategy development. This data-driven approach is essential for implementing the interventions and achieving sustainable, impactful change. 🌟 A Journey of Learning and Growth The GCF Fellowship has reinforced my belief in the power of M&E as a catalyst for innovation. By embracing a mindset of reflective action, we can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and development. Let's continue to push boundaries, experiment boldly, and reflect thoughtfully as we strive to create a thriving global community. Join me in this journey of continuous learning and innovation. Together, we can transform education for human and planetary flourishing. 🌱✨ #GlobalCitizenshipFoundation #GlobalInnovatorMindset #MonitoringAndEvaluation #Learning #Reflection #ContinuousImprovement #DataDriven #Innovation #EducationalLeadership

Last weekend, I had the privilege of attending the graduation ceremony at Western Governor University (WGU) in Chicago United States, where numerous Masters students celebrated the completion of their degrees. Among the 1500 Masters certificates awarded, the main fields include Master of Business Administration (MBA), Masters in Business Leadership, Masters in Information Technology, Masters in Data Analytics as well as in Education. As I observed the event, I couldn’t help but contemplate the impending disruption of traditional universities. WGU, as an online institution, boasts an impressive record of Masters program completion in an average of just 2 years, all while students maintain the flexibility to work alongside their studies. Moreover, it’s highly likely that WGU’s affordability sets it apart from traditional counterparts. While conventional universities still hold a reputation for providing a qualitative education, the scales are gradually tipping as students weigh the merits of institutions like WGU. Conventional universities must adopt a proactive stance, recognizing education as an investment and students as discerning customers seeking returns on their educational investments. The imperative is clear: they must seek sustainable solutions to mitigate the exorbitant costs of higher education and eradicate the longstanding inefficiencies that squander students’ time. Around a decade ago, the late Harvard Professor, Dr. Clayton Christensen, presciently predicted that the lowest-performing 25 percent of every tier in American higher education would either vanish or merge. His rationale lay in the belief that the traditional higher education business model was unsustainable in an era of rising costs and mounting competition. He saw online learning platforms like WGU as disruptors, and this prophecy has indeed come to fruition. Traditional higher education institutions must act wisely by initiating self-disruption and evolving to become more customer-centric. Following Christensen’s wisdom, they must identify the “jobs to be done” for their students and adapt their business models accordingly. This transformation extends to the mindset of education administrators and lecturers who must embrace an entrepreneurial spirit, viewing education as a valuable investment. Failure to do so may render them vulnerable to the ongoing wave of disruption. https://lnkd.in/gH6uT8Hj

“Many of us in higher education are faced with similar challenges: economic viability, access and affordability, diversification of revenue, efficiency and cost reduction, competitive advantage, adapting to change, and most importantly, improved student outcomes. Since many of us face these challenges, innovation is critical as we look for the solution. I look forward to sharing my ideas, thoughts and lessons learned so we can all continue to meet the mission of our institutions, and meet the needs of the ever-changing landscape, while maintiaing financial sustainability. OLC is a perfect venue to have this open dialogue and important conversation as it brings leaders and influential voices from across many types of higher education entities so we can share, learn, and grow together.” - Katie Scheie, Chief Operating Officer, UAGC We are thrilled to share that our Chief Operating Officer Katie Scheie will be co-presenting at the OLC Accelerate 2023 conference on October 24 in Washington, D.C.! The conference initially takes place virtually October 3-5, 2023, and attendees will gather in person in Washington, D.C. October 23-25. Katie’s participation underscores the University’s relentless pursuit of cutting-edge approaches to advancing online education. As we strive to redefine the future of learning, her insights and expertise will undoubtedly make a significant impact. We are immensely proud of Katie, and we are confident that her presentation will inspire and contribute to the broader conversation about enhancing online education for all. UAGC colleagues Morgan Johnson, Vice President of Academic Experience and Interim Chief Academic Officer, and Dr. Bryan Aylward, PsyD, Senior Director of Academic Operations, also will be lead presenters during the conference. Learn more about Katie’s session here: https://bit.ly/3ZqDe7S. Learn more about Morgan’s session here: https://bit.ly/3ZsO3pP. Learn more about Bryan’s session here: https://bit.ly/3t65SPy Learn more and register today! https://bit.ly/3POLnjj. #highered #college #onlinelearning #onlineeducation #UAGCNews #UAGC

If we used the new geospatial technologies to create holistic models of university campuses, to optimize natural and man made systems, then we could achieve such a goal. What is a Smart Digital Twin University Campus anyway?

Meet Young Innovators Academy, a 13th Annual GrowFL #FLCTW Honoree! 🏆⭐️ Young Innovators Academy is revolutionizing early childhood education development. Their people-centered curriculum integrates new trends in education and takes cutting-edge learning concepts to the next level, ensuring every young learner achieves their highest potential. Marnie Forestieri Zettler, CEO and founder, says her advice for fellow business owners is to, "Never stop iterating your ideas. In today’s fast-paced world, things are constantly changing and evolving. What may have worked in the past, may not be as effective now. It’s important to continuously adapt and improve your business strategies." Continue reading here: https://lnkd.in/eARaV8sb The 13th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch is brought to you by Duke Energy Corporation and Nperspective CFO & Strategic Services, in association with the Edward Lowe Foundation. Celebrate with us! Limited tickets remain. Register here: https://lnkd.in/ea2kZ6rE

Have you heard of LIS: The London Interdisciplinary School? I had the chance to visit them last week together with next-gen members and impact investors from FBN-The Family Business Network and Center for Sustainable Finance and Private Wealth. We had the opportunity to listen to LIS's founder Christopher Persson about how they started, and what they aim to achieve. We also met a few students who are about to graduate from their Bachelor’s degree. It turns out that at LIS you study problems 🤓 - not a single discipline. Students start each term with a clear important question relating to a complex problem like Inequality, Ethics of AI, or Climate Change 🌎 and learn to take an interdisciplinary approach to tackle them. During the degree, they study a diverse range of disciplinary perspectives from the arts, social sciences, humanities, and sciences. It’s a hands-on approach that helps them apply their skills and knowledge to generate valuable and impactful outcomes and prepare for the professional world. As a social entrepreneur, I find this approach very exciting✨ and I look forward to seeing what the graduates will achieve and how will they contribute to transforming our world and the systems we live in. The biggest challenge for LIS right now is brand awareness and reputation as the first students are only just graduating to go to the big wide world. They will need to show how they succeed in giving LIS the brand awareness it needs to attract more students. I invite you to join the conversation and consider how we can collectively contribute to shaping an education system that prepares future leaders to address the world's most pressing challenges 🔉 Is there anything we can do to open up this type of degree to more people around the world? For now, I look forward to engaging with LIS students, perhaps bringing them on board as interns and also volunteers on the Goodsted platform as I’m sure many organisations would benefit from their skills and problem-solving capabilities.