What if your career path zigzagged between academia and corporate worlds before landing at the helm of a prestigious college? Join us as we sit down with the president of Menlo College, who shares his captivating journey from the University of Chicago to a successful stint in healthcare IT consulting. You'll hear how a serendipitous opportunity led to co-founding a healthcare IT startup and the invaluable experiences that came with it, ultimately steering him back into higher education. Discover how his unexpected return ignited a passion for driving innovation in small college environments.
Navigating the turbulent waters of higher education, Menlo College faces unique challenges and opportunities. Our guest dives into the strategic moves that position Menlo in the Silicon Valley ecosystem, leveraging its renowned athletics program and prime location to offer students unparalleled opportunities. As we tackle the complexities of enrollment management, you'll get insights into how Menlo distinguishes itself in a competitive landscape, highlighting internship experiences that often translate into promising careers for its students. We discuss the evolving value perception of college education and how Menlo stands out by offering a curriculum that resonates with real-world applications.
In a landscape where board dynamics and philanthropy are crucial, Menlo College sets itself apart with a mission-driven approach and a unique board composition of successful professionals. Our conversation touches on the challenges of faculty recruitment amidst Silicon Valley's high cost of living and the critical role that philanthropy plays in sustaining small colleges. Hear about the college's financial strategies as we explore how donations are becoming increasingly vital to fulfilling institutional missions and creating lasting impacts. This episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences and strategies from a leader at the forefront of higher education transformation.

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