Thirty years ago, some of us predicted that mutual growth mergers would become a prominent megatrend in the higher education industry. Instead, we witnessed a broad range of institutions that faced impending liquidation. Some of these fragile colleges were pressured to merge with somewhat stronger institutions which, in some cases, ironically, ended up closing after […]

It turns out that a key factor in students finishing college is their experience during the very start of college, from the moment they send their deposit through freshman orientation. Institutions find that switching the focus of orientation to fostering campus connections boosts student engagement, and research links student connectedness to retention. So at many […]

Architects strive to maintain the historical integrity of structures when repurposing buildings—while ensuring they provide comfort and the modern conveniences students need. Called "adaptive reuse," renovating older facilities for different functions often includes reimagining spaces and maximizing natural light. But most higher ed institutions repurpose buildings because they have no other choice, says Alan Gribble, […]