Episodes

  • Focusing on the Workforce: How Colleges Should Prepare Students for the Job Market
    Aug 29 2024

    In this week's episode of Let's Talk ED, join Zahi Atallah and John Mercer for a thought-provoking discussion on key issues shaping current day higher education.

    Segment 1: "Trust in Two-Year Colleges: Why Americans Prefer Community Colleges Over 4-Year Institutions"


    John and Zahi explore the growing trust in two-year colleges across the U.S. and why they are often seen as more accessible, flexible, and practical compared to four-year institutions. Surveys show that community colleges play a higher role in bridging the gap between education and employment. While not a competition between institutions, the perspective of a large swath of the electorate seems to favor the community college because of the educational accessibility, welcoming environment, and perceived quality of the learning.

    Segment 2: "Focusing on the Workforce: How Colleges Should Prepare Students for the Job Market"


    As the job market continues to evolve, higher education must adapt. This conversation delves into how colleges can better prepare students for real-world careers and how partnerships with industries are becoming increasingly vital. The task for higher education is to do the groundwork for the workforce development required to maintain the economic, innovative, and industrial edge and leadership of the American economy.

    Segment 3: "Direct College Admissions: A Potential Game Changer for Students and Schools"


    Could direct admissions be the future of college enrollment? In this segment, John and Zahi discuss the potential of direct admissions programs and how they might remove barriers, streamline processes, and provide more equitable access to higher education for all.

    Don't miss our conversations about the changing landscape of higher education! Be sure to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk ED for more engaging discussions on the future of education. And as always, join us on our quest to revolutionize education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #WorkforceReady #JobMarketPrep #CollegeAdmissions #DirectAdmissions #StudentSuccess #EducationAccess #2YearCollege #HigherEdInnovation #EdReform #JobSkills #LetsTalkED #CollegePromise #FutureOfEducation #TechInEducation #CareerPrep #HigherEdLeadership #StudentEquity #PopularPerception

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    11 mins
  • Trust in Two-Year Colleges: Why Americans Prefer Community Colleges Over 4-Year Institutions
    Aug 25 2024

    In this week's episode of Let's Talk ED, join Zahi Atallah and John Mercer for a thought-provoking discussion on key issues shaping current day higher education.

    Segment 1: "Trust in Two-Year Colleges: Why Americans Prefer Community Colleges Over 4-Year Institutions"


    John and Zahi explore the growing trust in two-year colleges across the U.S. and why they are often seen as more accessible, flexible, and practical compared to four-year institutions. Surveys show that community colleges play a higher role in bridging the gap between education and employment. While not a competition between institutions, the perspective of a large swath of the electorate seems to favor the community college because of the educational accessibility, welcoming environment, and perceived quality of the learning.

    Segment 2: "Focusing on the Workforce: How Colleges Should Prepare Students for the Job Market"


    As the job market continues to evolve, higher education must adapt. This conversation delves into how colleges can better prepare students for real-world careers and how partnerships with industries are becoming increasingly vital. The task for higher education is to do the groundwork for the workforce development required to maintain the economic, innovative, and industrial edge and leadership of the American economy.

    Segment 3: "Direct College Admissions: A Potential Game Changer for Students and Schools"


    Could direct admissions be the future of college enrollment? In this segment, John and Zahi discuss the potential of direct admissions programs and how they might remove barriers, streamline processes, and provide more equitable access to higher education for all.

    Don't miss our conversations about the changing landscape of higher education! Be sure to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk ED for more engaging discussions on the future of education. And as always, join us on our quest to revolutionize education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #WorkforceReady #JobMarketPrep #CollegeAdmissions #DirectAdmissions #StudentSuccess #EducationAccess #2YearCollege #HigherEdInnovation #EdReform #JobSkills #LetsTalkED #CollegePromise #FutureOfEducation #TechInEducation #CareerPrep #HigherEdLeadership #StudentEquity #PopularPerception

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    12 mins
  • Disruptive Technology: Stemming Declines in Enrollments and Funding
    Aug 18 2024

    Harnessing Technology for Student Success | Let's Talk Ed with John Mercer

    This week on Let's Talk Ed! Join me, Zahi Atallah in a conversation with John Mercer, a college Chief Information Officer (CIO), as we explore the critical role of technology in higher education. This week's discussion delves into three key areas:


    Segment 1: "Mindset and Planning: Designing, Acquiring, and Deploying Technology in College”. In this first video, we discuss the mindset and strategic planning required to design, acquire, and deploy technology in colleges effectively. Learn about the importance of long range forward-thinking (high-beams analogy) approaches and how to create a technology roadmap that aligns with institutional goals and enhances outcomes for students and the institution.


    Segment 2: "Leadership in Technology: Influencing Student Access and Success”. The second installment examines how the leadership of technology can significantly impact student access and success. We explore the ways in which technological advancements and strong leadership can create more inclusive and supportive learning environments. Education has repeatedly been transformed by technological innovations that create opportunities for student success and access.


    Segment 3: "Disruptive Technology: Stemming Declines in Enrollments and Funding”. In the final video, we investigate how the disruptive nature of technology can be leveraged to address declines in enrollments and funding. Discover innovative strategies and tools that can attract and retain students, ensuring the sustainability and growth of higher education institutions.


    Don't miss this engaging conversation on the transformative potential of technology in higher education. And as always, feel free to voice your opinion. So write a comment!


    Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk Ed for more thought-provoking discussions on revolutionizing education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #TechnologyInEducation #StudentSuccess #CollegePromise #LetstalkEd #EducationalTechnology #TechLeadership #StudentAccess #InclusiveEducation #EnrollmentStrategies #EdTech #CollegePlanning #TechInnovation #StudentRetention #FutureOfEducation #EducationReform #DisruptiveTechnology #SustainableEducation #TechnologyLeadership #DisruptiveTechnology #EnrollmentStrategies

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    16 mins
  • Leadership in Technology: Influencing Student Access and Success
    Aug 15 2024

    Harnessing Technology for Student Success | Let's Talk Ed with John Mercer

    This week on Let's Talk Ed! Join me, Zahi Atallah in a conversation with John Mercer, a college Chief Information Officer (CIO), as we explore the critical role of technology in higher education. This week's discussion delves into three key areas:


    Segment 1: "Mindset and Planning: Designing, Acquiring, and Deploying Technology in College”. In this first video, we discuss the mindset and strategic planning required to design, acquire, and deploy technology in colleges effectively. Learn about the importance of long range forward-thinking (high-beams analogy) approaches and how to create a technology roadmap that aligns with institutional goals and enhances outcomes for students and the institution.


    Segment 2: "Leadership in Technology: Influencing Student Access and Success”. The second installment examines how the leadership of technology can significantly impact student access and success. We explore the ways in which technological advancements and strong leadership can create more inclusive and supportive learning environments. Education has repeatedly been transformed by technological innovations that create opportunities for student success and access.


    Segment 3: "Disruptive Technology: Stemming Declines in Enrollments and Funding”. In the final video, we investigate how the disruptive nature of technology can be leveraged to address declines in enrollments and funding. Discover innovative strategies and tools that can attract and retain students, ensuring the sustainability and growth of higher education institutions.


    Don't miss this engaging conversation on the transformative potential of technology in higher education. And as always, feel free to voice your opinion. So write a comment!


    Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk Ed for more thought-provoking discussions on revolutionizing education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #TechnologyInEducation #StudentSuccess #CollegePromise #LetstalkEd #EducationalTechnology #TechLeadership #StudentAccess #InclusiveEducation #EnrollmentStrategies #EdTech #CollegePlanning #TechInnovation #StudentRetention #FutureOfEducation #EducationReform #DisruptiveTechnology #SustainableEducation #TechnologyLeadership #DisruptiveTechnology #EnrollmentStrategies

    Show more Show less
    13 mins
  • Mindset and Planning: Designing, Acquiring, and Deploying Technology in College
    Aug 11 2024

    Harnessing Technology for Student Success | Let's Talk Ed with John Mercer

    This week on Let's Talk Ed! Join me, Zahi Atallah in a conversation with John Mercer, a college Chief Information Officer (CIO), as we explore the critical role of technology in higher education. This week's discussion delves into three key areas:


    Segment 1: "Mindset and Planning: Designing, Acquiring, and Deploying Technology in College”. In this first video, we discuss the mindset and strategic planning required to design, acquire, and deploy technology in colleges effectively. Learn about the importance of long range forward-thinking (high-beams analogy) approaches and how to create a technology roadmap that aligns with institutional goals and enhances outcomes for students and the institution.


    Segment 2: "Leadership in Technology: Influencing Student Access and Success”. The second installment examines how the leadership of technology can significantly impact student access and success. We explore the ways in which technological advancements and strong leadership can create more inclusive and supportive learning environments. Education has repeatedly been transformed by technological innovations that create opportunities for student success and access.


    Segment 3: "Disruptive Technology: Stemming Declines in Enrollments and Funding”. In the final video, we investigate how the disruptive nature of technology can be leveraged to address declines in enrollments and funding. Discover innovative strategies and tools that can attract and retain students, ensuring the sustainability and growth of higher education institutions.


    Don't miss this engaging conversation on the transformative potential of technology in higher education. And as always, feel free to voice your opinion. So write a comment!


    Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk Ed for more thought-provoking discussions on revolutionizing education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #TechnologyInEducation #StudentSuccess #CollegePromise #LetstalkEd #EducationalTechnology #TechLeadership #StudentAccess #InclusiveEducation #EnrollmentStrategies #EdTech #CollegePlanning #TechInnovation #StudentRetention #FutureOfEducation #EducationReform #DisruptiveTechnology #SustainableEducation #TechnologyLeadership #DisruptiveTechnology #EnrollmentStrategies

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    13 mins
  • How Could Counselors and Advisors Influence College Decisions: Enhancing Success
    Aug 4 2024

    Keeping the College Promise Alive: Counseling and Advising for Student Success | Let's Talk Ed with Violeta Mendoza Wenger

    This week on Let's Talk Ed! Join me, Zahi Atallah, in a conversation with California Community College Counselor Violeta Mendoza Wenger as we continue our exploration of keeping the college promise alive and strong to ensure student access and success.

    Segment 1: "Pathways to Success: How Counselors Help Students Identify Paths When They May Not Know”. In this first video, we dive into how counselors clarify academic paths for first-generation and underrepresented student groups, especially when they and their families may not fully understand what college entails. How to help students know what they want, and families understand what they need and what it means to go to college? It can go beyond the cost of education to the fact that the loved one may need to relocate away from the family nest to achieve the intended goals.


    Segment 2: "Staying the Course: How to Reverse Trends for Students in Colleges”. This second installment addresses the pressing issue of reversing the long-standing trend where 80% of incoming community college students aim to transfer to universities, but only 20% actually achieve this goal. We explore strategies to improve these outcomes by looking at pathways, developmental education, support systems, etc..


    Segment 3: "How Could Counselors and Advisors Influence College Decisions: Enhancing Success”. In the 3 segment, we examine how counselors and advisors can influence college administration decisions on course offerings, including instructional modalities, schedules, and academic pathways, to enhance student success. The rapport of counselors/advisors with students yields a wealth of tangible data points that allow an informed decision-making, and a movement away from a rigid mindset in college administration.


    What do you think about role of counselors and advisors in fostering student success in community colleges? Please comment and tell us about your thoughts or experiences. Because together we revolutionize higher education.


    Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk Ed for more engaging conversations on transforming higher education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CollegePromise #LetstalkEd #StudentSupport #AcademicAdvising #Counseling #FirstGenerationStudents #UnderrepresentedStudents #EducationReform #PathwaysToSuccess #CollegeTransfer #StudentEngagement #EducationalEquity #StudentAchievement #InclusiveEducation #CollegeRetention #CollegeForAll #StudentAdvisors #EconomicDevelopment #WorkforceDevelopment

    Show more Show less
    15 mins
  • Staying the Course: How to Reverse Trends for Students in Colleges
    Jul 31 2024

    Keeping the College Promise Alive: Counseling and Advising for Student Success | Let's Talk Ed with Violeta Mendoza Wenger

    This week on Let's Talk Ed! Join me, Zahi Atallah, in a conversation with California Community College Counselor Violeta Mendoza Wenger as we continue our exploration of keeping the college promise alive and strong to ensure student access and success.


    Segment 1: "Pathways to Success: How Counselors Help Students Identify Paths When They May Not Know”. In this first video, we dive into how counselors clarify academic paths for first-generation and underrepresented student groups, especially when they and their families may not fully understand what college entails. How to help students know what they want, and families understand what they need and what it means to go to college? It can go beyond the cost of education to the fact that the loved one may need to relocate away from the family nest to achieve the intended goals.


    Segment 2: "Staying the Course: How to Reverse Trends for Students in Colleges”. This second installment addresses the pressing issue of reversing the long-standing trend where 80% of incoming community college students aim to transfer to universities, but only 20% actually achieve this goal. We explore strategies to improve these outcomes by looking at pathways, developmental education, support systems, etc..


    Segment 3: "How Could Counselors and Advisors Influence College Decisions: Enhancing Success”. In the 3 segment, we examine how counselors and advisors can influence college administration decisions on course offerings, including instructional modalities, schedules, and academic pathways, to enhance student success. The rapport of counselors/advisors with students yields a wealth of tangible data points that allow an informed decision-making, and a movement away from a rigid mindset in college administration.


    What do you think about role of counselors and advisors in fostering student success in community colleges? Please comment and tell us about your thoughts or experiences. Because together we revolutionize higher education.


    Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk Ed for more engaging conversations on transforming higher education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CollegePromise #LetstalkEd #StudentSupport #AcademicAdvising #Counseling #FirstGenerationStudents #UnderrepresentedStudents #EducationReform #PathwaysToSuccess #CollegeTransfer #StudentEngagement #EducationalEquity #StudentAchievement #InclusiveEducation #CollegeRetention #CollegeForAll #StudentAdvisors #EconomicDevelopment #WorkforceDevelopment

    Show more Show less
    16 mins
  • Pathways to Success: How Counselors Help Students Identify Paths When They May Not Know
    Jul 28 2024

    Keeping the College Promise Alive: Counseling and Advising for Student Success | Let's Talk Ed with Violeta Mendoza Wenger

    This week on Let's Talk Ed! Join me, Zahi Atallah, in a conversation with California Community College Counselor Violeta Mendoza Wenger as we continue our exploration of keeping the college promise alive and strong to ensure student access and success.


    Segment 1: "Pathways to Success: How Counselors Help Students Identify Paths When They May Not Know”. In this first video, we dive into how counselors clarify academic paths for first-generation and underrepresented student groups, especially when they and their families may not fully understand what college entails. How to help students know what they want, and families understand what they need and what it means to go to college? It can go beyond the cost of education to the fact that the loved one may need to relocate away from the family nest to achieve the intended goals.


    Segment 2: "Staying the Course: How to Reverse Trends for Students in Colleges”. This second installment addresses the pressing issue of reversing the long-standing trend where 80% of incoming community college students aim to transfer to universities, but only 20% actually achieve this goal. We explore strategies to improve these outcomes by looking at pathways, developmental education, support systems, etc..


    Segment 3: "How Could Counselors and Advisors Influence College Decisions: Enhancing Success”. In the 3 segment, we examine how counselors and advisors can influence college administration decisions on course offerings, including instructional modalities, schedules, and academic pathways, to enhance student success. The rapport of counselors/advisors with students yields a wealth of tangible data points that allow an informed decision-making, and a movement away from a rigid mindset in college administration.


    What do you think about role of counselors and advisors in fostering student success in community colleges? Please comment and tell us about your thoughts or experiences. Because together we revolutionize higher education.


    Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to Let's Talk Ed for more engaging conversations on transforming higher education!


    #GrowthMindset #HigherEducation #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #CollegePromise #LetstalkEd #StudentSupport #AcademicAdvising #Counseling #FirstGenerationStudents #UnderrepresentedStudents #EducationReform #PathwaysToSuccess #CollegeTransfer #StudentEngagement #EducationalEquity #StudentAchievement #InclusiveEducation #CollegeRetention #CollegeForAll #StudentAdvisors #EconomicDevelopment #WorkforceDevelopment

    Show more Show less
    14 mins