Reimagining HigherEd
Education & Explainer
About
Higher Education leaders from around the world share their personal stories from within the sector - reflecting on improvements to teaching and learning and the student experience, while candidly discussing what still needs to come. With your hosts Prof Judyth Sachs, Dr Noreen Golfman, and Prof Petra Wend.
Episodes
- LIVE RECORDING: Thriving in uncertain times: Student Wellbeing and AI - a 'Students First' Symposium
This episode discusses how higher education institutions can help students thrive amidst AI-related anxieties, focusing on student wellbeing and mental health. The panel explores the intersection of generative AI and student mental health,…
- Prof Leanne Holt, Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous at UNSW - on Reconcliation in Higher Education
Professor Judyth Sachs interviews Professor Leanne Holt, Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous at UNSW, discussing reconciliation in higher education. They cover Professor Holt's career path, overcoming imposter syndrome, the need for systemic…
- Dr. Wafa Almansoori, Interim President and Provost, American University of Bahrain
Dr. Wafa Almansoori, Interim President and Provost of American University of Bahrain, joins Dr. Ashraf Mahate to discuss preparing students for an AI-driven world. They explore curriculum revision, faculty training, ethical guidelines, and…
- LIVE RECORDING: GSU and NISS at ACEx2026 - Beyond the Classroom
Drs. Timothy M. Renick and Kathryn Crowther discuss a pilot program between Georgia State University (GSU) and the National Institute for Student Success (NISS) at ACEx2026. The program evaluated Studiosity's AI-powered writing feedback an…
- Dr. David Andrews, Chancellor, University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global)
Dr. David Andrews, Chancellor of UMass Global, joins Professor Judyth Sachs to discuss the mindset shift required to support students effectively. They explore reimagining faculty roles, utilizing AI for grading and feedback, and fostering…
- LIVE RECORDING: Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani, Vice Provost, Teaching and Learning at Brock University presenting live at Re:University | HESA
Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani of Brock University presents findings from a pilot study on AI support tools, detailing their effects on students' confidence, study habits, and AI usage, as well as institutional implications. The presentation occurred…
- Dr. Yolanda Watson Spiva, President, Complete College America (CCA)
Dr. Yolanda Watson Spiva and Prof. Judyth Sachs explore equity, access, and institutional transformation in higher education. They discuss Complete College America's mission to improve student completion rates and the role of AI in support…
- EXCLUSIVE: Dual Enrollment in the U.S. - A Higher Education Roundtable Discussion
A roundtable discussion featuring experts like Amy Williams, John Fink, and Christopher Todd examines the growing trend of dual enrollment in the U.S., discussing its benefits for student readiness and post-secondary aspirations, as well a…
- Dr. Kemi Jona, Vice Provost for Online Education and Digital Innovation, University of Virginia
Dr. Kemi Jona, Vice Provost for Online Education at UVA, joins Prof Judyth Sachs to discuss the 'perfect storm' in higher education: declining trust, funding changes, and the need to prove employability. They reflect on the mission of high…
- Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, VC and President, University of Newcastle
Professor Alex Zelinsky shares his path to leading the University of Newcastle, discussing sector challenges like over-regulation and funding, and advocating for multidisciplinary education with mandatory placements to ensure student succe…
- Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Vice-Chancellor, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Nathalie Martial-Braz, Vice-Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, discusses the future of higher education with Dr. Ashraf Mahate. She highlights the importance of adaptability, innovation, and a student-centric approach, advocating…
- Professor Clare Pollock, VC and President, Edith Cowan University (ECU)
Professor Clare Pollock, VC and President of Edith Cowan University, emphasizes student-centered leadership and equity. She shares insights on leveraging AI to reshape the university's curriculum for authentic learning and preparing gradua…
- Professor Lily Kong, President, Singapore Management University
Professor Lily Kong, President of Singapore Management University, shares her insights on undergraduate experiences and her leadership focus. She discusses implementing interdisciplinary curricula and fostering essential skills to prepare…
- Dr. James M. Beeby, Chancellor, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Chancellor James Beeby of UW-La Crosse discusses his personal and professional path, the transformative power of higher education, and his vision for future accessibility and student success.
- EXCLUSIVE: The Higher Ed Reckoning – Three HE leading voices on threats to the academy, contraction, and the future of learning
Three leading higher education voices discuss the existential crisis facing universities, covering government interference, budget cuts, and economic contraction.
- Prof Imad Hoballah, VP for Institutional Advancement & External Relations, American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK)
Professor Imad Hoballah joins host Dr. Ashraf Mahate to discuss educational approaches at American University of Ras Al Khaimah. Key topics include fostering learning through failure, equipping students for evolving job markets, and breaki…
- LIVE RECORDING: Arriving and Thriving - Supporting International Students to Succeed - a 'Students First' Symposium
A panel discussed New Zealand's international student strategy, covering personal experiences, university support systems, and economic challenges. The discussion also touched on aligning international student programs with the country's w…
- Prof Dato’ Elizabeth Lee, Group CEO, Sunway Education Group, Malaysia
Dato’ Elizabeth Lee, Group CEO of Sunway Education Group, shares her servant leadership philosophy and educational vision, emphasizing resilience, curiosity, and civic responsibility. The episode also touches on adapting AI in teaching and…
- Prof Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, University of Sharjah
Professor Yousef Haik addresses how the University of Sharjah is adapting to technological advancements and evolving job market needs. He discusses changes in assessment methods to focus on learning over recall and the integration of AI in…
- Prof Adeeba Kamarulzaman, CEO and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Monash University Malaysia
Professor Adeeba Kamarulzaman, CEO and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Monash University Malaysia, speaks with Professor Judyth Sachs about the challenges facing higher education in Malaysia, such as the rise of AI and the evolving workplace. She s…
- Ted Mitchell, President, American Council on Education (ACE)
Ted Mitchell, President of the American Council on Education, speaks with Dr. Noreen Golfman about the challenges in US higher education policy. The discussion includes an initiative to integrate evidence-based AI for learning among ACE me…
- Abtar Kaur, Professor of Innovative Digital Learning and UNESCO Chair, Asia Pacific University
Abtar Kaur and Judyth Sachs discuss a future model for higher education that focuses on industry-relevant learning and preparing students to use AI effectively. They emphasize a university-wide approach to transforming teaching and learnin…
- Professor Grant Edwards, Vice-Chancellor, Lincoln University
Professor Grant Edwards, Vice-Chancellor of Lincoln University, shares his journey and insights on higher education leadership. He touches upon Lincoln University's commitment to land-based sectors in New Zealand and addresses challenges l…
- LIVE recording: Educational Integrity - A 'Students First' Symposium
This episode features the finalists of the 2025 Tracey Bretag prize for Academic Integrity discussing educational integrity initiatives. The discussion, chaired by Professor Judyth Sachs, covered adapting academic integrity frameworks for…
- Dr. Stacy Young, President, Manchester University, Indiana
Dr. Stacy Young, President of Manchester University, shares insights on staying agile, integrating AI, and enhancing accessibility in higher education. The discussion covers strategies for faster graduation, reduced debt, and program innov…
- Dr. Wafa Almansoori, Interim President and Provost, American University of Bahrain
Dr. Wafa Almansoori, Interim President and Provost of American University of Bahrain, discusses with host Dr. Ashraf Mahate the challenges and strategies for higher education in the age of AI. They cover curriculum adaptation, faculty trai…
- Dr. Sudhindra Shamanna, Academic President, Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai
Dr. Sudhindra Shamanna and Dr. Ashraf Mahate explore the future of higher education, including adapting teaching methods for student engagement, strengthening industry and community ties in the UAE, and evaluating learning in the age of AI.
- Prof Hung Jen Wang, VP Academic Affairs at National Taiwan University, THE Awards Asia 2025 winner
Professor Hung Jen Wang, VP Academic Affairs at National Taiwan University, discusses the institution's THE Award-winning 'INT system' for student support. The conversation also covers key challenges for students in Taiwan and strategies f…
- Dr. Ronald S. Rochon, President, California State University Fullerton
Dr. Ronald S. Rochon, President of California State University Fullerton, and Prof Judyth Sachs discuss creating environments that encourage students to engage with diverse communities and build capabilities. Dr. Rochon shares insights int…
- Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar, President, University of Lynchburg
This episode features a conversation between Judyth Sachs and Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar, President of the University of Lynchburg. They discuss mentorship, determination, empowering students, leading through change, and influential books…
- Professor Jennifer Barrett, Pro Vice Chancellor Indigenous (Academic), University of Sydney on Reconciliation in Higher Education
Professor Jennifer Barrett discusses reconciliation in higher education, her roles at the University of Sydney, and the university's initiatives for Indigenous inclusion and leadership, including plans for NAIDOC Week.
- LIVE RECORDING: New Zealand Perspectives on GenAI in Higher Education - a 'Students First' Symposium
This symposium explored generative AI in New Zealand higher education, featuring perspectives from university leaders and a student association president. Discussions centered on navigating AI's opportunities and challenges while prioritiz…
- Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive, Universities UK
Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive of Universities UK, and Professor Petra Wend discuss the challenges facing higher education, including financial sustainability and student support.
- Dr. Marc Poulin, Acting President, Abu Dhabi School of Management; Acting CEO, UAE Academy
Dr. Marc Poulin, Acting President of Abu Dhabi School of Management and UAE Academy, joins host Dr. Ashraf Mahate to discuss scenario-based teaching, AI principles, and developing student grit.
- Dr. Kyle Long, President, American University in Dubai (AUD)
Dr. Kyle Long, President of the American University in Dubai (AUD), joins host Dr. Ashraf Mahate to discuss his professional background, leadership philosophy, and the university's commitment to student success. They also explore integrati…
- Charlene Davison, CEO of the GO Foundation - on Reconciliation in Higher Education
Charlene Davison, CEO of the GO Foundation, is interviewed about reconciliation in higher education. She shares her career journey, the foundation's work supporting Indigenous students, and emphasizes truth-telling, respect, and empathy in…
- LIVE recording: Beyond orientation: Supporting First Year Success - a 'Students First' Symposium
A panel convened on May 14, 2025, for the 'Students First' Symposium to address how higher education institutions can enhance student outcomes, engagement, and belonging throughout their first year. The discussion, chaired by Professor Jud…
- Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Executive Director, Higher Education Commission, Pakistan
Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Executive Director of Pakistan's Higher Education Commission, talks with Professor Cliff Allan about improving higher education access, equity, and societal impact, emphasizing policy, marginalized communities, and AI ad…
- Nathan Towney - Deputy Vice Chancellor Equity and Engagement, University of Newcastle - on Reconciliation in Higher Education
Professor Judyth Sachs interviews Nathan Towney, Deputy Vice Chancellor Equity and Engagement at the University of Newcastle, about Indigenous reconciliation in higher education. Towney outlines his four-pillar strategy, emphasizing relati…
- Prof George Williams AO, VC and President, Western Sydney University
George Williams AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University, shares how his early life experiences influenced his educational philosophy. The discussion covers WSU's strategies for enhancing student experience, tackling…
- Dr. Susan Edwards, President, Wright State University
Dr. Susan Edwards, President of Wright State University, joins Prof Judyth Sachs to discuss the importance of accessible education, the future of higher education including flexible credentials and AI integration, and the value of embracin…
- Dr. Graham Carr, President and Vice-Chancellor, Concordia University
Host Dr. Noreen Golfman speaks with Dr. Graham Carr, President and Vice-Chancellor of Concordia University. They cover the transition to university leadership, work-integrated learning, the use of AI to improve student experiences, and the…
- Professor Neil Quigley, Vice-Chancellor, University of Waikato
Professor Neil Quigley, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waikato, shares insights on university leadership, addressing AI
- Prof. Damon Salesa, Vice-Chancellor, Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
This episode features Professor Damon Salesa, Vice-Chancellor of Auckland University of Technology, discussing the importance of curiosity and humility in learning, the role of history, and current higher education challenges. Salesa also…
- Dr. Deborah MacLatchy, President, Wilfrid Laurier University
Dr. Deborah MacLatchy, President of Wilfrid Laurier University, reflects on student engagement, financial challenges, and the role of AI in education. She also discusses the importance of personalized faculty-student connections and her tr…
- Prof. Dr. Maurits van Rooijen, CAO, Global University Systems and Rector, University of Europe
Prof. Dr. Maurits van Rooijen discusses balancing theoretical and practical education, collaborative leadership, and the integration of AI in universities with Dr. Ashraf Mahate.
- Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor, American University of Sharjah, UAE
Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah, shares his career journey and discusses student expectations in the UAE, the integration of AI in education, and the importance of a liberal arts curriculum for future careers.
- Dr. Chuck Welch, President, American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU)
Dr. Chuck Welch of AASCU discusses the evolution of higher education over 30 years with Prof. Judyth Sachs, covering public value, transparency, generative AI's educational impact, and the changing perception of college degrees.
- Professor Chua Kee Chaing, President, Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Professor Chua Kee Chaing, President of the Singapore Institute of Technology, discusses his vision for SIT as a leading research university focused on industry. He also explores the opportunities presented by AI technology and the critica…
- Prof Tan Tai Yong, President, Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)
Professor Tan Tai Yong, President of the Singapore University of Social Sciences, shares his experiences in higher education leadership, emphasizing long-term perspectives, adaptability, and the integration of AI to enhance critical thinki…