This episode focuses on a successful and expanding educational partnership that created an “associates to masters” pathway, allowing RCC students a seamless transition to a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree at Northeastern. Guests:Francesca Grippa, Senior Associate Dean of ResearchEarlene Avalon, Teaching Professor and Academic LeadHillel Sims, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs at Roxbury Community CollegeDaveen Blythe, Associate Dean of Professional Studies and Health Careers at Roxbury Community College

Dean Jared Auclair sits down with two leaders in the Bachelor’s Completion space at the College of Professional Studies to explore the value of the bachelor’s degree and the changing face of today’s bachelor’s student (hint: they have some live experience under their belt and are already in the workforce). Guests:Erin Clair , Associate Dean, Undergraduate ProgramsChris Cook , Senior Director, Lowell Institute School

Jared talks with two academic voices from the College of Professional Studies to explore the evolving philosophy of education. Together, they dive into what’s needed to shape the future of higher education, especially in relation to workforce development, and how the college is leading that transformation.

Jared gets real with researchers and educators in the College of Professional Studies to discuss the importance of mental health during mental health awareness month. Revealing his own journey to identify personal mental health issues, Jared discusses the impact that evidence-based research can have on improving lives.

Jared talks with two alumni about the impact of their CPS experience to help them realize their goals and equipped them to make a difference.

Jared invites ElevateBio Senior Vice President of Global Head of Government Affairs, Heidi Wagner for a virtual conversation about the growing importance of collaboration between higher education and industry to meet the needs of learners and the workforce.

Jared sits down with Amanda Welsh, Associate Dean Workforce and Economic Development and Chris Cook, Senior Director, Workforce and Economic Development to explore the vital importance of workforce and economic development and CPS’s role in advancing collaborative programing to connect learners with industry needs.

Jared discusses the impact of AI on the educational and industry landscape, as well as what CPS is doing to ensure learners are prepared to thrive in an increasingly dynamic workplace.

Jared discusses life at CPS, the challenges of building community in a non-residential college experience, thoughts on the role of AI i, and the realities of balancing studies with other demands like family and work. It’s not easy, but nothing worth doing ever is.