Podcasts Education Changing Higher Ed Saving Sweet Briar College through Transformational Change Management

Saving Sweet Briar College through Transformational Change Management

Published: March 16, 2021, 12:04 a.m.

Dr. Drumm McNaughton interviews Dr. Meredith Woo, president of Sweet Briar College, about the Sweet Briar Miracle, the college\u2019s transformation using change management principles.

Podcast Highlights

  • Sweet Briar College faced a major uphill climb after alumnae successfully pushed back the board of trustees\u2019 decision to close the institution.
  • The college had to find ways to address and change perceived challenges, including declining interest in a liberal arts education, waning enrollment by women in women\u2019s colleges, and the institution\u2019s location in a rural Virginia setting.
  • The college\u2019s leaders started their change initiative with major overhauls of the academic program, financial decision-making and budget.
  • The second phase of this initiative involves creating a strong focus on women\u2019s leadership that is integrated into the liberal arts curriculum and sustainability.
  • The college grew enrollment by 42% after announcing the changes, and continues its growth to this day.

To see full show notes, visit https://changinghighered.com

Resources

Dr. Drumm McNaughton provides crisis management and transformation consulting services for higher ed institutions.\xa0

Links to Articles, Apps, or websites mentioned during the interview:

Guest Social Media Links:

The Change Leader\u2019s Social Media Links:

Sponsor: Perdia Education