Episode 54 | Dr. Bridget Burns on Challenges in the Education System

Summary

In this episode of the Business of Education, Kyle Wallgren interviews Dr. Bridget Burns, founder and CEO of the University Innovation Alliance. They discuss her journey into education, the mission of the Alliance to improve student success, and innovative approaches to addressing systemic issues in higher education. Dr. Burns emphasizes the importance of predictive analytics, AI, and universal strategies to eliminate equity gaps in education, while also highlighting the need for strong leadership and collaboration among institutions. In this conversation, Kyle Wallgren and Bridget Burns discuss the challenges and opportunities in the education sector, particularly focusing on how to redesign educational systems to better serve students from diverse backgrounds. They highlight the importance of leadership consistency, the role of institutions like Georgia State University in setting standards for student success, and the need for a supportive network for college presidents. The discussion also touches on the difficulties of securing funding for educational initiatives and the necessity of empathy in leadership roles within higher education.

Takeaways

• Higher education can change lives and activate potential talent.
• Predictive analytics can help identify and support at-risk students.
• AI tools can enhance communication and support for students.
• Systemic change in education requires a focus on design and student needs.
• Equity in education should be approached universally, not just for specific groups.
• Building trust among institutions is crucial for collaboration.
• Innovative solutions must be scaled across institutions for maximum impact.
• Leadership in education must be proactive and focused on student success. Access to opportunities can drive hard work and success.
• Education systems were not designed with students' needs in mind.
• Leadership stability is crucial for implementing educational change.
• Navigating change in higher education requires focused execution.
• Funding for education is often challenging due to perceived ROI.
• Community practices can help match solutions to educational problems.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Bridget Burns and Her Mission

01:57 Personal Journeys into Education

03:58 The University Innovation Alliance: A New Approach

08:03 Innovative Solutions in Higher Education

12:05 The Role of Predictive Analytics

15:59 AI and Its Impact on Education

20:08 Challenges in the Education System

24:12 Universal Approaches to Equity in Education

25:35 Overcoming Adversity Through Opportunity

26:27 Redesigning Education for Student Success

28:04 The Gold Standard: Georgia State University

30:05 Leadership and Consistency in Education

32:37 Navigating Change in Higher Education

35:18 Funding Challenges in Education

39:28 Building a Supportive Network for College Presidents

40:44 Empathy and Leadership in Higher Education

About Bridget

Dr. Bridget Burns, named one of the “Most Innovative People in Higher Education” by Washington Monthly, is the founding CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA). A sought-after keynote speaker featured on 60 Minutes, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Fast Company, and the documentary Unlikely, her work is shaping a future where public universities unlock talent at scale, ensuring the economic competitiveness of the United States is fueled by the full potential of its people. 

Connect with Bridget

Linkedin: Dr. Bridget Burns

Website: theuia.org (Company)