Maryville University has gained a national reputation for leading a revolution in higher education. But many universities across the U.S. are facing challenges because of rapidly shifting student demographics and increasing legislative and public pressures. In the new book “Pivot: A Vision for the New University,” authors Mark Lombardi, PhD, president of Maryville University, and Joanne Soliday, co-founder of Credo higher education consulting firm, outline the disruptive changes that must occur for universities to flourish in the 21st century.
In an interview with Maryville Magazine, Lombardi shares Maryville’s winning strategy.
Q: Why is a revolution necessary?
A: Today’s students don’t go to a university for content. They go to a university to facilitate their own intellectual journey. That means universities have to change the way they teach and the way they provide services to students. “Pivot” is designed to help universities understand this reality and figure out how to educate students in this modern world.
Q: How is Maryville leading the revolution?
A: Maryville is leading the revolution because we understand the way students engage with learning and information is fundamentally different than it was in the past. Learning is not a passive experience with students sitting in rows listening to a lecture. Learning is where students are actively engaged in problem solving, in teamwork and in creating their own learning experiences. We also understand that education for working adults is absolutely imperative in today’s society. Online programs allow these men and women to expand skills needed in their current jobs or start new careers, all while balancing jobs and families.
Q: What are Maryville’s goals for the future?
A: The future is about access and opportunity for all students, particularly first-generation college students, students of color and students from underrepresented groups. Maryville University will continue to lead the way in creating powerful learning opportunities for all students. We will reinvent existing academic programs and create new programs in emerging fields to ensure students gain the skills and experience they need for the jobs of the future.
Q: What can other institutions learn from Maryville?
A: “Pivot” came out of many years of outstanding work by Maryville faculty and staff. The book captures and encapsulates that effort. Even if you aren’t familiar with higher education, you can read the book and understand the changes required for a university to thrive. Every university has the ability to pivot and make changes. But, it requires courage and bravery to act.