USU Reignites Vital Collaboration with Universities Nationwide
Utah State University hosted a two-day summit for the Northern Rockies Consortium of Higher Education (NORCHE), reinvigorating the organization from a brief hiatus.
“Typically when you go to a conference, the best conversations and learning doesn’t necessarily happen during the keynote speech or breakout sessions,” said Robert Wagner, vice president of Academic & Instructional Services (AIS) and serving board member of NORCHE. “Ideas are shared and formulated between colleagues while waiting outside the presentation hall. That’s how we designed this summit – to be the hallway, not the keynote – and it couldn’t have gone better.”
At the recent summit, participants formulated the organization into a higher education think-tank where innovators can collaborate on forward-thinking ideas. The group discussed creating a culture of change and innovation within an institution, focusing on a more integrated student experience, and identified trends and themes in higher education.
According to Chris Steele, vice provost and executive director at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, this new vision will attract the attention of universities throughout the nation. “At UMBC we are excited to be a part of a group whose purpose is to share innovative ideas and practices in higher education. Members can translate the ideas and insights shared here to realize progress and growth for their institutions. All involved institutions will be at the forefront of change.”
To expand its reach, the name will be changed to reflect nationwide involvement. Many university administrators attended, including those from Pennsylvania State, Montana State, the University of Central Florida, the University of Utah, and more. The group will meet every quarter at a distance, and once a year in person.
Contact: John Louviere, 435-797-7144
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