The AI Workforce for Higher Ed is Here |

Talk to a Bolt Agent
EP
343
August 19, 2026
Episode #343: How La Salle University Became the "Comeback College"

How La Salle University Became the "Comeback College"

Or listen on:

About the Episode

In this week’s episode, Dustin speaks with Dr. Daniel Allen, President of La Salle University, about the institution's remarkable turnaround and the leadership principles behind its recognition as the "Comeback College." Rather than chasing flashy higher education trends, Dr. Allen shares how La Salle leaned into its core identity—prioritizing teaching excellence, student success, and a strong sense of community—to reverse enrollment declines and strengthen its financial position.

The conversation also examines how institutional leaders can navigate uncertainty by making disciplined, mission-driven decisions, investing in areas of genuine strength, and resisting the temptation to pursue every new opportunity. Ultimately, Ian provides a compelling reminder that sustainable innovation comes not from becoming everything to everyone, but from becoming the best version of who you already are.

People in this episode

Host

Dustin Ramsdell is a leading content creator and influencer in the Higher EdTech space, and the host of Higher Ed Geek.

Interviewee

Dr. Daniel Allen

President of La Salle University

Other episodes

Ep. 54: A President's Playbook for Institutional AI Leadership in Higher EdPlay Button
Ep. 54: A President's Playbook for Institutional AI Leadership in Higher Ed

Brian Piper sits down with Dr. Rachelle Keck, President at Grand View University, to explore what institutional AI leadership in higher ed looks like from the president's office.

Pulse Check: The Value of Higher Ed: Spoiler Alert, It's More than ROI — Part 3Play Button
Pulse Check: The Value of Higher Ed: Spoiler Alert, It's More than ROI — Part 3

In Part 3 of this Pulse Check Series, host Michele Ehrhart is joined by Tom Addonoizio, Vice President for University Communications & Chief Marketing Officer, to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence in academia and the workforce. They discuss how AI acts as a productivity tool rather than a job replacement, highlighting the growing importance of human success skills like adaptability, collaboration, and critical interpretation.

Episode #346: Why Campus Design Still Matters in the Digital AgePlay Button
Episode #346: Why Campus Design Still Matters in the Digital Age

Dustin speaks with Martin Kimmel, President & Co-Founder of Kimmel Architecture, about how thoughtful campus design can strengthen institutional identity in an era of financial constraints and evolving student expectations.

Episode 104: How Kennesaw State Built a 40-Student Influencer Team on a Shoestring BudgetPlay Button
Episode 104: How Kennesaw State Built a 40-Student Influencer Team on a Shoestring Budget

Allison sits down with Cinnamon Dowd, Director of Enrollment Services Marketing & Communications, and Emily Williams, Social Media Specialist at Kennesaw State University, to explain how to tap into the most authentic channel on your campus: your own students.

Ep. 95: How To Drive Enrollment Through Authentic StorytellingPlay Button
Ep. 95: How To Drive Enrollment Through Authentic Storytelling

Jeremy has a conversation with Kelly Peiffer who shares insights on how colleges can leverage authentic storytelling to drive enrollment and build genuine connections with prospective students and their families.

Weekly ideas that make you smarter

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Subscribe
cancel

Search podcasts, blog posts, people