Elevate & Adjust

This past week was one of those weeks that reminded me why I love the work we get to do in business education.

I spent a few days at the AACSB Elevate: Americas Conference, where I had the chance to lead a session on Risk Management with Barb Ritter from Toledo and to connect with colleagues from across the hemisphere. I’m still processing what I learned. But, as usual, the conversations were energizing—full of ideas, shared challenges, and the kind of honest reflection that helps all of us get better at what we do. That’s one of the things I like best about AACSB – we work together. It was also a reminder that the landscape around us is shifting quickly, and staying ahead of emerging risks is becoming part of the everyday rhythm of leadership.

It was also a privilege to participate as a member in the AACSB Continuous Improvement Review Committee (CIRC) meeting. As a committee, we reviewed and discussed materials from 41 accredited schools, and I found myself genuinely inspired. Some schools are doing innovative, mission-driven work that is pushing our field forward. Others are facing very real pressures—enrollment trends, resource constraints, and the challenge of aligning big aspirations with day-to-day reality. Seeing that whole picture side‑by‑side was powerful. It showed me not only where our collective strengths lie, but also where we, as a profession, need to keep stretching.

And to add a little extra “character” to the week, the winter storm decided to make travel interesting. After cancellations, delays, and a few unexpected detours, I gained a fresh appreciation for the people and systems who keep the country moving—especially when the weather has other plans. Watching teams work to reroute passengers, including me, and keep operations going reminded me a lot of what we do in higher ed: adapt, problem-solve, and keep the mission front and center.

Despite the hiccups, I returned to Charleston feeling grateful. Grateful for the colleagues who push our thinking. Grateful for the opportunity to be part of AACSB’s work. And thankful for the reminder that even in challenging moments—maybe especially in them—we find clarity about what matters most: continuous improvement, shared purpose, and the impact we have on the students and communities we serve. And, most importantly, with the affirmation that great things are ahead for OUR School and College.

YOU make a difference!

Ponder this with me …

Thank you to CoPilot and Grammarly for the assist!