December 2025
Dr. Bradly Roh asumes role of Interim Dean, Capella University. School of Business, Technology and Healthcare Administration
C o n s t e l l a t i o n
E d i t o r i a l S t a f f
Dr. Al Gorriaran, Associate Professor, Editor
Dr. Rebecca Snarski, Professor, Editor
The Constellation Staff invited Bradly to participate in an interview to discuss several areas of significant importance to our faculty. Our goal is to provide clarity, address emerging concerns, and ensure that faculty voices are represented as the college continues to grow and evolve
How do you define SoBTH’s short-term focus and long-term priorities?
In the short-term, SoBTH is focused on strengthening our foundation through operational efficiency, curricular revisions, and accreditation readiness We are carefully managing resources by reducing instructional costs and optimizing course offerings, while also removing textbooks in favor of Open Educational Resources and AI-enhanced assessments. We are also advancing key initiatives such as “Doctoral Reimagined” and “Reimagining the BS in Business” program. Alongside these efforts, we are reinforcing evidence gathering and compliance processes to ensure continued success with ACBSP, ABET, PMI-GAC, and NSA accreditation requirements, while engaging students and faculty through advisory boards and school-wide meetings.
Our long-term priorities are centered on transformation, innovation, and sustainable growth. We are working to design nextgeneration academic models, while embedding digital innovations such as AI across programs These efforts are complemented by the cultivation of external partnerships to strengthen our market competitiveness and align programs more closely with employer and industry needs We are committed to building a collaborative and growth-oriented culture by focusing on professional development, faculty coaching and support, and thought leadership opportunities These priorities will position SoBTH as a forward-thinking, student-centered school prepared to thrive in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.
How should the school position itself in today’s dynamic higher education market while responding to increased competition?
The school should position itself in today’s dynamic higher education market by emphasizing flexibility, innovation, and value while ensuring academic quality and integrity With increased online competition, it is essential to highlight differentiators such as personalized learning pathways, careerrelevant curricula, and strong faculty expertise Leveraging technology through AI integration can further distinguish the school as forwardthinking and student-centered. Capitalizing on robust strategic partnerships with industry and professional organizations helps ensure that programs remain aligned with workforce needs and provide graduates with tangible advantages in their careers. By combining academic rigor with innovation, accessibility, and clear career outcomes, the school can stand out in a crowded marketplace and build a reputation as both a trusted and transformative leader in higher education.
What strategies do you see as most effective for invigorating the curricula across the school’s three, principal, disciplinary areas?
The most effective strategies for invigorating the curricula across the school’s three principal disciplinary areas, will be those that blend innovation with relevance, ensuring programs remain competitive and future-focused One powerful approach is the integration of emerging technologies and high-integrity assessment methods, which can modernize learning experiences while building students’ practical competencies Another strategy is to enhance interdisciplinary learning opportunities, creating courses and projects that draw on multiple fields, such as combining business strategy with technological innovation or linking health care administration with data analytics. This creates a more dynamic educational experience and better prepares students for real-world problem solving.
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How can the school adapt to changes within these disciplines?
The school can adapt to changes within its three principal disciplines by embracing a proactive and agile approach that positions faculty, curricula, and learners at the forefront of industry evolution. This begins with continuous environmental scanning and regularly monitoring technological advancements and labor market trends to ensure programs remain aligned with employer needs and accreditation standards Faculty development plays a critical role in this adaptation, as equipping instructors with training in emerging tools, pedagogical innovations, and interdisciplinary teaching methods ensures they are prepared to deliver relevant and engaging learning experiences
What new approaches might be used to encourage and enhance faculty teaching and scholarship?
New approaches to encourage and enhance faculty teaching and scholarship should focus on creating a culture of support, innovation, and recognition. One effective strategy is to provide structured professional development opportunities that allow faculty to experiment with emerging technologies, high-impact pedagogical practices, and interdisciplinary teaching methods Offering workshops or learning communities dedicated to topics such as AI integration, experiential learning design, or applied research can both expand faculty expertise and create collaboration across disciplines Developing mentorship networks and peer collaboration can also be highly effective Pairing newly hired faculty and mentors with experienced faculty and mentors can enhance both teaching quality and scholarly productivity
How can the school sustain and potentially expand its accreditation relationships?
The school can sustain and expand its accreditation relationships by maintaining a deliberate balance of compliance, innovation, and proactive engagement with our accreditors. Sustaining current accreditations requires consistent evidence gathering and meticulous documentation of program outcomes, faculty qualifications, assessment practices, and governance processes Establishing standardized templates for meeting minutes, curriculum changes, and continuous improvement initiatives ensures that the school can readily provide accrediting agencies with verifiable proof of quality and accountability Accreditation attestations can also help identify gaps early, allowing corrective actions before formal evaluations
To expand accreditation relationships, the school should strategically align new initiatives with accreditor expectations and market needs. For example, introducing programs with strong experiential learning components, ethical standards, or interdisciplinary approaches can appeal to accrediting organizations seeking evidence of innovation and relevance. Engaging faculty and leadership in accreditation-focused professional development ensures that the school’s academic community understands the value of these relationships and their role in sustaining them.
Interim Dean’s Interview Continued on on page........8 and page 13.
The School of Business and Technology (SOBTH) at Capella University is privileged to have Dr. Jasmine Williams as a dedicated faculty member in Information Technology. Under the guidance of Dr. Melissa Zgola and alongside Professor Vincent Tran, Dr. Williams plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cybersecurity education. Her expertise and leadership enhance the learning experience for students, ensuring they are well-prepared to face the challenges of a rapidly evolving field
As the NSA Co-Lead, Dr Williams is committed to aligning Capella’s cybersecurity curriculum with the National Security Agency’s updated knowledge units Her work ensures that students receive a cutting-edge, industry-relevant education that meets the demands of the cybersecurity landscape Additionally, her contributions to developing AI in cybersecurity curriculum integrate innovative artificial intelligence concepts, further enriching the learning environment.
Dr. Williams's influence extends far beyond her teaching responsibilities. Recently, she took on the role of leader for Capella’s Cybersecurity Club, fostering awareness and engagement among students. Her commitment to expanding opportunities in cybersecurity education is evident in her participation in an NSA-led working group focused on nontraditional and military students, expanding access to vital educational resources.
Her dedication to advancing the field was recognized at the NSA Symposium this past spring, where she actively contributed to discussions on innovation and inclusion within cyber programs Furthermore, as a voting member of the Academic Leadership Team, Dr Williams plays a key role in shaping academic programs and enhancing learner success at Capella University
Outside of her academic responsibilities, Dr. Williams is passionate about mentoring emerging IT professionals and exploring innovations that bridge education, technology, and accessibility. Her belief in continuous improvement emphasizes that education is a personal and collective journey toward progress.
Despite her relatively brief tenure at Capella, Dr. Jasmine Williams is already making significant contributions that will leave a lasting impact on the institution and its learners. Her role as a faculty leader in cybersecurity not only illuminates her commitment to education but also inspires the next generation of technology professionals
Written by Dr Angel Charles, Constellation Staff Writer
Dr Vincent Tran is a distinguished member of the Capella University faculty, renowned for his extensive experience as a software engineer and architect With over two decades in the industry, Dr Tran has designed and developed applications across diverse sectors. His journey includes significant projects such as real-time gas turbine monitoring for Mitsubishi Power Systems and personalized web portals for Tupperware, showcasing his versatility and depth in technology, RFID tracking for CHEP and pharmaceutical systems, as well as for Express Scripts.
However, Dr. Tran's true passion lies in education. He is dedicated to empowering students to achieve their goals through innovative teaching methods and cuttingedge technology. As a faculty member, he emphasizes the importance of applying core engineering principles and solid design fundamentals to the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence Transformative Educational Tools
Dr Tran has been at the forefront of developing several groundbreaking educational tools that are transforming how students learn Say goodbye to spreadsheets and scheduling chaos
As a faculty scheduler, Dr Tran utilizes these innovative tools to revolutionize course scheduling by automating the assignment of courses to faculty members based on their workload and preferences. Based on these transformative educational tools, as the course scheduler, enhancements and efficiencies allow academic teams to focus on what matters most, teaching.
Dr. Tran also utilizes the tool Course Compliance Checker which functions as a
Dr. Tran also utilizes the tool Course Compliance Checker, which functions as a curriculum's crystal ball, if one exists This tool utilizes advanced AI to analyze thousands of assignments, providing insights into program structure and helping educators refine their offerings to meet academic standards Using advanced AI, it classifies assessments into modern learning categories, from AI-driven projects to live sessions and personalized experiences. Its interactive dashboards turn massive data into clear insights, helping leaders refine programs, elevate quality, and stay ahead of educational standards.
The Bright Ideal Writing Tool is another innovative tool used by Dr Tran to support students who experience challenges with academic style writing. Bright Ideas Writing Tool turns the blank page into a breakthrough moment This AI-powered platform guides students from brainstorming to drafting, making the writing process easier and more productive. It provides a full research plan with ease by supporting students, mapping out ideas, building outlines, crafting paragraph starters, and even suggesting precise search strategies, thereby making academic writing smoother and smarter. With its built-in document hub and bibliography manager, Bright Ideas Writing Tool transforms writing from an overwhelming task to an inspiring one.
Last, but not least, Dr Tran’s innovative thought processes have enabled the implementation of the RISE and Tell tool, which changes how students receive academic feedback throughout their educational journey The student has the opportunity to upload their paper and obtain personalized AI-powered insights that support input on various elements of writing, including the clarity of the research and citation ethics
Written by...........Dr. Angel Charles, Constellation Staff Writer
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Dr Madeline Meyer Spotlight
November 30, 2022, is a date Dr. Madeline Meyer will never forget - it was the day OpenAI released ChatGPT to the public. In early 2023, Madeline was invited to pilot a course for Capella using artificial intelligence. Initially, hesitant because she was not an expert in the field, she eventually agreed. That decision reshaped her work life.
Madeline jumped into the process – and the idea of using AI in the workplace – in earnest. She began taking AI notes, attending AI webinars, and watching YouTube tutorials about AI She read articles and books on AI best practices She joined every Capella Innovation webinar, class, and pilot that she could related to AI and other technologies
From Yellodig to 5 0 and 5X, Engagli live to Praxis, Madeline was on a mission to continually improve her understanding of teaching tools and technology In her 30 years of teaching she has never felt more inspired to learn and grow as she has since she’s taken advantage of the extensive professional development opportunities Capella has offered.
Empowered by her three years of AI research, Madeline decided to put everything she learned into an e-book titled Academic Use of Artificial Intelligence: A Learning Guide (2025). She co-authored the guide with her husband, who is also a teacher and an AI user. She created this book with her student and fellow faculty leaders in mind.
Madeline’s dedication to learning paid off when she was invited to join a Capella AI Resource Team This opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across such a wide range of talents throughout the university became one of the most rewarding experiences of her academic career
The leadership, teamwork, and sharing that she encountered elevated her practice and expanded her perspective in every way, not only in the proper use of AI, but also in academic honesty and integrity across her teaching.
In her personal time, Madeline loves gardening and spending time with her two dogs, a Berniedoodle named Snoopy and a Yorkie, Lucy. She spent most of her life living in Minneapolis, MN but now enjoys the beautiful weather of Orlando, FL. Today, Madeline’s mission is clear: she strives to equip students with strong knowledge and skills surrounding the responsible, effective use of generative AI She wants them to learn with confidence and to create with academic integrity in the technological world that awaits them
by Dawn Wilson
Dr Rebecca Snarski is an experienced instructor, having taught for two decades at the bachelor’s, master’s and PhD levels Dr Snarski holds a bachelor’s in Public Relations, a master’s in communications technology, and a PhD in education She has also completed significant graduate work in leadership, project management, and psychology
As a full professor at Capella University, Dr Snarski delights in working with new learners who are just entering the MBA program, as well as Capstone learners just completing their graduate education and various courses in between This has given Dr Snarski a unique opportunity to see the growth in skills and confidence of adult learners. She encourages them to push themselves harder and to keep growing. Specializing in leadership and communications, Dr Snarski has taught various courses at the graduate level, always with an emphasis on leadership development, evidence-based decision making, critical thinking, ethical thinking, and effective communication
Drawing on her experience as a technical and academic writer, Dr Snarski has published multiple books on communicating effectively, helping readers discover their voices and become more confident in their ideas and their ability to communicate those ideas to a broader audience A winner of Capella University’s Harold Able Award, the Steve Shank Award of Excellence, and the President’s Award, Dr. Snarski’s focus has always been on helping learners grow and excel, pushing themselves to do more than they realized was possible
Written by Dr Al Gorriaran
Dr Snarski also works as a freelance writer, writing technical and web copy She has ghost written books on leadership and self-published books on writing and communications. She is chair of one of the university’s three Internal Review Panels and the SOBTH Learner Advisory Board and sits on the Legacy Scholarship Committee
Dr Snarski also works as a freelance writer, writing technical and web copy She has ghost written books on leadership and self-published books on writing and communications. She is chair of one of the university’s three Internal Review Panels and the SOBTH Learner Advisory Board and sits on the Legacy Scholarship Committee. She is also a contributing writer and editor for Capella’s The Constellation newsletter and it the Faculty Advisor for the Capella chapter of the Delta Mu Delta honor society
Rebecca is a wife and mother. Her teenage son is growing up, and it traumatizes her terribly In her free time, she plays guitar and hacky sack, hikes Florida paths with her wife and son looking for alligators and tropical birds, loves to travel, and is always trying to schedule her next cruise Her guilty pleasure is bingeing Star Trek and Survivor episodes
What faculty-level strategies could help improve student retention and graduation rates?
Faculty-level strategies to improve student retention and graduation rates should center on establishing robust engagement, providing timely support and feedback, and creating meaningful learning experiences that connect students to their academic and career goals One powerful approach is to strengthen faculty–student relationships through consistent communication and personalized outreach Faculty who proactively check in with students, especially those who may be at risk, can identify challenges early and connect students to resources such as tutoring, advising, or career services
This type of relational teaching builds trust, encourages persistence, and helps students feel valued and supported.
Other strategies include being flexible, empathetic, having a positive and encouraging teaching philosophy, sharing professional expertise, and meeting students where they are academically. Faculty can employ active learning strategies and real-world applications to keep students motivated while ensuring they gain essential skills. Adapting to different learning styles by offering synchronous options or adaptive learning technologies can help students manage competing life responsibilities without falling behind. Embedding career relevance into coursework can also reinforce the value of completing the program.
What approaches would you take to strengthen faculty attitudes, perspectives, and professional development to achieve full engagement?
To strengthen faculty attitudes, perspectives, and professional development in pursuit of full engagement, the school should adopt a holistic and supportive approach that balances recognition, growth opportunities, and a shared sense of mission Faculty engagement often begins with feeling valued and connected to the institution’s goals, so creating transparent communication channels and actively involving faculty in decision-making processes is essential Regularly acknowledging their contributions, both in teaching and scholarship, reinforces the importance of their work and creates pride in their roles
Professional development should go beyond compliance training and instead emphasize meaningful growth opportunities tailored to evolving faculty needs. This can include workshops on emerging technologies such as AI and digital learning tools, seminars on innovative pedagogy, and research support programs that encourage scholarly productivity. Mentorship programs that connect newly hired faculty with experienced colleagues can also strengthen collegiality and broaden perspectives.
Providing faculty with structured opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, industry partnerships, and community outreach can broaden their outlook and deepen their sense of relevance. Aligning professional development with accreditation expectations and institutional priorities helps faculty see the direct impact of their efforts on student success and program quality Establishing a culture of continuous feedback, where faculty feel safe to voice concerns and share ideas, ensures that engagement is not a one-time initiative but a sustainable, evolving practice that enriches both faculty and the school
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Dr Vincent Tran - Innovating Education Through Technology
Dr. Vincent Tran's innovative spirit and commitment to education are evident in every project he undertakes. His focus on integrating technology into the learning experience not only enhances student engagement but also prepares them for the demands of the modern workforce
Through his work at Capella University, Dr Tran demonstrates that the intersection of technology and education can lead to extraordinary outcomes As he continues to develop new tools and resources, his impact on the academic community and beyond is sure to be profound
Both Dr Jasmine Williams and Dr Vincent Tran exemplify the potential of educators to drive innovation and enhance learning experiences in their respective fields. Their dedication to advancing cybersecurity and technology education not only benefits their students but also contributes to the broader academic community.
By Lisa Mohanty, Academic Program Director
Continuous improvement is at the heart of coming changes to our BS in Business program, as we explore a more affordable, faster pathway to the degree - a path that keeps academic quality at the center while meeting the needs of today’s adult learners.
In this effort towards affordability and speed, balanced with depth and rigor, we are exploring options including a reduced-credit bachelor’s degree alongside new innovations such as personalized curriculum, embedded micro-credentials, and work-based learning Early benchmarking confirms that cost, time to completion, flexibility, and clearly stated career outcomes drive our prospective students’ (many of whom study part-time, bring in prior credit, and receive employer support) decision of which degree to pursue and where These exciting changes will help with recruitment, timely graduation, signaling skills to employers, and connecting learning to real roles
The reduced-credit degree will likely target 90–96 credits rather than the traditional 120, streamlining electives and emphasizing applied learning We are also exploring an accelerated BS+MS/MBA pathway that allows select credits to count toward a graduate degree with defined GPA requirements. In parallel, a highly personalized curriculum model would adapt specializations, electives, and assignments to the learner’s role and goals, balancing depth of learning with career relevance.
Our next step towards creating this exciting new program track is to gather student feedback on two potential offerings: 1) Micro-credentials, ranging from university certificates and skill badges to industry-recognized certificates, that could be earned before, during, or after the program, with opportunities to embed them in required courses, offer them as electives, or align them with certification exam prep Where appropriate, these credentials may stack into the degree while giving students earlier, market-readable milestones and continued access to noncredit learning after graduation
2) Work-based learning options that would let students translate coursework into real world experience through internships, co-ops, shorter job-shadowing or externships, employer-sponsored capstones and consulting projects, and applied labs or guided projects that mirror real workplace scenarios
This BS Business revitalization initiative will include coordinated input from employers and accreditors to ensure integrity, transparency, and portability, including clear guidance about how these options can interface with graduate pathways. Faculty and staff engagement will be essential as we refine designs, meet assessment requirements, and confirm that the models deliver both academic rigor and measurable value for students and employers, as we work towards a 2026 launch
The School of Business at Capella University is fortunate to have and proud to spotlight, Dr. Jerry Juska, a distinguished faculty leader, scholar, and educational innovator With deep expertise in marketing communication, digital strategy, and business management, Dr. Juska brings both academic rigor and forward-thinking creativity to his role as Professor of Marketing and Technology and Academic Lead for digital learning initiatives Pioneering Student-Centered AI Resources and Curriculum Enhancement
Dr. Juska has been instrumental in advancing Capella’s vision of a modern, technology-empowered learning environment A champion for student-centered innovation, he played a key role in developing Capella’s student-facing AI resources, crafting practical tools that help learners integrate artificial intelligence into their coursework, research, and professional development
His contributions extend to the Pangram pilot, where he helped test and refine new engagement approaches designed to strengthen the relationship between learners and faculty. In addition, Dr. Juska has produced an extensive portfolio of instructional videos, demonstrations, and AI-enhanced learning modules resources that bring clarity to complex business concepts and support students at every stage of their academic journey
As a valued member of the MBA First Course team, he now supports new learners as they build strong academic foundations, establish confidence, and adapt to the expectations of graduate-level scholarship Serving as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for a leadership course, Dr. Juska introduced significant revisions that improved alignment, accessibility, and learner success His presentation at the All-Faculty Virtual Conference further expanded his impact, offering actionable strategies and best practices that continue to influence teaching and course design across the university
Dr Juska’s influence extends far beyond curriculum development and classroom instruction He is an active mentor to both students and faculty, generously sharing his expertise in digital transformation, analytics, communication strategy, and innovation in higher education His ongoing research and exploration into emerging technologies ensure that Capella remains at the forefront of modern, workforcealigned learning
Dedicated, innovative, and deeply committed to learner achievement, Dr Jerry Juska exemplifies the excellence that defines the Capella community His leadership continues to shape the learning experience for thousands of adults pursuing academic and professional advancement
Written by Dr, Jasmine Williams
Field of Dreams: Building the Future of AI at Capella
By Melissa Zgola, Academic Program Director
Across SEI, there is a lot of exciting work underway to move our organization forward by leveraging the power of AI. At Capella, much of this innovation is being led by a group known as the Field of Dreams Taskforce The team, consisting of Assistant Professor Vincent Tran, Artificial Intelligence Innovation Designer, Austin Potter, Senior Project Manager, Nakeela Hall and Program Director Melissa Zgola, is bringing ideas to life one prototype, one conversation, and one breakthrough at a time
Working from within the Provost’s Office and as part of the broader CU and SEI innovation ecosystem, this team has been quietly designing a suite of AI tools that address some of our toughest challenges including academic integrity, course development bottlenecks, scheduling inefficiencies, and student writing support.
Each tool is being built with one goal in mind: not to replace people, but to amplify them. By making everyday tasks faster and smarter, these innovations free up time for faculty, staff, and students to focus on what truly matters: learning, teaching, and connection. Let’s look at five of the Field of Dreams initiatives.
Rise & Tell: Conversations That Protect Integrity
Meet Rise & Tell, one of our most exciting and revolutionary projects. It’s a conversational oraldefense tool that reviews a student’s paper and engages them in a short AI-driven voice-to-voice dialogue about their work AI prompts students with questions, then their responses are transcribed and recorded for faculty review, offering a scalable and authentic way to confirm authorship while helping students grow as presenters
With so many written assignments now vulnerable to AI plagiarism, Rise & Tell provides a creative and positive solution It encourages deeper learning and communication skills and could be a game changer for protecting academic integrity
AI-Assisted Course Revision: Helping Courses Evolve Faster
If you’ve ever been part of a course revision cycle, you know how time-consuming content development can be The AI-Assisted Course Revision Tool speeds things up by helping SMEs and instructional designers generate, refine, and enhance content quickly The tool recommends OER and library study materials as you work, and includes features like quiz generation, change tracking, and an industry analyzer that recommends and targets out of date material in current courses. The goal is to build a full-service, creative assistant that keeps courses fresh and faculty focused on what they do best: leaning on their expertise to ensure that courses provide the most up-to-date and relevant skills needed in their field.
Faculty Scheduling Optimizer: Smarter Balance, Less Stress
Scheduling hundreds of courses each term is no small feat. The Faculty Scheduling Optimizer uses AI to match course needs with faculty expertise and availability, helping ensure fair workloads and faster turnaround times The tool acts like a reliable scheduling partner that saves time, creates balance, and gives leaders better visibility while maintaining a human touch
The Compliance Search Engine has quickly become a staff favorite It scans course files, spotting broken links, outdated tools, or missing components in seconds What once took hours of manual checking now happens almost instantly It may not be flashy, but it’s powerful This tool helps us to maintain quality, meet accreditation standards, and identify content update needs more quickly and effectively Bright Idea: Writing Help That Starts Early Finally, there’s Bright Idea, our AI-powered Writing Center Assistant It helps students brainstorm, outline, and plan their papers before they even start writing By guiding them through concept mapping and paragraph planning, Bright Idea turns the intimidating blank page into a friendly starting point. With Bright Idea, students gain confidence and structure early in the process, and faculty see stronger drafts from the start. Everyone benefits.
All five tools are in refinement and/or testing stages, and are preparing for integration into Capella’s secure production environment with support from SEI IT. As we move into this next phase, our focus is on scalability, security, and collaboration to ensure these innovations are accessible across programs and aligned with Capella’s mission.
More than anything, these projects are about teamwork Faculty, editors, designers, and IT partners have all joined forces around a shared goal: using AI not to replace people, but to empower them Because this isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about leading transformation thoughtfully, ethically, and with the creativity that makes Capella stand out If you have any ideas of tools to help make your role more efficient, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Nakeela Hall or Melissa Zgola for more information!
Interum Dean’s Interview
How should faculty career opportunities and expectations be managed going forward?
Managing faculty career opportunities and expectations should involve a balanced and transparent approach that aligns institutional needs with individual professional growth. Faculty should be provided with clear pathways for advancement that recognize excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, and leadership. Expectations need to be well-defined and consistently communicated, ensuring that faculty understand how their performance contributes to both their own career progression and the school’s strategic goals. Career development opportunities such as mentorship, training, and professional development funding can help faculty be successful in their roles. Expectations should evolve to incorporate emerging priorities, such as digital innovation, industry engagement, and student success outcomes, so that faculty roles remain relevant, impactful, and rewarding in a rapidly changing higher education landscape
How do you envision building partnerships with industry leaders in business, technology, and health care?
Building partnerships with industry leaders in business, technology, and health care requires a proactive, strategic, and mutually beneficial approach. It begins with cultivating relationships through continuous dialogue with organizations that are at the forefront of innovation and workforce development. By engaging in advisory board sessions and thought leadership forums, the school can gain valuable insights into emerging trends and workforce needs, while offering expertise and research capabilities in return. Partnerships should be structured to create shared value, such as opportunities for students to access education benefits for reskilling and upskilling and applied projects; and for industry partners to shape the next generation of professionals while benefiting from academic innovation. Establishing co-branded initiatives, such as certificate programs or microcredentials tailored to industry needs, further strengthens these collaborations Partnerships should extend beyond transactional agreements, evolving into long-term strategic alliances where innovation, talent development, and knowledge exchange drive growth for both the academic institution and its industry collaborators
What outreach initiatives could expand the school’s connection with regional communities?
Outreach initiatives that expand the school’s connection with regional communities should focus on building authentic, reciprocal relationships that highlight the school’s value while addressing local needs. One effective approach is to partner with regional businesses, healthcare organizations, and technology firms to create applied learning opportunities that directly benefit both students and employers. Collaborations with local schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations, such as mentorship programs, service-learning projects, and communitybased research, can strengthen social impact and provide meaningful engagement for faculty. Spotlighting community success stories through the Constellation newsletter is another great approach that supports the school’s role as a committed partner
How can SoBTH be positioned as a thought leader contributing to real-world challenges in business, technology, and health care?
SoBTH can be positioned as a thought leader in business, technology, and health care by intentionally aligning its academic strengths, research, and innovative practices with the most significant real-world challenges facing these fields. This begins with cultivating faculty expertise and scholarship that directly addresses issues such as digital transformation, ethical AI, global health disparities, sustainability, and workforce evolution. By publishing research and white papers that provide actionable insights, the school can demonstrate its capacity to influence both scholarly discourse and practical application. Partnerships with industry leaders, professional associations, and policy organizations create additional platforms for SoBTH to showcase its intellectual capital through conferences. Visibility is equally critical by regularly sharing thought leadership content through webinars elevates SoBTH’s presence beyond academia By positioning itself at the intersection of research, practice, and innovation, SoBTH can establish itself as a trusted, forward-looking voice shaping solutions to the challenges that define the future of business, technology, and health care
Yvonne
At the most recent University Town Hall, President St Germain unveiled two spirited contenders for our new university mascot After a wave of excitement, and more suspense than anyone expected, Capybara ultimately emerged as the clear and beloved winner
What most people don’t know is that our charming new mascot earned the title only after completing a surprisingly rigorous, leadership-designed assessment gauntlet. First, both mascot candidates were launched into an obstacle course personally designed and built by President St. Germain. Featuring twists, turns, puzzles, and a few memorable surprises, the course tested agility, endurance, and sheer determination.
Next came the Innovation Showcase, where Dr. Mike Webb evaluated each contender’s creativity, originality, and problem-solving flair. From inventive mascot calls to quick-thinking performance scenarios, no idea was too bold, and no moment too small to escape his expert scrutiny.
Finally, in a nod to Capella’s academic values, Dr Bradley Roh, interim Dean of SoBTH, required each candidate to produce three research questions and ten hypotheses of their choosing At Capella, even our mascots are expected to demonstrate scholarly discipline
In the end, Capybara not only excelled at every stage, but did so with heart, humor, and unmistakable Capella spirit, proving beyond doubt that our new mascot is ready to lead the pride.
In our next issue, the Constellation interviews our new mascot.
