Summary: How can an urban research university serve as an anchor for its community—attracting employers and giving talent a reason to stay in the city after graduation? Harlan Sands believes that the key is to serve as a hub of innovation, aligning skills taught with the needs of a modern economy. Harlan is the newly appointed President of Cleveland State University. A highly regarded leader in higher education, Harlan has 30-plus years of experience at urban research universities. Harlan has served as a thought leader, academic administrator, business process changemaker, professor and student advocate. Prior to his career in higher ed, he served as a public defender in the city of Miami, litigating more than 50 trials in state and county court. Harlan holds a BS in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, an MBA from George Washington University, and a JD from George Mason. Today, Harlan joins me to walk us through the diverse career path that led to his current role as President of Cleveland State. I ask him about the value of an urban research institution as an anchor to its city, and he describes his vision for CSU as a driver of innovation. Harlan shares the previous accomplishments he is most proud of, from supporting faculty in conducting vital research to engaging students and staff in a university’s mission. Listen in for Harlan’s insight on the role of student housing in creating a living and learning community on campus and learn how mentors can help you in the pursuit of lifelong learning! Topics Covered The diverse career path that led Harlan to his new role with CSU Harlan’s background in both academia and administration The importance of a research institution as an anchor to its city How a university can serve to draw people to the community Harlan’s vision for Cleveland State as a driver of innovation Attracting employers by aligning skill sets taught with market needs Why 80% of CSU grads stay in the city of Cleveland Harlan’s aim to engage students and staff in the university’s mission How Harlan supports faculty in conducting research Harlan’s take on students as clients or customers The role of student housing in promoting retention and progression Why student success should be the starting point for student housing How student housing contributes to a living and learning community Harlan’s advice around the pursuit of lifelong learning The idea of MBWA (Management By Walking Around) Connect with Harlan Harlan at Cleveland State University Harlan’s Opinion Piece on Cleveland.com Harlan on LinkedIn Connect with Leigh Anne Student Housing Matters Student Housing Matters on Facebook Student Housing Matters on Twitter COCM on LinkedIn Leigh Anne on LinkedIn
