The conversation with Sir David Bell, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive at the University of Sunderland, delves into the intersection of education and community development. Sir David emphasizes the importance of a strong university-city relationship and the role of universities in preparing good citizens and work-ready individuals. He also discusses the challenges faced by universities in maintaining their social license and the need for education to provide tools for informed decision-making. Takeaways University-city relationship Preparing good citizens and work-ready individuals Challenges in maintaining social license Education's role in providing tools for informed decision-making
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In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Darryl B. Holloman, Vice President for Student Affairs at Spelman College and NASPA Board Chair (2025–2028). With nearly three decades of higher education leadership, Dr. Holloman has dedicated his career to advancing student success, fostering community, and shaping inclusive learning environments.
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In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Amanda Shelnutt, Director of First-Generation Student Success at Oberlin College. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment, equity, and the arts, Amanda has dedicated her career to creating inclusive spaces where students can thrive, connect, and lead.
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In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Shené Owens, Director of Student Affairs, and Dr. Bernadette Poerio, Assistant Director of Student Affairs at the University of Virginia’s School of Education and Human Development. Together, these dynamic leaders bring a powerful combination of strategic vision, student-centred practice, and deep commitment to fostering belonging in higher education.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Shoshana Zeisman-Pereyo, Executive Director of Student Academic Support Services at Portland State University. A student-centred educational leader and champion for inclusive excellence in STEM, Shoshana is an expert in designing, scaling, and sustaining programs that drive academic success for diverse student communities.
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In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, sits down with Rosie George, Manager of Student Engagement & Experience at the University of Adelaide. A strategic and creative higher education professional, Rosie is passionate about building inclusive, student-centred programs that help individuals belong, navigate, and thrive. From transforming orientation into immersive, story-driven journeys to embedding peer leadership into institutional culture, Rosie’s work sits at the dynamic intersection of planning, support, and cross-campus activation.
