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 MeShonya “Dr. MeMe” Wren-Coleman, Vice President for Student Life & Dean of Students at Bethel College – North Newton. A dynamic higher education leader, Dr. MeMe brings a data-driven, results-oriented approach to designing and improving student success programs that meet the highest standards of best practice, technology integration, and compliance.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Shelley Errington Nicholson, educator, social justice advocate, and Dean of Students at Greenfield Community College. With extensive experience in student development, advising, volunteer management, public speaking, assessment, and grant writing, Shelley has dedicated her career to empowering students and advancing equity in higher education.
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In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Michael Heim, Director of Federal Grants – Migrant Education Student Access & Support (MESAS) at Washington State University. Michael leads with a coach-first philosophy, developing high-performing teams, empowering student leaders, and cultivating community partnerships with a special focus on advancing Latinx (HSI) initiatives that deliver measurable student success.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Ryan P. Barone, Assistant Vice President for Student Success at Colorado State University. A first-generation college graduate turned higher education leader, Ryan bridges academic affairs and student affairs to drive campus-wide strategies that foster belonging, equity, and achievement. He oversees key initiatives, including the Academic Advancement Centre, McNair Scholars Program, Scholar Success Programs, Key Communities, and University Learning Communities, all designed to help students navigate, thrive, and graduate.
In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo Co-Founder & Co-CEO Ben Hallett sits down with Dr. Kelly Soucy, Associate Dean of Students at The University of Texas at Austin. A compassionate higher education leader dedicated to supporting the whole student, Dr. Soucy brings a wealth of experience in fostering belonging, well-being, and academic success across diverse student communities.
