In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Jason Taylor, Associate Professor in the College of Education and Assistant Dean for Transfer Student Success at the University of Utah. Jason shares his journey from being a first-generation student and music major to becoming a national scholar in transfer policy and community colleges.

He dives deep into how personal mentorship, public policy, and systems-level thinking shaped his path—and how the University of Utah is transforming transfer student success through curricular alignment, inclusive programming, and community partnerships.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about access, equity, and how listening to students can drive lasting change.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu

#TransferSuccess #CommunityColleges #FirstGen #HigherEdPolicy #TogetherPodcast

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Jason Perry, Vice President for Government Relations and Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, to explore how student internships, public policy, government relations, and listening shape higher education today.

Jason shares his journey from law and government service into higher ed leadership, highlighting the critical role of internships, advocacy, and relationship-building in supporting student success and institutional impact.

He also discusses the challenges facing public higher education, the power of listening, and why lasting change requires ongoing commitment, even during difficult times. Whether you’re a student, policymaker, or higher ed leader, this conversation offers powerful insights into navigating change and strengthening community connections.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu

#HigherEd #StudentSuccess #Leadership #PublicPolicy #TogetherPodcast

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Taylor Randall, President of the University of Utah, and Dr. Greg Peterson, President of Salt Lake Community College, to explore the power of institutional partnerships in expanding student success and access to higher education.

The presidents discuss the unique strengths of the SLCC-UU partnership, emphasizing how collaboration between two- and four-year institutions can create seamless transfer pathways and opportunities for students. They share insights on building institutions that work for everyone, prioritizing student success, and embedding these efforts into long-term strategic planning.

We also dive into the challenges of driving transformative change in higher education—balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring higher ed remains valuable and accessible, and building a culture of student-centered decision-making. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or student, this conversation offers a look at the future of postsecondary education.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Jim Agutter, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Innovation and Faculty Success at the University of Utah, to explore how artificial intelligence and design thinking are shaping the future of student success and teaching practices.

Jim shares his unconventional journey from a struggling high school student to a leader in higher education, emphasizing the power of curiosity, empathy, and iterative learning. He discusses the challenges of navigating change in higher ed, balancing tradition with innovation, and leveraging AI to enhance both faculty and student experiences.

We also dive into the complexities of implementing AI responsibly, overcoming resistance to technology, and the importance of truly listening to students to create transformative, lasting change. Whether you're an educator, student, or higher ed professional, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of education.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu

#HigherEd #StudentSuccess #Leadership #AI #TogetherPodcast

In this episode of Together. A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Lori McDonald, Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Utah, to discuss the evolving role of student affairs in shaping student success and campus life.

Dr. McDonald shares her journey from biology major to higher ed leader, the mentors who guided her path, and the philosophy behind People, Passion, and Purpose. She dives into the challenges and opportunities in higher education today, including leadership, student engagement, and how universities must adapt to a changing world.

We also explore how student organizations, mental health resources, and community-building initiatives contribute to student well-being. Whether you’re a student, educator, or higher ed professional, this conversation offers valuable insights on fostering a thriving university experience.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu/

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Annie Isabel Fukushima and Dr. Alexa Sand to explore the transformative impact of undergraduate research.

Dr. Fukushima and Dr. Sand share their journeys into academia, the mentors who shaped their careers, and how they now empower students to become researchers, innovators, and leaders. They discuss the importance of fostering curiosity, embracing failure, and breaking barriers to make research accessible to all students—regardless of background or discipline.

We also dive into the upcoming 25th Anniversary of Research on Capitol Hill, an event showcasing the best undergraduate research from Utah’s top institutions. Learn more here: https://our.utah.edu/education-events/research-on-capitol-hill/

Save the date: February 20, 2025 from 9:00am-1:00pm in Utah State Capitol Rotunda

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Utah here: https://us.utah.edu/

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Erin Castro and Dr. Andy Eisen of the University of Utah Prison Education Project (UPEP).

Dr. Castro and Dr. Eisen share their journeys into higher education and prison education, starting as graduate students with the Education Justice Project and evolving into leaders at the University of Utah. Together, they reflect on the challenges of creating higher education opportunities for incarcerated individuals, building trust and community within prison systems, and advancing education as a public good.

Learn about the launch of UPEP’s first bachelor’s degree program, the creation of a peer mentor initiative for incarcerated students, and their vision for a national research center on education justice.

Donate to Utah Prison Education Project here:
https://ugive.app.utah.edu/designation/3424

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Utah here: https://us.utah.edu/

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Geoffrey Landward, Commissioner of the Utah System of Higher Education.

Commissioner Landward shares his journey into higher education, from growing up with two deans of students in his family to navigating a career that led him to his current leadership role. He reflects on the importance of system-level leadership, the challenges of balancing institutional goals with statewide priorities, and the critical role of trust in fostering collaboration and transformative change.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Utah here: https://us.utah.edu/