Dr. Drumm McNaughton interviews Dr. Meredith Woo, president of Sweet Briar College, about the Sweet Briar Miracle, the college’s transformation using change management principles.

Podcast Highlights

• Sweet Briar College faced a major uphill climb after alumnae successfully pushed back the board of trustees’ decision to close the institution.
• The college had to find ways to address and change perceived challenges, including declining interest in a liberal arts education, waning enrollment by women in women’s colleges, and the institution’s location in a rural Virginia setting.
• The college’s leaders started their change initiative with major overhauls of the academic program, financial decision-making and budget.
• The second phase of this initiative involves creating a strong focus on women’s leadership that is integrated into the liberal arts curriculum and sustainability.
• The college grew enrollment by 42% after announcing the changes, and continues its growth to this day.

To see full show notes, visit https://changinghighered.com

Resources Dr. Drumm McNaughton provides crisis management and transformation consulting services for higher ed institutions.

Links to Articles, Apps, or websites mentioned during the interview:

• Sweet Briar College

Guest Social Media Links:

• Meredith Woo on LinkedIn

The Change Leader’s Social Media Links:

• Website: https://changinghighered.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
• Email: podcast@changinghighered.com

Sponsor: Perdia Education