Hands Full

In our most recent Canon Higher Education Advisory Board meeting, it was readily apparent that our institutions of higher learning have their hands full. In our discussion, we covered a variety of issues, but seven trends led the way.

1. FAFSA Delay for Accessing Financial Aid

The delayed timeline for FAFSA completion has created a significant financial bottleneck for students, leaving them uncertain about gaining the funding necessary to attend college. Because an updated FAFSA website was to be ready in October but looks to delayed until December or beyond, addressing this challenge will require enhanced communication between institutions and prospective students. The board believes that ensuring transparency about the financial aid processes is critical. Higher education institutions may explore offering emergency funding options or provisional aid while students await finalized financial aid decisions, ensuring that this delay does not disrupt enrollment.

2. The Demographic Cliff and Enrollment Declines

A projected 15% decline in enrollment, dubbed the “demographic cliff,” is poised to challenge the sustainability of many higher education institutions. According to the advisory board, colleges will need new strategies in order to pivot. Embracing business partnerships, engaging non-traditional students such as adult learners and those seeking career reskilling, and rethinking the use of facilities are all ideas that may need to be incubated immediately to make up for the declining number of traditional college-aged applicants. Expanding online learning opportunities and certificate programs can help attract these groups, ensuring long-term enrollment stability.

3. Rising Prices for Education

The cost of higher education continues to outpace inflation, putting pressure on both students and institutions. To address this, universities may want to explore partnerships with the private sector to create more affordable pathways, including increased scholarship opportunities and work-study programs. Streamlining administrative costs and utilizing technology to reduce overhead was also an idea discussed to alleviate some of the financial burdens on students.

4. Low Staff Availability

Multiple members of the advisory board noted staff shortages are hitting colleges hard, from faculty to administrative roles, impacting operational efficiency. Higher education institutions may need to reimagine their recruitment and retention strategies by offering more flexible work environments, competitive pay, and career development opportunities.

5. Questioning the Value of Education in the Digital Age

As AI and digital platforms become more prominent, students and their families are questioning the value of traditional higher education. Our board feels that colleges must adapt by integrating more skills-based learning into their curricula, emphasizing the development of human-centered skills like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. It is clear that institutions may need to showcase their role in preparing students for a future that combines AI capabilities with essential humanness.

6. Technology Innovation and Hybrid Learning

As we have written about in EnvisionED, the rapid shift to hybrid learning has challenged educators to deliver meaningful instruction in both physical and virtual environments. Ensuring effective learning requires universities to invest in training for faculty, refining their pedagogical approaches to digital tools. Equally important is a commitment to student engagement—blending technology with personalized support systems that address individual learning needs and foster real academic growth.

7. Safety and Cybersecurity

Higher education continues to face growing concerns about safety and cybersecurity. Protecting students and personnel from physical threats and cyberattacks requires robust security infrastructure. Institutions must invest in cybersecurity technology and training to prevent data breaches, while also enhancing physical campus security. Furthermore, educating students and staff about digital security practices is crucial to maintaining a secure learning environment.

The Canon Higher Education Advisory Board discussed the many challenges upon them. However, the vibe was one of hope and opportunity. The fact is that the best leaders in higher ed look at challenges as a chance to get better and deliver for the next generation. So, while the hands may be full, they are certainly not idle.