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/

In this episode of Together. A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Morgan Lyon Cotti, Associate Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah.

Dr. Lyon Cotti reflects on her journey from being a Hinckley intern as a student to her role today, where she helps connect students with valuable internships and opportunities. She talks about the importance of hands-on learning, the role of mentorship, and how the Hinckley Institute works to make these experiences more accessible for students.

She also discusses the Orrin G. Hatch Center in Washington, D.C., which provides University of Utah students with unique internship and networking opportunities in the heart of the nation’s capital.

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. Naomi Norman, a classics professor, archeologist, and expert in teaching and faculty development at the University of Georgia.

Dr. Norman shares how her career in higher education has been shaped by innovative teaching methods like "Reacting to the Past," a role-playing game that empowers students to take an active role in their learning. She also discusses the value of hands-on learning, building connections across classes, and supporting teachers to help students succeed.

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. Ruth Watkins, President Emerita of the University of Utah and current leader in post-secondary education initiatives at Strada Education Foundation.

Dr. Watkins shares her inspiring journey, highlighting the impact of mentorship, student-centered leadership, and collaborative change within higher education. She explores Strada’s mission to enhance student outcomes through career readiness and economic mobility, and discusses the power of listening and partnership in fostering transformative educational experiences.

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 Malika Clinkscales, Vice President for Faculty Mentor Strategy at Western Governors University.

Malika shares her own journey, emphasizing the power of collaboration, empathy, and institutional innovation to drive stronger outcomes for students. She then dives into the importance of fresh perspectives on mentorship and the evolving role of technology in education, illustrating how thoughtful leadership can meaningfully enhance student support and success.

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 Cathy Badger, the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Academic Services at the University of Utah.

Cathy discusses her commitment to helping student athletes achieve academic success while excelling both on and off the field. With a notable 94% graduation rate, her goal is to ensure that every athlete earns their degree. She shares insights on the student success initiatives she's working on, strategies universities can adopt from athletics, and the challenges presented by conference realignment and how these changes affect athletes' academic experiences.

Tune in to learn how a comprehensive approach to student success can empower athletes to thrive in their education and beyond!

In this episode of Together. A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by J. Janell Cerva, Chief Impact & Strategy Officer at Utah Community Action (UCA), who oversees the Data & Policy Team and manages Resource Development, Communications, and Marketing.

Janell shares how UCA provides essential legal support and emphasizes the importance of engagement and collaboration in driving transformative change. She discusses how UCA partners with universities and local organizations to increase access to higher education and serve underserved communities. Additionally, Janell offers insights into early childhood development, leadership, and the power of shifting perspectives to unlock resources and opportunities.

Tune in to discover how we can build a more supportive and impactful community for everyone. For more information about UCA, visit: utahca.org.