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Degrees of Change
A podcast from California Competes: Higher Education for a Strong Economy that explores how smart higher education and workforce policies can help Californians learn, contribute, and thrive. Through candid conversations with thought leaders, policymakers, and practitioners, this podcast brings bold ideas and practical solutions to address some of the state’s most pressing challenges.
Episodes
12 episodes
The Role of Local Leadership in Higher Education with Libby Schaaf
"Education is not just the responsibility of educators. It is everyone's responsibility."When we talk about transforming higher education, the focus is often on colleges and state policymakers. But many of the forces that shape student s...
AI and the Future of Learning with Isabelle Hau
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how we work, learn, and connect. But what should that mean for higher education?In this episode of Degrees of Change, California Competes CEO Su Jin Jez sits down with sits down with ...
Innovation in Higher Education with Maria Anguiano
California’s higher education system has served millions of students. But it was built as a rigid, one-time credential system that does not meet the needs of all learners.In this episode, California Competes CEO Dr. Su Jin Jez speaks wit...
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The Basic Needs Movement in Higher Education with Dr. Rashida Crutchfield
When students can't meet their basic needs, academic success becomes exponentially harder. That reality shapes whether they enroll, persist, or graduate.For our
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Aligning Education and Work with Paul Fain
California Competes CEO Su Jin Jez speaks with journalist Paul Fain about aligning higher education and workforce systems to build a strong, inclusive economy. Together, they explore what system ali...
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A Data System for All Californians with Mary Ann Bates
A Data System for All Californians with Mary Ann BatesWe’re excited to bring you Crystal Clear: A Vision for the Future of California Higher Ed, a new season of Degrees of Change marking our organization’s 15th ...
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Understanding California's Higher Education Funding System: A Conversation with Dr. Jennifer Delaney
Dr. Jennifer Delaney joins the final episode of the first season of Degrees of Change to unpack how California finances its higher education system and what that means for students, institutions, and the state’s future. Throughout...
Why Higher Education is Central to California’s Business Climate: A Conversation with Senator Roger Niello
California State Senator Roger Niello joins the latest episode of Degrees of Change. As a UC Berkeley graduate, certified public accountant, family business owner for 25 years, and former president of the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Co...
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Transforming Higher Ed Through Bolder Policy Reform
On the latest episode of our Degrees of Change
Building Higher Ed Pathways that Center California's Students
Dr. Carl Cohn is the latest guest on our new podcast, Degrees of Change, which is kicking off with a series of interviews exploring the legacy of California’s 1960 Master Plan for Higher Education. His rare blend of experie...
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Recommitting to Affordability in California’s Higher Ed System
In 1960, California released a Master Plan for higher education that was bold for its time, rooted in principles of accessibility, affordability, quality, and fairness. But much has changed since the mid-20th century. Budget restrictions arisin...
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Reimagining California’s Master Plan with Pat Callan
What happens when a plan designed in 1960 still shapes the experiences of California students today? In this episode of Degrees of Change, Dr. Su Jin Jez sits down with Pat Callan, one of the nation's most influential leaders in higher educatio...
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