In this conversation, Benjamin Rifkin, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fairleigh Dickinson University, discusses his journey in higher education, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, curriculum design, and the need for a student-first approach. He highlights the challenges in faculty preparation and the necessity of aligning educational practices with the skills students need for their future careers. The discussion also touches on the evolution of higher education and the significance of shared governance in fostering an inclusive academic environment. In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Ben Rifkin discuss the importance of empowering student voices in governance, the role of shared governance in higher education, and the need for flexibility in educational rigor. They highlight innovative practices at Fairleigh Dickinson University that prioritize student welfare and adapt to changing market forces in higher education. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of communication skills and collaboration among faculty, staff, and students to create a more inclusive and effective educational environment.
