In this forward-looking conversation, host Ricot Aladin sits down with Minnesota State University Moorhead President Tim Downs to talk about growth, leadership, and the future of higher education.
President Downs shares how MSUM’s freshman enrollment jumped 31%, crediting teamwork, visibility, and a renewed sense of belonging on campus. He discusses purpose-driven leadership, emphasizing that education isn’t just about degrees—it’s about equipping students with critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability for a changing world.
Listeners hear about new initiatives like the Institute for Applied Artificial Intelligence, the new Honors College, and the Morehead Scholars program, which offers local high school students tuition-free opportunities to study close to home—strengthening the regional workforce.
Downs also reflects on balancing innovation and tradition, explaining that while technology like AI is transforming learning, the human element—authenticity, mentorship, and community—remains essential.
In closing, he and Aladin explore the power of mentorship, the importance of intentional growth, and how collaboration across education, business, and government can build thriving communities.