Smart Talk: Shippensburg University President Jody Harpster

What to look for on Smart Talk Thursday, May 21, 2015:

Dr. Jody Harpster — the new permanent president of Shippensburg University — appears on Thursday’s Smart Talk.

Dr. Harpster is a Shippensburg graduate and has been an administrator there for the past two decades.  He also has served as interim president twice before being named president in January.

A discussion with the new or outgoing leaders of colleges and universities in Central Pennsylvania is a Smart Talk staple.  It gives the region an opportunity to learn more about the new leader’s vision for the school, address current issues related to higher education, and describe the college’s place in its local community. 

Most colleges or universities are viewed as anchor institutions and see themselves as having a responsibility to give back and help their communities grow.  We’ll find out what that means in Shippensburg’s case.

We’ll also ask Dr. Harpster about his views on college affordability and preparing students for today’s job market.

How has technology changed higher education and learning? 

Are there partnerships and collaborations between institutions that can benefit students?

All issues and topics we’ll discuss on Thursday’s program.