Why do some universities excel with the launch of online programs and others experience mediocre results? What are the key variables that lead to scalability and sustainability? Dr. Susan Aldridge has spent her career leading institutions and innovatively expanding their footprint. While president of University of Maryland Global Campus she developed the first online master's degree in Cybersecurity. In only a few years, this program grew from zero to well over 1,000 graduates. At Drexel University, she launched programs in Drug Discovery and Pharmaceutical Clinical Trial Research.
In this webinar we review national trend data that makes scaling online imperative for many institutions, and then have a step-by-step discussion with Susan about how a futuristic mindset leads to identifying trends, patterns of success, data-driven research and creative solutions. Among the questions we will cover are:
- What is a futuristic mindset and how does it help institutions move forward?
- How should universities manage online expansion while decreasing revenue share models?
- What are the most common mistakes made in growing online programs?
- What are the hallmarks of successful scaling of online offerings?
About the presenters
Dr. Susan C. Aldridge, Interim President, Thomas Jefferson University
Dr. Aldridge is an innovative and dynamic higher education leader who has also worked with dozens of university presidents and ministers of education regarding business models and technology-enhanced education. Dr. Aldridge served as president of Drexel University Online for six years where she oversaw more than 125 online programs and over 9,000 online students. She also spearheaded a research project around innovative practices in technology-enhanced education, which resulted in the award-winning, open source website, Virtually Inspired.

Scott Jeffe, VP, Research, Graduate and Online, RNL
Scott Jeffe has worked with more than 200 institutions in 40+ states to apply market data to strategic decisions. With a focus on profiling the demands and preferences of nontraditional (adult, online, etc.) students, Scott has developed a unique sensitivity to ensuring that programs align with student demand while upholding institutional mission and values.