The State of Higher Education Today: What HR Leaders Need to Know

A Presentation by Gaetan Giannini, Ed.D., Vice President of Graduate & Adult Education, Alvernia University

Higher education is undergoing rapid transformation driven by shifting workforce demands, demographic changes, technological advancement, and new expectations from adult learners. For HR professionals, these changes aren’t happening on the sidelines; they directly shape the availability, readiness, and development of today’s and tomorrow’s talent.

In this dynamic and engaging session, Gaetan Giannini, Ed.D., Vice President of Graduate & Adult Education, Alvernia University, will explore how the evolving higher education landscape intersects with organizational strategy, talent acquisition, employee development, and corporate learning. Attendees will gain insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping higher education today, and how employers can work proactively with colleges and universities to strengthen pipelines, upskill employees, and build resilient workforces.

This presentation will help HR leaders understand:

· What’s driving major shifts in higher education

· How new learning models align with workforce needs

· How employers can leverage partnerships and innovative degree pathways

· How to navigate the tightening labor market with strategic educational collaboration