In this episode of Spanning the Need, we sit down with Youngstown State University’s new president, Bill Johnson. As he began his third week in office, President Johnson shares his vision for YSU and discusses the importance of serving students and the community. Join us as we explore his unique background and the goals he hopes to achieve during his tenure at the university. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation about leadership, education, and the future of YSU.
Tune in to the podcast to learn more about President Bill Johnson’s plans for Youngstown State University and his commitment to serving students and the community.
Key Takeaways
- President Johnson aims to make YSU the anchor university in northeast Ohio, with other universities striving to catch up to its innovative and creative initiatives.
- Enhancing the student experience and empowering faculty to conduct groundbreaking research are among President Johnson’s top priorities.
- YSU offers a strong value proposition for students, with tuition approximately $2,000 less than most other institutions in the region and a fixed tuition program for the duration of a student’s degree.
- Growing the graduate and international programs is a key focus for President Johnson, as he seeks to attract students from diverse backgrounds to YSU.
Timestamps
[01:20] President Johnson’s background and how he differs from former President Jim Tressel
[03:09] President Johnson’s vision and goals for YSU
[04:46] Addressing declining enrolment in higher education
[10:29] Promoting YSU’s value to students and the community
[12:48] Marketing and communications strategies to attract international students
[17:28] Growing YSU’s student body and attracting top faculty and staff
[19:03] A message to the community about YSU’s future
[20:12] President Johnson’s personal accomplishments and advice on mentorship
[21:58] Historical figures President Johnson would like to meet and why
Episode Highlights
President Johnson’s vision and goals for YSU
President Johnson aims to make Youngstown State University the anchor university in northeast Ohio. He wants other universities to look at YSU through the windshield, not the rear-view mirror, as they strive to catch up with the innovative and creative things happening at YSU. His goal is to enhance the student experience and empower faculty to conduct groundbreaking research while addressing the issue of declining enrollment in higher education.
YSU’s value proposition for students
Youngstown State University offers a strong value proposition for students, with tuition approximately $2,000 less than most other institutions in the region. The university also has a fixed tuition program, ensuring that a student’s tuition remains the same for the duration of their degree. President Johnson emphasizes the importance of attracting students from diverse backgrounds, including international students, to create a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.
A message to the community about YSU’s future
President Johnson expresses his gratitude to former President Jim Tressel and his wife, Ellen, for their hard work and the strategic plan they put in place for the sustainability of the institution. He encourages the community to stand by and watch as Youngstown State University’s best days unfold, promising that the university will continue to innovate and serve the region in the years to come.
Quotes
- “I don’t know how to dream small. From those early days on the farm where I didn’t think I was college material to a 27-year Air Force career, I learned to set high expectations for me and the organizations I was so honored and humbled to lead.”
- “If it weren’t for our students, there wouldn’t be a Youngstown State. They’re the reason that we’re here.”
- “Stand by and watch. Youngstown State’s best days are ahead of us.”
- “Service is in my blood. It’s a lot more rewarding when you give part of yourself to somebody else.”
