Guiding reform on a college campus requires more than good intentions. It demands a thoughtful process for aligning faculty, staff, and students around shared goals. That’s where effective change management comes in—helping institutions implement new practices in ways that stick.

Why a Structured Approach Matters

Adult learners often balance work, family, and financial responsibilities. Because of this, institutions must rethink policies and programs to meet their needs. A structured approach to organizational change helps minimize resistance, improve communication, and ensure that reforms support long-term success.

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Successful campuses tend to:

• Start with readiness assessments and clear data.

• Engage champions across departments to build momentum.

• Pilot programs, gather feedback, and refine them.

• Communicate openly about goals and progress.

• Offer coaching and professional development to staff.

• Scale what works to reach more learners.

Each of these steps reflects a larger truth: real progress happens when reform is planned and sustained—not rushed or imposed.

Putting Theory Into Practice

Across Michigan, colleges funded through the Innovation Investment Awards are applying these strategies. For example, some use readiness assessments to identify needs, while others rely on faculty workshops to co-design new student services. In both cases, deliberate planning and consistent follow-through make the difference.

Resources on Change Management

• Learn how MI-RAISE Design Lab integrates change management into its framework.

• Explore Innovation Investment Awards and see how funded colleges are applying change management principles.

• Review Prosci’s Change Management resources to understand common frameworks like ADKAR.