I Help You Innovate in Higher Education
I’m Dr. Vernon C. Smith, innovator, thought leader, and proven entrepreneur in higher education.
Let’s create lasting impact for your organization!
Dr. Smith’s Impact
Reducing Textbook Costs with OER’s
At APUS, our model covered textbook costs—but scaling that approach wasn’t sustainable long-term.
At The American Public University System, I led the shift to Open Educational Resources (OER) across more than 90% of undergraduate courses. This strategic move replaced paid textbooks and saved the institution over $32 million while maintaining quality and improving sustainability.
Building Microcredentials
Students and employers want practical credentials, yet few models integrated these effectively.
I created and launched the NanoCert® microcredential program at APUS—short, stackable credentials embedded in degree paths. Designed for working learners, they offered immediate value and helped drive enrollment and retention.
Enrollment Breakthroughs
Traditional institutions offer 2.5 semesters per year, with 3 start dates. Students want and need more access.
At Rio Salado, I led the transition from a traditional academic calendar to 48 start dates per year, giving students weekly entry points. The result: improved access, higher persistence, and sustained enrollment growth.
Predictive Modeling for Student Success
We often didn’t know a student was at risk until they had already disappeared. That had to change.
I developed RioPACE, a predictive analytics engine integrated into the LMS at Rio Salado. It enabled faculty to reach struggling students early based on live risk profiles. Used in over 90% of online courses, it boosted retention and became a national model.
Founding Partner of
Podcast
Learn how higher ed leaders are solving today’s toughest innovation challenges.
Exploring innovation trends in learning and leadership in higher education.
Consulting
Strategize, lead, and discover lasting institutional growth.
Join with Dr. Vernon Smith and Dr. Michael Cottam. Backed by 30+ years of experience leading systemwide innovation.
Blog
Rethink what’s possible with proven strategies from real leaders in higher education.
Dig into stories, strategies, and insights that help you engage in your leadership work, by design.
Vernon’s Specialties
Accreditation Readiness
Prepare confidently with expert guidance grounded in repeated success. I assist leaders and teams to prepare confidently for peer review and self-study visits.
Strategic Planning
Turn your mission into measurable momentum with actionable plans that align people, budget, and goals. I help teams move beyond vision into tangible results.
Academic Technology
Select and integrate learning technologies that create a scalable and effective digital infrastructure. I offer strategic insight grounded in executive experience.
Leadership Coaching
Confidential, personalized coaching for higher education executives and mid-level leaders. I strengthen your impact and build your resilience to lead with clarity through complexity.
Enrollment & Market Expansion
Future-proof enrollment with strategies that connect academic offerings to workforce relevance and student need. I drive student success and institutional growth.
Academic Program Development
Support for full-cycle program development—from idea to launch—grounded in data, outcomes, and instructional integrity. I guide your academic teams to create scalable and mission-aligned programs that stand the test of time.
Policy & Governance
System-level consultation to improve governance, effectiveness, and agility—especially for multi-campus or cross-functional settings. I bring a systems-thinking lens to institutional transformation.
Thought Leadership & Public Engagement
Keynotes, podcasts, and panels that elevate the field. I share practical frameworks and forward-thinking ideas to challenge norms and inspire action.
Helping You Innovate in Higher Education, Strategically.
Sign up for a quick chat with me through Engaged by Design, or send a quick email directly to me.
Send a Note
Let me help you get really good at leading top teams at colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions.