3. Navigating Online Education: A Conversation with Audra Spicer

3. Navigating Online Education: A Conversation with Audra Spicer

From EdUp Provost by Association of Chief Academic Officers (ACAO)

February 25, 2026 · 35 min · Season 4 · Episode 1

About this episode

Dr. Audra Spicer discusses the unique model of CSU Global and the importance of flexibility and student success in online education.

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Audra Spicer, the Provost and Acting President of CSU Global, discusses the unique model of CSU Global as a fully online university, its focus on career readiness, and the importance of flexibility for adult learners. She shares her journey within the institution, the challenges of transitioning to a leadership role, and the significance of student-centric decision-making. The conversation also touches on recent achievements, the role of AI in education, and advice for aspiring academic leaders, emphasizing the need for collaboration and continuous learning in the evolving landscape of higher education.Takeaways• Flexibility is crucial for adult learners pursuing education.• Student success is the top priority in decision-making.• Recent achievements include a career-connected campus designation.• AI should be embraced as a tool for efficiency.• Provosts need to focus on budget management and institutional priorities.

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner

Guest: Dr. Audra Spicer

Topics covered

  • online education
  • career readiness
  • adult learners
  • leadership
  • AI in education
  • student-centric decision-making

Keywords

  • online university
  • flexibility
  • student success
  • AI
  • academic leadership
  • career-connected campus

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CSU Global

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