Tag: Institutional Growth
Gary Railsback: Transformational Leader in Higher Education & Accreditation
Gary Railsback is a transformational leader in higher education, specializing in accreditation, assessment, and institutional effectiveness. With a Ph.D. in Higher Education & Organizational Change and over four decades of experience, he has played a pivotal role in guiding universities through accreditation processes, faculty development, and program evaluation. His expertise spans multiple accrediting bodies, including CAEP, NCATE, and HLC, making him a sought-after consultant for institutions seeking to enhance their academic standards. Throughout his career, he has served in leadership roles at Warner Pacific University, Azusa Pacific University, and Point Loma Nazarene University, among others, shaping policies that drive quality and integrity in education. Even after retiring from full-time work, he continues to influence the field through consulting, mentorship, and research, leaving a lasting impact on higher education institutions nationwide.
Jeff Holliday: Higher Education Executive Driving Operational Excellence and Strategic Growth
Jeff Holliday is a seasoned higher education executive with over 25 years of experience in financial aid, scholarships, and enrollment management, driving operational excellence and institutional growth. As the **Senior Vice President of Partner Services and Research at Clark Higher Education**, he leverages data-driven strategies to optimize financial aid processes, enhance student accessibility, and build strong institutional partnerships. His leadership at **Clemson University, Montreat College, Presbyterian College, and Anderson University** has resulted in groundbreaking process improvements, scholarship initiatives, and increased student enrollment. A strategic problem-solver and collaborative leader, Jeff has played a pivotal role in shaping higher education policies, fostering team development, and enhancing institutional efficiency. His expertise in financial aid operations, scholarship administration, and enrollment strategies continues to make a lasting impact on students and institutions alike.
Michael Turner: Transformational Leader in Independent School Education
Michael Turner is an accomplished independent school leader with a proven track record of strategic vision, institutional growth, and financial stewardship. With over two decades of experience as a Head of School, administrator, and educator, he has successfully led schools through leadership transitions, enrollment expansion, and crisis management while strengthening governance and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His expertise spans fiscal management, capital campaigns, faculty recruitment, and innovative program development, consistently delivering sustainable growth and community engagement. A dedicated communicator and relationship-builder, Turner fosters trust among trustees, faculty, students, and families, ensuring mission-driven leadership that positions schools for long-term success.
Rick Pinkowski: Executive Leader in Higher Education, Finance, and Strategic Planning
Rick Pinkowski is an accomplished financial and strategic leader with over 34 years of experience in higher education, finance, and organizational development. Throughout his career, Rick has demonstrated a strong commitment to integrity, ethical leadership, and community service, helping organizations grow and thrive. His deep expertise spans financial operations, human resources, student services, and capital planning, allowing him to drive impactful change in the institutions he has served.
As Vice President for Finance at Villa Maria College and Hilbert College, Rick led significant projects that improved business practices, secured key funding, and enhanced operational efficiency. His ability to manage complex financial portfolios, lead multi-year strategic planning, and oversee large-scale capital projects has been instrumental in the success of these institutions. Rick is known for his strategic foresight, innovative thinking, and collaborative approach, which have made him a trusted leader and advisor.
Now transitioning into a consulting role after retirement, Rick continues to lend his expertise to various not-for-profit organizations, offering fractional CFO services and project management support. He is actively involved in several boards and committees, including the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropy, where he contributes his knowledge of finance, governance, and institutional growth.
Rick's passion for education, leadership, and community involvement extends beyond his professional roles. He is dedicated to using his skills and experience to help organizations achieve sustainable growth, and he remains deeply committed to supporting the communities he serves.