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A Fireside Chat with Nicolle Parsons-Pollard, Ph.D., Provost and EVP of Academic Affairs at Georgia State University
Steering Through the Storm: Leadership in Transformative Times

Join us September 19th for the inaugural episode of the Beyond Titles: Real Leaders, Real Stories series with Cody Semrau (He/Him), Co-Founder & CEO, BetterMynd where we will engage in an exclusive fireside chat with Dr. Nicolle Parsons-Pollard (she/her), Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs at Georgia State University. 

As a proven leader in higher education,
Provost Nicolle Parsons-Pollard has been instrumental in steering Georgia State University through transformative and often tumultuous times. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to adaptive strategies that address not only the immediate challenges of today but also lay the groundwork for a resilient and innovative future. 

Under her guidance, Georgia State has seen significant advancements in academic affairs, faculty development, and student success. Provost Parsons-Pollard's ability to foster collaboration, support faculty through mentoring programs, and champion diversity and inclusion initiatives has positioned Georgia State as a national leader in navigating higher education's evolving landscape. 

Seats are limited, so secure your spot!

Why You Need to Attend Now

In an era marked by escalating campus tensions, the looming divisiveness of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and the challenges of navigating the enrollment cliff, leadership in higher education has never been more critical—or more complex. Recent protests and conflicts over the Israel-Hamas war have placed university administrators under intense scrutiny, testing their ability to manage crises and foster unity. At the same time, institutions face the pressing issues of declining student enrollments and the alarming rise of mental health concerns—where stress and anxiety are now the first and second leading reasons why students stop out.

As we look ahead to a potentially turbulent academic year, the question remains: How can leaders effectively guide their institutions through such a multifaceted cultural and operational landscape?

By attending this webinar, you will leave with these key takeaways:

Leadership in transition

Leadership in Transition:

Learn how Provost Parsons-Pollard navigates challenges and drives change in higher education.

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Future-Focused Vision:

Discover her forward-looking strategies for shaping the future of Georgia State University and the broader academic landscape.

Fostering Dialogue and Well-Being

Fostering Dialogue and Well-Being:

Gain practical insights on how to foster communication across cultural and political divides while ensuring robust mental health support for students and staff during turbulent times.

Insights into Innovation

Insights into Innovation:

Gain valuable perspectives on fostering a culture of innovation, inclusion, and resilience in academia.

About the Speakers

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Dr. Nicolle Parsons-Pollard

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Georgia State University

Nicolle Parsons-Pollard, Ph.D., has spent her career advancing academic excellence and fostering innovation in higher education. As Provost at Georgia State University, she has been instrumental in navigating complex changes and driving initiatives that promote student success and institutional resilience. Her leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to inclusivity, shared governance, and the continuous evolution of educational practices.

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Cody Semrau

CEO & Founder, BetterMynd

Cody founded BetterMynd after experiencing mental health challenges as an undergraduate at Colgate University. During his senior year, he reached a crisis point and sought help at the on-campus counseling center, a decision that likely saved his life and changed it profoundly. 

Recognizing the difficulty college students face in accessing confidential and timely mental health support, Cody launched BetterMynd in 2017 with a mission to make mental health services more accessible through online therapy. Today, BetterMynd partners with over 150 colleges and universities across the U.S., providing support through a national network of over 400 licensed counselors via a secure, HIPAA-compliant online platform, helping thousands of students get the care they need.

About Beyond Titles: Real Leaders, Real Stories 

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Welcome to Beyond Titles, a “podcast” where the true essence of leadership in higher education is unveiled. Hosted by Cody Semaru, CEO of BetterMynd, this series goes beyond the conventional accolades and explores the authentic journeys of distinguished leaders who shape the educational landscape.  
 
In each episode, we engage in intimate fireside chats with thought leaders, senior executives, and visionary advisors who have navigated the complexities of higher education. Our conversations delve into the challenges, insights, and sources of inspiration that drive transformative change. We seek to uncover the personal North Stars that guide these leaders like yourself through unprecedented times and the innovative strategies they employ to overcome obstacles.