Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper, President of Springfield College

Jack and Matt chat with Dr. Mary Beth Cooper, President of Springfield College. Dr. Cooper shares her journey to Springfield, her involvement with the YMCA, and her motivations for joining the college. She discusses the impacts of the pandemic on education, the evolution of Springfield College’s programs, and the institution's steadfast mission. The conversation also covers the significance of service projects, industry changes brought by AI, NIL legislation, and the teacher-coach model unique to Springfield College. Dr. Cooper highlights the successes in retaining top faculty and coaches, the ongoing campus improvements, and the strong community bond fostered by the college’s spirit, mind, and body philosophy. The episode concludes with thoughts on future projects and the unique experiences that Springfield College offers its students.

Topics

00:55 Welcoming Dr. Mary-Beth Cooper

02:57 Springfield College's Adaptation to Modern Education

05:55 The Humanics Philosophy at Springfield College

15:01 The Teacher-Coach Model at Springfield College

18:22 Keith Bugbee's Legacy and Future Plans

23:36 Campus Development Projects

24:53 Collaborations and Field Projects

25:14 Bugbee Pavilion Fundraiser Success

26:28 Challenges with Gulick Residence Hall

27:49 Student Union and Campus Life

30:26 NIL and NCAA Insights

32:21 Impact of Transfer Portal

32:58 Student Athletes as Employees Debate

39:28 Intramural and Club Sports

42:18 Extracurricular Activities at Springfield College

44:56 Memories and Reflections

49:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell