HRW Higher Ground

The Presidential Election & What It Really Means For Higher Ed with Political And PR Strategist John Ashford

• Season 1 • Episode 15

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Political strategist and public relations expert John Ashford of The Hawthorn Group in Alexandria, Virginia joins John and Scott for some post-election analysis and discussion about how the election outcome will impact higher ed going forward.  John Ashford helps us understand what Biden administration priorities for the education industry look like,  where the traditional four-year school fits – or doesn’t fit – within those priorities, and political strategies schools need to be thinking about in the face of increasing strain on the industry due to the COVID-19 pandemic and social concerns.  John discusses the critical importance of studying what various political appointments and elections might mean for an institution downstream and how to get ahead of the resulting pull.  John also teases out why higher ed needs to consider strategic lobbying efforts as a means of financial survival.  

A particularly fitting episode for this Veteran’s Day.  A very humble thanks to all of the nation’s veterans and those who continue to serve – dedicated patriots from all walks of life who serve the noble and critical mission of preserving the democracy we see in action every day.