Trusted Voices

S3. Ep. 13 End of Semester Reflections

In their Season 3 finale, Trusted Voices co-hosts Erin Hennessy and Teresa Valerio Parrot reflect on a year of bold conversations, policy pitfalls, and personal growth. From a heartfelt encounter with Ruth Simmons to sobering insights on student aid and political pressure, this episode is a reminder that in higher ed, leadership means speaking up—even when it’s risky.

S3. Ep.12 - Will This Dumpster Fire Burn Itself Out?

Hosts Erin Hennessy and Teresa Valerio Parrot speak with Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education. Mitchell offers a candid look at the challenges facing higher ed today—from policy uncertainty to misinformation and funding cuts. He shares insights on how to navigate this "dumpster fire" while also highlighting the often-overlooked work happening at regional campuses and community colleges.

S3. Ep. 11 - Harvard Says No

Erin Hennessy and Teresa Valerio Parrot unpack Harvard’s bold defiance of the Trump administration, what it means for international students, and why higher ed leaders must decide when to fight, when to stay quiet, and how to lead with intention in the court of public opinion.

S3. Ep. 10 - Choose Your Damning Wisely

Staying silent isn’t always the safest choice. Hosts Erin Hennessy and Teresa Valerio Parrot sit down with Holden Thorp to discuss why higher ed leaders must embrace transparency, communicate with the public, and advocate for the value of academia. Thorp also reflects on his own leadership journey, including his decision to share his autism diagnosis.

S3. Ep. 09 - Funding Cuts and Uncertain Futures

Erin Hennessy and Teresa Valerio Parrot assess the impact of NIH funding cuts on local communities and brace for the unknown future of the Department of Education as the Trump administration continues to target higher education.

S3. Ep. 08 - Being a Critical Friend

Teresa Valerio Parrot and Erin Hennessy invite Inside Higher Ed’s Sara Custer to reflect on her first year as editor-in-chief, exploring the evolving media landscape, the challenges facing higher education and the importance of fostering honest, impactful conversations between journalists and institutional leaders.

S3. Ep. 07 - Higher Ed Has Always Been Political

Teresa Valerio Parrot and Erin Hennessy dive into the new year discussing enrollment trends, a new Department of Education, and the true role of crisis communicators as they look ahead to the topics that will shape higher education storylines in 2025.

S3. Ep. 06 - Shifting Realities

Teresa Valerio Parrot and Erin Hennessy close out the fall semester by examining shifting trends in college presidencies and thought leadership, offering insights into the evolving challenges facing higher education.