Motivation Monday: Adapting to Thrive: How Innovation Fuels our Future

Summary

The transcript highlights the evolution of Walsh College over its 102-year history, detailing its origins as an institute for executive training and its transition to a college. Emphasizing its mission to prepare graduates for successful careers, Walsh has diversified its offerings, including online education and global outreach, particularly post-pandemic. The speaker draws parallels to businesses that adapt and innovate over time, urging reflection on how organizations can evolve while remaining true to their core missions. This journey showcases Walsh's commitment to community and education in an ever-changing landscape.

Takeaways

• 🎉 Walsh College recently celebrated its 102nd anniversary, highlighting its long history since its founding in 1922.
• 📜 Originally, Walsh College started as an institute for training executives and professionals, with its first session held in the Detroit Opera House.
• 👩‍🎓 The institution played a significant role in education, being the first to train women for the CPA exam, exemplified by Grace Dmer.
• 🏫 Walsh College transitioned to a full college in the late 1960s and 1970s due to changes in state regulations requiring a four-year degree for CPA candidates.
• 💻 The college has a rich history of embracing technology, launching its first IT program in 1996 and offering online courses since 1998.
• 🌍 Walsh College's mission is to prepare graduates for successful careers, reflecting its global reach and adaptability to changing educational needs.
• 🕒 The college began offering evening courses for working professionals, evolving to hybrid and remote learning options post-pandemic.
• 📈 The doctoral program at Walsh has seen significant growth, attracting students from around the world to take advantage of its educational offerings.
• 🔄 The adaptability of Walsh College is compared to various companies that have evolved from their original business models, emphasizing innovation in fulfilling their missions.
• 🤝 The college continues to connect with its roots by supporting entrepreneurs and small business workshops through modern initiatives like the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Q & A

What was the original purpose of Walsh College when it was founded?

Walsh College was originally established as an institute to train executives and professionals for their careers.

When was Walsh College founded, and who was its founder?

Walsh College was founded on September 18, 1922, by Morvin Walsh, who was the accountant for Thomas Edison.

What significant change occurred in the late 1960s and 1970s regarding Walsh College?

Walsh College transitioned from an institute to a college when state regulations changed, requiring a four-year degree to sit for the CPA exam.

How did Walsh College adapt to the demand for educational qualifications?

Walsh College adapted by offering upper division courses for students coming from community colleges, allowing them to complete their degrees and qualify for the CPA exam.

What role did technology play in Walsh College's evolution?

Walsh College launched its first computer and IT program in 1996 and began offering online courses in 1998, showcasing its commitment to technology and online education.

What is the core mission of Walsh College?

The core mission of Walsh College is to prepare graduates for successful careers, which includes helping working professionals secure and advance their careers.

How did the pandemic influence Walsh College's teaching methods?

The pandemic accelerated the shift towards hybrid and remote learning environments, allowing Walsh College to reach a wider audience globally.

What historical significance does Walsh College hold in terms of female education in accounting?

Walsh College educated the first female CPA, Grace Dmer, highlighting its historical significance in advancing women's education in accounting.

In what ways has Walsh College engaged with the local business community?

Walsh College has engaged with the local business community through workshops and initiatives like the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, focusing on small business certifications.

How does the speaker relate Walsh College's evolution to broader business trends?

The speaker compares Walsh College's adaptability and innovation to companies like Lamborghini and Samsung, emphasizing that many businesses have evolved significantly from their original purposes to meet changing market demands.