The Future of Higher Education: Innovation, Community, and Impact – Lessons from DMU’s Angela Walker Franklin
Des Moines University (DMU) President and CEO Angela Walker Franklin’s recent recognition with the 2026 Trailblazer in Higher Education Award signals a pivotal shift in what it means to lead a modern university. The award, bestowed by Insight Into Academia Magazine, highlights a focus on not just academic excellence, but also on community engagement and demonstrable impact. This isn’t a fleeting trend; it’s a fundamental reshaping of the higher education landscape.
The Rise of Interprofessional Education
Franklin’s leadership at DMU has been marked by a commitment to interprofessional education, exemplified by the modern 88-acre campus in West Des Moines. This approach, where students from different disciplines – medicine, osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling – learn together, is gaining traction nationwide.
The benefits are clear. Interprofessional education better prepares graduates for the collaborative realities of modern healthcare. Students develop a deeper understanding of each other’s roles, leading to improved patient care and reduced medical errors. DMU’s new campus is specifically designed to foster this type of collaboration.
Pro Tip: Universities looking to implement interprofessional education should focus on shared learning spaces, team-based projects, and clinical rotations that require collaboration across disciplines.
Building Community Through Wellness and Connection
The emphasis on wellness and community connection within DMU’s new campus isn’t accidental. Universities are increasingly recognizing their role as anchors within their local communities. This extends beyond simply providing jobs and attracting students. It involves actively partnering with local organizations, addressing community needs, and creating spaces that are welcoming to all.
This trend is driven by several factors, including a growing awareness of social determinants of health and a desire to create more inclusive and equitable learning environments. Universities are realizing that their success is inextricably linked to the well-being of the communities they serve.
The Importance of Cultural Competency in Modern Curriculum
Franklin’s embedding of cultural competency across DMU’s curriculum, clinical training, and employee development is a critical step forward. As the population becomes increasingly diverse, healthcare professionals need to be equipped to provide culturally sensitive and effective care. This isn’t just about avoiding misunderstandings; it’s about recognizing and addressing systemic inequities that impact health outcomes.
Did you know? Studies show that patients are more likely to trust and adhere to treatment plans when they feel understood and respected by their healthcare providers.
Philanthropy and the Future of Funding
DMU’s successful $51 million philanthropic campaign demonstrates the continued importance of fundraising in higher education. Still, the landscape of philanthropic giving is evolving. Donors are increasingly looking for evidence of impact and accountability. They want to know that their contributions are making a tangible difference in the lives of students and communities.
Universities that can effectively communicate their impact and demonstrate a clear return on investment are more likely to attract philanthropic support. This requires a shift from simply asking for money to building long-term relationships with donors and engaging them in the university’s mission.
Adapting to a Changing Educational Landscape
The completion of DMU’s new campus during the global pandemic is a testament to the university’s resilience and adaptability. The pandemic forced institutions to rapidly adopt new technologies and teaching methods. While some of these changes may be temporary, others are likely to develop into permanent features of the higher education landscape.
Online learning, hybrid courses, and virtual simulations are all likely to play a larger role in the future. Universities that can effectively leverage these technologies will be better positioned to reach a wider audience and provide more flexible learning options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is interprofessional education?
A: It’s an approach to learning where students from different healthcare disciplines learn together, fostering collaboration and improving patient care.
Q: Why is cultural competency important in healthcare?
A: It ensures healthcare providers can deliver sensitive and effective care to diverse populations, addressing systemic inequities and improving health outcomes.
Q: How are universities adapting to the changing educational landscape?
A: By embracing online learning, hybrid courses, and virtual simulations to provide more flexible and accessible learning options.
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