Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, Louisiana Commissioner of Higher Education: A “Red Beans and Relationships” Recipe for Workforce Development

"With red beans, you have to tend the pot. It's not an instant meal. It takes time and creativity to get it right, and then a great meal is something to be shared." That's how Louisiana's Commissioner of Higher Education Dr. Kim Hunter Reed describes the state’s approach to workforce development which includes inviting people to the table, listening carefully to identify needs, and working together on solutions. These efforts have taken on some urgency in the wake of recent multi-billion dollar investments in Louisiana by companies like Meta and Hyundai, and in trying to reach an ambitious goal of doubling the number of higher ed credentials awarded annually in the state by 2030. As Dr. Hunter Reed explains to Futuro Health CEO Van Ton-Quinlivan, increasing work-based learning opportunities, tapping the justice-impacted talent pool and a new financial aid program are all parts of the current strategy, but so is making the case for higher education in the first place. "As leaders and believers in this work, we have got to do a better job of sharpening our narrative, and defining and demonstrating value.” Tune in to hear how Louisiana is executing on a multi-pronged talent strategy to make sure its residents are prepared to meet the state’s skilled workforce needs now and in the future. Mentioned in this episode: Louisiana Board of Regents