Why Distinction Matters More Than Ever

Distinctiveness in higher education isn’t created by accident. It takes clarity, discipline, and the willingness to make strategic choices, especially as colleges face shrinking enrollments, rising costs, and pressure to prove their value.In this episode of Radical Cooperation, Dr. Michael Horowitz speaks with Mary Marcy, Ph.D., President Emerita of Dominican University of California, and Lucie Lapovsky, Ph.D., Former President of Mercy College and current College Management Consultant. Together, they explore what truly sets successful colleges apart, how retention and mission clarity drive both academic and financial health, and why collaboration, not isolation, is becoming essential for survival.From redefining student pathways to rethinking resource models and shared infrastructure, Mary and Lucie offer a grounded look at the decisions that help institutions stay strong in an era of rapid change.In this episode:What truly defines institutional distinctionHow retention and mission clarity strengthen outcomesWhy collaboration and shared services matter more than everThe leadership mindset needed to navigate rapid change