In this episode of the Engaged by Design podcast, Vernon Smith and Michael Cottam reconnect with their longtime colleague and friend, Dr. Shannon McCarty, Vice President of Learning and Instruction at Calbright College.

Shannon shares her journey from faculty at Rio Salado College to leadership roles at National University and Bay Path University, and now to her work at Calbright — California’s 116th and newest community college. Together, they explore:

• How Calbright’s startup culture is challenging the status quo in higher education.
• The mission to expand equity and access through free, competency-based programs.
• The role of human-centered design and employer partnerships in creating relevant learning.
• Real-world success stories of micro-internships with companies like HubSpot that led directly to jobs.
• How Calbright is rethinking assessment and demonstration of skills to prepare students for the workforce.

Shannon reminds us that meaningful innovation isn’t about adding more technology — it’s about designing around student needs, fostering equity, and keeping the focus on outcomes.

Reflection Question for Listeners:
What lessons can you beg, borrow, or steal from Calbright that might apply to your context and your institution?

Next Episode Teaser:
In part two of our conversation, we’ll go deeper into Calbright’s team culture, the challenges of building something new, and the role of AI in shaping the future of higher education.