Twisting Paradigms IRL
Twisting Paradigms IRL
Kate McCaffrey, PhD
Episode 6: Design Thinking in Higher Ed with Dr. Amy Tiberio
30 minutes Posted Apr 1, 2026 at 2:48 pm.
Introduction to Design Thinking05:00 Experiencing Design Framework11:01 Creating an Environment for Creativity17:03 Impact on Change Management23:09 Building Team Synergy28:02 Encouraging Student-Centered ApproachFREE RESOURCE
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Dr. Amy Tiberio discusses the implementation of design thinking in higher education, emphasizing the student-centered approach, diverse perspectives, and the challenges and benefits of the process. The conversation explores the Experiencing Design framework, stages of the process, and its impact on change management and team dynamics. Additionally, the potential impact of design thinking on higher education and the encouragement of a student-centered approach are highlighted.Amy Tiberio, Ed.D., is a higher education leader, writer, and speaker passionate about institutional innovation and the future of education. Through her Substack and LinkedIn newsletter, Embracing Disruption in Higher Education, she explores the intersection of leadership, change management, and equity — translating complex research into ideas practitioners can actually use. Amy has spent over two decades in enrollment management at institutions across New England, including Bentley University, Stonehill College, and, most recently, Roger Williams University, where she serves as Vice President for Enrollment Management and a member of the President's Cabinet. She has presented at national conferences, including EDUCAUSE and the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), on topics ranging from AI strategy to equity in admissions to women's leadership. She holds an Executive Doctorate in Higher Education from Boston College, where her research focused on leadership, institutional change, and equity in higher education. Outside of work, Amy is an avid yoga practitioner and believes deeply that personal wellness and great leadership go hand in hand.TakeawaysDesign thinking centers the student experienceDesign thinking encourages diverse perspectives and engagementDesign thinking requires intentional facilitation and time commitmentChapters00:00 Introduction to Design Thinking05:00 Experiencing Design Framework11:01 Creating an Environment for Creativity17:03 Impact on Change Management23:09 Building Team Synergy28:02 Encouraging Student-Centered ApproachFREE RESOURCE