"I'm Right On Top Of That, Rose!": Bellevue University's Guide to Breaking Higher Ed Rules

In The EdUp Experience podcast episode 993, I interviewed Dr. Mary B. Hawkins , President of Bellevue University , and she shared insights from her remarkable 30-year tenure leading one of higher education's most innovative institutions. From pioneering online education in 1996 to embracing AI-enhanced faculty support today, Bellevue University has consistently challenged traditional higher education norms while maintaining a steadfast commitment to serving working adult learners. This edition of The EdUp WrapUp, inspired by the 1991 film "Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead," explores how Bellevue University's maverick approach to education mirrors Sue Ellen Crandell's journey from inexperienced teenager to successful fashion executive – proving that with the right support and opportunities, anything is possible!

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"Find your faculty who want to lean in...willing to break the rules, willing to go out there. We've truthfully taken kind of pride in being different and being accused by academic institutions of not being legit. It's kind of a badge of honor for Bellevue people."

The Dishes Are Done, Traditional Higher Ed

Just as Sue Ellen discovered that conventional rules don't apply when you're reinventing the game, Bellevue University has spent 30 years proving that higher education needs a fresh approach. "We've truthfully taken kind of pride in being different and being accused by academic institutions of not being legit," says President Dr. Mary B. Hawkins, channeling some serious Sue Ellen energy.

Like Sue Ellen tossing those dishes in the trash with a rebellious "the dishes are done, man," Bellevue has rejected the notion that there's only one way to deliver higher education. Since launching their online programs in 1996, they've continuously challenged traditional models, becoming early adopters of corporate partnerships, innovative credit transfer policies, and technology-enhanced learning. This maverick approach isn't just for show – it's deeply embedded in their institutional DNA.

"Find your faculty who want to lean in," Hawkins advises other institutions, emphasizing that innovation comes from empowering those ready to embrace change. Under her leadership, Bellevue has created an environment where new ideas aren't just welcomed – they're expected. Faculty are encouraged to experiment, supported with resources, and recognized for their innovative efforts through annual awards and opportunities.

The Rules Have Changed

Today's students are discovering that traditional education paths don't always fit their needs. Bellevue University embraces this reality with an average student age of 33 and a commitment to meeting learners where they are – both literally and figuratively.

"Adults returning to college aren't always confident they can do it," Hawkins explains. "They've been out of school for a while." Recognizing this, Bellevue has developed comprehensive support systems and flexible learning pathways that acknowledge the complexity of adult learners' lives.

The university's approach to credit recognition is particularly revolutionary. They accept automotive associate's degrees, corporate training certifications, military experience, and various forms of prior learning assessment.

As Hawkins notes, "The more that you leverage what students learn, the more that you can grow." This philosophy has not only benefited students but has contributed to the university's steady growth.

Right On Top of That, Innovation

Just as Sue Ellen had to learn corporate speak on the fly, Bellevue helps working adults navigate the world of higher education on their terms. But instead of forcing students to adapt to rigid systems, they've built flexibility into their DNA through several innovative approaches:

"Learners today come with different needs," Hawkins explains. "We've had to really enable the students to develop the skills to succeed." This includes creating pre-requisite "on-ramps" for students who need additional support, allowing multiple attempts to master content (inspired by Khan Academy's approach), and developing flexible support services that accommodate working adults' schedules.

The university has also pioneered partnerships with community colleges and employers, creating seamless pathways for technical degree holders and working professionals. "We accept AASs fully," Hawkins proudly states. "That's hugely part of the backbone of this country – what used to be called VO-Tech types of degrees."

Running the Household While Running to Class

Like Sue Ellen managing a household of siblings while climbing the corporate ladder, Bellevue's students are masters of balancing multiple responsibilities. "Our population is hugely working students who are coming here to advance their careers," says Hawkins. But there's another motivation she frequently hears: "Role model for children was something I hear over and over again that I did not think about."

The impact of this dual role is particularly evident at graduation. "They fly in for graduation and they bring their families," Hawkins shares. "We've actually had them from African Countries in full garb from whatever tribe they're affiliated with. The horns and the calls and the 'Go, Grandma, go, Grandpa' are wonderful."

Modern-Day Problem Solving: The AI Revolution

Like Sue Ellen discovering the wonders of a copy machine to forge her resume (not that we endorse that part!), Bellevue is embracing modern technology to enhance education. But their approach to AI is uniquely focused on supporting faculty rather than just addressing student needs.

"I know everybody's talking AI," Hawkins explains, "but we're really looking at how can AI make faculty more efficient and effective." This includes using AI to help faculty identify students affected by natural disasters and streamline administrative tasks, allowing professors to focus more on teaching and student support.

The Big Presentation: Results That Matter

Like Sue Ellen's triumphant fashion show finale, Bellevue's innovative approach is proving successful. They're experiencing growth while other institutions struggle, with 1,300 students in Florida alone. But success isn't just measured in enrollment numbers – it's measured by family impact and generational change.

"I have families of students where the parent went and then the sister and the brother went of the children," Hawkins shares. "You create family loyalty, which I never expected to see in higher education, but we've got some examples of that. And then they're at graduation all excited about we're going to walk across together."

The Dishes Are Done (For Real This Time)

Unlike Sue Ellen's temporary stint as head of the household, Bellevue's approach to revolutionizing higher education is here to stay. After 30 years under Dr. Hawkins' leadership, they've proven that breaking the rules – thoughtfully and purposefully – can create better outcomes for students.

"Innovation at your institution has to be part of what you're doing," says Hawkins. Sage advice for all leaders in higher education as we navigate unprecedented challenges.

As Sue Ellen would say, "The rules have changed." And in higher education, Bellevue University is leading that change, one innovative approach at a time.

Want to learn more about how Bellevue University is rewriting the rules of higher education? Listen to the full interview with Dr. Mary B. Hawkins on Episode 993 of The EdUp Experience podcast.

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