Case Study in Institutional Transformation

Lake Erie College’s Repositioning: Built on Collaboration, Driven by Purpose

A case study showcasing how speed and inclusivity can unite to deliver meaningful, campus-wide transformation.

Reference: Varlotta, L. E. (2025). Lake Erie College’s Repositioning: Rooted in Input, Ready for Action.

A Partnership Forged in Experience and Trust

This initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Lori Varlotta, a seasoned two-time college president, exemplifies how open and transparent leadership can ignite institutional progress. Designed as an innovative “embedded advisor” collaboration between President Jennifer Schuller and Dr. Varlotta, the process advanced swiftly—featuring two intensive, week-long campus immersions in February and May 2025.

Collaborative Transformation: Building Momentum

Collaborative at the Core

Founded on genuine listening and campus-wide participation to ensure buy-in from all stakeholders.

Accelerated Momentum

Evolved from initial launch to a comprehensive recommendation framework in just three months, prioritizing agility.

Rigorous Triangulation

A rigorous process separated isolated perspectives from broad institutional truths by validating themes across multiple groups.

Three-Month Deep Engagement Timeline

Initial Launch & February Immersion

The process began with an intensive, week-long campus immersion to establish scope, context, and early findings.

Focused Engagement Phase

Over 100 campus members connected across 25+ tailored sessions (pedagogy with faculty, operations with staff, etc.)

May Immersion & Framework Delivery

The second intensive immersion concluded the listening phase and delivered the comprehensive recommendation framework.

Engagement Groups Included

Board Leaders & Trustees Academic Deans & Faculty Students (Ambassadors, Athletes) Staff (Finance, HR, Student Life) Coaches & Athletics Professionals Alumni & Faculty Senate

A Contextually Informed Strategy

This repositioning effort was anything but formulaic. Dr. Varlotta immersed herself in the college’s unique identity—visiting the Equestrian Center, engaging deeply with the local community, and grounding every recommendation in the authentic spirit of Lake Erie College.

Core Strengths Affirmed

  • A small, tight-knit institution located just five miles from Lake Erie.
  • The sole four-year college in Lake County, Ohio.
  • A liberal arts tradition that emphasizes practice as much as theory.
  • Strong NCAA Division II athletics and a nationally renowned equestrian program.

The Outcome: Focus and Forward Motion

The resulting proposals deliver a clear, actionable framework rather than a rigid plan. They articulate strategic identity statements and programmatic pathways that honor the College’s heritage while positioning it to navigate future opportunities with clarity, agility, and confidence.

Reference: Varlotta, L. E. (2025). Lake Erie College’s Repositioning: Rooted in Input, Ready for Action.