Higher Ed Consolidation Solutions (HCS), a national consultancy focused on strategic transformation in higher education, has launched a new service offering: Academic Portfolio Realignment & Growth. This service helps institutions proactively assess and align their academic offerings to better serve students, support mission fulfillment, and ensure long-term sustainability.
The service draws on the collective expertise of HCS consultants who have served as provosts, deans, and academic leaders, including Dr. Donald Heller, Dr. Peter Laipson, and Dr. Kristine Southard. Together, they bring decades of experience in program review, accreditation, and institutional strategy.
“Institutions across the country are facing difficult decisions about program sustainability,” said Dr. Brian Weinblatt, HCS Founder and Principal. “Our Academic Portfolio Realignment & Growth service is designed to help them move forward with clarity, care, and context. By engaging stakeholders and focusing on long-term impact, we help institutions align their offerings in ways that strengthen both mission and momentum.”
The Academic Portfolio Realignment & Growth service is designed to:
- Conduct comprehensive strategic assessments of academic programs based on enrollment, financial, mission, and labor market data
- Facilitate inclusive review processes that build faculty trust and stakeholder engagement
- Identify opportunities for growth, consolidation, and new program development aligned with regional and workforce needs
- HCS views academic program review as a critical component of institutional resilience, complementing its broader suite of services in feasibility studies, mergers, strategic planning, and implementation support.
“This is not about eliminating programs—it’s about aligning them,” said Kevin Cavanagh, Managing Director at HCS. “Our team of experienced academic leaders brings the perspective needed to help colleges and universities make thoughtful, mission-centered decisions about their portfolios.”
The service is especially relevant for institutions facing enrollment pressure, shifting student demographics, or resource constraints. It is also a proactive tool for boards, provosts, and planning committees focused on mission-aligned academic evolution.
Discover the latest trends and insights—explore the Business Insights Journal for up-to-date strategies and industry breakthroughs!
