Written by Janetssy Lugo on August 20, 2025
Barry University is at the forefront of equipping the next generation with the requisite skills and insights necessary to thrive in a dynamic global landscape, seamlessly addressing both practical experiences and local workforce requirements.
According to Barry University President Mike Allen, student success stands as a pillar of the institution’s mission.
“Today’s students,” remarked Dr. Allen, “entering Barry are seeking a tailored, holistic academic experience. We are therefore reconfiguring our organizational frameworks and harnessing our internal talents to optimize the student life journey—from recruitment to advisory services. Career counseling will be integrated from the onset, ensuring students gain practical insights through internships, achieve graduation, and transition seamlessly into rewarding careers.”
Additionally, Dr. Allen noted the university’s commitment to fulfilling the local community’s talent and workforce needs.
“The preeminent area of focus is technology, particularly the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). Our engagement in this sector manifests in two principal avenues, marking our most significant efforts towards innovative programming.”
This semester heralded the establishment of a new AI center dedicated to fostering collaboration among faculty and students, centering on the multifarious applications of AI.
“Every discipline is undergoing profound transformations,” Dr. Allen elucidated. “What does healthcare technology resemble? How does it reshape business models? For aspiring educators, how can AI enhance pedagogical methods? We are striving to weave technology into every framework ethos through our AI center. Furthermore, we aim to leverage these technological advancements as a comprehensive organization to enhance our operational efficacy.”
The recent inauguration of a new school of mental health further underscores Barry’s commitment to addressing contemporary challenges. This initiative amalgamates three distinct mental health disciplines—social work, counseling, and psychology—under a cohesive framework.
Dr. Allen explained that, unlike the traditional fragmentation of these fields throughout various departments, Barry is consolidating them while maintaining their unique identities—a promising venture for comprehensive mental health education.
“With escalated mental health concerns across all demographics,” he noted, “we are poised to tackle these issues head-on with our new school.”
Dr. Allen also emphasized Barry’s esteemed reputation for cultivating proficient educators.
“There’s an insatiable demand for teachers,” he added. “We are collaborating with BloomBoard to empower paraprofessionals within state schools, facilitating their transition to certified teaching roles through an accelerated curriculum.”
The University proudly announces an expansion of its academic offerings with a master’s in emergency management, supplementing its existing program to furnish participants with advanced expertise.
“Training adept emergency professionals is of paramount importance,” Dr. Allen stated, “and we are delighted to contribute to this field.”
Barry firmly believes in experiential learning as a cornerstone of its educational philosophy.
Dr. Allen highlighted a significant initiative dubbed “learn by doing,” advocating for students to engage proactively in their desired professions.
“Historically, the healthcare sector adopted this approach, featuring practical experience alongside theoretical learning. Yet, as intersections between disciplines evolve, it is integral for students across all fields to immerse themselves in their chosen professions during their academic tenure.”
To further enhance their educational offerings, Barry is forging partnerships with various industries to foster dialogue that emphasizes the competencies and skills required for graduates to thrive.
Dr. Allen stressed the importance of providing students, irrespective of their field of study, with opportunities for experiential learning while they navigate their academic journeys at Barry.
Source link: Miamitodaynews.com.
