Case Studies
Case Studies
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Strategic insights and student feedback to guide program evolution
A top 3, nationally recognized graduate program needed to understand how to stay competitive in a changing educational landscape. They were particularly interested in how other top programs were evolving and what prospective students really wanted.
We conducted a two-part engagement:
A competitive landscape analysis of peer programs, emerging delivery models, and education trends
Qualitative research and student interviews to map shifting preferences and decision-making factors
We delivered two strategic presentations that provided the leadership team with both a big-picture view and specific insights about their ideal student. The result was a clear foundation for future program updates—grounded in research, aligned with market demands, and centered on student needs.
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Guiding strategic exploration in an emerging, high-stakes space
A liberal arts college with deep creative roots wanted to explore new educational ventures at the intersection of film, media, and generative AI. Facing a fluid and unpredictable market, they needed research, clarity, and structured decision-making.
We led:
A two-phase research process, including industry analysis and 25+ expert interviews
Facilitation of a task force of senior leaders and board members to align on goals and opportunities
Development of four strategic options, each evaluated against clear decision criteria
The result: clarity on what to pursue, what to pause, and how to move forward with confidence. Our work provided both the insight and structure needed to act boldly—and wisely—in a fast-changing space.
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Research and strategic frameworks to guide institutional growth
A liberal arts college sought to explore new pathways for innovation, expansion, and financial sustainability. With a commitment to preserving its mission while adapting to a changing higher education landscape, the college engaged us to investigate what was possible.
Our Approach
We led a multi-part research initiative focused on two core areas:Competitive Benchmarking
We analyzed peer and aspirational institutions to identify successful, mission-aligned revenue-generating programs and asset utilization strategies. This included looking at continuing education, professional programs, creative use of campus resources, and partnerships that extend institutional reach.Trend Analysis and Opportunity Mapping
We conducted a review of key trends in higher education—including career-connected learning, outcomes-based education, and alternative credentialing—and mapped potential applications to the college’s unique strengths.
The Outcome
The project produced clear frameworks for how the college could approach new markets, along with a set of strategic recommendations tailored to its values and institutional context. The findings helped the leadership team identify viable opportunities and take informed next steps in their long-term planning process. -
Designing the foundation for a flagship program
A startup university preparing to launch its first public-facing initiative engaged us to support the design and rollout of its inaugural fellowship program. We led the development of a streamlined application process, helped finalize the program timeline, and provided strategic guidance on the marketing approach to reach early applicants.
In addition to operational support, we advised on the overall program structure—helping ensure that the fellowship aligned with the institution’s mission and offered a clear, engaging experience for participants. The result was a strong foundation for launch and a replicable model for future programs.
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From idea to prototype for a kids' media brand
A nationally recognized children’s podcast wanted to explore new revenue by turning its show into a board game. We guided a five-phase process, from ideation to live playtesting, that included a collaborative design workshop, prototype development, user feedback, and strategic recommendations.
The result: a tested game prototype that captured the spirit of the show and resonated with fans. The client is now preparing to bring the game to market with a clear plan for launch, pricing, and potential publishing paths.
Kate’s Vision of Entrepreneurship and Education
About Kate Ryan Reiling
Kate Ryan Reiling is an entrepreneur, educator, and innovation strategist who helps mission-driven leaders turn big ideas into sustainable action. With over 20+ years of experience launching ventures, building institutional programs, and leading growth at scale, Kate brings a rare blend of creative energy and operational know-how.
“One of the smartest moves I ever made was bringing in Kate Reiling to build the entrepreneurship program at Macalester. She is close to unique in her ability to understand the culture and speak the language of both innovators and educators. She knows that transformational change in higher education is difficult, but has proven that with the right ideas and the right plan, it is possible.”
— Brian Rosenberg, President Emeritus, Macalester College; Visiting Professor, Harvard Graduate School of Education
“I had the pleasure of working with Kate on a significant learning model project that was important to both of us. While the inherent challenges of the project–exacerbated by already having students in the program–almost overwhelmed my circuits, Kate saw an opportunity to do something really cool. And, thanks to her, we did. Kate demonstrated a rare gift for turning interesting and well-intentioned, but unworkable, ideas into something coherent, even elegant, while still retaining the original intent. Oh, and she did all this with intelligence and a sly sense of humor.”
— Keith Lynip, Chief Product Officer, African Leadership University
"Kate Reiling’s recent work with our graduate program was transformative. With her sharp perspective on the changing education landscape, she illuminated student priorities and shaped our vision for the future. Her strategic guidance has positioned us to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving field."
— Ryan Armbruster, Senior Fellow and Director of Health Administration Executive Studies, University of Minnesota School of Public Health
"Working with Kate jumpstarted a large project that had many details to figure out. Her structure and questions were invaluable in helping me figure out where to start, how to activate my very small team, and work methodically to create quality work within a short timeframe.”
— Connie Rutledge, Executive Director, FINNovation Institute
“Working with Kate has been a game changer for my business and for myself professionally. As an academic-turned-entrepreneur, I have been learning the ropes of business-building and self-confidence amid uncertainty. Kate's expertise in entrepreneurship, coupled with her authentic caring and clear-headedness, makes her an ideal business coach. She has helped me unlock so many areas of potential and has helped me untangle the inevitable knots in the journey of a new business. Working with Kate has been a smart investment in my business! I am so grateful for her help and recommend her coaching to anyone looking to grow.”
- Tina Kruse, PhD, Founder, Student Well Coaching & Consulting LLC
“Kate's advice was wildly helpful. She encouraged us to focus on key aspects of our business and gave us the confidence to raise prices. We did so and are in a totally different and better place because of it. While a few former clients fell away, most stayed, and we’ve gotten new ones. We are making more money while doing less overall work than we were a year ago, which is pretty good.”
- Tane Danger, Co-Founder, Danger Boat Productions
