About the Program
This webinar series is designed for institutions of higher education considering a near- or medium-term merger or strategic acquisition as well as those just seeking to understand the market and how M&A works in the education industry. The two-part series will discuss actionable steps that institutions and their partners can take to:
Strengthen the institution through internal restructuring decisions to prepare in the short- to medium-term for an eventual merger or acquisition (or not); and
Gain familiarity – well in advance of any strategic decision – of key post-merger or acquisition considerations essential to capturing the success of a merger or acquisition.
Presented in an easy-to-digest format with case studies from real examples, these webinars will provide a unique perspective on what institutions should consider now to strengthen their value in the market and to prepare for post-transaction integration. Speakers include former college presidents, seasoned restructuring advisors and higher education regulatory legal professionals.
Part One: The Case for Pre-Merger Restructuring in Higher Education
February 12, 2026 | 2:00 p.m. Eastern
This webinar will assist institutions in identifying potential short- to medium-term internal restructurings that can drive increased growth and, ultimately, value in the market.
The discussion will cover:
Market drivers and segmentation
Preliminary assessment
Compliance and continuity
Operational and academic optimization
Financial and deal readiness
Transaction structure and options
Case studies
Part Two: Post-Acquisition Integration for Higher Education Institutions
April 2, 2026 | 2:00 p.m. Eastern
This webinar will analyze common post-merger or acquisition considerations to capture and protect the value proposition and prepare for a successful next chapter.
Topics include:
Goals and metrics
Prioritize initiatives
Regulatory sequencing
Operating model and pro forma budget
People and governance
Case studies
Speakers
Joe D'Angelo Managing Director EdVenture Advisors LLC
Profile
Stephen Healey Managing Director EdVenture Advisors LLC
Profile
Milan Milasinovic Managing Director EdVenture Advisors LLC
Profile
Katherine Brodie Partner and Education Team Lead Duane Morris LLP
Profile
Mike Powers Higher Education Compliance and Policy Advisor Duane Morris LLP former Case Manager, U.S. Education Department
Profile
About EdVenture Advisors LLC
EdVenture Advisors is a strategic, operations and financial advisory firm dedicated to transforming higher education institutions through innovative ideas and expert guidance. A combination of former college presidents and restructuring professionals, we leverage years of higher education experience to advise colleges and universities in their pursuit of excellence. EdVenture Advisors was founded as a proud spinoff from Ariste Advisors to help institutions.
About the Duane Morris Education Practice
Duane Morris has represented numerous public, private, nonprofit and proprietary colleges and universities, accreditation agencies, and other groups and businesses dedicated to education. Our lawyers understand the unique needs of academic institutions and can provide efficient and cost-effective legal counsel. Because the needs of educational institutions are diverse, Duane Morris lawyers from different disciplines work together to represent clients and advance their interests. Duane Morris LLP, a law firm with more than 900 attorneys in offices across the United States and internationally, is asked by a broad array of clients to provide innovative solutions to today's legal and business challenges.
About Duane Morris
Duane Morris LLP, a law firm with more than 900 attorneys in offices across the United States and internationally, is asked by a broad array of clients to provide innovative solutions to today’s legal and business challenges. Duane Morris has been recognized by BTI Consulting as both a client service leader and a highly recommended law firm.