Smaller, private, independent institutions of higher education across the United States are facing challenging times. This white paper by Edwin H. Welch, president of the University of Charleston, shares lessons gleaned from the institution's innovative efforts over almost 30 years. Welch's hope is that the experiences at the University of Charleston will help other colleges and universities innovate more quickly. While confronting the headwinds of today's higher education environment, many small, private colleges and universities are held back by their own culture and history. Nevertheless, each institution has the option to change its condition, actions, and operational course. Changing the culture, Welch notes, is the biggest hurdle for any institution seeking to adjust, grow, and innovate.