Elliot Felix is a leading voice in higher education strategy, widely recognized as an author, speaker, and consultant who has worked with more than a hundred colleges and universities to improve student success. With a background in design, Felix focuses on creating “connected colleges” by reimagining spaces, services, and technology to foster belonging and streamline the student experience. He founded Brightspot Strategy in 2011, which was later acquired by Buro Happold in 2020, where he now leads the higher education advisory practice. Over two decades, his work has impacted over one million students and earned him speaking engagements at major conferences like SXSW EDU. Felix has authored two influential books: How to Get the Most Out of College (2022), praised by Kirkus Reviews, and The Connected College: Leadership Strategies for Student Success (2025), which debuted as a #1 new release in education administration. His thought leadership appears in outlets such as Fast Company, Forbes, and The Chronicle of Higher Education, and he continues to inspire institutional leaders to break down silos, adopt design thinking, and prioritize student-centered strategies.
