Higher Ed Pulse (Mallory Willsea and Seth Odell)

Recorded live at NACAC in Los Angeles, this episode features Allison Lanier, Director of Client Engagement, discussing how AI is transforming brand building and content creation for institutions with lean resources. Allison shares insights on using AI tools like ChatGPT to support brand consistency, improve digital experiences, and optimize program pages. The conversation highlights AI's role in alleviating pressure on small teams and enhancing collaboration between marketing and admissions.

Key Takeaways

• AI Helps Lean Teams Scale Efforts: AI can streamline content creation, helping small teams focus on strategic tasks and reduce time spent on manual processes.
• AI Supports Brand Building: By inputting established brand voice and tone into AI tools, institutions can generate consistent, on-brand content for websites, program pages, and digital marketing efforts.
• Start with Playfulness: Don’t fear AI—start experimenting with it as a research and ideation tool before fully integrating it into your workflow.

How can AI enhance brand building for small institutions?
Allison explains how AI tools like ChatGPT are a game changer for institutions with limited resources. Many schools struggle with branding and digital content creation because they don’t have the capacity to invest in a full-time marketing team. By using AI, institutions can input their brand’s voice, tone, and vocabulary to generate consistent content for program pages, websites, and other digital touchpoints. This not only helps maintain a strong brand presence but also enables teams to work faster and more effectively.

What impact can AI have on higher education marketing?
One of the most powerful use cases of AI is in content ideation, particularly for program pages, which Allison calls the “sales pages” of an institution. With AI, teams can generate outlines and keyword suggestions that fit their institution's voice, helping them create more compelling content faster. While AI should never fully replace human input, it’s an invaluable tool for overcoming “blank page syndrome” and accelerating the research and drafting process.

What advice does Allison offer for hesitant users?
For those hesitant to embrace AI, Allison recommends starting small—use it as a research tool or experiment with simple, non-work-related tasks, like creating a shopping list. The key is to familiarize yourself with the technology in a playful and stress-free way, so you can become comfortable with its capabilities and start incorporating it into your workflow more effectively.

Allison also highlights the importance of marketing and admissions teams working collaboratively, especially when using AI to streamline efforts. Building a strong partnership between these teams can ensure more cohesive messaging and better student engagement across digital platforms.

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Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

If you're like Zach, you may have never even clicked on a YouTube Short before. But in this week's episode, we break down how YouTube Shorts complement your YouTube channel and could even help you grow a massive following. 

Tune in to hear what these three think is the golden ticket for awareness generation on YouTube Shorts. 

This episode is brought to you by Doubletake - Doubletake is a team of experts in swag for higher education.  From acceptance packages, to prospective student mailers, to admitted students gifts, to admissions fair takeaways, to branded student care packages, Doubletake provides all the creative promotional products and branded merchandise colleges and universities need to elevate your brand, make an impression on students, combat summer melt, and promote school spirit. Convert prospects into applicants, applicants into students, students into raving fans, and alumni into lifelong brand ambassadors with the help of Doubletake.

The Brewstorm is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Teirs, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

What are the skillsets higher ed marketing teams need to effectively execute digital marketing campaigns in today’s competitive market? And how should schools think about whether or not to outsource their digital marketing campaign strategy and execution? 

In Episode 6 of How to Market a University, Terry Flannery answers these questions and oodles more! Learn what schools Terry believes are on the cutting edge of digital marketing, discover the changes in consumer preferences that she believes will most impact higher education, and understand how to think through what digital marketing should be kept in-house and what should be outsourced. 

Register for Enrollify’s Mastercourse on How to Market a University with Terry Flannery.

Learn more about this episode in our show notes.

More About the Series:

The How to Market a University Podcast series features vignettes of Dr. Teresa Flannery’s book, How to Market a University.

Terry Flannery has spent her entire career in higher education. She was the first marketing director and chief marketing officer at the University of Maryland, the first Vice President of Communications at American University, and most recently the interim vice president for marketing and communication at Stony Brook University.

At a time of declining public support, a shrinking pipeline of traditional college-bound students, and a steady rise in tuition and discount rates, higher education leaders have never been under more pressure. 

How can they ensure steady or growing enrollments while cultivating greater philanthropic support, increasing research funding, and diversifying revenue streams? 

In How to Market a University, Terry argues that institutions can meet all of these goals by implementing strategic integrated marketing in ways that are consistent with academic culture and university values.

Enrollify and Terry have joined forces to produce Enrollify’s first-ever Mastercouse that mirrors the robust learnings and deep insights packed into Terry’s book. Over the next eight weeks, this special podcast series will give you a taste of what you can expect in the Mastercourse. 

But that’s it…just a taste!  To unpack all of the language, frameworks, tools, and tactics that CMOs or aspiring CMOs will need to lead the work of marketing in higher education, we invite you to register for the Mastercourse on How to Market a University at www.enrollify.org/mastercourse. 

This Mastercourse features guest experts like Seth Odell, Jenny Petty, Jaime Hunt, Ethan Braden, Michael Stoner, Angela Polec, Binty Harvey, Bob Johnson, and many more.  It’s also filled with downloadable templates and worksheets to help you retain the course material. 

And last but certainly not least, this course was made possible by the leading agencies in higher education marketing who came together to support this effort.  

We want to thank SimpsonScarborough, Mindpower, DD Agency, and Ologie for their incredible guidance and partnership.

Register for the Mastercourse on How to Market a University here. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of The Higher Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Thom Chesney, President of Southwestern College in Santa Fe, during the HighEdWeb Conference. They discuss the critical role of the institution's website in shaping student engagement, how small teams can maximize their impact, and the importance of embracing AI in marketing and operations. Thom also shares insights from his career as a college president and how Southwestern College is refining its digital presence to meet the needs of today's graduate students.

Key Takeaways

• Southwestern College's website serves as the digital front door, crucial for engaging prospective students, alumni, and donors, especially as 80% of its students now study remotely.
• Video and storytelling are key components in attracting graduate students, particularly through platforms like YouTube, which outperforms other channels like Instagram for their target demographic.
• AI tools, such as ChatGPT, are being experimented with for content creation and SEO, with a focus on enhancing team efficiency, especially for smaller marketing teams.

Why Is a College President Attending the Hyatt Web Conference?
Thom Chesney explains why he is attending the Hyatt Web Conference as one of the few college presidents present. He emphasizes that a college’s website is its primary storytelling tool. At Southwestern College, this digital front door is where students, donors, and alumni first connect with the institution. Thom is looking for innovative ways to improve their web presence, as the last major update occurred before COVID. With a focus on outcomes and the student experience, Southwestern College is planning a web redesign to better showcase their transformational, student-centered programs.

How Does Southwestern College Use Its Website to Attract Students?
As a graduate-only institution, Southwestern College attracts adult learners, many of whom are rethinking or shifting their careers. Thom highlights that prospective students visit the website to understand how long their programs will take, the career opportunities available post-graduation, and to hear directly from current students and faculty. Southwestern focuses heavily on experiential learning and student outcomes, so incorporating video testimonials and real-world stories into their web presence is essential. Moving forward, they are refining their web content strategy to better align with where students are—like YouTube—while also ensuring their small team can maximize impact by focusing on the most effective platforms.

How Is AI Being Integrated into the College's Marketing?
When asked about AI’s role in Southwestern College’s operations, Thom explains that while they're still in the experimental stage, the potential is clear. Tools like ChatGPT are being used to draft content and help their team, which includes graduate assistants and interns, streamline workflows. This experimentation with AI also extends to analyzing current web content, identifying emerging themes, and improving SEO performance. Although Southwestern is cautious about fully replacing human interaction with AI, Thom sees its potential in enhancing efficiency, particularly for smaller marketing teams that need to do more with less.

Ready for More?
If you want to learn more about how Southwestern College is redefining its web presence and how AI is shaping higher ed marketing, listen to the full episode of The Pulse. Stay tuned for more insights into how college leaders like Thom Chesney are leveraging digital strategies to attract the right students. Catch up with the latest The Pulse episodes and explore cutting-edge trends in higher education marketing.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This podcast is brought to you by Element451 — the leading AI-enabled CRM for Higher Ed.  Learn more about how Element451 can help you exceed your enrollment and marketing goals. 

Get ready to meet Karen Hebert-Maccaro, General Manager of Education at Morning Brew — one of the world’s most popular daily newsletters.

Before joining Morning Brew,  Karen worked as a talent management executive, chief learning officer, chief content officer, executive coach, management consultant, and most recently a business school professor and dean at Babson College.

So it’s safe to say she knows a thing or ten about content, education, and business.

Zach and Karen chat about her career in higher education and what she’s learned about what students want from colleges and universities, the products that Morning Brew is building in the education space under their “learning brew” umbrella, and finally, Karen’s thoughts on the future of higher education and what presidents, CMOs, and VP’s of Enrollment Management can learn about how to reimagine higher ed’s product offerings from Morning Brew.

You can follow Karen on Twitter at @eduversequeen.

Looking for more great higher ed marketing content? Head on over to Enrollify.org to access additional higher ed marketing podcasts, ecourses, videos and more.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Register for Element Discovery Webinar

Learn more about AI-Generative Site Search

Hosts Mallory and Seth dive into the future of higher education website design, focusing on AI-powered site search as a game changer for recruitment. They discuss the evolution of user behavior in search and how institutions can harness AI to provide a more engaging, personalized experience for prospective students. This episode highlights the power of proactive search tools and their potential to increase student engagement and application rates.‍

Key Takeaways

• AI-powered search is transforming higher ed recruitment: Personalized, responsive search can keep students engaged on your site.
• Prospective students are asking longer, more specific questions: Institutions need to adapt to new search behaviors, like conversational queries similar to Google or ChatGPT searches.
• Reducing friction leads to better results: AI site searches can reduce drop-off rates by offering seamless, intuitive answers in real-time.
• Improved discoverability can reduce the need for traditional inquiry forms: By providing instant answers, AI can streamline the recruitment process.
• New technologies like Element Discovery are already in the market: This tool offers a generative AI solution to enhance prospective student engagement on websites.

‍How can AI-powered site search transform recruitment?
Seth and Mallory start by reflecting on a shared childhood obsession—fluffernutters—but quickly transition to more serious topics around website search in higher education. Mallory explains that websites play a critical role in the recruitment process, and if they're difficult to navigate or search, prospective students will quickly move on to competitor sites. Seth emphasizes the importance of ensuring the primary audience, prospective students, can easily find the information they need. The key to success? Discoverability.

‍How is user search behavior evolving, and why should higher ed take note?
Mallory highlights that prospective students today are more likely to use longer, conversational queries, similar to how people search on Google or ChatGPT. A student might ask, "What will I learn in Business Management 101?" rather than just typing "business management." The challenge for higher ed institutions is to adapt to this shift in search behavior. By leveraging AI, schools can provide more concise, relevant results that truly answer the student's question, creating a more meaningful interaction.

‍What role does AI play in revolutionizing the higher ed website experience?
Mallory and Seth discuss the potential of AI in enhancing the user experience on college websites. AI-powered tools, like Element Discovery, can provide answers directly within the search function and even anticipate follow-up questions. This seamless experience allows prospective students to gather the information they need without leaving the site, reducing the likelihood of them switching to a competitor. Seth also notes how this approach could eventually reduce the reliance on traditional request-for-information forms, making real-time engagement more efficient and effective.

By streamlining the search process and providing immediate answers, AI has the potential to revolutionize how students interact with higher ed websites. Mallory and Seth express excitement about the future of this technology and how it could enhance recruitment efforts by transforming how institutions serve prospective students online.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special episode of Higher Ed Pulse, Mallory sits down with Ardis Kadiu, CEO and Founder of Element451 and co-host of the Generation AI podcast on Enrollify. Together, they discuss two new AI innovations — Bolt Assistants and Bolt Search.

• Bolt AI Assistants become an indispensable member of your team.They offer students tailored support while amplifying staff performance through sophisticated tools and insights, aiming to boost productivity and streamline day-to-day tasks. Tell Bolt what you need and every challenge becomes manageable.
• Bolt Search is a game changer for navigating .edu websites. It uses smart AI to answer user questions directly. It doesn't just stop at text; it shows you videos and images that match what the user is looking for. Gone are the days of battling for homepage real estate!

Key Takeaways:

• AI literacy among higher education leaders is crucial for successful AI adoption and its positive impact on ROI.
• The progression from basic chatbots to advanced AI assistants that can handle diverse tasks, offering personalized student interactions and boosting administrative efficiency.
• Predictions for 2024 and beyond, with a quickly widening gap between those institutions who implement and integrate AI versus those who don’t.

Let's keep the conversation going! If you're heading to San Diego for the ASU GSV AIR Show or Summit, reach out to us. We're excited to connect, share ideas, and explore the future of higher education together. 

Related Links:

Generation AI Podcast: https://podcasts.enrollify.org/generation-ai-podcast?hsLang=en

Actionable AI 5-Part Webinar Series: https://element451.com/actionable-ai-webinar-series-recordings

Definitive Guide to AI: https://element451.com/ai-guide-for-higher-ed

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this special episode, we take listen in to the Enrollify Podcast Network's newest show, The Application. Join host Corynn Meyers in her premier episode as she chats with the University of Montana’s CMO, Jenny Petty. The two discuss Jenny's vision for a new brand experience position, personalization efforts in recruitment content, and looking at the future of student experiences.

You can access additional higher ed marketing podcasts, ecourses, videos and more at Enrollify.org.  

Learn more about this episode in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode, Zach sits down with Ashley Budd,  a marketing director at Cornell University, to discuss the past, present, and future of Advancement Marketing in Higher Education. 

Ashley revisits the early days of working in marketing and communications and recounts how she had to secure the social handles on Facebook and Instagram for the Rochester Institute of Technology, and also unpacks:

• What it’s like raising money at an Ivy Leage school
• How marketing and communication strategies with alumni and donors need to be reimagined
• Some ideas she has for creating more meaningful relationships with students before they become alumni
• And some hot takes she has on the future of higher ed marketing more generally.

Ashley invites you to connect with her on LinkedIn and to sign up for her popular newsletter, Ashley in your Inbox, at ashleybudd.com.

This Episode is Sponsored by Pathify

Meet Pathify —  an innovative higher ed engagement hub that puts students at the center of their college journey. Pathify sits at the center of your school’s digital ecosystem, becoming the single, user experience interface tying together all systems, content, and communications. Their engagement hub elevates the information that matters most and pushes systems like the SIS behind the scenes where they belong, making it simpler for students to discover and engage with the opportunities your institution provides at every step of their higher ed journey, from prospect to alumni. What’s even better, Pathify has a mobile experience that provides 100% parity with the responsive web app, so your campus app is always in sync. Pathify is a platform that EVERY stakeholder on campus  — from marketing, to admissions, to student affairs, to IT, etc., — can get equally excited about. Learn more about how Pathify is uniting strategic units across campus and bettering the entire student experience by visiting Pathify.com

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

The new fiscal year has started and budgets are more or less set...but just because you’ve spent your marketing resources on a particular collection of vendors, strategies, tactics, and technology doesn't mean you have to do the same next year!

On this week's episode, Zach shares five questions that every higher ed marketer should ask themselves before they launch a single campaign this fall:

1. Where are the keyword gaps in your competitor’s SEO strategy?
2. How can you make your content more searchable?
3. If a user had to complete a survey before they could “x” out of your website and describe their experience with your school in three adjectives, what do you hope those adjectives would be?
4. If people are willing to take jobs having never stepped foot in an office or met their team physically, populations of students will feel the same way about college. What does this mean for recruitment?
5. How do we win the quality lead game and stop playing the antiquated quantity lead game?

This week’s episode is brought to you by Element451. Have you heard the news? Element just launched a brand new certification course on Enrollment Analytics — and they are giving away scholarships to a few Enrollify subscribers! Apply before August 15th to qualify! 

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Brandon Etheredge, Director of Multimedia Services at the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University, went to an underfunded public high school and learned how to be scrappy with the resources that were made available to him — even if they were sparse.

Little did he know then just how "scrappy" his first job after graduation as an enrollment marketer would need him to be. 

Tune into this week's episode of The Enrollify Podcast for a conversation about marketing automation...and what schools with little-to-no time, money, or expertise can do to better their marketing and communications game.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

The Future of Student Search Pulse Check Series is sponsored by Carnegie. 

In Part 1 of this new Pulse Check series, Mallory Willseas and Trent Gilbert, VP of Student Search Solutions at Carnegie, dive into the evolution of student search and its critical role in modern enrollment strategies. They discuss the historical context, the impact of AI, the importance of data ownership, and the shift towards a yield-focused approach. Trent shares his insights on how institutions can adapt to changing demographics, economic pressures, and consumer behaviors to enhance their recruitment processes.

Key Takeaways

• Evolution of Student Search: Understanding the transition from traditional methods to Search 3.0, incorporating digital advertising, AI, and personalization.
• Data Ownership and Transparency: The importance of maintaining control over data for effective analysis and decision-making.
• AI in Recruitment: Leveraging AI for rapid, customized communications and data-driven strategies to improve student engagement and conversion.
• Consumer Behavior Changes: Adapting to the rising expectations for personalization and the influence of peer recommendations in the decision-making process.
• Yield-Focused Approach: Emphasizing the importance of yield in student search strategies to ensure long-term enrollment and financial stability.
• Financial Aid Optimization: Integrating financial aid strategies into the student search process to meet student needs and institutional revenue goals.

Trent Gilbert - VP of Student Search Solutions at Carnegie
Having served as Vice President for Enrollment at three different institutions, Trent Gilbert understands the challenges and pressures modern-day enrollment managers face at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. In addition to serving as a former VPEM, Trent also co-founded and served as an industry leader of Render Experiences, which put him at the table of enrollment strategy conversations at over 250 institutions. As the VP of Student Search Solutions at Carnegie, Trent is uniquely positioned to work with clients and create tailored solutions that creatively engage students while keeping the experience of human connection at the forefront of the process.

Find Trent on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trentgilbert/

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In the latest episode of The Higher Ed Pulse, co-hosts Seth and Mallory dive into their 2025 aspirations, blending professional ambitions with personal growth goals. They explore how AI is transforming workflows, the importance of intentional leadership, and strategies for balancing high performance with well-being. This lively discussion offers inspiration for education professionals looking to make meaningful changes in the year ahead.

Key Takeaways

• AI Integration is Key: 2025 is the year to integrate AI tools into workflows for better efficiency, cost savings, and scalability.
• Leadership Through Empowerment: Success is a team sport—empowering others leads to greater collective wins.
• Focus on Intentional Growth: Balancing work and personal well-being requires thoughtful planning, proactive systems, and regular reflection.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Rest and preventative self-care are vital for maintaining energy and focus in high-performance environments.
• Get Comfortable with Experimentation: The time for AI experimentation is over; now is the time for implementation and measurable results.

Professional Growth: Building an AI-First Organization 
Seth shares his ambitious vision for 2025: building an AI agency that ensures his team stays ahead of the curve in an evolving digital landscape. He highlights three pillars guiding this transformation:

1. Education: Providing team-wide access to the latest AI tools and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
2. Augmentation: Leveraging AI to enhance existing workflows, increasing efficiency and impact.
3. Segmentation: Preparing for future innovations that AI will unlock in entirely new business areas.

This strategic approach ensures long-term growth while keeping teams motivated and empowered to innovate. 
Leadership Reflections: Empowering Teams

Mallory reflects on her guiding philosophies as a leader, emphasizing trust, empowerment, and collective wins. She explains how Enrollify is positioned to thrive at the intersection of AI, technology, marketing, and higher education. Her focus for 2025 is on fostering a collaborative environment where team members can shine, all while steering the network toward greater impact and relevance.

Personal Development: Reimagining Work-Life Balance 
Both hosts emphasize the importance of intentional self-care in high-performance environments. Seth shares how he’s structuring his life with healthy constraints, such as prioritizing family time, hiring a personal coach, and exploring authentic relating practices. Mallory, meanwhile, resolves to embrace rest, go off the grid more often, and carve out time for rejuvenating activities like fitness.

• Key Insight: Preventative self-care and mindful systems, such as hiring support staff or simplifying workflows, can create space for personal growth without sacrificing professional responsibilities.

AI in Higher Ed: Actionable Next Steps 
Mallory highlights the upcoming AI Engage Summit as a pivotal resource for higher ed professionals looking to implement AI into their operations. Co-hosted by Enrollify and Element 451, this free, virtual event offers actionable insights for using AI to improve student recruitment, streamline communications, and enhance the student journey. As AI shifts from experimentation to results-driven integration, 2025 is the year to embrace these tools for transformative impact.

Final Thoughts 
2025 presents an exciting opportunity for personal and professional evolution. Whether you’re focused on leveraging AI, empowering your team, or creating more balance in your life, the new year is the perfect time to take stock and set intentional goals.

Ready to make 2025 your year of transformation? Register for the AI Engage Summit to learn how to harness AI for real results in higher education. Don’t wait—start your journey today!

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this episode of The Enrollify Podcast, Zach chats with Dr. Carrie Phillips — Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

From defining the role of the marketing office in higher ed, to the impending enrollment cliff, to the future of student expectations, Zach and Carrie engage in a riveting conversation about how colleges and universities can change and shift responsibly and tactfully in order to remain competitive in the years to come.

This episode is sponsored by Goodkind - an easy-to-use video engagement platform designed to make each of your prospects feel special, cared for and seen. Increase applications, increase yield, and decrease melt with the power of Goodkind.

If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Tiers, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of The Enrollify Podcast, Zach sits down with Bart Caylor, Founder of Caylor Solutions — an education marketing agency in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

Bart is one of the most respected and consistent voices in the higher education marketing and enrollment management circles.  In this episode, Zach and Bart discuss the importance of AI literacy in higher education and how marketers and admissions professionals can leverage generative AI tools to attract the next generations of students more efficiently and effectively. 

To learn more about Bart’s work, be sure to check out Caylor Solutions.  And, if you’re not already subscribed, have a listen to his weekly podcast, The Higher Ed Marketer, wherever you get your podcasts. 

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this episode of The Modern Student, Zach Busekrus and co-host Jeff Dillon unpack how new technology can help institutions better recruit and engage the next generation of students. 

This episode explores what is holding schools back and what tools are available when it comes to attracting the modern student and nurturing them through their enrollment journey. 

About the Series

The Modern Student is a special podcast series in collaboration with Squiz, exploring how technology is revolutionizing higher ed and engaging students. 

Squiz is a technology company that is revolutionizing the way higher ed builds digital experiences for its constituents. 

The Modern Student is hosted by Enrollify Founder, Zach Busekrus and Jeff Dillon, a senior consultant at Squiz. This series will explore: 

1. How the Modern Student is Shaping the Future of Education
2. How to Find and Engage New Student Populations
3. Why Marketing and IT in Higher Ed Need Eachother to Thrive
4. The Future of Tech in Higher Ed

You can learn more about the incredible work Squiz is doing and explore their client case studies at Squiz.net or connect with Jeff directly via LinkedIn.

About the Enrollify Podcast Network

The Modern Student is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Teirs, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode, Zach sits down with Tony Fraga, CEO of DD Agency, live at DD Agency’s biannual retreat, DevDays, to discuss the future of marketing leadership, trends in higher ed marketing worth paying attention to (and those trends NOT with paying attention to).

Furthermore, the duo discusses what it means to be a disruptor in the context of marketing today, why SEO matters today more than ever before for colleges and universities, and the skillsets Tony believes will be crucial for marketers to attain — or further develop — in the next couple of years. 

This episode is brought to you by our friends at DD Agency:

DD Agency is a higher ed-specific marketing technology agency that has conducted countless SEO Audits for colleges and universities across the country. 

In these audits, they detail where you currently rank, what you could be ranking for, exactly how copy should be tweaked on website pages, and much more. 

If this sounds like something you could benefit from, give those folks a ping and be sure to mention that Enrollify sent you to claim a 10% discount on any of their SEO offerings. 

Head on over to enrollify.org/ddaseo, or simply follow the link in the show notes below…that will guarantee you get a 10% discount off of your audit. 

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Live from the NAGAP conference in Louisville, Mallory sits down with Tony Fraga, CEO of DD Agency, to discuss the transformative strategies in graduate enrollment marketing. Celebrating 40 years in business, Tony offers a seasoned perspective on navigating the complexities of higher education marketing, from evolving digital strategies to smart resource allocation. Tony shares how the agency assists institutions in optimizing their graduate recruitment efforts amidst ongoing industry shifts.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolution in Graduate Marketing: How digital marketing and content strategies have adapted to meet the unique needs of grad schools.
• Sustainable Strategies: Insight into effective marketing techniques that balance innovation with practical execution, such as leveraging email and selective digital advertising.
• The Importance of Strategy: Emphasis on the necessity of a focused marketing approach rather than an omni-channel strategy, especially in resource-strained environments.
• Leveraging Legacy and Experience: DD Agency's 40-year journey showcases the value of deep industry knowledge and long-term relationships in driving success.
• Adapting to Market Demands: Discussion on how graduate programs are pivoting strategies to counterbalance undergraduate enrollment declines.

Guest Name: Tony Fraga, CEO of DD Agency

Guest Bio: For the past 15 years, Tony has helped schools make the paradigm shift away from traditional marketing efforts to more innovative strategies and tactics to do marketing smarter. He also teaches education professionals through cohorts and individual coaching as an enrollment marketing consultant.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this final part of this Pulse Check series, guest Terry Flannery joins Kin Sejpal to reflect on her 40 years of serving higher education.

Key points/takeaways include:

• Higher education marketing is evolving and offers opportunities for creativity and innovation.
• Finding joy and meaning in the work helps stay resilient during challenging times
• The post-pandemic landscape has brought professionals from all around the world together to collaborate on higher ed issues like never before.
• The future of higher education is promising, and professionals have the opportunity to shape it by contributing to the field.

Guest Name: Terry Flannery

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-flannery-ph-d-2860b428/

Guest Bio: Teresa (Terry) Flannery is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In this role, she directs the divisions of Education; Membership, Marketing and Communications; Data, Research and Technology; and Strategic Partnerships. Terry is a strategic, innovative, and collaborative higher education leader with more than 35 years of experience in a wide range of functions, including advancement, admissions and enrollment management, and student affairs. She has worked at large, medium, and small institutions, both public and private.
One of the leading university marketing professionals in the world and recognized in 2018 as “International Brand Master,” Flannery has led some of the most successful brand campaigns in all of higher education. She is also a consultant, speaker, and author of How to Market A University: Building Value in a Competitive Environment, a new book published by the Johns Hopkins University Press in their series for higher education. In cooperation with several leading higher education marketing agencies, Flannery launched an asynchronous master course based on the book.
Before coming to CASE, Flannery held the chief marketing officer role at three institutions, as Interim Vice President for Marketing and Communication at Stony Brook University, as Vice President of Communication at American University, and as Assistant Vice President at the University of Maryland.
Flannery maintains an appointment as a Policy Fellow at American University’s Center for University Excellence. She has been a fellow in the Academy for Innovative Higher Education Leadership and served for a decade on the CASE Board of Trustees, including as Chair.
Flannery holds a BA in English (American Literature) and a Master’s and Ph.D. in Education (College Student Personnel), all from the University of Maryland.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this episode of Chat’s What She Said, Nicole and Zach unpack how best to build a chatbot for higher ed.  

The duo shares stories about the best and worst experiences they’ve had with chatbots, frameworks for how to think through whether or not you need a chatbot, and ideas for how to build a memorable brand around your chatbot.

Chat’s What She Said is a special podcast series and collaboration between Enrollify and Mongoose. Each month, tune in for fresh ideas for communication strategies and tactics that attract, engage, and delight Gen Z.  

You can subscribe to this series and access other podcasts, ecourses, videos and more at Enrollify.org. And if you want to learn more about Mongoose, head on over to mongooseresearch.com/enrollify and start a chat with their chatbot Otto about their texting and conversational software services...it’s a truly meta experience.

Learn more about this episode in our show notes. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

The Future of Student Search Pulse Check Series is sponsored by Carnegie. 

When talking about the future of Student Search, you can’t go a day without talking about the impact of technology and AI. In this episode, Trent Gilbert, VP of Student Search Solutions at Carnegie, and Paul LeBlanc, Former President of Southern New Hampshire University, discuss how technology can be used to amplify and improve human connections and the impact of AI on the workforce. They discuss the ethical considerations of AI and the importance of using it in ways that align with human values. 

Key takeaways include:

• The use of technology to amplify and improve human relationships, rather than replace them.
• How AI has the potential to radically change the workforce.
• Ethical considerations that are crucial in the development and use of AI.
• How AI is changing the landscape of Student Search.

Links:

• “Applying AI to Rebuild Middle Class Jobs,” by David Autor on nber.org
• Technological revolutions and techno-economic paradigms by Carlota Perez on jstor.com
• Paul’s Book Broken: How Our Social Systems are Failing Us and How We Can Fix Them https://www.amazon.com/Broken-Social-Systems-Failing-Them/dp/1637741766

Guest Name: Paul LeBlanc, Former President, Southern New Hampshire University

Guest Bio: Paul LeBlanc spent two-decades as president of Southern New Hampshire University and helped transform the struggling private residential institution of 2,500 students into the largest higher education provider in the United States, renowned for its excellence in online education. LeBlanc, who retired from his post at SNHU this past June, is now the co-founder of Human Systems, a company working to reimagine learning for the age of AI.

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-j-leblanc-6a17749/

Pulse Check Host: 
Trent Gilbert - VP of Student Search Solutions at Carnegie
https://www.linkedin.com/in/trentgilbert/
Having served as Vice President for Enrollment at three different institutions, Trent Gilbert understands the challenges and pressures modern-day enrollment managers face at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. In addition to serving as a former VPEM, Trent also co-founded and served as an industry leader of Render Experiences, which put him at the table of enrollment strategy conversations at over 250 institutions. As the VP of Student Search Solutions at Carnegie, Trent is uniquely positioned to work with clients and create tailored solutions that creatively engage students while keeping the experience of human connection at the forefront of the process.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In 2019, for the first time in history, digital advertising spend is projected to surpass traditional, offline advertising spend. There is increasing pressure on today's enrollment managers to develop and execute digital advertising campaigns that yield meaningful results. This episode features a conversation with Jeff Green, a Recruiting Coordinator at Texas A&M University School of Law, on the tactics that work when it comes to recruiting prospective students online.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Discover what's new and next in higher ed marketing with the revolution AI is bringing about by streaming this episode featuring Element451's CEO, Ardis Kadiu. 

Ardis and Zach discuss the present and future of AI in enrollment marketing and offer practical ideas for how enrollment managers and higher ed marketing professionals can begin to familiarize themselves with agents like ChatGPT and Bard. 

This episode was recorded live from The Engage Summit — a one-of-a-kind educational event hosted by Element451 this past June. 

This Episode is Sponsored by our friends at Element451: 

Element451 is an advanced student engagement CRM, providing higher ed institutions with a competitive admissions advantage from recruitment to enrollment through the use of AI, student behavior data, and modern marketing automation.

Learn more about Element451

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours!

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On episode two of Brand Camp Zach and Ian get into the nitty gritty of how to create a killer mission statement.

Takeaways from this episode include: 

• Defining the purpose of a mission statements
• What makes a great mission statement (and a bad one)
• How to write a mission statement from scratch that doesn't suck
• How to audit your mission statement and decide if it needs to be  improved
• Who should be involved when crafting a mission statement
• And much more!

About the Series: 

Brand Camp is made streamable by UNINCORPORATED - a higher education agency committed to building engagement, growing enrollments, and solving major challenges facing universities, schools, and academies. 

Want to learn more about brand manifestos? Check out UNINCORPORATED's FREE Brand Manifesto Workbook! 

Brand Camp is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Teirs, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Colleges and universities often struggle to identify, solidify, and then communicate their unique value proposition. In an era where the value of higher education is under great scrutiny, the need for clear, concise, and differentiated messaging has never been greater.

On this week's episode, Zach is joined by Ian Evenstar, the CEO and Founder of UNINCORPORATED — a branding, design, and marketing agency exclusively focused on higher education.

Ian offers several thoughts and ideas around how a school’s curriculum can make or break an institution's brand equity and how faculty thought leadership should be incorporated into every enrollment marketer's mix of recruitment strategies and tactics.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this thought-provoking episode, Mallory and Seth discuss the transformative potential of AI in addressing equity challenges in higher education. They explore how AI can help institutions better serve "invisible students" — nontraditional learners, first-generation students, and those balancing work or family responsibilities. Highlighting the intersection of technology and education, they provide actionable strategies to improve student success, persistence, and graduation rates.

Key Takeaways

• AI as a Catalyst for Equity:
  • Proactively identifies and supports at-risk students through early intervention.
  • Personalizes educational journeys with tailored resources and support.
  • Ensures 24/7 access to tools and services for students with nontraditional schedules.
  • Provides data-driven insights to reshape institutional policies and resource allocation.
• The Importance of Just-in-Time Resources:
  • Students need accessible support at the exact moment they encounter challenges.
  • AI can enable 24/7 assistance across admissions, academic advising, and financial aid.
• Breaking Down Barriers for First-Generation Students:
  • Address gaps in institutional knowledge with accessible, plain-language communication.
  • Use AI to seamlessly translate materials into multiple languages to meet diverse needs.
• Affordability of AI Solutions:
  • Many AI tools are cost-effective, making them accessible for under-resourced institutions like community colleges.
• The Role of Product Design in Student Success:
  • Institutions must design flexible programs to ensure students can re-enroll seamlessly after life interruptions.

Why "Invisible Students" Need Attention 
Mallory sets the stage by defining invisible students as those who often go unnoticed in traditional education systems—such as first-generation students, working adults, and part-time learners. These populations represent a significant portion of the student body but are disproportionately likely to face barriers to graduation, compounding financial challenges like student loan debt.

How AI Can Help 
AI-first strategies can transform how institutions support these students:

1. Proactive Intervention: Predictive analytics identify early warning signs of student disengagement.
2. Personalized Education: Tailored experiences boost engagement and retention.
3. Accessible Support: AI-powered virtual assistants offer help 24/7, meeting students at their point of need.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making: Institutions can reallocate resources based on real-time insights.

Real-World Example: Trinity Valley Community College 
Mallory highlights Trinity Valley Community College’s success in implementing AI tools to address the needs of working students. Their AI assistant supports enrollment and student engagement, resulting in an 18% increase in their graduating class—an example of AI's tangible impact on student success.

The Need for Product Innovation 
Seth emphasizes the importance of designing flexible program structures. For example:

• Avoid term-based models that create re-entry barriers for students who need to pause their education.
• Explore asynchronous and competency-based education models to meet the diverse needs of modern learners.

Final Thoughts

The conversation underscores the importance of leveraging AI to support nontraditional learners and first-generation students. Seth and Mallory emphasize that affordability and accessibility are key to implementing these solutions effectively, particularly for community colleges and other under-resourced institutions.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Welcome to this new Pulse Check series on the power of storytelling. This is  Part 2: From News to Narrative: Frank Tramble on Transforming Higher Ed Storytelling. Frank Tramble shares about the importance of an integrated marketing and communications strategy, understanding your audience's core motivations to create more impactful messages and the need to always to be learning.

Guest Name: Frank Tramble, Duke University

Guest Bio: Frank Tramble is a highly accomplished communications professional currently serving as the Vice President for Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs at Duke University. With extensive experience in strategic executive communications, crisis communications, integrated marketing, and brand management, he plays a pivotal role in shaping Duke's reputation and strategic priorities. 

As a trusted strategic adviser to President Vincent Price, Frank leads Duke's central communications, marketing, media relations, and brand management activities. He provides guidance and leadership to communications professionals across various schools and units, ensuring a cohesive and impactful approach.

Previously, as Vice President and Chief Communications Officer at Howard University, Frank elevated the university's reputation through innovative initiatives such as the award-winning redesign of their magazine and the establishment of The Dig, a groundbreaking daily storytelling hub.

Frank's accomplishments have garnered national media coverage, including Howard's swim and dive

team becoming the first all-Black swim team featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He has

collaborated with renowned figures like Pete Souza and spearheaded communication strategies for

high-profile individuals, including Phylicia Rashad, Nicole Hannah-Jones, and Ta-Nehisi Coates.

An adjunct professor at Georgetown University, Frank imparts his expertise in brand strategy. He also

serves as a lead judge for prestigious industry awards and is a sought-after speaker on topics such as

crisis communications and branding.

Frank Tramble holds a master's degree in integrated marketing communications from Georgetown and a

bachelor's degree in advertising management from Michigan State University. With his dedication to

excellence and passion for effective storytelling, Frank continues to shape Duke University's success as a

leading institution of higher education.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this bonus edition of the Higher Ed Pulse, Mallory is joined by Dayana Kibilds, host of Talking Tactics and VP at Ologie, and Ashley Budd, Senior Marketing Director at Cornell University, to discuss their new book, "Mailed It!" They explore the vital role of email marketing in higher education, share practical insights on building trust and empathy with subscribers, and provide actionable tips for creating engaging email content that gets results.

Key Takeaways:

• The Importance of Email: Despite common misconceptions, email remains a highly effective marketing channel with significant ROI.
• Trust Triangle: Successful emails build trust through authenticity, empathy, and logic.
• Audience Engagement: Focus on creating content that resonates with the reader's current experiences and emotions.
• Clarity and Simplicity: Use natural language and straightforward messaging to avoid wasting the reader’s time.
• Email Metrics: Track key metrics like open rates and click rates to gauge engagement and refine strategies.

Get your copy of Mailed It!: https://emailbook.co/ 

Guest Names:
Dayana Kibilds
Ashley Budd

Guest Social:
Dayana - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dayanakibilds/
Ashley - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleybudd/

Guest Bios:
Dayana is strategy director at Ologie, an employee-owned marketing and branding agency built for education. Prior to Ologie, Day led enrollment and digital innovation work at Penn State, Cornell and Western (Canada). She regularly speaks about enrollment marketing, email strategy, productivity and stakeholder management at conferences worldwide. Day is the host of Enrollify's Talking Tactics podcast, and is co-authoring a book about email to be released in spring 2024. As a lifelong immigrant who has lived in six different countries, equity and diversity are really important to her. She sees content as a tool for equity, and part of her motivation to work in higher ed is to help students access the educational institutions they deserve to be a part of.

Ashley is a senior marketing director at Cornell University. She works remotely for the university from her hometown Saratoga Springs, where she lives with her partner, daughter, and two beloved peach trees. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On episode three of Band Camp, Zach and Ian explore the purpose and value of vision statements. 

The pair discuss how to create a meaningful vision statement and where it fits into your overall brand manifesto alongside your mission statement and core values. 

This episode is sponsored by UNINCORPORATED (UN) - a higher education agency committed to building awareness, growing enrollment, and launching programs for universities. They believe that education is the primary means of ascension in society, so they use their expertise to help colleges and universities recruit and train the next generation. They work closely with deans, administrators, and faculty who are worried about their programs’ success and need additional expertise to remain relevant and appeal to their stakeholders. UNINCORPORATED's mission is to help colleges and universities enhance their programs by providing strategic direction and expertise in branding, marketing, and design.

Brand Camp is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Teirs, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

We're joined by Kevin Renton of Electric Kite and Volt, live from the 2024 CUPRAP conference. Mallory and Kevin talk about running content networks in higher education, with a focus on bringing marketing and enrollment professionals actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies. 

Key Takeaways:

• Volt's Origin and Vision: Kevin discusses Volt's transition from an agency blog to a leading marketing magazine and its future content direction.
• Live Conference Coverage and Community Engagement: A discussion on breaking down barriers and offering insights into conferences to those unable to attend.
• Artificial Intelligence in Higher Ed Marketing): The importance of AI safety and policies on campuses to ensure responsible use.
• Enrollify's Growth and Content Expansion: Mallory outlines Enrollify's expansion and new initiatives, including webinars and blogging.

Guest Name: Kevin Renton, Principal, Electric Kite

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this hot-take-full conversation with Rob Biebly from Huron Consulting, Zach and Rob unpack the challenges and opportunities facing strategic enrollment managers in 2022. 

Rob and Zach chat about:

• The biggest challenges facing staff retention right now
• The disillusionment of institutional leaders around enrollment growth rates
• Why leaning in
• to differentiation is the key to increasing enrollment
• How to think differently about program offerings and value propositions 
• How to have productive conversations with leaders on smart goal development
• And much more! 

You can connect with Rob on LinkedIn here. 

If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Tiers, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea.  Find yours at podcasts.enrollify.org. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Counseling and Psychological Services has taken significant steps forward in recent years, yet there remains a “mental health crisis” in higher education.  What is what we needed was a reforming of the services and the system itself.  This episode explores with Dr. Peter Cornish the ways in which holistic mental health services is of the most important DEI imperatives in higher education.  As well, the episodes explores with Dr. Cornish what might happen is we were to consider the holistic well-being professionals as leaders in the reforming of the entirety of higher education. Join for this informative episode. 

Guest Name: Peter Cornish, Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, UHS; Honorary Research Professor at the Memorial University of Newfoundland in Canada 

Guest LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/peter-cornish-6b381922

Guest Bio:
Dr. Peter Cornish is the Director of Counseling and Psychological Services at UHS and an Honorary Research Professor at the Memorial University of Newfoundland in Canada. His clinical and research interests include online mental health, stepped-care treatments, mental health service innovations, and inter-professional team functioning.
Over the past five years, Dr. Cornish has provided consultation and on-site training on his Stepped Care 2.0 model to over 150 organizations across North America. His nonprofit company, Stepped Care Solutions, is the lead partner on Wellness Together Canada (link is external), a federal COVID-19 $70M mental health program for all peoples of Canada. Dr. Cornish is the principal investigator for a $1.14M four-year research grant aimed at digitizing and evaluating Stepped Care 2.0 across two Canadian provinces. Currently, he is collaborating with colleagues in the US and Canada on a three-book series on Stepped Care 2.0.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Join Dr. Dustin York (an Associate Professor whose specialties include digital transformation, branding, and the future of higher education) and Pamela Bryan Williams (a Chief Strategist for Learning Design and Development) from Maryville University for an invigorating conversation around how higher education can reimagine its core products, experience, and marketing for the lifelong learner.

The duo sits down with Zach to discuss the future of learning design and development and how the Maryville team is thinking about, wrestling with, and overcoming the threats and challenges present in higher education today. 

If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Tiers, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Live from the ASU GSV AIR Show and Summit, Mallory chats with Howard Purcell, President of New England College of Optometry. Howard shares his unique journey from industry to academia and discusses the innovative ways his institution is tackling challenges like student debt and diversity in the applicant pool. With a focus on integrating AI and telehealth into optometry education, Howard provides a provocative look at the future of medical training.

Key Takeaways:

• Insights on higher education’s readiness for disruption and the embrace of new technologies such as AI, virtual reality, and telehealth.
• Innovative student debt solutions implemented by Howard’s institution, involving partnerships to fund education.
• The use of AI to enhance clinical education and patient care, including real-time global research access to improve diagnoses.
• Howard’s vision for modernizing medical education to cater to diverse learning styles and the integration of cutting-edge technologies.
• An open invitation from Howard to collaborate on overcoming educational challenges and modernizing teaching methods.

Guest Name: Howard Purcell, President and CEO of the New England College of Optometry (NECO)

Guest Bio: Howard Purcell, O.D., F.A.A.O., Diplomate and FNAP has been President and CEO of the New England College of Optometry (NECO) since July 2018. Before assuming his leadership role at NECO, he served as Senior Vice President at Essilor of America and Senior Director at Johnson and Johnson Vision Care. A second generation graduate of the New England College of Optometry, Dr. Purcell also participated in a group optometric practice for eleven years with his father in Miami Beach, FL. Beginning in June 1991, Dr. Purcell joined the faculty of Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry. During his career at the college, he was a principle in the development of the Department of Cornea and Contact Lenses. Reaching the rank of Associate Professor, Dr. Purcell was responsible for both the didactic and clinical components of the program, serving as the Deputy Dean of the college. Dr. Purcell is a Diplomate in the Cornea, Contact Lenses and Refractive Technologies Section of the American Academy of Optometry. His energetic and enthusiastic style has made Dr. Purcell a popular lecturer internationally. Purcell’s unique philosophies and practices have often attracted the media to focus attention on current optometric issues and research in the industry.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this power episode, join Zach and Jacquelyn Thompson, Ed.D. - Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management, Florida State College at Jacksonville, for a discussion on how to hyper-segment and hyper-personalize the student experience for different student populations.

Jacquelyn shares how she and her team have experimented with an array of communication strategies and tactics across a plethora of audience types to discern the marketing mix that works best for them.

This Episode is Sponsored by our friends at Element451: 

Element451 is an advanced student engagement CRM, providing higher ed institutions with a competitive admissions advantage from recruitment to enrollment through the use of AI, student behavior data, and modern marketing automation.

Learn more about Element451

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Day Kibilds, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Marcus Hanscom is an incredible thinker with progressive insights about the future of graduate education and graduate student recruitment. On Enrollify’s recent Podcast Roadshow around New England, Zach sat down with Marcus to discuss the future of graduate enrollment management. 

Marcus talked a lot about incentive alignment.  Graduate education needs to be more agile, advanced degrees that meet the continually changing demands of today’s market need to be spun up quickly, but, in order to do so, you need faculty to be on board! 

So, in order to encourage faculty members to create new graduate programs in a timely fashion, institutions need to find ways to ensure departments that if they meet their enrollment goals, the department will be rewarded with more resources. 

Marcus also talked about how over the next few years, the infamous, looming 'Higher Ed Enrollment Cliff' will arrive and many institutions will likely turn to graduate enrollment to help make up for this loss in revenue. But, graduate enrollment management needs resources now to prepare for this moment. Waiting until the cliff hits hardest just might be too late.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of The Higher Ed Pulse, hosts Seth and Mallory dive into the world of “Sprint Campaigns” in higher education marketing. Seth shares insights on how these fast-tracked, zero-budget campaigns are transforming marketing efforts at colleges and universities. By repurposing existing assets and using innovative strategies, institutions can improve performance in just 60 to 120 days without major new investments. Tune in to learn how to implement this cost-effective approach in your own marketing initiatives.

Key Takeaways

• Sprint campaigns are a zero-budget way to refresh marketing content and improve performance quickly.
• Repurposing existing assets like videos and images can drive better engagement, reducing the need for costly new productions.
• Qualifying existing value propositions (e.g., ranking by specific region or category) can position your institution more effectively.
• Institutions often underutilize the volume of ads—expanding ad variations can enhance machine learning and improve results.
• Sprint campaigns can bypass lengthy approval processes by reworking content that has already been approved.‍

In this episode of The Higher Ed Pulse, Seth and Mallory focus on a creative and practical solution for institutions looking to refresh their brand presence—Sprint Campaigns. Seth introduces this concept, developed at Kanahoma, as a fast and efficient method to drive performance in higher education marketing, all without the hefty time and budget associated with traditional brand campaigns.

So, what exactly is a Sprint Campaign? Seth describes it as a method to launch a new brand campaign in just 60 to 120 days, using existing assets and content rather than investing in new productions. The beauty of this process is its simplicity: gather all of your institution's photo and video assets—anything that’s already been created over the past several years—and repurpose them into fresh, compelling ad content. By doing so, institutions can see results quickly, improving their marketing efforts without waiting for a full year or more to develop new materials.

One of the key insights Seth shares is that many institutions fail to fully leverage the content they already have. He explains that the first step in a Sprint Campaign is conducting a thorough audit of all available creative materials. Institutions often have a treasure trove of photos, videos, and other assets that can be recut and repurposed to fit modern ad formats, particularly for platforms like Facebook and Instagram where short, vertical videos perform exceptionally well. Interestingly, content that’s several years old can still be highly effective—especially considering most prospective students are encountering the institution’s brand for the first time.

Seth also highlights a few crucial tips: for example, using images where subjects make eye contact with the viewer significantly boosts ad performance. Another big takeaway is the importance of producing a high volume of ads—more than 250 ads running at once—to take advantage of machine learning algorithms on platforms like Facebook and Google. By creating variations of high-performing content, institutions can better understand what resonates with prospective students, driving up engagement and conversions.

As Mallory plays devil’s advocate, pointing out that institutions often have entrenched approval processes and slow-moving decision-making, Seth provides a clever solution: because Sprint Campaigns are all about refining existing content, they don’t necessarily require new approvals from committees. Instead, marketing teams can simply repackage already approved materials and reintroduce them in innovative ways. This approach enables faster execution and immediate results, making it an attractive option for institutions strapped for time and resources.

Seth’s main piece of advice for institutions hesitant to try a Sprint Campaign? Focus on what you can do with the content you already have. It’s all about making the most of existing resources and bringing fresh energy to marketing efforts without the need for massive new investments.

For those looking to explore innovative, low-cost solutions in higher education marketing, this episode is a must-listen. And if you’re curious about the future of college admissions marketing, be sure to check outThe Higher Ed Pulse’s ongoing series, High School to Higher Ed, where a father-daughter duo shares insights on how high school students perceive the college admissions process.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In the 5th and final part of this Pulse Check series on International Recruiting, guest Karin Fischer, a senior writer on international education at The Chronicle of Higher Education, offers an expert perspective on the challenges and solutions for recruiting international students to American higher education institutions. 

Takeaways:

• Colleges and universities have had to reevaluate the value and purpose of international education in the face of changing global dynamics.
• International enrollment is on the rise, but the makeup of international students has shifted dramatically.
• Colleges need to adapt their support services to meet the unique needs of international students, including career services with cultural and visa law knowledge.
• To make American higher education more accessible to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds, institutions need to prioritize equity and explore alternative models such as online education and transnational programs

Guest Name: Karin Fischer

Guest Social: 
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-fischer-0038ba5
X: https://twitter.com/karinfischer

Guest Bio: Karin Fischer is a senior writer for The Chronicle of Higher Education, where she writes about international education, the social and political divides around college, and other topics. She also publishes a popular weekly newsletter on global education, Latitudes. Her reporting has appeared on NPR and in The New York Times, EdSource, and the Washington Monthly. She is a research associate at the Center for Studies in Higher Education at the University of California at Berkeley and an international education leadership fellow at the University at Albany. She is a recipient of the East-West Center’s Jefferson Fellowship for reporting in Asia and the International Reporting Project fellowship. Her work has been honored by the Education Writers Association, the National Press Foundation, and the Poynter Institute. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

SecondLook is a monthly segment of the Enrollify Podcast where we explore the most meaningful marketing trends and help enrollment marketers make sense of them.

Matthew Fall is the Managing Editor of The Minute and spends time each week scouring the internet for the trends that are most crucial for enrollment marketers to be paying attention to. 

On this week's episode, Zach and Matt explore eight marketing trends that higher ed marketers should pay attention to as we finish off 2020 and head into 2021. From Brandon Busteed’s prediction that higher ed’s greatest disruption will come from faculty (not Silicon Valley), to noteworthy changes in how Google bots will index content, this episode is a must-listen.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of The Enrollify Podcast, Zach takes the hot seat and is interviewed by Mallory Willsea of Element451.  Zach unveils the exciting next chapter of Enrollify's story!  You're not going to want to miss this one, folks!

Coming to AMA in Chicago next week?  We're hosting a happy hour and would love to see you there! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Exciting news!  Enrollify has acquired The Higher Ed Geek podcast hosted by the incredible Dustin Ramsdell. 

The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores all of the nuances of higher education with a focus on innovative technology and practices from professionals all across the country.

Follow and subscribe to the show here or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Past episodes feature some of the most renowned thinkers, innovators, and leaders in and around higher education. Check out some of the show’s most recent episodes below:

1. Episode #174: Will Patch on Digital Enrollment and Marketing Trends in 2023
2. Episode #173: Gordon Boyes on Creating Virtual Tours for a University
3. Episode #172: Chase Williams with 2022 Reflections and 2023 Predictions

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This podcast is brought to you by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform. Learn more about how Element451 can enhance student engagement, boost enrollment, reduce expenses, and increase staff productivity.

In this episode, Clayton, Angie and Zach unpack the challenges with major and program relevance in higher ed and discuss ideas for how to design, develop and promote majors and programs that meet market needs and consumer demands. 

They discuss:

Higher ed’s current brand problem in the broader marketplace (fewer students going to college, pop culture challenging the relevance of college, etc.)

The rising popularity of alternative education pathways (Lambda School, General Assembly, other bootcamps) 

Why higher ed must match what the job market is demanding — and the job marketing is changing at an unprecedented place 

Ideas for how to partner with leaders in the workforce 

Whether or not we’ll see the emergence of “Chief Product Officer” at schools

How product as a differentiator can attract and retain attention of adult students 

About the Series:

Attention Retention is a special podcast series on how to attract, enroll, retain, and empower the modern learner – brought to you in partnership with our friends at Archer Education. 

Over the course of this series, we will cover higher ed’s product problem (and how to fix it), the challenges with major and program relevance in today’s dynamic market, how to successfully attract, enroll, and retain adult learners, how to compete in a market when your school doesn’t have a national brand, and much more.

This series is co-hosted with Angie Mohr, the Senior Vice President of Student Engagement and Clayton Dean, Senior Vice President of Agency & Partnership Management at Archer, and Zach Busekrus, from Enrollify. 

Getting attention is hard enough, so once you have it, you’ve got to do everything you can to harness it. And that’s what our friends at Archer Education help schools do so dang well. 

While you’ll get a taste of some of their ideas on how to optimize marketing and recruitment strategies over the course of this series, in order to really learn more about how Archer revolutionizes the student experience through marketing, enrollment, and retention services for colleges and universities, you’ll want to check out the content hub they built exclusively for Enrollify subscribers which you can find at archeredu.com/enrollify.

If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Tiers, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode, Zach sits down with Gil Rogers, founder of GR7 Marketing, a higher ed consultancy, to discuss how leaders in higher education marketing can best prepare themselves and their teams for the future of attracting, engaging, and delighting the next generations of students. 

In this dynamic conversation, discover what Gil thinks about:

• The future of marketing leadership in higher ed 
• The benefits of fractional teams vs. agencies 
• The rise of higher ed marketing influencers (as a talent acquisition play)
• His hottest takes on marketing and enrollment strategies right now

You can connect with Gil on LinkedIn! 

This Episode is Brought to You By Our Friends at Ologie

In higher education, it’s almost impossible to truly stand out. Ologie gets it. As a branding and marketing agency that focuses on education, they understand that what makes you authentic, is also what makes you distinct. 

Ologie offers award-winning creative, smart strategy, innovative thinking, and expert digital marketing. Most of all, they’ll help you connect with your audiences, bring your stakeholders together, and achieve the results that matter most to you.

Want to find out more about how you can build a compelling brand or campaign? Visit ologie.com.

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode, live recorded at Element451's Engage Summit, Zach sits down with Petar Djordjevic, Chief Technology Officer at Element451, for a conversation on taking your engagement strategies to the next level with the power of AI. 

Petar discusses how AI-driven chatbot solutions are transforming the way higher education institutions engage with students and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Element451’s BoltBot.

BoltBot, powered by ChatGPT (GPT-4), empowers higher ed marketers and enrollment managers to achieve personalized communications at scale. Discover how Element customers are using BolBot to shift the paradigm from traditional human-first, reactive approaches to digital-first, proactive strategies.

This Episode is Sponsored by our friends at Element451: 

Element451 is an advanced student engagement CRM, providing higher ed institutions with a competitive admissions advantage from recruitment to enrollment through the use of AI, student behavior data, and modern marketing automation.

Learn more about Element451

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Day Kibilds, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason, and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Mallory and Seth dive into a growing crisis in higher education—burnout. Drawing from a recent Chronicle of Higher Education report, they explore the alarming data on faculty and staff exhaustion, workload increases, and political pressures. But rather than just acknowledging the issue, they focus on solutions—specifically, how AI can help alleviate burnout by automating repetitive tasks, improving efficiency, and allowing educators to focus on what they do best. Whether you’re an AI skeptic or an early adopter, this episode unpacks the practical ways AI can transform higher ed workplaces for the better.

Related Links: 
February 14 Dear Colleague Letter
Ed. Dept.’s Broad DEI Warning Puts College Leaders in ‘Enormously Complicated Situation

Key Takeaways

• Higher Ed is Overworked and Understaffed: 65% of faculty and staff report a heavier workload than five years ago, often due to layoffs and unfilled positions.
• Burnout is a Crisis: Faculty satisfaction is declining, with many citing increased student expectations and administrative burdens as key stressors.
• AI Can Be a Game-Changer: Automation tools can streamline administrative tasks, enhance student communication, and free up time for higher-impact work.
• Adoption Must Start from the Bottom-Up: Many higher ed leaders aren’t AI users themselves, so frontline staff and teams must take the initiative in finding and implementing AI solutions.
• AI Implementation is Incremental: Small changes—like using AI-powered voice-to-text tools or automated content summarization—can significantly reduce workload over time.

How AI Can Help Solve Higher Ed’s Burnout Crisis

The Data Behind the Problem

Higher ed professionals have been feeling the strain for years, but new data puts the crisis into perspective. The Chronicle of Higher Education report found that 65% of faculty and staff say their workloads have increased compared to five years ago. More than 40% report working significantly more than before, often due to staff reductions that have left remaining employees picking up the slack. Faculty also report feeling increased pressure to meet evolving student needs, while political influences add another layer of stress—42% of respondents cited political interference as a major issue.

Burnout isn’t just about hours worked; it’s about the mental toll of constantly feeling behind, under-resourced, and unable to focus on meaningful work. This has led to a talent retention crisis, with many experienced professionals leaving higher ed altogether. Given these challenges, institutions must urgently rethink how they support their workforce—and AI may be part of the solution.

Can AI Reduce Workload and Improve Efficiency?

One of the most promising solutions for burnout is the strategic use of AI to offload repetitive tasks. AI-powered tools can help faculty and staff automate administrative work, optimize communication, and even personalize student support. For example, faculty members drowning in committee work could use AI to summarize meeting notes, generate reports, or manage routine email responses.

AI is already making an impact in organizations outside of higher ed. Seth shared how his agency implemented an AI enablement workshop to identify areas where automation could reduce workload. By focusing on repeatable tasks, employees were able to free up time for strategic work. In higher ed, similar approaches could help staff reclaim time for student engagement and curriculum development rather than administrative drudgery.

Practical AI Tools for Higher Ed Professionals

For AI adoption to succeed, it doesn’t need to start with sweeping institutional change. Small, tactical implementations can make a big difference. Here are some AI tools that can help higher ed professionals right now:

• Voice-to-Text Software (Whisper): Converts speech into accurate text, making email writing and documentation faster.
• AI Summarization Tools (Notebook LM): Organizes research and synthesizes complex information into digestible insights.
• Loom Video Messaging: Reduces unnecessary meetings by allowing teams to communicate asynchronously with video and text-based transcriptions.
• ChatGPT and Other AI Writing Assistants: Helps draft reports, emails, and content, saving valuable time.

Institutions that proactively integrate AI into daily workflows will be better positioned to combat burnout, retain top talent, and ultimately create a more sustainable work environment.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This podcast is brought to you by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform. Learn more about how Element451 can enhance student engagement, boost enrollment, reduce expenses, and increase staff productivity.

On this week’s episode of The Enrollify Podcast, Zach sits down with Ray Martinez, the Head of SEO at Archer Education —  a tech-enabled marketing, enrollment, and retention services for higher ed company. 

Ray offers listeners a crash course on what SEO is, why it matters for higher ed marketing and student recruitment, and how schools — regardless of budget — can begin to rethink their content strategies to focus on building sustainable, earned acquisition channels and become less reliant on paid channels.  

Zach and Ray walk through three scenarios and offer their thoughts on how to effectively build and execute an appropriate strategy.

1. Scenario 1: An online business program that has $250,000 to spend on increasing their visibility and rank around program specific keywords to increase quality lead gen in 12 months.  How do you advise them to build their SEO program?
2. Scenario 2: A small liberal arts college that has $50,000 to spend on increasing their visibility and rank around program specific keywords to increase quality lead gen in 12 months.
3. Scenario 3: A large public school with a budget of $150,000  that wants to increase the visibility and rank of their 100 grad programs to increase quality lead gen in 12 months.

The Enrollify Podcast is brought to you by Enrollify.  Enrollify is where higher ed comes to learn new marketing skills, discover new software and services, network with the best minds and find their next gig.  

This week’s episode is sponsored by:  Squiz - a Student Experience Platform that offers a full suite of solutions developed exclusively for higher education. Squiz is the secret friction-reducer that schools across the globe are using to not just attract the next generations of students, but nurture them to the point of enrollment in a way that is conducive — not counter to — how they consume information and make purchasing decisions.

You can access additional higher ed marketing podcasts, eCourses, videos and more at Enrollify.org.  

You can connect with Ray on Twitter, LinkedIn, or via Archer Education’s website.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Welcome to "Advancement Amplified: AI for IA," a 5-part Pulse Check hosted by Dan Giroux, a higher education marketing and communications leader focused on elevating the strategic impact of Advancement. Advancement is at a pivotal moment. As institutions navigate shifting donor expectations, alumni engagement challenges, financial pressures, and the demand for greater efficiency, AI is emerging as a transformative force.

In today's Part 1, Dan Giroux sits down with Matthew Lambert, Senior Vice President for University Advancement at William & Mary, and Dan Frezza, Chief Advancement Officer at the College of Charleston. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of institutional advancement, from donor engagement to marketing and career services. With rapid technological shifts, both institutions are leveraging AI-powered tools, including autonomous virtual engagement officers (VEOs), to enhance outreach and optimize fundraising efforts.

Related Links:
Inside Higher Ed interview with Wren and Wren’s website
AGB magazine article around AI

Key Takeaways

• AI is not a replacement, but an enhancement. AI tools in advancement free up professionals to focus on high-value tasks while automating routine processes like contact reports and donor outreach.
• Virtual Engagement Officers (VEOs) are changing the game. AI-driven fundraisers at William & Mary and the College of Charleston are already fostering one-on-one donor relationships, leading to increased engagement and donations.
• AI adoption requires a culture of innovation. Institutions that embrace risk-taking and long-term thinking are better positioned to leverage AI effectively.
• Personalization is key. AI tools can customize communication, ensuring alumni and donors receive relevant, engaging content that strengthens their connection to their alma mater.
• Transparency builds trust. Clearly identifying AI-powered agents in donor interactions helps maintain credibility and donor confidence.
• Advancement leaders should experiment and iterate. Small-scale testing of AI tools allows teams to refine their approach while minimizing risks.

Episode Summary

How is AI Being Used in Institutional Advancement?

AI is playing an increasingly critical role in institutional advancement, helping teams engage donors, streamline operations, and personalize communications. Both William & Mary and the College of Charleston are leveraging AI-driven solutions like virtual engagement officers (VEOs) to handle donor outreach, allowing human fundraisers to focus on high-value relationships. AI is also being integrated into marketing, career services, and student engagement to drive deeper connections across the university ecosystem.

What Are Virtual Engagement Officers (VEOs) and How Do They Work?

VEOs are AI-powered autonomous fundraisers that manage donor portfolios, initiate personalized conversations, and guide alumni through the giving process. At William & Mary, the VEO named "Wren" is engaging alumni by sharing curated content, answering inquiries, and even suggesting philanthropic opportunities based on donor interests. Similarly, the College of Charleston’s VEO, “Alex,” is successfully fostering engagement by tailoring interactions, including crafting poetry for an alum who tested its capabilities.

How Do Institutions Ensure AI Enhances, Rather Than Replaces, Human Connection?

A key priority for both institutions is maintaining authenticity and transparency in AI-driven interactions. AI fundraisers introduce themselves as virtual engagement officers, rather than impersonating human staff members. Additionally, AI serves as a bridge to real fundraisers, helping schedule meetings or flagging high-potential donors for personal outreach. By handling lower-priority tasks, AI allows advancement professionals to deepen relationships with major donors and alumni in meaningful ways.

What Challenges Exist in AI Adoption for Advancement?

Implementing AI in institutional advancement comes with hurdles, including skepticism from staff, concerns over data security, and the need for institutional buy-in. Some advancement professionals worry about AI’s impact on job security, while others fear losing the human touch in donor relationships. However, leaders like Lambert and Frezza emphasize that AI is not replacing human fundraisers, but rather empowering them to be more efficient and effective.

What’s Next for AI in Advancement?

Both William & Mary and the College of Charleston plan to expand their use of AI beyond fundraising. Future applications may include using AI for student engagement, career advising, and even enrollment marketing. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in advancement will likely grow, offering new ways to personalize outreach, improve donor experiences, and drive institutional success.

AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s happening now, and institutions that embrace it strategically will have a competitive edge in advancement and fundraising.

Guest Names: 
Matthew Lambert, Senior Vice President of University Advancement, William & Mary; CEO, William & Mary Foundation
Dan Frezza, Chief Advancement Officer of Institutional Advancement, College of Charleston; CEO, College of Charleston Foundation

Guest Socials: 
Matthew - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtlambert/
Dan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-frezza-56203262/

Guest Bios: 
Matthew T. Lambert - Matthew Lambert leads University Advancement at William & Mary, overseeing all alumni engagement, private fundraising and philanthropic outreach, university marketing and communications, and career development & professional engagement efforts. Under his leadership, William & Mary successfully completed its record-breaking $1 billion For the Bold campaign, strengthening the university’s culture and philanthropy. As CEO of the William & Mary Foundation, he stewards more than $1 billion in endowments, ensuring long-term financial support for the university. A William & Mary alumnus, Matthew holds degrees from The Ohio State University (M.A.) and the University of Pennsylvania (Ed.D.). Before returning to W&M in 2013, he held leadership roles in Advancement at Georgetown University. In addition to his work in philanthropy, he is an active scholar in public policy and higher education, authoring Privatization and the Public Good (Harvard Education Press) and co-editing Advancing Higher Education (Rowman & Littlefield). Follow Matthew Lambert on LinkedIn. 

Dan Frezza - Dan Frezza serves as the Chief Advancement Officer at the College of Charleston, leading the university’s development, alumni relations, stewardship, and advancement services. In this role, he is responsible for fostering a strong culture of engagement and philanthropy across the institution. As CEO of the College of Charleston Foundation, he oversees institutional fund management and works to grow the university’s endowment. Before joining the College of Charleston in 2023, Dan spent over a decade at William & Mary, where he played a key leadership role in the university’s $1 billion For the Bold campaign alongside Matthew Lambert—driving alumni engagement and participation efforts. Prior to that, he led advancement programs at Appalachian State University and East Carolina University. Dan holds a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s in Communication with a minor in Business from Western Carolina University. Follow Dan on LinkedIn. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of the Higher Ed Pulse Podcast, Mallory chats with Andy Shearouse, Assistant Director of the EDGE Center at Augustana College, during the 2024 HighEdWeb conference. Andy dives into the concept of "intrapreneurship" and how individuals within institutions can foster innovation and drive meaningful change from the inside. Through personal experiences and insightful examples, Andy explains how anyone can become a difference-maker on campus by adopting an entrepreneurial mindset and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Key Takeaways

• Intrapreneurship encourages staff to channel entrepreneurial energy internally, driving change within an organization.
• The best innovations often come from those closest to daily processes, like student services or campus operations.
• Developing an "entrepreneurial mindset" involves problem-first thinking, self-confidence, and a willingness to seek small, impactful wins.
• Higher education institutions can benefit significantly from empowering staff to identify inefficiencies and implement creative solutions.

What is Intrapreneurship, and Why Does It Matter in Higher Education?
Intrapreneurship is the practice of fostering entrepreneurial innovation within an existing organization. Andy Shearouse highlights the importance of encouraging faculty and staff to think like entrepreneurs, focusing on improving internal processes and services. This mindset differs from traditional entrepreneurship by emphasizing change from within, allowing institutions to become more adaptable and student-centered. For example, Andy discusses how colleges that quickly addressed the growing demand for mental health services were able to stay ahead of student needs and become more supportive environments.

How Can Intrapreneurship Solve Campus-Wide Problems?
Andy shared several real-world examples of intrapreneurship at work. One standout case involved transforming the course add/drop process at Augustana College from a cumbersome paper-based system to an efficient online solution. The initiative was driven by the Career Development Office, which recognized the inefficiencies students and staff faced. This change significantly improved the student experience, highlighting how even small departments can spearhead major improvements that benefit the entire campus community.

What Traits Make a Successful Intrapreneur?
The entrepreneurial mindset is key to becoming an intrapreneur. Andy outlines six traits of successful entrepreneurs, with the top two being: saying "yes, I can" when presented with a challenge and focusing on solving problems, not just pushing products. Intrapreneurs are proactive, identifying gaps and inefficiencies in their organizations and working creatively to address them. They don’t need to overhaul entire systems overnight but instead look for small wins that snowball into broader, lasting changes. This problem-solving mindset is what empowers intrapreneurs to reshape their institutions incrementally.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of sparking change at your institution, you won’t want to miss the full episode. Listen now to discover more examples of how intrapreneurship can drive innovation in higher education!

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Welcome to Part 4 of Reclaiming Free Speech, Democracy, and Discourse on Campus a Post Election America. I’m Dr. J. Cody Nielsen, Host of After Further Consideration. No matter the outcome, the 2024 election will set the stage for the next decade of higher education. In this Pulse Check series I’ll interview policy makers and practitioners to discuss their outlook on higher education, the ways in which we might reestablish higher education’s public trust, and what a post 2024 election will look like on campus. From expression of speech to civil democracy and discourse, America’s higher education system is at a dramatic turning point and we’re here to break it down.  Let’s dive into today’s episode, where we are joined by Kristine Bowman.

What is the Current State of Free Speech on College Campuses? 
Free speech on college campuses is at a crossroads, with increasing student protests reminiscent of movements from the Civil Rights Era to the Vietnam War. Kristine Bowman explains that today's protests often combine multiple tactics, from marches to sit-ins, reflecting a renewed fervor for activism. However, she notes that campus leaders face unprecedented challenges navigating these dynamics in a polarized political climate.

Bowman highlights the legal doctrines that guide free speech policies, such as the time, place, and manner framework, which allows institutions to regulate speech while maintaining their core functions. The evolving government speech doctrine also complicates matters, particularly in the context of academic freedom and institutional neutrality.

How Does Post-2024 Politics Impact Higher Education? 
The 2024 election has ushered in a Republican-controlled presidency and Congress, raising significant questions about the future of higher education. Bowman discusses potential implications, including federal regulations tying research funding or financial aid to compliance with free speech policies. She reflects on the 2019 executive order under Trump's first administration, which linked federal funding to adherence to the First Amendment, and considers how similar strategies might evolve in the coming years.

Bowman contrasts two perspectives on institutional responses to free speech: the traditionalist view, which emphasizes neutrality and non-intervention, and the new democratic view, which advocates for proactive engagement to foster inclusive dialogue. She underscores the challenges universities may face in balancing these approaches under increased political scrutiny.

How Can Institutions Navigate Free Speech Challenges? 
Universities must grapple with the tension between creating safe spaces for marginalized groups and encouraging brave spaces for open dialogue. Bowman emphasizes the importance of fostering environments where all students can engage productively, even when discussions are uncomfortable or divisive. She draws on her research, including her 2023 article in the Journal of Law and Politics, to argue for a "new democratic model" of free speech that prioritizes equitable access to knowledge creation.

For private colleges, constitutional values like free speech and equality remain integral, even if not legally mandated. Leaders like Wesleyan University President Michael Roth exemplify how private institutions can champion these principles, shaping societal norms and reinforcing higher education’s public trust.

What’s Next for Free Speech in Higher Education? 
Looking ahead, Bowman predicts heightened tensions as universities navigate federal policies, legal challenges, and campus activism. She advises institutions to adopt proactive strategies that align with both legal principles and their mission to foster intellectual growth. This includes leveraging lessons from history, understanding the lived experiences of students, and engaging in thoughtful dialogue across ideological divides.

Kristine Bowman serves as the Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs in the College of Education at Michigan State University, where she is jointly appointed as a Professor of Law and Professor of Education Policy. Bowman is also an international expert in education law and policy, having published roughly thirty articles and book chapters, written or (co)edited four books, and presented regularly across the U.S. and in more than a dozen countries around the world. She writes about liberty and equality at all levels of education, often focusing on racial and ethnic equity and free speech.

Guest Name: Kristine Bowman, Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs in the College of Education, Michigan State University

Guest Bio: Kristine Bowman serves as the Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs in the College of Education at Michigan State University, where she is jointly appointed as a Professor of Law and Professor of Education Policy. Bowman is also an international expert in education law and policy, having published roughly thirty articles and book chapters, written or (co)edited four books, and presented regularly across the U.S. and in more than a dozen countries around the world. She writes about liberty and equality at all levels of education, often focusing on racial and ethnic equity and free speech.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

People are busy. Their inboxes are full. Interacting with your content is not the most important thing on their to-do list. And yet, as enrollment marketers, it's our job to get our communications in front of the right people, at the right time, and in the right place.

On this week's solo-pod, Zach shares insights and new lessons learned over the last six months of email marketing. From there, he dives into the results garnered from an Enrollify Secret Shopper Experiment that was conducted last fall.

Zach inquired at close to 80 business schools and reports on what he learned from the more than 1,000 email communications he received.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special episode of the Higher Ed Pulse, Mallory Willsea invites Aaron Blau, VP of Education at Primacy, to talk about all things March Madness. The excitement of March Madness extends beyond just the games, potentially impacting enrollment, marketing, and branding efforts in significant ways. From the visibility boost for lesser-known institutions to the strategies for leveraging athletic success in marketing campaigns, Aaron offers unique insights, blending his passion for college athletics with deep industry knowledge. 

Key Takeaways:

• March Madness' Impact on Brand Visibility: March Madness offers unparalleled national visibility, particularly for underdog schools that manage to pull off big upsets, significantly impacting their brand recognition and interest levels. But is that impact just a flash-in-the-pan?
• Athletics and Enrollment Marketing: Discussion on how athletic success can be leveraged in marketing strategies to enhance enrollment efforts, including connecting athletic content with alumni outcomes and academic achievements.
• Future of College Athletics: Aaron shares his predictions on the evolving landscape of college athletics.

Related Links:

https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/blogs/call-action/2024/03/12/how-all-institutions-can-capitalize-march-madness
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/business/revenue-strategies/2024/03/21/betting-big-sports-help-balance-budget
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/online-colleges/does-march-madness-performance-drive-college-application-rates/

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This week’s Fanatical Friday’s episode is the second part of an Enrollify Podcast two-part series (catch the first episode here). Zach Busekrus is joined by a special guest, Jamie Gleason, a 15-year enrollment management veteran (both on campus and in the ed-tech/enrollment marketing space).  

Anthony de Mello, a Jesuit priest and psychotherapist said that “We yearn for change, but cling to the familiar.” Those who have been in enrollment management for a long time get opportunities every year to adapt what they do — and summer is often when many of those changes are attempted. Zach asks Jamie if he had opportunities to change how he did things on or after May 1st as a Director of Admission, what would he do differently? What would he focus more on and less on? What practices would he implement to bring about sustained change within an institution or within the admissions office?

If you are heading into that summer mindset when everything starts to feel stale, tune into the episode for fresh ideas that go beyond the familiar.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Welcome to “How to Market an Online Graduate Program” a special 4-part podcast series brought to you by Enrollify and our friends at Archer Education.  

Over the course of this series we’ll unpack everything you need to know to properly design a go-to-market strategy for your new online grad program and what the first few years of marketing and growing your program should look like.

We’ll dive deep into where, when, and how to use paid search and paid social effectively, how you should think through appropriately balancing paid and organic efforts in Years 1 and 2 vs Years 3 and 4 post-launch, what positioning strategies you should test, how to properly leverage the personal brands of faculty and staff members, and so much more.

This series is made possible thanks to our friends at Archer — Archer is an education technology company dedicated to personalizing student recruitment.

If you want to learn more about how Archer might be able to help your institution get more bang for your marketing and admission buck, head on over to ArcherEdu.com and tell them that your friends at Enrollify sent you their way. 

In Episode 4 of How to Market an Online Graduate Program you’ll meet Ray Martinez, Vice President of SEO and Nici Sandberg, Senior Director of Creative & Content at Archer Education. 

Ray, Nici and I discuss:

• How  schools can ensure continuous program improvement and innovation beyond the initial three-year marketing period
• How schools should evaluate their marketing strategy in relation to current market trends and competition
• How can schools leverage the data accumulated over the last three years to inform other program growth strategies
• Hot takes on leveraging faculty for alumni engagement and student recruitment 
• And loads more

Check out the rest of this 4-part series!

Ep. 1: Building The Foundation To Ensure Success

Ep. 2: Year Two Marketing Strategies For Online Graduate Programs

Ep. 3: Year Three Marketing Strategies For A New Online Graduate Program

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Hosts Mallory and Seth examine the critical state of liberal arts education in America and the challenges facing liberal arts programs, including declining enrollments and financial pressures. Mallory and Seth passionately advocate for a rebranding of the liberal arts to highlight their enduring value in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability in an uncertain future.

Episode Highlights:

• Enrollify's success in audience growth and the search for a new marketing manager to propel the brand further, plus innovative hiring strategies that encourage creativity and ensure candidates' attention to detail.
• The pressing challenges faced by liberal arts programs, including significant declines in enrollment and faculty positions.
• The potential of liberal arts education in developing versatile, critical thinkers capable of navigating rapid technological advancements and changing job markets.
• The crucial role of marketing and communication professionals in rebranding liberal arts to highlight their contemporary relevance and value.

This episode not only underscores the urgent need to reevaluate and refresh the perception of liberal arts education but also celebrates the adaptability and critical thinking skills it cultivates, advocating for a balanced approach to preparing students for the future workforce.

https://www.chronicle.com/article/the-gutting-of-the-liberal-arts

https://www.chronicle.com/article/humanities-on-the-cutting-room-floor

https://www.chronicle.com/article/heres-what-happened-after-3-colleges-announced-cuts-to-the-liberal-arts

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Every enrollment manager knows how important authentic student stories are to the student recruitment process.  Prospective students want to know what current students think of your institution — full stop. 

But sourcing great student stories can be challenging. On this week’s episode of Fanatical Fridays, Mickey and Zach brainstorm simple, creative, and effective strategies for finding the best student stories and facilitating interviews that enable these stories to be captured and leveraged. 

Fanatical Fridays is brought to you by Enrollify.  Enrollify is where higher ed comes to learn new marketing skills, discover new software and services, network with the best minds and find their next gig.  

You can connect with Zach on LinkedIn or Twitter and Mickey on LinkedIn.

This week’s episode is brought to you by Goodkind - an easy-to-use video engagement platform designed to make each of your prospects feel special, cared for and seen. Increase applications, increase yield, and decrease melt with the power of Goodkind.

If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Tiers, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special episode of Reclaiming Free Speech, Democracy, and Discourse on Campus, host Dr. J. Cody Nielsen sits down with Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III, Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan and scholar of race, systems of oppression, and student activism. Together, they unpack the implications of Donald Trump’s re-election, the challenges of free speech on campus, and the broader societal forces shaping higher education. This episode delves deep into student activism, higher education’s colonial roots, and the ways administrators and educators must navigate the ongoing struggle for justice and equity.

Key Takeaways

• Student Activism Reflects Broader Sociopolitical Realities: Campus movements—whether for Black Lives Matter or pro-Palestinian rights—mirror larger societal struggles, challenging higher education’s historical role as a site of exclusion and privilege.
• Higher Education and Systems of Power: Colleges have long been intertwined with colonialism, capitalism, and racialized oppression. Deconstructing these systems requires critical reflection and moral courage from institutional leaders.
• The Role of Administrators: University administrators must prioritize people over prestige and resist suppressive policies that target student activism, particularly around anti-democratic and oppressive issues.
• Self-Care in the Struggle for Justice: Individual and communal care are critical. Dr. Davis highlights the importance of collective healing, family, and finding spaces for joy and restoration amid ongoing activism.
• The Trump Administration’s Impact: A second Trump term amplifies existing tensions, but the struggle for justice and liberation remains constant—organizers must double down on efforts to improve material conditions for marginalized communities.

What Role Does Student Activism Play in the Current Political Landscape?
Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III outlines how campus activism has always reflected broader sociopolitical contexts. From the Black Lives Matter movement to pro-Palestinian organizing, students are at the forefront of confronting oppressive systems and demanding institutional accountability. Dr. Davis connects today’s student movements to historical activism, such as the Black Campus Movement of the 1960s and the role of ethnic studies programs in democratizing higher education. He highlights that institutions often resist meaningful change unless forced by organized collective action.
How Has Higher Education Historically Maintained Systems of Oppression?
Dr. Davis dives into higher education’s colonial roots, emphasizing how campuses were built on stolen land and the labor of enslaved Black individuals. These structures persist today, manifested in racialized exclusion, elitism, and suppression of dissent. Administrators must confront their complicity in upholding oppressive systems and commit to re-centering people over profits, productivity, and prestige. He challenges leaders to reflect on their roles and question whether they are truly serving students or perpetuating institutional harm.
What Should Higher Education Leaders Do in the Face of Political Suppression?
Reflecting on the Trump administration’s impact, Dr. Davis notes that institutions have increasingly adopted suppressive policies, weaponizing campus and municipal policing to silence student protests. He urges administrators to act with “moral and political courage,” protecting students rather than criminalizing their activism. By aligning with community values and rejecting reactionary policies, leaders can challenge anti-democratic behaviors and support a more just higher education system.
How Do We Balance Activism with Personal and Collective Well-Being?
Recognizing the emotional and physical toll of activism, Dr. Davis emphasizes the importance of collective care and healing. He advocates for communal approaches to self-care—rejecting individualism in favor of shared spaces for rest, reflection, and joy. Whether through family, community organizing, or physical activities like running, activists must prioritize well-being to sustain their long-term efforts.

Guest Name: Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III

Guest Social: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hfdavis/
www.campusabolition.org

Guest Bio: Dr. Charles H.F. Davis III is a third-generation educator, organizer, and artist committed to the lives, love, and liberation of everyday Black people. Named a 2020 Emerging Scholar by Diverse Issues in Higher Education and a 2021 NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellow, Dr. Davis  is currently an assistant professor in the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education at the University of Michigan. As director of the Campus Abolition Research Lab, Dr. Davis’ research broadly explores the racialized consequences of higher education on society. He has produced more than three dozen publications including research articles, books, and scholarly essays as well as several short and feature-length films.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

 On this week’s episode of Fanatical Fridays, Zach and Mickey reflect on the first three months of 2022 and answer the following questions:

1. What’s one thing you learned about yourself, your team, and marketing strategy in general in Q1 that you plan to replicate in Q2?
2. What’s a bad behavior you fell into in Q1 that you want to break in Q2?
3. What is something you changed your mind about in Q1?
4. What are you most excited about in Q2? 

Fanatical Fridays is brought to you by Enrollify.  Enrollify is where higher ed comes to learn new marketing skills, discover new software and services, network with the best minds and find their next gig.  

You can connect with Zach on LinkedIn or Twitter and Mickey on LinkedIn. 

Learn more about this episode in our show notes. 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special Thanksgiving-themed episode, hosts Mallory and Seth dive deep into the power of community, confidence, and meaningful decision-making. Reflecting on personal and professional growth, they discuss how high-stakes decisions can shape careers, why community support is integral to success, and how confidence evolves over time. Inspired by insights shared during an AMA fireside chat with Tony Proudfoot, this episode explores leadership, learning from mistakes, and the art of building relationships that fuel innovation and collaboration.‍

Key Takeaways

• Community is a Catalyst for Growth: Building and leaning into your network can provide both tactical advice and the emotional confidence needed to make bold decisions.
• Confidence is a Journey: True confidence evolves from admitting what you don’t know, asking questions, and embracing humility while leading with conviction.
• High-Stakes Decisions Shape Careers: Risk-taking often leads to growth, even when things don’t go as planned. Success often requires stepping into uncertainty with the support of others.
• Mistakes are Building Blocks: Failure, when met with a learning mindset, can strengthen decision-making skills and inspire innovation within teams.
• Root for Others: Supporting peers, colleagues, and friends fosters a culture of generosity and connection, helping everyone succeed.

What Role Does Community Play in Professional Growth? 
Mallory and Seth kick off the episode by sharing their Thanksgiving plans, seamlessly transitioning into a thoughtful discussion about the importance of community. Drawing inspiration from a fireside chat at AMA, Mallory reflects on how cultivating relationships fuels confidence, innovation, and effectiveness as a marketing leader. Seth underscores how leaning on his network gave him the assurance to take bold career risks, like founding Canahoma during a pivotal time in his life.

Building community isn’t just about networking—it's about creating spaces for support, candid feedback, and shared learning. This applies not only to professional growth but also to personal fulfillment. Whether through LinkedIn connections or face-to-face chats at conferences, Mallory and Seth emphasize the value of fostering authentic relationships in higher education marketing.

How Does Confidence Evolve Over Time? 
Confidence is often misunderstood as having all the answers, but Seth and Mallory argue that it’s much more nuanced. Early in their careers, they both equated confidence with projecting certainty. Over time, they’ve realized that true confidence stems from knowing what you don’t know, asking thoughtful questions, and being open to learning from others.

Seth shares how launching Canahoma required him to embrace uncertainty. He leaned heavily on his community to validate his vision and gain reassurance. Mallory reflects on how her confidence grew from navigating uncharted territory, such as advocating for Higher Ed Live’s acquisition, and learning to trust her instincts even when the path wasn’t clear.

What Can Leaders Learn from Their Mistakes? 
Mistakes are inevitable, but they’re also invaluable. Seth highlights a key lesson: if your team isn’t making mistakes, it likely means you’re not delegating enough responsibility or fostering an environment for innovation. By encouraging teams to take smart risks and fail fast, leaders can create a culture of growth and resilience.

Mallory shares a personal example of a career move where she didn’t believe in the product she was supporting. While it was a challenging chapter, the lessons she learned helped her clarify her priorities and build confidence in future decisions. Both hosts stress the importance of learning from failures, adapting, and using those experiences to lead with authenticity.‍

Why Is Rooting for Others So Powerful? 
Closing out the episode, Seth introduces the concept of the “root revolution”—the idea that rooting for others costs nothing but creates immeasurable value. By championing the successes of peers and colleagues, we can build stronger communities that uplift everyone. Mallory adds that giving more than you receive often attracts support and fosters long-term career connections.

As we head into Thanksgiving, Mallory and Seth express gratitude for the incredible higher education marketing community. They invite listeners to share their own stories of community-building on LinkedIn and reflect on how leaning into relationships has shaped their journeys.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

To text or not to text? That is the question. Actually, after some discussion, we decided that it’s not the first question you should be asking yourselves. 

Texting is another layer of your recruitment strategy and should be weaved into the fold, not seen as a tactic you need to utilize just because others are. Tune in and see how Shane and Mickey would first approach texting, what the tool must be able to do, and how it can be used to hyper-personalize a prospective student’s journey to enrollment. 

Fanatical Fridays is brought to you by Enrollify.  Enrollify is where higher ed comes to learn new marketing skills, discover new software and services, network with the best minds, and find their next gig.  

You can connect with Shane on LinkedIn or Twitter and Mickey on LinkedIn. 

This week’s episode is brought to you by Goodkind. 

About the  Enrollify Podcast Network

If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Tiers, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason, and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network  at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours!

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Jon-Stephen Stansel, founder of Saturn Nine Media, whose transformative social media strategies are reshaping higher education engagement. In this episode, Jon-Stephen discusses the immense potential of social listening, advocates for rethinking the role of social media managers, and shares actionable insights for empowering these professionals. His vision is setting a new standard for leveraging digital platforms in higher ed.

Check out the full episodes Jon-Stephen appeared on: 

• Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager - Episode 9
• Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO - Episode 55
• Mission Admissions - Episode 35

Key Takeaways

• Expand Social Listening Beyond Social Media: Social listening should inform institutional decisions, from curriculum design to event planning, not just content strategies.
• Elevate Social Media Management Roles: Social media managers should be experienced professionals, supported by entry-level staff, to reflect the critical responsibilities of the role.
• Support Social Media Teams: Leaders must trust and empower their social media professionals, especially during crisis communication.
• Foster Staff Advocacy: Encourage staff to share their expertise online and engage in professional communities to elevate both personal and institutional branding.

How Can Social Listening Drive Institutional Strategy? 
Jon-Stephen Stansel argues that social listening’s utility extends far beyond crafting social media posts—it should influence major institutional decisions. From adjusting event logistics like parking at commencement to refining messaging strategies, higher ed institutions can benefit immensely by analyzing audience feedback. Social listening provides real-time, data-driven insights that can guide decisions on curriculum updates, event planning, and even cafeteria offerings. By integrating these insights, institutions can better align their strategies with audience needs, fostering stronger connections and more effective operations.

Why Should Social Media Management Be a Senior Role? 
Social media managers often operate under immense scrutiny while managing the public face of their institutions. Despite this, these roles are often treated as entry-level positions. Jon-Stephen calls for a paradigm shift: these critical roles should be filled by experienced professionals who are supported by entry-level staff or assistants. This approach ensures nuanced decision-making, reduces burnout, and provides space for mentorship. Social media managers must have the authority and trust to represent the institution effectively, especially during crises, to build credibility and maintain public confidence.

How Can Leaders Better Support Social Media Teams? 
Jon-Stephen emphasizes the importance of leadership support for social media managers, particularly during high-pressure situations. Leaders should act as shields, ensuring their teams feel empowered to make decisions without fear of undue backlash. This trust fosters creativity and resilience within teams. Additionally, encouraging staff to share their expertise and engage with their professional communities can amplify the institution’s reputation. By investing in professional development and showcasing staff talent, institutions can cultivate stronger networks and attract top-tier talent.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Before every episode, Mickey and Shane discuss topics and agree on what they want to discuss during their time. This week, all hell breaks loose… 

The agreed-upon topic was turning students into influencers for your institution, but the conversation immediately diverted to reporting, the tools needed to truly report well, and what the action items are for schools looking to increase automation and data without spending thousands of additional hours. 

About the Enrollify Podcast Network

Fanatical Fridays is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network.  If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jeremy Tiers, Zach Busekrus, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jamie Gleason, and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

The Great Resignation has hit higher ed with full force. Once a month for the next few months, we’ll feature individuals who have left higher ed to work in a higher ed adjacent role (think a marketing agency, edtech company, or consultancy). 

In Chapter 3 we feature Natalie Surace — a marketing strategist at VisionPoint Marketing who recently left her job as a Digital Marketing and Communications Manager at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Connect with Natalie on LinkedIn

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Zach Busekrus, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours!

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In Part 5 of this Pulse Check series, Cody Nielsen interviews Dr. David Robinson-Morris to explore the post-2024 election challenges and opportunities for higher education in America. This compelling conversation delves into how education institutions can navigate political turbulence, reclaim imaginative spaces, and fight systemic oppression. Tune in to gain insights into reshaping higher education for a more equitable future.

Key Takeaways

• Imagination in Higher Education: Reclaiming creativity and curiosity is crucial for transcending oppressive systems and fostering meaningful transformation.
• Challenges of Corporatization: The corporatization of higher education has shifted priorities from holistic learning to workforce development, undermining its transformative potential.
• Preparing for Resistance: In the face of political shifts, educators and communities must embrace subversive strategies to uphold justice and inclusion.
• The Role of Higher Education in Democracy: Institutions must foster a shared reality, promote belonging, and educate individuals who can critically engage with societal challenges.

The Power and Loss of Imagination in Higher Education

Dr. David Robinson-Morris underscores the critical role imagination plays in education and society. He argues that oppressive systems, including corporatized higher education, often strip away creativity and curiosity, replacing them with rigid frameworks focused solely on outcomes like economic mobility. Reclaiming imagination, he asserts, is essential for empowering individuals and institutions to think beyond the status quo and enact meaningful change.

Robinson-Morris connects this erosion of imagination to the broader corporatization of higher education, tracing its origins to the 1960s and the rhetoric of economic pragmatism. He reflects on how the focus shifted from personal and intellectual growth to workforce development, leaving little room for transformative thinking. To counter this, higher education must re-embrace its role as a space for intellectual exploration and social imagination.

Navigating a Second Trump Presidency

The conversation pivots to the implications of the 2024 election and the onset of a second Trump administration. Robinson-Morris emphasizes the unique challenges posed by this presidency, where the absence of reelection constraints could lead to bold, unchecked policy reversals. For communities of color, he notes, survival and resistance have long been practiced arts, while urging progressive allies to prepare for a prolonged struggle.

A particular focus is placed on the role of higher education in countering harmful ideologies. Robinson-Morris calls for campuses to recommit to fostering shared realities, inclusion, and belonging. The ideological battle, he argues, begins in classrooms and is integral to shaping a generation that values collective progress over individual gain.

Resistance, Justice, and the Path Forward

Robinson-Morris provides practical advice for higher education professionals grappling with systemic oppression within their institutions. He advocates for resisting oppressive systems, even in subversive ways, and reminds educators of the risks and rewards of pushing against the tide. Importantly, he distinguishes between freedom and liberation, with liberation being the ultimate goal: a state of unburdened imagination and self-determination.

For higher education to truly transform, it must move beyond surface-level diversity initiatives and toward justice as liberation. This requires educators and institutions to confront their complicity in oppressive structures and make bold, collective efforts to dismantle them.

Guest Name: David Robinson Morris

Guest Social: www.linkedin.com/in/davidrm

Guest Bio: David W. Robinson-Morris, Ph.D. is an author, philosopher, social justice and human rights advocate-activist, educator, philanthropist, community organizer, DEI practitioner, non-profit leader, and higher education administrator. Dr. Robinson-Morris is the Founder & Chief Reimaginelutionary at The REImaginelution, LLC, a strategic consulting firm working at the intersections of imagination, policy, practice, and prophetic hope to radically reimagine diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) toward racial justice and systemic transformation by engendering freedom of the human spirit; and catalyzing the power of the imagination to reweave organizations, systems, and the world toward collective healing and liberation.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This is the second episode in a special 4-part series between Enrollify and Unibuddy.  Join Zach Busekrus, Founder of Enrollify, and Nina Bilimoria Angelo, CMO at Unibuddy, for an extended conversation around the insights garnered from Unibuddy’s latest higher education pulse reports.

Unibuddy surveyed over 1,200 prospective college students about their journey to college and close to 1,000 higher education administrators about how they plan to recruit these students. Access the reports, connect with Nina, and learn more about Unibuddy below.

The Next Generation of Student Recruitment (Higher Ed Admin’s Report)

The Gen Z Journey to College (Student Pulse Report)

Connect with Nina

Explore Unibuddy

About the Enrollify Podcast Network

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Zach Busekrus, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

May is just around the corner and it's time for admissions counselors to get hyper-focused on who is "in" and who is "out" for fall 2021.  On this week's episode of Fanatical Fridays, Zach and Mickey riff on enrollment marketing strategies and tactics that will help admissions teams discern which applicants are worth continuing to market to (and which ones aren't!). 

Check out our show notes for more episode details and to learn about our sponsors.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this week’s episode of The Enrollify Podcast, we feature the first episode in Enrollify’s mini series on “My Career in Higher Education.” Janice Cheng-McConnell is the Assistant Director of Graduate Enrollment Communications at Syracuse University. 

Janice started working in higher ed as a fry cook in the dining hall of her alma mater, Binghamton University. Since then, she has worked at state schools, community colleges, and larger private schools, and as such, has a diverse perspective on how different admissions and marketing teams function.  

In this conversation, Janice reflects on the most important advice she received from mentors along her professional journey, what makes a great leader, and what higher ed needs to “figure out” if it wants to reduce employee turnover.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Did you know? SecondLook by Enrollify is moving shows in just a few weeks! To continue streaming the show and get updates when new episodes are published, please subscribe to SecondLook's new channels wherever you get your podcasts:

• SecondLook on Spotify
• SecondLook on Apple Podcasts
• SecondLook on Google Podcasts (coming soon!)

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

How to Communicate Appropriately with Students During COVID-19: A 5 Step Guide for College

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Over the last 18 months, Zach has been fortunate enough to interview more than 100 leaders in enrollment marketing on The Enrollify Podcast.

From VPs of Enrollment Management to Directors of Marketing, from college presidents to famous SEOs, and from CEOs of EdTech companies to brand experts at education marketing agencies.

And each bit of insight, inspiration, and education garnered from the guests we've had on the show, has augmented, in some way, his approach to marketing.

On this week's episode, Zach shares 10 lessons learned and takeaways taken after 100 conversations with some of the best in higher ed. The lessons are as follows:

1. Stop Asking Broad Questions and Expecting Meaningful Insight

2. Copywriting is the Most Accessible, Affordable, and Underrated of Marketing Tactics

3. Imitate First, Differentiate Second

4. Measure Twice, Cut Once

5. The Future of Brand is Casual

6. "How to" Content Still Really Freakin' Works

7. Marketing Attribution is Still Subjective—And That's Not Necessarily a Bad Thing

8. 80% of Your Content Can Be Good if 20% of Your Content is Great

9. Insert Yourself Into the Conversation

10. Higher Ed Marketers are More Progressive Than You Think

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this week’s episode of The Enrollify Podcast, Zach sits down with Gerald Stanley, CEO of Inroads Analytics to discuss how predictive analytics helps higher ed marketers and admissions professionals make smarter decisions on how to spend their time, energy, and money. 

Most enrollment marketers are at least somewhat familiar with predictive analytics as it relates to deciding which names to buy for a student search campaign, but there is so much more to predictive. Discover how schools are using predictive analytics through the academic year to empower their marketing and admissions teams with the daily insight they need to increase quality inquiries, applications, and enrolled students. 

To learn more about the work Gerald and his team are doing at Inroads, you can visit their website here or connect with Gerald on LinkedIn.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

The Great Resignation has hit higher ed with full force. Once a month for the next few months, we’ll feature individuals who have left higher ed to work in a higher ed adjacent role (think a marketing agency, edtech company, or consultancy). 

In Chapter 1 we feature Carrie Barnett  — a content marketer at SimpsonScarborough who recently left her job at California Lutheran University as the Director of Advancement Marketing and Digital Philanthropy. 

Connect with Carrie on Twitter

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Zach Busekrus, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about

 The Enrollify Podcast Network

 at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours!

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Higher ed marketers, like all marketers, are in the market for attention. And yet interestingly enough, there is often a huge chasm between where schools spend their media budgets and where current high school students spend their time. 

On the pilot episode of Signals, Matt Diteljan, Co-Founder and CEO of Glacier, and our own Zach Busekrus from Enrollify, sit down for an educational conversation about where high school students actually spend their time online.

The duo offer creative ideas for how to build content programs and advertising strategies that resonate with next generations of students. Stream the episode for thoughtful commentary on how to adapt and improve your school’s student recruitment strategies to compel Gen Z to enroll at your college or university.

Learn more about this episode in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Hosts Mallory and Seth tackle the critical and complex challenges facing faith-based institutions, particularly Christian colleges. With a special focus on the startling rate of institutional closures, the discussion dives into the shifting landscapes of enrollment, market demands, and religious affiliation.

Key Takeaways:

• Enrollment Trends: Christian colleges are facing a notable decline in enrollment and school closures that have spiked post-pandemic.
• Market Dynamics: Shifts in market demand away from liberal arts to more career-oriented outcomes and increased price sensitivity are notably affecting faith-based institutions.
• Cultural Shifts: A national move away from religious affiliation is putting additional pressure on faith-based schools.
• Regional Influences: Geographic location plays a significant role, with institutions in the Bible Belt experiencing sustained interest compared to those in the Northeast facing severe declines.
• Strategic Responses: Successful strategies for growth include diversifying academic offerings, clarifying brand differentiation beyond just being a Christian institution, and innovative tuition models.

Related Links:

https://universitybusiness.com/after-exhausting-all-avenues-to-avoid-going-under-notre-dame-college-closes
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-02-21/notre-dame-s-tiny-namesake-shows-plight-of-religious-colleges?embedded-checkout=true
https://www.highereddive.com/news/are-faith-based-colleges-in-trouble-it-depends/690597/

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This special segment is the second part of our Enrollment Marketing Benchmarks Series brought to you by our sister company, DD Agency, an enrollment marketing services agency that specializes in SEO, content marketing, and all things HubSpot. You can stream part one, the State of Event Marketing in Graduate Enrollment Management here.

To access the full benchmarks report, visit www.BeatTheBenchmarks.com!

More about benchmark data and the 2021 Enrollment Marketing Benchmarks Report:

• The research conducted for this report spanned a period of 12 months looking at hundreds of marketing campaigns that involved thousands of content pieces and prospect actions.
• The vast majority of marketing tactics and channels were targeted to prospective graduate students roughly 18-50 years of age, across an extremely wide variety of demographics, psychographics, industries, professions, and education levels. The following statistics allow you to understand the breadth and depth of data we scoured that is the backbone of this report.
• The way schools used to rely on physical, in-person recruitment events has dramatically changed over the past few years, but has been especially impacted since the start of the pandemic.
• Grad school fairs are no longer the mass-recruitment lead sources they once were, and schools have moved to hosting their own information sessions and open houses.
• The biggest change in the last year is the predominance of virtual events as a result of the pandemic, which means we now have more data on virtual admissions-related events than ever before to analyze and identify the new benchmarks.
• Before the pandemic, virtual events typically achieved 25-40% attendance rates out of registrants, but as you will see in the report, more students are signing up and attending recruitment events than ever before.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

NAGAP 2022 was hosted in Chicago in mid-April. While attending, first time NAGAPer Jamie Gleason, Vice President of Enrollment Strategy at DD Agency, and veteran GEM pro Jack Klett, Manager of Academic Partnerships at ETS, sat down, with microphones in hand, to talk about what’s big in the GEM world as evidenced through the conference.  

From in-person community to enrollment/marketing technology [and even a little Tom Brady], Jack and Jamie discuss key takeaways from the 2022 GEM summit!  There’s something for every enrollment professional in this 30 minute episode.

The Enrollify Podcast is brought to you by Enrollify.  Enrollify is where higher ed comes to learn new marketing skills, discover new software and services, network with the best minds and find their next gig.  Join our community of 4,000+ higher ed marketers and admissions professionals at www.enrollify.org. 

Learn more about this episode in our show notes. 

.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Budgets for next year are anything but certain. With that in mind, how can enrollment marketers show the ROI of content marketing? How should new marketing channels be tested and evaluated without wasting budget? And what advice should marketers heed while re-evaluating 2020 and 2021 marketing strategies? Find on this week's edition of SecondLook by Enrollify.

Did you know? SecondLook by Enrollify is moving shows in just a few weeks! To continue streaming the show and get updates when new episodes are published, please subscribe to SecondLook's new channels wherever you get your podcasts:

• SecondLook on Spotify
• SecondLook on Apple Podcasts
• SecondLook on Google Podcasts

Show Links: 

• Social Code's COVID-19 Trends Report: What Re-Entry Looks Like and How Marketers Should Adapt

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In Part 4 of this Pulse Check on Acquisitions and Mergers in Higher Education, guest host Kin Sejpal is joined by President Ian Mortimer as he delves into important considerations for exploring M&A strategies and innovative, alternative pathways for success. In this episode you will learn about:

• Reasons why certain mergers don’t pan out 
• The tradeoff of balancing rational and emotional facets of mergers.
• Options such as leveraging shared resources to navigate merger complexities.
• The need to explore alternative and innovative educational models. 

Guest Name: Dr. Ian Mortimer

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mortimerian/

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

On this week’s episode of Fanatical Fridays, Zach and Mickey pontificate about what the future of prospect engagement and the admissions team will look like at colleges and universities across the country.  The duo discusses the power of two way engagement and what it means for how enrollment teams operate both strategically and functionally.

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Mallory sits down with Rebecca Stapley, Director of Marketing and Communications at RIT’s College of Health Sciences and Technology and the School of Individualized Study. They chat live from the American Marketing Association (AMA) conference in Las Vegas, discussing Rebecca’s transition to college-specific marketing, her insights from the event, and her creative strategies for aligning institutional and college-level branding. From mastering brand photo shoots to leveraging artificial intelligence, Rebecca offers invaluable advice for higher education marketers.

Key Takeaways

• Brand cohesion: Use overarching institutional branding as a foundation for college-specific storytelling.
• Brand photo shoot preparation: Prioritize pre-shoot organization with mood boards (swipes) and creative briefs to optimize results.
• AI in higher education marketing: Leverage AI as a creative assistant to overcome writer’s block, brainstorm, and enhance efficiency.
• Community collaboration: Building connections with faculty, staff, and students strengthens messaging and insights.

What is it like to attend AMA for the first time? 
Rebecca shares her experience attending her first AMA conference, noting the lively and supportive atmosphere. She emphasizes how the higher education community fosters unique connections, which made her experience even more meaningful.

What are the top takeaways from AMA 2023? 
Rebecca highlights the session on “Mastering the Art of the Brand Shoot” as a standout. She explains how to organize successful brand shoots, from using student actors to creating mood boards that capture the intended aesthetic. She plans to integrate these strategies into her own team’s creative processes.

How does institutional branding intersect with college-level identity? 
Rebecca explains the challenge of balancing RIT’s overarching brand identity with the specific needs of her college. Her approach involves crafting messaging guides that answer two key questions: Why this field of study? and Why RIT? She distills these insights into concise, compelling elevator pitches while maintaining alignment with the university’s core values and brand strengths.

How can higher education marketers think about brand identity creatively? 
Using a Ted Lasso-inspired analogy, Rebecca compares institutional branding to a cohesive soccer team. She illustrates how individual colleges can maintain unique personalities (e.g., Roy Kent’s seriousness or Sam Obisanya’s compassion) while contributing to the university’s larger goals. This perspective makes brand identity more relatable and actionable for marketing teams.

What is the role of AI in higher education marketing? 
Rebecca embraces AI as a creative and strategic tool, using it to streamline brainstorming and overcome creative blocks. While RIT is still formalizing AI policies, Rebecca appreciates the flexibility to experiment and share insights with her team. She views AI as a dynamic resource that reduces operational burdens, allowing marketers to focus on strategy and creativity.

How can institutions support AI adoption? 
RIT is working through the process of establishing AI guidelines while encouraging exploration. Rebecca stresses the importance of creating adaptable policies, given the constantly evolving nature of AI technology.

What advice does Rebecca have for marketers? 
Rebecca advises leaning into your community—faculty, staff, and students—as a source of strength and insight. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and shared purpose in building effective marketing strategies.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Welcome to our latest Pulse Check - Personalizing Prospective Student Journeys, hosted by Mallory Willsea

In Part 3 of this series, Setting Students Up for Success, Dustin Ramsdell, Community Engagement Lead at Pathify, joins Mallory Willsea to discuss strategies for setting students up for success after they have committed to enroll. They delve into the responsibilities of institutions in preparing students, the significance of effective orientation programs, and the use of digital platforms to streamline the post-admission process. The conversation highlights the importance of personalized, high-tech support to ensure a seamless transition for students, especially those from first-generation backgrounds.

Key Takeaways:

• Importance of orientation and post-admission support for new students.
• Role of digital platforms in simplifying post-enrollment procedures.
• Strategies for engaging and preparing students for their college journey.
• Emphasizing the need for personalized support for first-generation students.
• Discussion on the role of institutions in breaking down silos to foster better student experiences.

This Pulse Check miniseries has been brought to you by Pathify. Gone are the days of clunky interfaces, disjointed systems, and massive (unhelpful) link farms. Centralize all your systems with Pathify so that students see the information that matters to them in a digital experience that actually makes sense. From prospective students through alumni, it’s about time the student experience started looking and acting like a consumer app from this century. Visit Pathify.com for more. 

Connect with Dustin Ramsdell - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Welcome to The Higher Ed Marketer’s Guide to ChatGPT and Generative AI — a special 4-part podcast series brought to you by Enrollify and Element451 and hosted by Ardis Kadiu, Founder and CEO of Element451 and yours truly, Zach Busekrus from Enrollify. 

Over the next four weeks, we’re taking a deep dive into the past, present, and future of the role that Artificial Intelligence plays in higher education marketing and student recruitment. 

In Episode 3, Ardis and Zach are joined by JC Bonilla, Element451 Board Member and the Chief Data Officer at Vayner Media, for a conversation on: 

• How we got to ChatGPT — a brief history of AI
• How the leading advertising agencies are leveraging ChatGPT and AI to redefine personalized communications 
• What higher ed marketers can do today to increase output efficiency thanks to AI
• And much more! 

Learn more about Element451 here.

Register for the Engage Summit here.   

Stream Episodes 1 and 2 of The Higher Ed Marketer’s Guide to ChatGPT and Generative AI series here.

About the Enrollify Podcast Network 

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like otherEnrollifyshows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. 

Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Corynn Myers, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more aboutThe Enrollify Podcast Networkat podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

One of the most effective ways to increase applications is to get prospective students onto campus. On average, graduate schools find that 50% of prospects that attend an on-campus recruitment event wind-up applying to one of their programs! But how do you plan an effective recruitment event? What promotions should you run leading up to the event? And how do you ensure a positive, educational experience for prospects at the event? On today’s episode, Ashton Brown, the Assistant Director of Admissions at Texas Woman’s University, shares tips and tricks for planning and running a successful graduate student recruitment event.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

About the Interviewee: 

Amy Glynn is CampusLogic's VP of Student Financial Success. She serves as a higher education advocate focused on eliminating the financial barriers that delay and derail college enrollment and completion. Amy is focused on helping colleges and universities deliver student financial success through automation, advising and analytics. Dedicated to improving staff efficiency and the student experience, Amy has spent her entire career optimizing the financial aid process while ensuring institutions maintain compliance with Federal Title IV regulations. A nationally renowned and sought-after speaker, Amy champions ideas that can help turn the tide for millions of students who drop out of higher education every year for reasons related to finances. Amy holds a BA in English Secondary Education from the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY and a Master of Science in Higher Education from Walden University.

About our Partner: Meet Squiz — a Student Experience Platform that offers a full suite of solutions developed exclusively for higher education. 

Squiz has so many exceptional products that are worth checking out, but the two I have been most impressed by are their custom site search product, Funnelback, and their Website platform, which is a true DXP — don’t worry, I’ll explain what this means momentarily. 

For the next wave of digital natives, search is not ancillary to navigation, it IS navigation. And Funnelback enables schools like yours to build custom, smart site search — so that your nursing program page actually comes up when someone searches “nursing” instead of that one nursing faculty event registration page from two years ago…

And their DXP?  It’s so much more than a traditional Website CMS. A CMS is meant for exactly what it claims to be: content management. It's an important part of your martech stack and an important part of the student lifecycle. But that's just it: a part. 

A DXP (Digital Experience Platform) is built to be the hub of your martech stack. It relies on powerful integrations, data management, and an OPEN platform in order to create the kind of experiences simply not possible with just a CMS. (Or at least, impossible without a giant IT web team to support all of the APIs and constant upkeep.) 

Say goodbye to the finicky plug-ins of WordPress and the crappy site architecture of Drupal that hurts your SEO, and get ready to meet the fastest, most powerful, and personalized website platform for colleges and universities on the market.

Today, the student experience begins online, not at school. And as an enrollment marketer, your job is to ensure that prospective students find what they are looking for as quickly as possible…

 Squiz is the secret friction-reducer that schools across the globe are using to not just attract the next generation of students, but nurture them to the point of enrollment in a way that is conducive — not counter to — how they consume information and make purchasing decisions.

Resources mentioned during the interview:

CampusLogic

Student Financial Success

Shift Summit

Amy Glynn

Twitter:  AmyGlynn15

Medium:  https://amyglynn.medium.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-glynn/

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Bart Caylor. The president of Caylor Solutions and host of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast, Bart is renowned for his forward-thinking approach to AI in higher education. This episode compiles highlights from Bart's appearances on various Enrollify network shows, showcasing his perspectives on AI literacy, overcoming resistance to innovation, and leveraging AI tools to revolutionize higher education. Dive into the transformative insights shaping the future of enrollment marketing and leadership in higher ed.

Check out the full episodes Bart appeared on: 
AI For U - Episode 2 
Mission Admissions - Episode 33 
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO - Episode 50

Key Takeaways

• AI Resistance and Adoption: Resistance to AI often stems from fear, misconceptions, and change fatigue. Education and AI literacy are crucial for overcoming these barriers.
• Transformative Potential of AI: AI is poised to revolutionize higher education more profoundly than any previous technological advancement, reshaping marketing, operations, and student engagement.
• Practical AI Strategies: Tools like ChatGPT can significantly enhance productivity, helping higher ed professionals achieve more in less time by mastering prompt engineering.
• Leadership in AI Era: With AI driving rapid changes, higher ed leaders must embrace innovation to navigate the enrollment cliff and emerging trends effectively.

What Are the Biggest Challenges in AI Adoption in Higher Education? 
Bart Caylor identifies two primary challenges in AI adoption: fear and underutilization. Resistance often stems from fear of the unknown or ethical concerns, with many professionals skeptical about adopting new tools. Others fail to realize AI's full potential, using it only for simple tasks like rewriting emails.

Bart emphasizes that these challenges can be overcome through AI literacy and hands-on education. By demystifying AI and showcasing its capabilities, professionals can shift from skepticism to informed adoption. For instance, understanding that AI is a learning tool, not just a content scraper, fosters trust and opens the door to meaningful integration.

How Can AI Reshape Higher Education? 
Bart predicts that AI will have a more significant impact on higher education than the personal computer, internet, and social media combined. From enhancing marketing strategies to improving operational efficiency, AI tools like ChatGPT allow institutions to tackle problems quickly and effectively.

For example, AI-driven assistants could soon be integrated into platforms like Siri, enabling natural, conversational interactions. As institutions leverage these advancements, they’ll be able to streamline processes, improve student engagement, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.

What Role Will Leadership Play in AI-Driven Transformation? 
The accelerating pace of AI adoption and the looming enrollment cliff demand adaptive leadership. Bart warns of potential leadership fatigue, as senior leaders may retire rather than manage the rapid changes AI brings. This creates opportunities for younger, tech-savvy professionals to step into leadership roles.

To succeed, future leaders must embrace AI literacy and understand how to use tools like ChatGPT to make data-driven decisions. By leveraging AI for strategic initiatives, institutions can overcome challenges and position themselves for long-term success.

How Can Higher Ed Professionals Start Using AI Effectively? 
Bart recommends starting small to build confidence with AI. For instance, using ChatGPT to create a simple meal plan introduces users to prompt engineering and the tool’s capabilities. This approach helps professionals understand how to frame questions and maximize AI's utility.

He also highlights that AI isn’t just a time-saver—it enables professionals to accomplish more within the same time frame. By integrating AI into daily workflows, higher ed marketers and administrators can focus on high-impact tasks without extending their work hours.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

This is the fourth and final episode in a special 4-part series between Enrollify and Unibuddy.  Join Zach Busekrus, Founder of Enrollify, and Nina Bilimoria Angelo, CMO at Unibuddy, for an extended conversation around the insights garnered from Unibuddy’s latest higher education pulse reports.

Unibuddy surveyed over 1,200 prospective college students about their journey to college and close to 1,000 higher education administrators about how they plan to recruit these students. Access the reports, connect with Nina, and learn more about Unibuddy below.

In this episode, Zach and Nina are also joined by Lauren Black the Director of Recruitment, Communications and Events at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. You can connect with Lauren on LinkedIn here. 

The Next Generation of Student Recruitment (Higher Ed Admin’s Report)

The Gen Z Journey to College (Student Pulse Report)

Connect with Nina

Explore Unibuddy

About the Enrollify Podcast Network

The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Zach Busekrus, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

During one of the most tumultuous seasons in the life of higher education, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) cut their campus tuition in half — and claimed that students could still get the same high-quality education and campus experience, at a radically more affordable price. 

On this week’s episode, we talk with Tim Whittum, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management at SNHU, about the radical ways in which the university is rethinking the modality and flexibility of higher education and what this means for the future of student recruitment. 

Tim and Zach posit that schools will need to get much more creative and specific about their value offering in order to stay relevant and competitive. The two also riff on ideas around  how schools with predominantly online course offerings may get innovative and launch pseudo-campus environments...perhaps something like a “co-learning” space that is somewhat akin to a “co-working” space?

You won’t want to miss this riveting episode which is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Roadshow series!

Learn more about this episode and about our sponsors in our show notes.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In episode 5 of Attention Retention, Clayton, Angie, and Zach brainstorm ideas for marketing automation strategies and tactics that help empower enrollment marketers to create personalized experiences for the prospects that matter most.

The trio walks through some examples of how schools are leveraging marketing automation in “beginner”, “intermediate”, and more “advanced” ways, and explores when schools should (and shouldn’t) be leveraging marketing automation.

About The Series

Attention Retention is a special podcast series on how to attract, enroll, retain, and empower the modern learner – brought to you in partnership with our friends at Archer Education. 

Over the course of this series, we will cover higher ed’s product problem (and how to fix it), the challenges with major and program relevance in today’s dynamic market, how to successfully attract, enroll, and retain adult learners, how to compete in a market when your school doesn’t have a national brand, and much more.

This series is co-hosted with Angie Mohr, the Senior Vice President of Student Engagement and Clayton Dean, Senior Vice President of Agency & Partnership Management at Archer, and Zach Busekrus, from Enrollify. 

Getting attention is hard enough, so once you have it, you’ve got to do everything you can to harness it. And that’s what our friends at Archer Education help schools do so dang well. 

While you’ll get a taste of some of their ideas on how to optimize marketing and recruitment strategies over the course of this series, in order to really learn more about how Archer revolutionizes the student experience through marketing, enrollment, and retention services for colleges and universities, you’ll want to check out the content hub they built exclusively for Enrollify subscribers which you can find at archeredu.com/enrollify.

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In episode one of The Modern Student, Enrollify Founder Zach Busekrus and Jeff Dillon of Squiz, discuss the modern college student and how their relationship with technology is shaping the future of higher education. 

The modern student has always had technology as a part of their lives, and their education should be no exception. They come from a world of on-demand services, instant information and social media. Personalization in the user experience is something that is just expected from them at this point. 

This episode explores how institutions are currently, or should be, utilizing technology to better serve (and market to) the modern student. 

About the Series

The Modern Student is a special podcast series in collaboration with Squiz, exploring how technology is revolutionizing higher ed and engaging students. 

Squiz is a technology company that is revolutionizing the way higher ed builds digital experiences for its constituents. 

The Modern Student is hosted by Enrollify Founder, Zach Busekrus and Jeff Dillon, a senior consultant at Squiz. This series will explore: 

1. How the Modern Student is Shaping the Future of Education
2. How to Find and Engage New Student Populations
3. Why Marketing and IT in Higher Ed Need Eachother to Thrive
4. The Future of Tech in Higher Ed 

You can learn more about the incredible work Squiz is doing and explore their client case studies at Squiz.net or connect with Jeff directly via LinkedIn.

About the Enrollify Podcast Network

The Modern Student is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Jeremy Teirs, Jaime Hunt, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours! 

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this episode of The Pulse, Mallory and Seth dive into the controversial topic of cutting degree programs to address budget shortfalls and declining enrollments. They explore the recent example of St. Cloud State University, which is planning to cut 46 degree programs and reduce faculty by 13%. Seth offers a contrarian view, suggesting that strategic program cuts can actually drive growth by reallocating resources to high-demand areas. They discuss the importance of aligning educational offerings with market and employer demands, and emphasize the crucial role marketers can play in these decisions.

Key Takeaways:

• Cutting programs can drive growth by reallocating resources to higher-demand areas.
• Aligning educational offerings with employer and market demands is crucial for financial health.
• Marketers should earn a seat at the table in academic restructuring conversations.
• Using tools like paid search data and market demand analysis can inform strategic decisions.
• Scenario planning and presenting data-backed recommendations are essential for making impactful decisions.
• Understanding regional and national demand trends helps in making informed program cuts and investments.

Related Articles:
https://www.highereddive.com/news/st-cloud-state-cut-majors-programs-larry-lee/715583/
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/business/cost-cutting/2024/02/20/another-wave-campus-cuts-hits-midwest-especially-hard
https://www.statenews.org/news/2024-02-21/ohio-universities-keep-cutting-programs-whats-the-deal

- - - -

Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! 
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register