After Further Consideration

In this compelling episode of After Further Consideration, hosts Dr. Tomika Ferguson and Dr. Cody Nielsen engage in a rich dialogue with Dr. David Johnson, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at Indiana University Bloomington. This conversation explores the pivotal moments that have defined Dr. Johnson's career, his approach to leadership, and his commitment to fostering equity and student success in higher education. Dr. Johnson also shares his insights into strategic decision-making, navigating change, and championing justice within enrollment management.
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Key Takeaways

• Leadership Development Through Reflection: Dr. Johnson emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and adaptability, sharing his experiences of turning hard feedback into professional growth.
• Equity-Centered Decision-Making: A justice-oriented approach to enrollment management is crucial to addressing systemic inequities and supporting student success.
• Strategic Enrollment Innovations: Dr. Johnson highlights the significance of programs like the IU Bound initiative, which uses data-driven strategies to improve access and success for low-income students.
• Navigating Change in Enrollment Management: Flexibility and collaboration are key when transitioning programs, like moving first-year experience initiatives to student life, to better serve students.
• The Role of Self-Care in Leadership: Effective leadership in higher education requires prioritizing mental and physical well-being to sustain the energy and focus needed for impactful decision-making.

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Episode Summary
From South Georgia to Higher Education Leadership
Dr. David Johnson's leadership journey began on a red clay road in South Georgia, where the mantra of "keep pedaling forward" became a lifelong philosophy. His career in higher education has been marked by reflection and resilience, with a focus on advancing student success. Starting as a political science major, he found his passion for higher education through a combination of academic study and hands-on experience in student affairs. This foundation set the stage for his impactful work at Indiana University Bloomington, where he leads with an equity-focused lens.
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Turning Points in Enrollment Management
Dr. Johnson shares two pivotal moments that shaped his career. The first, early in his tenure at the University of Alabama, involved candid feedback from a supervisor. Rather than retreating, Dr. Johnson reflected, recalibrated, and ultimately thrived in his role. The second story highlights a recent strategic decision to transition first-year experience programs to the student life department. By prioritizing student belonging and mental health, this change exemplifies his commitment to equity and adaptability in leadership.
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Equity and Student Success
At the heart of Dr. Johnson's work is a commitment to justice and equity. He believes in "holding space" for diverse perspectives and tailoring support to meet individual needs. This philosophy drives initiatives like the IU Bound program, a $500,000 grant-funded effort to enhance college readiness, affordability, and success for low-income students. By addressing barriers from the eighth grade through college graduation, this program exemplifies Indiana University's dedication to creating equitable opportunities.
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Leading Through Change
Dr. Johnson emphasizes the importance of flexibility in leadership. In the ever-evolving field of enrollment management, holding onto outdated practices can hinder progress. His focus on change management ensures that teams remain adaptable and aligned with institutional goals. This approach not only prepares campuses to support incoming students but also creates opportunities for innovation in recruitment and retention strategies.
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Balancing Work and Well-Being
Effective leadership requires intentional self-care. Dr. Johnson shares his strategies for staying centered, from practicing yoga to pursuing physical challenges like half marathons. These practices enable him to maintain the energy and focus necessary for the complex work of enrollment management.
As Dr. Johnson aptly puts it, the key to success in higher education leadership is to "keep pedaling forward." Whether navigating change, addressing systemic inequities, or innovating to support students, his story is a testament to the transformative power of reflection, collaboration, and equity-focused decision-making.

Guest Name: David Johnson, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management, Indiana University

Guest Social: linkedin.com/in/david-b-johnson-31030240

Guest Bio: David B. Johnson became Vice Provost for Enrollment Management in January 2011, following roles as Interim Vice Provost and Associate Vice Provost since 2010 and 2007, respectively. Over the past decade, his achievements include streamlining admissions, expanding affordability efforts, establishing a one-stop student services center, opening an Admissions Welcome Center, and partnering with the American Talent Initiative to increase access for underserved students. He also introduced pre-registration for new students, launched a first-year engagement certificate, led the transition to test-optional admissions, and helped enroll increasingly diverse and academically strong classes each year.

In response to evolving recruitment and retention needs, David leads a dynamic team in exploring new recruitment technologies and initiatives to improve college access, including need-based financial aid. He actively contributes to national discussions on admissions, presenting at conferences, serving on advisory committees, and publishing on topics like recruitment, data-driven decisions, and access to higher education.

Before joining Indiana University, David held leadership roles in enrollment and admissions at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. He holds a Bachelor’s in political science from Troy University, a Master’s in Public Administration from Auburn University, and a Doctorate in Education with a focus on higher education administration from the University of Alabama.

In this episode, Cody and Tomika explore the intersections of leadership, DEI, and self-care the day after the 2024 election, reflecting on what today’s political climate reveals about our society and our approach to diversity and inclusion. Together, they dive into how leaders in higher education can navigate complex, often polarized spaces to foster lasting equity and community engagement. Cody and Tomika share personal experiences and outline the need for leaders to be grounded, adaptable, and focused on the humanity behind their work.

Key Takeaways:

• Hope as Fuel: In the face of societal challenges, sustaining hope is crucial to staying committed to DEI work and fostering inclusive communities.
• Revisiting DEI Work: Tomika and Cody challenge listeners to go beyond acronyms like DEI, emphasizing a deeper connection to the actual issues and lived experiences within equity, accessibility, and justice.
• Nuanced Leadership: Effective leadership means embracing complexity, recognizing diverse perspectives, and balancing long-term goals with relational and community-focused actions.
• Leadership as Community: Real change in higher ed relies on building genuine, inclusive communities that allow for disagreement, growth, and the presence of all voices, even those that differ from our own.
• Self-Care as a Leadership Tool: Cody and Tomika stress the importance of leaders caring for their own well-being, as this directly influences resilience and the capacity to support others.
• Embodying Ubuntu in Leadership: Tomika calls for a communal approach to leadership, grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu—"I am because we are"—to ensure equity work is shared and sustainable.

• Leadership isn't just about holding a title—it's about leveraging privilege to advocate for systemic changes.
• Navigating the emotional and professional complexities of working in student affairs and academic administration can shape one's leadership philosophy.
• Tenured faculty have to speak out on institutional failures, particularly in times of crisis.
• Equity in higher education requires reshaping the systems, not just "throwing life jackets" to individuals.

In this episode, Dr. Kris Renn shares her extensive journey in higher education, discussing her roles in student affairs and academic affairs. She reflects on pivotal leadership moments, including a significant student protest, and the challenges of navigating crises in leadership. Dr. Renn discusses the importance of tenure as both a privilege and a duty, reflecting on her role in addressing crises, including leadership turnover and governance issues. She offers insights on balancing equity and shared governance and highlights the importance of preparing the next generation of higher education leaders with intentionality.

Guest Name: Kris Renn 

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-renn-062b4116/

Guest Bio: Dr. Kristen Renn is a Professor of Higher, Adult, & Lifelong Education (HALE) and Mildred B. Erickson Distinguished Chair emerita at Michigan State University. She teaches courses on student development, diversity, and education research in the Student Affairs Administration MA and HALE MA/PhD programs. From 2013 to 2024, she served as Associate Dean and Senior Advisor to the Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education. Dr. Renn’s research focuses on student success, identity development, mixed-race students, women’s higher education globally, and LGBTQ issues. Supported by grants from the Spencer Foundation and others, she has led initiatives to increase success for low-income and underrepresented students. A past president of the Association for the Study of Higher Education, she has served as Associate Editor for the Journal of College Student Development and received multiple awards, including MSU’s William J. Beal Outstanding Faculty Award in 2024.

In this episode of After Further Consideration, Dr. Gaëtane Jean-Marie, Dean of the College of Education at Rowan University, joins Tomika Ferguson and Cody Nielsen for a dynamic conversation on leadership, mentorship, and the power of intentional relationship-building. From starting as a faculty member to becoming a dean, Dr. Jean-Marie shares insights on how navigating race, gender, and leadership has shaped her approach to equity and inclusion. She also reflects on how mentoring future leaders has allowed her to lead with fairness and integrity. Dr. Jean-Marie reflects on her journey from faculty to administration and shares actionable strategies for leading with equity, creating space for collaboration, and pacing institutional change. She offers valuable insights on how leaders can avoid isolation and maintain a sense of purpose by focusing on what truly matters—supporting others and fostering inclusion.

Guest Name: Gaëtane Jean-Marie

Guest Social: linkedin.com/in/gaëtane-jean-marie-6974b59

Guest Bio: Dr. Gaëtane Jean-Marie is Dean of the College of Education and Professor of Educational Leadership at Rowan University. Previously, she served as Dean at the University of Northern Iowa and held leadership roles at the University of Louisville. Her research centers on educational equity, social justice in P-12 schools, and leadership development. Dr. Jean-Marie has authored over 90 publications and secured over $5.9 million in grants. She serves as editor of the Studies in Educational Administration Series and holds numerous advisory board positions, including chair of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate.
Recognized for her research and leadership, she received the 2024 Woman of Achievement Award from Scouting America – Garden State Council and other prestigious honors. Since joining Rowan University in 2019, she has led efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion while preparing future educators to meet the challenges of modern education. Energetic and dedicated, Dr. Jean-Marie excels as a leader, mentor, and educator

In this insightful episode, Sarita Brown, co-founder of Excelencia in Education, shares the inspiring journey behind the organization's mission to accelerate Latino student success in higher education. Through data analysis, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships, Sarita explains how Excelencia has made a profound impact on the landscape of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and Latino student outcomes. She also discusses the importance of asset-based approaches to education and how leadership, grit, and commitment can turn challenges into opportunities for lasting change.

• Excelencia in Education's Mission is to accelerate Latino student success through data-driven strategies and partnerships with HSIs across the U.S.
• The importance of grounding educational initiatives in policy and facts to drive real, measurable change.
• Excelencia applies an equity lens in decision-making, ensuring that institutions are held accountable for supporting all students.
• Sarita’s belief in education as a means to create a better future, not just for Latino students but for all students.
• The Seal of Excelencia is a certification program recognizing colleges and universities committed to intentionally serving Latino students and improving outcomes..

Guest Name: Sarita Brown

Guest Social: linkedin.com/in/sarita-brown

In this debut episode of After Further Consideration, hosts Tomika Ferguson and Cody Nielsen sit down with Dr. Charlie Nelms, a transformative leader in higher education. With over 55 years of experience, Dr. Nelms shares the wisdom he's gained from his journey—from his roots in the Arkansas Delta to serving as a chancellor three times. This conversation dives deep into the importance of mentorship, the power of staying true to your convictions, and the crucial role of understanding your "why" in leadership. Dr. Nelms' stories are a testament to the impact of authentic leadership and the lifelong commitment to paying it forward.  The conversation delves into the critical intersection of equity, excellence, and impact, offering actionable insights for leaders at all stages of their careers.

• The Power of Knowing Your Why: Understanding your core motivations (your "why") is essential for navigating leadership challenges, especially during crises.
• Navigating Emotional Challenges: Leaders must separate fact from emotion while maintaining their convictions, especially when issues are rooted in identity and inclusion.
• Embrace Mentorship: Make yourself available to mentor and support the next generation of leaders in higher education.
• Equity, Excellence, and Impact: Dr. Nelms highlights the inextricable link between these three elements, stressing that equity without excellence is hollow. 
  • (or) Equity, excellence, and impact are interconnected and should guide decision-making.
• Impact of Philanthropy: Dr. Nelms' commitment to giving back, inspired by those who supported him, underscores the significance of gratitude and generosity in leadership.

Guest Name: Charlie Nelms

Guest Social: linkedin.com/in/charlienelms

Guest Bio: Dr. Charlie Nelms, a native of the Arkansas Delta, has devoted his life to equalizing opportunities for disenfranchised peoples. He is a senior scholar at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and a senior consultant for the Association of Governing Boards, specializing in HBCU governance and leadership. Charlie’s eminent career includes serving as chancellor at Indiana University East, the University of Michigan-Flint, and North Carolina Central University (NCCU), as well as IU Vice President for Institutional Development and Student Affairs Emeritus. Charlie is the first African American to be appointed chancellor of an IU campus and vice president of the University.
Charlie obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a historically Black College and University (HBCU). He earned his master’s and doctorate from Indiana University, with nearly half a century of affiliation. In 2019, IU awarded him an honorary doctorate, and he is also the recipient of its highest honors: The President’s Medal for Excellence, the Distinguished Alumni Service Award, and the Thomas Hart Benton Mural Medallion for Distinguished Achievement. Charlie is Professor Emeritus at IU. He holds honorary degrees from Earlham College and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and is an Arkansas Hall of Fame nominee.

Welcome to After Further Consideration, a new podcast from the Enrollify network where hosts Dr. Cody Nielsen and Dr. Tomika Ferguson invite experienced change leaders both within and beyond higher education into conversations focused on responsive leadership, addressing campus crises, navigating institutional shifts, and fostering sustainable change within academic institutions. Each episode dives into the narratives of leaders who have navigated challenges, gleaned invaluable lessons, and implemented innovative approaches to complex problems. Whether you're seeking actionable solutions or inspiration to drive positive and inclusive change, After Further Consideration offers a platform for dialogue, growth, and impactful leadership in higher education.