In this dynamic episode of In Your Element, co-hosts Daniella Nordin and Brendan Henkel sit down with Jessica Vaughan, Director of Enrollment Management and CRM Strategy, and Dr. Abe Dones, Vice President and Chief Student Officer at Durham Tech. This is the first installment of a three-part series chronicling Durham Tech’s transformational journey with Element451. From disjointed systems and paper processes to seamless automation and policy shifts, discover how this community college is rewriting the playbook on enrollment management. If you’re searching for higher ed enrollment inspiration, this episode is your blueprint.

Guest Names: 
Jessica Vaughan, Director of Enrollment Management + CRM Strategy, Durham Tech
Dr. Abe Dones, Vice President and Chief Student Officer, Durham Tech

Guest Bios: 
Dr. Abe Dones - Abe Dones is the Vice President of Student Services at Durham Tech, dedicated to enhancing the student experience through leadership, innovation, and support. Proudly Puerto Rican and hailing from Philadelphia, Abe brings a dynamic energy to his work — much like his passion for the Superbowl Champs Eagles. "Blow the whistle!" is more than just a game-day rally; it reflects his drive to break down barriers and create pathways for student access, success, and economic mobility. Whether leading transformation, streamlining processes, or improving efficiency, Abe is all about building community and championing growth. 

Jessica Vaughan - Jessica Vaughan is the Director of Enrollment Management and CRM Strategy at Durham Tech, specializing in project implementation and management, process improvement, and efficiency. Whether leading projects in Element451 or coordinating the Early Success System pilot, Jessica approaches every challenge with strategic purpose, ensuring all the moving parts come together seamlessly. Her passion for organization and planning isn’t limited to work — it’s the secret sauce that keeps her projects running smoothly. From managing data workflows to juggling family schedules and caring for her pets, Jessica believes that a little structure, a lot of teamwork, and some laughter make anything possible.

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Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Daniella Nordin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellanordin/
Brendan Henkel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkhenkel/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
In Your Element 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! 
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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