Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager

Ep. 41: Stop Building for Personas and Start Building for People


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In this thought-provoking episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Safaniya Stevenson, a seasoned higher ed social strategist, to challenge one of the industry’s sacred cows: the audience persona. Together, they explore the limitations of personas in higher ed marketing and advocate for a more human, community-driven approach. This episode is a must-listen for enrollment marketers, brand strategists, and social media managers navigating a diverse and evolving student landscape.

Guest Name: Safaniya Stevenson, Marketing Consultant

Guest Socials: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/
Portfolio Website: https://safaniyastevensonportfolio.my.canva.site/

Guest Bio: Strategist. Storyteller. Status quo disruptor. Safaniya "Safy" Stevenson transforms brands by understanding what makes audiences tick. With over a decade of experience spanning TV news to digital leadership, she has orchestrated viral campaigns and led multimillion-dollar rebrands for institutions like NC State, Boise State and Cal Poly Humboldt. Named a 2024 AAMA "Marketer to Watch" and SXSW EDU presenter, Safy brings her signature optimism to clients across Agribusiness, Food & Beverage, Tourism, and Education. This Raleigh-based Lego enthusiast (20+ builds and counting) applies her omnichannel expertise to create authentic narratives that elevate brands beyond conventional boundaries.


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Connect With Our Host:
Jenny Li Fowler
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/
https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager 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.

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Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media ManagerBy Jenny Li Fowler

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