In this third and final installment of In Your Element’s Durham Tech series, hosts Daniella and Brendan dive into the measurable impact of Element451 at Durham Technical Community College. This episode explores how strategic CRM implementation is enhancing student success, driving engagement, and reshaping internal processes. Guests Jessica Vaughan and Dr. Abe Dones reveal how data, feedback, and intentional communication are transforming the student experience and building a culture of innovation on campus.

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

Guest Bios: 
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 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! 
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