Higher Ed Pulse

Welcome to this new Pulse Check series on the power of storytelling. This is  Part 3: Multicultural Brand Marketing. In this episode of Strategic Storytelling, host Maria Kuntz interviews Christian Ponce, the Associate Vice President for Marketing at Old Dominion University. They discuss the importance of storytelling in higher education marketing, particularly focusing on multicultural marketing strategies. Christian shares his personal journey into the field, key moments that shaped his approach, and the significance of authentic engagement and inclusivity in brand narratives. The conversation also delves into the challenges and successes of adapting marketing campaigns for diverse audiences, emphasizing the need for cultural understanding and intentionality in marketing efforts.

Takeaways

• Storytelling connects people to brands.
• Multicultural marketing should be integrated into overall strategy.
• Understanding cultural nuances is crucial for effective marketing.
• Successful campaigns require collaboration and input from diverse voices.
• Bilingual campaigns must adapt messages, not just translate them.
• The future of marketing is about understanding audience needs.
• Brands must evolve with changing demographics and preferences.
• Inclusive communications are essential for all institutions.
• Research and ask questions to understand your target audience.
• Intentionality is key in multicultural marketing efforts.

Guest Name: Christian Ponce, Associate Vice President for Marketing, Old Dominion University 

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ponce7/

Guest Bio: Christian Ponce is the Associate Vice President for Marketing at Old Dominion University (ODU). 

At ODU, Christian leads initiatives to enhance the university's brand and engagement strategies. With a robust background in multicultural marketing, Christian emphasizes authentic engagement and accessibility to meet the diverse needs of various demographics. 

He is recognized for his commitment to breaking down cultural barriers and fostering inclusivity in higher education marketing. His expertise includes developing strategies that resonate with multicultural audiences — ensuring that marketing efforts are both inclusive and effective.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hosts Seth Odell and Mallory Willsea tackle one of the most pressing questions in higher education today: What do students and families actually care about in 2025? With application season in full swing and yield season just around the corner, institutions must understand what’s driving enrollment decisions. Spoiler alert—it’s all about proof, not just promises. From career outcomes to tuition transparency and campus safety, Seth and Mallory break down the key factors influencing students and families today and offer actionable insights for enrollment marketers.

• Career outcomes matter more than ever. Families want clear data on job placement, salaries, and internship opportunities.
• Tuition clarity is critical. Hidden fees and confusing financial aid packages frustrate families—transparency is key.
• Campus visits are happening later. More students are applying before visiting, making early digital engagement even more important.
• Safety and security concerns are evolving. From campus protests to natural disasters, families are considering new factors in their decision-making.
• Parents need more direct engagement. Many schools still fail to communicate effectively with parents, even though they play a major role in the decision.

It’s no longer enough to promise a “transformative college experience”—families want proof that their investment will pay off. One of the biggest factors influencing enrollment decisions in 2025 is what Seth calls the perceived probability of professional success. In simple terms, students and parents are asking: Will this degree help me land a good job?

The data shows that families are looking for clear, tangible indicators of career success, including job placement rates, median salaries of graduates, and access to internships. Schools that can’t provide this information—or fail to present it in an accessible way—risk losing prospective students to competitors who do. Institutions like Georgia State University are leading the way with tools like Stepping Blocks, a digital career platform that connects students with real employment data. For enrollment marketers, the takeaway is clear: don’t just highlight academic programs—showcase the career outcomes that come with them.

Sticker price has always been a concern, but in 2025, families are demanding a new level of clarity around total cost. Many schools advertise a base tuition rate, but fail to account for hidden expenses like housing, meal plans, lab fees, and textbooks. This lack of transparency creates frustration and confusion, especially for first-generation students who may have limited guidance in navigating financial aid.

Schools like the University of Dayton and UNC Chapel Hill are setting a new standard by guaranteeing fixed tuition rates for four years. This approach eliminates uncertainty and reassures families that costs won’t unexpectedly increase. Even if your institution can’t freeze tuition, Seth and Mallory emphasize the importance of simplifying how costs are communicated—avoid complex unit pricing, break costs down by semester or year, and make it easy for families to understand net price after financial aid.

A major shift in student behavior post-COVID is the timing of campus visits. Traditionally, students toured schools before applying, using the in-person experience to determine fit. Now, more families are delaying visits until after acceptance, often making final decisions based on financial aid offers before ever stepping on campus.

This shift is especially challenging for private institutions that rely on emotional connections formed during campus visits. If a family assumes a school is unaffordable and never visits, the institution loses the chance to make its case. This means digital engagement—through virtual tours, financial aid webinars, and parent-specific communications—needs to be stronger than ever. As Mallory points out, if you wait for families to ask about cost and financial aid, you’re already behind. Schools need to proactively address these concerns upfront, not just after acceptance.

Safety has always been a priority for families, but in 2025, the conversation has expanded beyond crime statistics. Parents and students are increasingly concerned about campus protests, political climate, and even natural disasters affecting their chosen school.

For institutions, this means safety messaging needs to go beyond the basics. Schools should highlight campus preparedness for emergency situations, showcase student support services, and actively communicate how they handle campus disruptions. Instead of waiting for families to bring up safety concerns, enrollment teams should address them head-on in communications, providing reassurance and transparency.

One of the simplest yet most overlooked strategies in enrollment marketing is direct parent engagement. While parents have always played a role in the decision-making process, many institutions still fail to communicate with them effectively.

Jeremy Tiers recently pointed out on Mission Admissions that most colleges still don’t have a structured way to engage parents throughout the funnel. Parents want information on safety, cost, and career outcomes—not just rankings and student life. Schools that proactively communicate with parents through newsletters, webinars, and dedicated portals can strengthen their influence in the decision-making process.

If there’s one theme that sums up what students and families care about in 2025, it’s this: they want proof, not just promises.

 They’re no longer satisfied with vague claims about student success or affordability—they want data, transparency, and clear pathways to their goals. Schools that embrace this shift by providing clearer career outcomes, simplifying cost breakdowns, and engaging families more proactively will have the edge in the enrollment race.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mallory and Seth dive into the provocative topic of AI's role in higher education, asking the critical question: Does AI act as higher ed’s crisis compass by building resilience, or does it expose vulnerabilities we’d rather ignore? The conversation explores how AI is transforming institutions, from identifying inefficiencies to bridging communication gaps, while also highlighting leadership’s role in determining whether these insights drive progress—or further deepen the cracks. If you’re curious about how to leverage AI effectively in higher ed, this episode is packed with thought-provoking insights.

• AI as a Spotlight: AI doesn’t just highlight what’s working; it often exposes inefficiencies, forcing institutions to confront uncomfortable truths about their operations.
• The Leadership Factor: Strong leadership and a culture of empowerment are critical to ensuring AI builds resilience rather than exacerbates gaps.
• Proactive AI Use: From early warning systems to personalized outreach, AI has the potential to be proactive, identifying and addressing issues before they escalate.
• Collaboration is Key: The partnership between humans and AI is essential—AI provides the insights, but leaders must act on them effectively to drive meaningful change.
• Avoiding the Efficiency Trap: While AI is often marketed for its speed and cost-saving benefits, its real power lies in enhancing quality and delivering better outcomes.
• Bridging Divides: Institutions must balance embracing AI on the administrative side with thoughtfully integrating it into academic spaces, ensuring students are prepared for real-world applications.

How is AI exposing vulnerabilities in higher education institutions? 
AI shines a light on inefficiencies that may have previously gone unnoticed. For example, it might identify enrollment bottlenecks and reveal how these issues are tied to outdated processes in financial aid or communication. However, this transparency can make some leaders feel threatened, leading to tension between self-preservation and institutional progress.

Does AI create more problems than it solves in higher ed? 
It depends on the leadership and culture of the institution. For organizations with strong, centralized strategies and empowered teams, AI can build resilience by identifying opportunities and creating efficiencies. However, for institutions plagued by siloed operations and "shiny object syndrome," where leadership prioritizes trendy tools over meaningful implementation, AI can expose and even exacerbate gaps.

Why is there resistance to AI in the classroom? 
While administrative functions like enrollment and marketing have embraced AI, many academic leaders resist its integration into teaching. This creates a divide: graduates may leave college unprepared to use the very tools they’ll need in the workforce. The hesitation often stems from fears of compromising academic integrity or a lack of understanding of AI’s potential to enhance learning.

How can AI be used to build resilience during a crisis? 
AI can play a critical role in crisis management by identifying risks early, providing data-driven forecasts, and automating routine tasks so leaders can focus on human-centric challenges. For example, AI can flag at-risk students who might otherwise slip through the cracks, enabling institutions to proactively offer support and reduce attrition. However, empathy and human leadership remain irreplaceable during high-emotion events, such as leadership changes or campus tragedies.

What’s an example of AI successfully enhancing higher education operations? 
Seth shared a fascinating example of an AI-driven admissions call targeting students with outstanding balances. By focusing on a specific subset of students, the AI agent provided proactive outreach that human teams likely wouldn’t have had the bandwidth to complete. This kind of narrow yet impactful implementation demonstrates AI’s ability to add value without replacing human interaction.

Is efficiency the best selling point for AI in higher ed? 
Efficiency is an obvious benefit of AI, but focusing solely on speed and cost-savings may miss the bigger picture. Institutions should aim to leverage AI to improve quality—delivering better outcomes for students and staff. For instance, AI’s predictive capabilities can identify long-term trends and provide solutions that go beyond short-term wins.

What role does leadership play in AI adoption? 
Leadership determines whether AI builds resilience or exposes vulnerabilities. Institutions with visionary leaders who embrace a culture of collaboration and innovation are more likely to see AI as a tool for progress. Conversely, top-down, reactionary approaches—such as rushing to implement AI to satisfy board demands—can lead to misaligned investments and missed opportunities.

AI is undoubtedly reshaping higher education, but whether it builds resilience or exposes gaps ultimately depends on the leadership and strategy behind its implementation. Institutions that embrace collaboration, empower decentralized innovation, and prioritize quality over speed will find that AI can indeed act as a compass, pointing the way toward a stronger future.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to this new Pulse Check series on the power of storytelling. On this Part 1: Reimagining the University as a “Big Brand”, guest Matt McFadden talks about embracing the fact that universities are mega brands and how this should influence the way we market to different audiences through a values-based brand platform. Case studies include Nike and three universities with very different use cases. 

Guest Name: Matt McFadden, Simpson & Scarborough

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcfaddenwde/

Guest Bio: Matt is the senior vice president at Simpson Scarborough, where he works with their teams to turn insights into brand strategies, creative and content that create impactful results for their partner colleges and universities. With a career dedicated to higher education marketing, he helps universities bring their stories to life, fostering stronger connections with students, alumni, and communities. Matt's passion for education began during his college days as a tour guide, orientation counselor, and athletic host, where he learned the power of collective experiences and the influence of great people. Today, his work continues to shape transformative narratives in higher education.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hosts Mallory and Seth explore the art and strategy behind storytelling in higher education marketing. From its emotional impact to its ability to build authentic connections, they discuss how storytelling differentiates institutions in an increasingly crowded marketplace. Seth shares insights from his recent team retreat and dives deep into effective frameworks, platforms, and actionable steps for crafting compelling narratives.

• Storytelling's Importance: Stories are the bridge between what an institution does and how it’s perceived, creating emotional connections that drive both internal culture and external engagement.
• Frameworks for Success: Proven storytelling frameworks like Pixar’s “Once upon a time” and the ABT (And, But, Therefore) model help structure emotionally resonant narratives.
• Content Strategies for 2025: Short-form videos (YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, TikTok) and niche podcasts are the most impactful platforms for storytelling.
• Sourcing Stories: Casting calls and proactive outreach uncover diverse and underrepresented voices for authentic storytelling.
• Small Steps Matter: Start small by leveraging student-generated content and using free or low-cost tools to create impactful stories.

Why Storytelling Matters in Higher Education 
Storytelling is the heart of differentiation in a crowded higher ed marketplace. Mallory and Seth emphasize that statistics alone don’t influence prospective students or alumni; it’s the personal, emotional stories that stick. Internally, storytelling shapes institutional culture, fostering alignment with values and a sense of pride among faculty and students. Externally, it drives alumni engagement, application numbers, and retention rates. Emotional connections, as Seth notes, are strategic assets.

Frameworks for Building Compelling Stories 
Mallory highlights three storytelling frameworks to structure narratives:

1. Pixar’s Framework: Begins with “Once upon a time” and builds through “Every day,” “Until one day,” and “Because of that.”
2. ABT Framework: Simplifies storytelling with “And, But, Therefore,” ideal for short-form content.
3. StoryBrand: Guides marketers to clarify messages and focus on customer-centric stories.

Seth adds that authenticity, aspirational tones, and conflict are non-negotiable elements of great storytelling. By creating stories that inspire action, institutions can position themselves as essential pathways to students' future success.

Platforms That Maximize Storytelling Impact 
The choice of platform shapes how stories are received. Seth advocates for short-form content like YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and TikTok, emphasizing the power of multi-part series released in real time. Mallory underscores podcasting’s potential to build depth and personal connections, especially through niche-focused shows that demonstrate expertise in specific fields. Both agree that effective storytelling platforms invite interaction, such as sharing and tagging, to amplify reach.

Actionable Strategies for Storytelling 
For MarCom professionals with limited budgets or teams, starting small is key. Seth recommends casting calls using surveys or AI tools to source stories efficiently. Mallory encourages leveraging student-generated content to showcase authentic day-to-day campus life. Both emphasize the importance of experimenting with storytelling formats, from skunkworks podcast pilots to video-first Instagram reels.

The Role of AI in Storytelling 
AI tools offer untapped potential for sourcing and sharing stories. Seth envisions using AI platforms to streamline the casting process, allowing students and alumni to record their narratives seamlessly. This innovation not only reduces friction but also expands the pool of stories available for marketing.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Part 3: The Confidence Equation: Building Resilience and Owning Your Wins

This episode explores how to recognize your achievements, combat imposter syndrome, and step into opportunities with confidence. It’s about resilience and learning to see yourself as a leader, even when doubt creeps in.

• Imposter Syndrome Isn’t Truth: Doubts often stem from self-imposed narratives, not reality. Recognizing this is the first step in overcoming them.
• Celebrate Every Win: Whether big or small, recognizing your achievements helps build confidence and momentum in your career.
• Zoom Out for Perspective: When doubt creeps in, take a moment to reflect on past accomplishments and remind yourself of the impact you’ve made.
• The Power of Community: Surrounding yourself with a supportive team and leaning into professional networks can be a game changer for growth and resilience.
• You’re Not Alone: The challenges you face are shared by many in higher ed, and acknowledging this can be a powerful motivator to keep going.

How Do You Step Up When You Don’t Feel Ready? 
Erin shares her experience transitioning from a graduate assistant role to a full-time leadership position in higher ed during the uncertainty of the pandemic. Despite imposter syndrome, she embraced the challenge by asking questions, leveraging relationships, and trusting her ability to learn on the job. Shelby reflects on taking initiative early in her career, highlighting a guest sourcing project that became her first major leadership moment. Both emphasize that "ready" is a moving target, and growth often happens when you take a leap of faith.

How Do You Handle Imposter Syndrome? 
Erin explains how imposter syndrome stems from internal narratives and emphasizes the importance of reframing these doubts. Celebrating every win, big or small, helps shift focus from what you lack to what you’ve accomplished. Shelby adds that unrealistic expectations often fuel self-doubt, and balancing ambition with self-compassion is critical. Both agree that silencing imposter syndrome requires acknowledging your progress and embracing your humanity.

Why Is It Hard to Celebrate Wins in Higher Ed? 
The fast-paced nature of higher ed marketing often makes it difficult to pause and reflect on successes. Shelby shares her experience managing a live podcasting project during the AMA conference, highlighting how quickly her team shifted focus to upcoming projects without celebrating the milestone. Erin points out that the long lead times in higher ed campaigns often delay the gratification of seeing results. Both stress the importance of taking time to reflect on wins, especially in a team-oriented industry.

How Do You Stay Grounded When Doubts Arise? 
Shelby shares her strategy of “zooming out,” taking time to reflect on her broader impact and revisiting personal tokens of encouragement like notes from students she’s taught. Erin emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive team and community. Together, they remind listeners that no one is immune to self-doubt, but with the right mindset and support, it’s possible to move past it and thrive.

A Note from the Hosts 
Erin and Shelby wrap up the series with heartfelt gratitude for the Enrollify community, celebrating the role of higher ed professionals in creating a vibrant, supportive network. They encourage listeners to continue engaging with the content and sharing their own stories, promising that every challenge and win is a step toward growth.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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!

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome back to this Pulse Check Series for Pt. 2 — How to Make a Difference (Even Without the Title). 

Leadership doesn’t always come with a title. This episode dives into practical ways to lead through influence, whether it’s starting initiatives, building rapport, or making your voice heard on campus.

• Influence Without Authority: You don’t need a title to lead. Preparation, relatability, and collaboration are key to influencing decisions effectively.
• Active Listening and Empathy: Understanding your team’s perspective and goals can build trust and credibility, fostering stronger relationships.
• Balance Is Key: Leading through influence requires a careful balance between sharing ideas and respecting team dynamics to avoid overstepping boundaries.
• Take Initiative: Responsibility is taken, not given. Proving your value through thoughtful contributions can open doors to leadership opportunities.
• Trust Fosters Confidence: Leaders who trust their teams empower individuals to step up, take ownership, and contribute meaningfully.

How Can You Make an Impact Without a Title? 
Erin shares an example from her background in graduate admissions where she successfully influenced a campaign by preparing thoroughly, framing her ideas as collaborative contributions, and backing them with data. Shelby reflects on how young professionals can apply these strategies, emphasizing that taking initiative and doing the homework behind your ideas is vital for earning trust and credibility.

What Skills Are Overlooked in Leading Through Influence? 
For Shelby, relatability is an underrated skill that can significantly enhance workplace collaboration. She explains that leaders who engage in conversations rather than lectures create a more open, supportive environment. Erin adds that active listening and genuine curiosity about others’ perspectives are foundational for effective influence. Both agree that fostering these skills early can shape your leadership style for the better.

How Do You Build Trust and Credibility? 
Erin emphasizes the importance of consistency and transparency in establishing trust. Being upfront about what you know and what you’re still figuring out builds credibility and creates a collaborative environment. Shelby highlights the value of supporting colleagues both professionally and personally, sharing how team gestures like celebrating life milestones have fostered a sense of belonging and motivation within the Enrollify team.

What’s the Balance Between Assertiveness and Overstepping? 
Navigating the fine line between being assertive and pushy is crucial for leading through influence. Erin stresses the importance of reading the room, framing ideas as contributions rather than directives, and aligning them with team goals. Shelby adds that taking initiative with clear, team-centered intentions can help avoid stepping on toes while still making an impact.

Final Thoughts on Leading Without a Title 
Shelby and Erin close by advocating for the importance of empathy, relatability, and active listening in building leadership skills early. They emphasize that leading through influence is about creating value and fostering collaboration, not simply seeking personal recognition.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the inaugural 2025 episode of The Higher Ed Pulse, hosts Mallory and Seth dive into the complex and urgent topic of ethics in artificial intelligence (AI) within higher education. They explore the challenges AI presents, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and over-reliance on automation, while discussing strategies to align AI usage with institutional missions. This thought-provoking episode is a must-listen for higher education professionals navigating the evolving landscape of AI ethics.

• AI Ethics as a Priority: Higher education must prioritize creating frameworks for ethical AI usage to align with institutional missions.
• Data Privacy Concerns: Transparency in how student data is collected, stored, and used is essential to build trust and avoid misuse.
• Bias in Algorithms: Institutions must proactively identify and address biases in AI systems to prevent perpetuating societal inequities.
• Human Oversight: Despite AI's capabilities, human context, empathy, and decision-making are irreplaceable in areas like financial aid and student support.
• Accessible AI Tools: Colleges should consider offering AI tools, such as ChatGPT Pro, to ensure equitable access for all students.
• AI Literacy and Training: Institutions should invest in professional development to empower staff, faculty, and students to use AI responsibly.

What are the main ethical challenges of AI in higher education?
Mallory and Seth highlight three primary concerns:

1. Data Privacy: AI thrives on data, but students often remain unaware of how their data is used. Institutions must simplify communication about data usage to ensure transparency and trust.
2. Algorithmic Bias: AI tools can inadvertently reinforce inequities if trained on biased data. Institutions need regular audits to identify and mitigate biases.
3. Over-reliance on Automation: AI may lack the human nuance needed in situations like financial aid, where personalized solutions are vital. Human oversight remains critical.‍

How can institutions develop frameworks for ethical AI?  
Mallory advocates for cross-functional committees to establish fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI policies. Seth emphasizes the importance of aligning AI initiatives with institutional missions, a perspective often overlooked. Both stress the need for a proactive approach, much like crisis communications planning, to address potential AI-related issues before they arise.‍

What role does access play in AI ethics? 
Seth raises concerns about unequal access to AI tools, which could create a divide between students with and without financial resources. He suggests that institutions consider providing AI tools, akin to software licenses for Adobe or Microsoft, to ensure equitable access and skill development.

Why is AI literacy essential? 
The duo underscores the importance of investing in AI education for staff, faculty, and students. Building AI literacy equips educators to use the technology responsibly and aligns with institutional goals to prepare students for the modern workforce.

What actionable steps can listeners take? 
Seth urges individuals to secure their seat at the AI decision-making table within their organizations. Mallory adds that fostering a culture of ethical inquiry and transparency will not only benefit institutions but also serve as a career accelerator for AI advocates.

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Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

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