Higher Ed Pulse

In this thought-provoking episode, Mallory and Seth discuss the transformative potential of AI in addressing equity challenges in higher education. They explore how AI can help institutions better serve "invisible students" — nontraditional learners, first-generation students, and those balancing work or family responsibilities. Highlighting the intersection of technology and education, they provide actionable strategies to improve student success, persistence, and graduation rates.

• AI as a Catalyst for Equity:
  • Proactively identifies and supports at-risk students through early intervention.
  • Personalizes educational journeys with tailored resources and support.
  • Ensures 24/7 access to tools and services for students with nontraditional schedules.
  • Provides data-driven insights to reshape institutional policies and resource allocation.
• The Importance of Just-in-Time Resources:
  • Students need accessible support at the exact moment they encounter challenges.
  • AI can enable 24/7 assistance across admissions, academic advising, and financial aid.
• Breaking Down Barriers for First-Generation Students:
  • Address gaps in institutional knowledge with accessible, plain-language communication.
  • Use AI to seamlessly translate materials into multiple languages to meet diverse needs.
• Affordability of AI Solutions:
  • Many AI tools are cost-effective, making them accessible for under-resourced institutions like community colleges.
• The Role of Product Design in Student Success:
  • Institutions must design flexible programs to ensure students can re-enroll seamlessly after life interruptions.

Why "Invisible Students" Need Attention 
Mallory sets the stage by defining invisible students as those who often go unnoticed in traditional education systems—such as first-generation students, working adults, and part-time learners. These populations represent a significant portion of the student body but are disproportionately likely to face barriers to graduation, compounding financial challenges like student loan debt.

How AI Can Help 
AI-first strategies can transform how institutions support these students:

1. Proactive Intervention: Predictive analytics identify early warning signs of student disengagement.
2. Personalized Education: Tailored experiences boost engagement and retention.
3. Accessible Support: AI-powered virtual assistants offer help 24/7, meeting students at their point of need.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making: Institutions can reallocate resources based on real-time insights.

Real-World Example: Trinity Valley Community College 
Mallory highlights Trinity Valley Community College’s success in implementing AI tools to address the needs of working students. Their AI assistant supports enrollment and student engagement, resulting in an 18% increase in their graduating class—an example of AI's tangible impact on student success.

The Need for Product Innovation 
Seth emphasizes the importance of designing flexible program structures. For example:

• Avoid term-based models that create re-entry barriers for students who need to pause their education.
• Explore asynchronous and competency-based education models to meet the diverse needs of modern learners.

The conversation underscores the importance of leveraging AI to support nontraditional learners and first-generation students. Seth and Mallory emphasize that affordability and accessibility are key to implementing these solutions effectively, particularly for community colleges and other under-resourced institutions.

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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.

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Mickey Baines, President and Chief Revenue Officer at Kennedy Company Education Strategies. Mickey’s innovative work in enrollment strategy and data-driven personalization is transforming how institutions engage students and families. This episode delves into his insights on creating impactful campus tours, leveraging CRM and AI for deeper student engagement, and laying the groundwork for future AI-driven strategies. Explore how Mickey’s expertise is reshaping higher education.

Check out the full episodes Mickey appeared on: 
Mission Admissions - Episode 49 
The Application - Episode 49 

Key Takeaways

• Redefining Campus Tours: Personalized and unscripted tours resonate more with students and families, distinguishing top institutions in the college search process.
• Parent-Focused Communication: Tailored messaging for parents, the key influencers in college decisions, is a crucial but often overlooked strategy.
• Data-Driven Personalization: Institutions must collect and organize data to provide tailored engagement and ensure readiness for AI integration.
• AI’s Role in Enrollment: AI enhances student engagement by automating personalized experiences, but effective implementation relies on robust, well-structured data.
• Future-Proofing CRM: Building advanced CRM strategies today ensures institutions can harness AI’s full potential in the near future.

Campus tours are critical touchpoints in the college decision-making process, but too often, they are overly scripted and indistinguishable. Mickey Baines emphasizes the importance of creating personalized, memorable experiences. Tours that incorporate authentic, unscripted narratives—sharing personal experiences alongside facts—stand out to prospective students. Families notice when tours feel rehearsed or lack differentiation, which can undermine a school’s appeal.

Mickey’s insights highlight the need to audit existing tour practices and ensure they offer unique value. Tour guides should feel empowered to inject their personalities into their presentations, making the experience more engaging and relatable. By crafting distinctive tours, institutions can leave a lasting impression, positioning themselves as top choices for students.

Parents play a pivotal role in guiding students through the college selection process, yet many institutions fail to address them effectively. Mickey underscores the need for parent-specific communication that speaks to their concerns and priorities. Instead of duplicating student messaging, schools should craft emails and materials that help parents support their child’s decision-making process.

For example, messages could highlight how specific events or resources benefit both the student and the family. By addressing parents directly and demonstrating their integral role, institutions can build trust and foster stronger connections, ultimately influencing enrollment decisions.

Mickey stresses that data is the foundation of effective personalization. Institutions often miss opportunities to tailor communications because they fail to track critical details, such as which events a student attended or their online engagement patterns. Collecting and organizing this data allows schools to create tailored experiences that resonate with students and families.

AI offers the potential to automate these processes, delivering hyper-personalized communications at scale. However, AI relies on robust data to function effectively. Institutions must start gathering and structuring data now to prepare for seamless AI integration. CRM systems are vital tools for this transformation, enabling schools to manage data and deploy strategies that meet students’ individual needs.

Mickey explains that building advanced CRM capabilities is essential for harnessing AI in enrollment strategies. Schools should evaluate their current data collection practices, identify gaps, and begin accumulating the information needed to personalize experiences. Advanced CRMs allow institutions to move from basic to intermediate and eventually fully automated, AI-driven strategies.

For example, tracking how a student interacts with event invitations or website content can inform future communications, ensuring they feel relevant and personalized. Institutions that invest in data readiness today position themselves to leverage AI tools effectively, enhancing student engagement and enrollment outcomes.

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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 Part 5 of this Pulse Check series, Cody Nielsen interviews Dr. David Robinson-Morris to explore the post-2024 election challenges and opportunities for higher education in America. This compelling conversation delves into how education institutions can navigate political turbulence, reclaim imaginative spaces, and fight systemic oppression. Tune in to gain insights into reshaping higher education for a more equitable future.

• Imagination in Higher Education: Reclaiming creativity and curiosity is crucial for transcending oppressive systems and fostering meaningful transformation.
• Challenges of Corporatization: The corporatization of higher education has shifted priorities from holistic learning to workforce development, undermining its transformative potential.
• Preparing for Resistance: In the face of political shifts, educators and communities must embrace subversive strategies to uphold justice and inclusion.
• The Role of Higher Education in Democracy: Institutions must foster a shared reality, promote belonging, and educate individuals who can critically engage with societal challenges.

The Power and Loss of Imagination in Higher Education

Dr. David Robinson-Morris underscores the critical role imagination plays in education and society. He argues that oppressive systems, including corporatized higher education, often strip away creativity and curiosity, replacing them with rigid frameworks focused solely on outcomes like economic mobility. Reclaiming imagination, he asserts, is essential for empowering individuals and institutions to think beyond the status quo and enact meaningful change.

Robinson-Morris connects this erosion of imagination to the broader corporatization of higher education, tracing its origins to the 1960s and the rhetoric of economic pragmatism. He reflects on how the focus shifted from personal and intellectual growth to workforce development, leaving little room for transformative thinking. To counter this, higher education must re-embrace its role as a space for intellectual exploration and social imagination.

Navigating a Second Trump Presidency

The conversation pivots to the implications of the 2024 election and the onset of a second Trump administration. Robinson-Morris emphasizes the unique challenges posed by this presidency, where the absence of reelection constraints could lead to bold, unchecked policy reversals. For communities of color, he notes, survival and resistance have long been practiced arts, while urging progressive allies to prepare for a prolonged struggle.

A particular focus is placed on the role of higher education in countering harmful ideologies. Robinson-Morris calls for campuses to recommit to fostering shared realities, inclusion, and belonging. The ideological battle, he argues, begins in classrooms and is integral to shaping a generation that values collective progress over individual gain.

Resistance, Justice, and the Path Forward

Robinson-Morris provides practical advice for higher education professionals grappling with systemic oppression within their institutions. He advocates for resisting oppressive systems, even in subversive ways, and reminds educators of the risks and rewards of pushing against the tide. Importantly, he distinguishes between freedom and liberation, with liberation being the ultimate goal: a state of unburdened imagination and self-determination.

For higher education to truly transform, it must move beyond surface-level diversity initiatives and toward justice as liberation. This requires educators and institutions to confront their complicity in oppressive structures and make bold, collective efforts to dismantle them.

Guest Name: David Robinson Morris

Guest Social: www.linkedin.com/in/davidrm

Guest Bio: David W. Robinson-Morris, Ph.D. is an author, philosopher, social justice and human rights advocate-activist, educator, philanthropist, community organizer, DEI practitioner, non-profit leader, and higher education administrator. Dr. Robinson-Morris is the Founder & Chief Reimaginelutionary at The REImaginelution, LLC, a strategic consulting firm working at the intersections of imagination, policy, practice, and prophetic hope to radically reimagine diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) toward racial justice and systemic transformation by engendering freedom of the human spirit; and catalyzing the power of the imagination to reweave organizations, systems, and the world toward collective healing and liberation.

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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.

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Dr. Nick Ladany, President of San Francisco Bay University. Dr. Ladany’s forward-thinking leadership in transparency, innovation, and data-driven strategies is redefining higher education. This episode explores his insights into fostering meaningful relationships, leveraging AI to improve student support, and holding institutions accountable through measurable metrics. 

Check out the full episodes Nick appeared in: 
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO - Live at AMA
Higher Ed Pulse - Live at ASU/GSV 
Mastering The Next - Episode 27

Key Takeaways

• Disrupting Higher Education: Dr. Ladany advocates for a radically student-centered model, prioritizing tailored support, updated curricula, and comprehensive wellness services to ensure student success.
• AI-Driven Student Support: San Francisco Bay University leverages AI to provide 24/7 mental health and academic support, detect early signs of student distress, and enhance resilience for lifelong success.
• Transparency and Accountability: Dr. Ladany underscores the need for clear, meaningful metrics to evaluate institutional performance and maintain trust in higher education.
• Rethinking Faculty Roles: Effective teaching and DEI initiatives are critical to addressing systemic issues and preparing students for a diverse and equitable world.
• Focus on Mental Health: Unlimited mental health support is essential for addressing long-term effects of the pandemic and fostering student well-being.

Dr. Ladany envisions a reimagined university model built around students rather than faculty, donors, or traditional structures. By designing curricula and co-curricular activities to align with industry needs and focusing on graduating students in four years, San Francisco Bay University sets itself apart. Faculty are trained not just as subject matter experts but also as educators skilled in pedagogy. The university also integrates comprehensive wellness services, addressing academic, emotional, and practical needs to ensure student success.

This holistic, student-first approach serves as a blueprint for disrupting a historically slow-moving higher ed industry. By focusing on outcomes and relevance, the university aims to prepare students for careers and societal contributions, bridging gaps often overlooked in traditional systems.

AI is a cornerstone of San Francisco Bay University’s strategy for improving student outcomes. Dr. Ladany explains how AI tools provide real-time insights into student behaviors, such as identifying food insecurity or mental health challenges through dining hall patterns or other indicators. These insights allow the university to intervene proactively and effectively.

Moreover, AI-powered systems like chatbots ensure students have access to support services 24/7, reducing barriers created by time constraints or limited staff availability. These tools enable meaningful engagement, providing both academic and personal support tailored to individual needs. By doing so, the university creates an ecosystem where students feel supported every step of the way.

Transparency and accountability are central to Dr. Ladany’s leadership philosophy. He argues for standardized metrics, such as graduation rates and resource allocation, to evaluate university performance. Institutions must avoid shifting blame onto students and instead focus on preparing them adequately.

Dr. Ladany also critiques the resistance to DEI initiatives, emphasizing that higher education must address systemic inequities to better serve diverse student populations. Through a transparent, data-informed approach, universities can foster trust and ensure equitable opportunities for all students.

Dr. Ladany recognizes the pandemic’s long-term impact on student mental health, advocating for unlimited support services to address both immediate and lasting challenges. AI plays a significant role in monitoring student well-being and providing scalable solutions. Importantly, the university also focuses on fostering resilience and encouraging students who are excelling to build on their strengths, creating a balanced approach to mental health and success.

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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.

This episode celebrates the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame, spotlighting visionary leaders shaping the future of higher education. 

Today's inductee into the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame is Dr. Janet Spriggs, President of Forsyth Technical Community College, who shares groundbreaking insights on leveraging a $30 million NSF Engines grant and innovative AI tools to drive equitable economic mobility, enhance student success, and revolutionize enrollment strategies. Dive into Dr. Spriggs’ dynamic vision for education’s future, from biotechnology pathways to AI-powered student experiences.

Check out the full episodes Janet appeared in: 
Breaking Silos - Episode 2 
AI For U - Episode 4 

Key Takeaways

• Advancing Economic Mobility: The $30 million NSF Engines grant empowers Forsyth Tech to drive equitable economic mobility through biotechnology education, advanced career pathways, and impactful community development.
• AI in Higher Education: Forsyth Tech leverages AI for predictive analytics, adaptive learning, and personalized student support, significantly boosting enrollment and retention rates.
• Empowering Adult and Diverse Learners: AI tools tailor educational experiences for diverse student populations, addressing the unique needs of high schoolers and adult learners.
• Operational Efficiency through AI: Tools like chatbots and AI-powered workflows streamline administrative tasks, enabling staff to focus on meaningful, human-centered student interactions.
• Data-Driven Insights: Predictive analytics enhance enrollment management, allowing Forsyth Tech to allocate resources strategically and maximize student success.

Dr. Janet Spriggs highlights the transformative potential of a $30 million NSF Engines grant at Forsyth Technical Community College. This investment is not just about acquiring cutting-edge biotechnology equipment but also about creating high-tech career pathways that empower underserved populations. By focusing on equitable economic mobility, Forsyth Tech aims to connect first-generation and low-income students to family-sustaining careers. The grant exemplifies community colleges' commitment to meeting students where they are and guiding them toward generational change through education.

AI tools are at the forefront of Forsyth Tech’s efforts to personalize and enhance the student experience. Predictive analytics identify at-risk students, enabling timely and targeted interventions. Adaptive learning platforms offer tailored educational content, meeting students where they are academically and ensuring their success. AI-powered chatbots provide 24/7 support, a critical feature for students juggling life’s demands, particularly during unconventional hours. These innovations contribute to increased enrollment and retention, setting a new standard for student engagement in higher education.

Forsyth Tech embraces AI to cater to the distinct needs of its diverse student body, from high schoolers seeking a head start to adult learners retooling for new careers. AI tools adapt to varied learning styles and support requirements, ensuring all students have access to resources that match their unique journeys. This approach has been instrumental in addressing the fastest-growing student populations—adult learners and high school students—while fostering inclusivity and equitable education.

AI streamlines Forsyth Tech’s operations by automating routine tasks, enabling staff to focus on student engagement. Chatbots significantly reduce call volumes, freeing up student care representatives for in-person interactions. Marketing workflows powered by AI ensure prospective students are nurtured effectively through personalized, human-like communications. Additionally, predictive analytics provide actionable insights, helping the institution focus resources where they will have the greatest impact, thereby driving success with fewer resources.

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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 this insightful episode from the AMA Symposium, Mallory sits down with Marina Cooper, Senior Associate VP for Brand and Marketing at Johns Hopkins University. The conversation dives into two critical topics: Johns Hopkins' upcoming 150th anniversary celebration and the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education marketing. Marina shares her perspective on leveraging institutional milestones and her journey toward integrating AI into her workflows, offering a candid look at the challenges and opportunities of AI adoption.

• Celebrating Milestones Creatively: Institutional anniversaries like Johns Hopkins' 150th are opportunities to connect with internal and external audiences meaningfully.
• AI Adoption in Higher Education: AI use in marketing is on the rise, but barriers like time, familiarity, and accessibility hinder broader adoption.
• AI for Personas and Campaigns: AI has untapped potential in creating dynamic personas and testing campaigns, helping teams better understand audience behavior and reactions.
• Time as the Biggest Barrier: Many leaders find it challenging to dedicate time to learning and experimenting with AI, even though it's critical for staying competitive.
• AMA Symposium's Growing Influence: Next year’s AMA conference will return to the DMV area, promising engaging discussions on team-building and marketing innovations.

How Can Institutions Leverage Major Milestones? 
Marina discusses Johns Hopkins University's upcoming 150th anniversary and how the institution plans to use this milestone as a platform to share its achievements and vision with the world. For Marina, it’s about more than just celebrating history—it’s an opportunity to strengthen the university's brand and inspire stakeholders. Attending sessions like "Happy Birthday to Us" at AMA is helping her team strategize creative ways to leverage the anniversary for broader institutional storytelling.

Anniversaries like this serve as powerful tools for connection, Marina notes, providing an avenue to communicate not only with alumni and current students but also with prospective students, faculty, and global audiences.

Why Is AI Still an Afterthought for Many Leaders? 
Despite Johns Hopkins' prominence in AI research, Marina admits that integrating AI into her personal workflows is still a work in progress. While her team has embraced AI for tasks like photo selection using advanced asset management systems, Marina finds herself defaulting to traditional methods, often realizing afterward how AI could have streamlined the process.

This candid admission reflects a broader trend in higher education: while teams are exploring AI, many leaders struggle to make it a consistent part of their routine. The key barrier? Time. Leaders often lack the bandwidth to experiment with tools like ChatGPT or Claude, even though these technologies can simplify everything from brainstorming to content creation.

What Are the Most Promising Uses of AI in Marketing? 
Marina shares her curiosity about AI's potential in building more effective student personas and testing campaign ideas. By simulating how different audiences might react to campaigns, AI could help teams refine their messaging and better align with audience needs. This approach could significantly improve the accuracy of marketing strategies, moving away from reliance on assumptions and toward data-informed decision-making.

Mallory emphasizes that the key to overcoming adoption barriers is experimentation. As AI technology evolves and becomes embedded in existing tools, it will become more accessible and less intimidating for teams to integrate into their workflows.

What Can We Expect from Next Year’s AMA Symposium? 
Looking ahead, Marina teases exciting plans for the next AMA Symposium, set to return to the DMV area at National Harbor. She highlights the conference's unique ability to bring together professionals across marketing disciplines, fostering open, behind-the-scenes conversations about challenges, strategies, and successes.

Marina is particularly excited about discussions around team-building and expertise development in marketing organizations. These conversations will be critical as higher education continues to adapt to new technologies and changing audience expectations.

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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 dive into their highly anticipated 2025 predictions for higher education. The conversation is packed with bold insights, from the transformation of marketing strategies to the rise of AI agents and even controversial shifts in federal education policies. With humor, candid debates, and actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for education professionals navigating the rapidly evolving landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• Non-Traditional Paid Media Investment: Colleges and universities poised for breakout growth in 2025 will channel marketing dollars into innovative areas like internal thought leadership and influencer strategies.
• AI Agents Revolution: AI will shift from applications to agents, automating tasks across enrollment marketing, student success, and social media management.
• Talent Migration Trends: A reversal may be on the horizon as professionals return to in-house higher ed roles, driven by stability and evolving compensation structures.
• Hyper-Personalization with Empathy: AI-powered, personalized interactions will redefine how institutions engage with prospective and current students, fostering stronger emotional connections and tailored experiences.
• Generative AI and Digital Strategy: The rise of AI search engines will force institutions to rethink their web content strategies to remain visible and authoritative.

Key Questions and Insights

1. How will marketing evolve for higher education institutions in 2025? 
Seth predicts a significant shift in marketing strategies, moving beyond traditional digital ads to non-traditional paid media investments. By allocating budgets to internal content engines and thought leadership, institutions can tap into micro-influencers, leveraging their niche expertise to bolster institutional branding. This approach disrupts the typical Google and Facebook ad spend model, allowing institutions to innovate.

2. What is the difference between AI applications and AI agents, and why does it matter? 
Mallory outlines the shift from human-driven AI applications to self-sufficient AI agents. AI agents can automate complex processes like monitoring inquiries, flagging at-risk students, or managing real-time social media strategies, reducing operational costs and human error. This evolution will be pivotal for enrollment teams looking to streamline workflows and enhance outreach.

3. How will generative AI reshape the higher ed digital experience? 
As AI-powered search engines become more conversational and answer-focused, traditional SEO strategies will need a revamp. Institutions must ensure their websites offer rich, authoritative content to maintain visibility in zero-click searches. Faculty collaboration in updating departmental pages is crucial to remain competitive in this new digital ecosystem.

4. Will talent return to higher education institutions? 
Seth argues that economic instability in the private sector, paired with improving compensation and remote work opportunities in higher ed, could lead to a migration of skilled professionals back to campuses. However, Mallory counters with skepticism, citing ongoing frustrations within campus environments and a lack of technological adoption.

5. How can AI enable empathetic engagement with students? 
Hyper-personalization powered by AI will go beyond addressing logistical barriers to fostering deeper emotional connections with students. Tailored communication, academic pathways, and proactive interventions will enhance student success and retention, particularly for at-risk populations like first-gen students and part-time learners.

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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 chats with Nate Jorgensen, Senior Director of Marketing at Miami University in Ohio, to discuss two exciting topics: empowering students through podcasting and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in higher education. From showcasing authentic student experiences through podcasting to addressing fears around AI adoption, this episode offers a refreshing take on how universities can innovate in meaningful and impactful ways.

Key Takeaways

• Student-Driven Podcasting: Miami University's student-hosted podcast, Major Insight, highlights real student experiences, breaking down barriers for prospective and current students alike.
• AI as a Tool, Not a Threat: Nate candidly shares his own apprehensions about AI, emphasizing its potential to enhance, rather than replace, human creativity and authenticity in marketing.
• Overcoming Fear of the Unknown: Institutions, including Miami, are navigating AI guidelines to encourage thoughtful, ethical adoption without stifling innovation.
• Real-Life Inspiration: Personal connections to content—whether through podcasting or using AI—can drive engagement and create authentic narratives.

Nate Jorgensen shared the journey of revitalizing Major Insight, Miami University's student-hosted podcast. Initially tucked away in a small department, this initiative grew under Nate’s leadership into a dynamic, impactful platform. Students share their raw, real-life experiences—addressing homesickness, academic challenges, and personal growth—offering a relatable resource for their peers and prospective students.

By amplifying student voices, the podcast has become a bridge between institutional transparency and student engagement. Nate highlighted how this medium allows students to tackle taboo or overlooked questions, such as "Do dorms provide toilet paper?" Humor aside, such questions reflect the genuine uncertainties prospective students face. The podcast breaks the "perfect college life" façade and creates a space where vulnerability inspires connection.

Nate’s openness about his AI journey reflects a broader hesitation within higher education: fear of inauthenticity and job displacement. Yet, as Mallory emphasized, AI is simply a tool—akin to a pen—that can help institutions achieve their goals faster and more efficiently.

At Miami University, AI adoption varies across departments. For example, the marketing team sees AI as an ally to streamline content creation, while the news team remains cautious to preserve human-authored authenticity. Despite these differences, Nate recognizes the importance of institutional guidelines to demystify AI and encourage its thoughtful use. His goal? To move past fear and embrace AI as a partner in storytelling and efficiency.

Nate shared a moving anecdote about a student's research on stress responses that inspired him personally. With undergraduate research becoming a passion of his, Nate is planning to leverage AI to draft a story about this experience. He acknowledged that AI can help overcome creative blocks, allowing him to refine the narrative with his unique voice. This reflects the broader theme of using technology not as a replacement but as an enhancer of creativity.

This story underscores the importance of taking small, actionable steps in AI adoption. Whether starting with a fun project—like writing a snack-themed rap—or tackling larger initiatives, experimenting with AI can unlock transformative potential 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.

Mallory sits down with Rebecca Stapley, Director of Marketing and Communications at RIT’s College of Health Sciences and Technology and the School of Individualized Study. They chat live from the American Marketing Association (AMA) conference in Las Vegas, discussing Rebecca’s transition to college-specific marketing, her insights from the event, and her creative strategies for aligning institutional and college-level branding. From mastering brand photo shoots to leveraging artificial intelligence, Rebecca offers invaluable advice for higher education marketers.

Key Takeaways

• Brand cohesion: Use overarching institutional branding as a foundation for college-specific storytelling.
• Brand photo shoot preparation: Prioritize pre-shoot organization with mood boards (swipes) and creative briefs to optimize results.
• AI in higher education marketing: Leverage AI as a creative assistant to overcome writer’s block, brainstorm, and enhance efficiency.
• Community collaboration: Building connections with faculty, staff, and students strengthens messaging and insights.

What is it like to attend AMA for the first time? 
Rebecca shares her experience attending her first AMA conference, noting the lively and supportive atmosphere. She emphasizes how the higher education community fosters unique connections, which made her experience even more meaningful.

What are the top takeaways from AMA 2023? 
Rebecca highlights the session on “Mastering the Art of the Brand Shoot” as a standout. She explains how to organize successful brand shoots, from using student actors to creating mood boards that capture the intended aesthetic. She plans to integrate these strategies into her own team’s creative processes.

How does institutional branding intersect with college-level identity? 
Rebecca explains the challenge of balancing RIT’s overarching brand identity with the specific needs of her college. Her approach involves crafting messaging guides that answer two key questions: Why this field of study? and Why RIT? She distills these insights into concise, compelling elevator pitches while maintaining alignment with the university’s core values and brand strengths.

How can higher education marketers think about brand identity creatively? 
Using a Ted Lasso-inspired analogy, Rebecca compares institutional branding to a cohesive soccer team. She illustrates how individual colleges can maintain unique personalities (e.g., Roy Kent’s seriousness or Sam Obisanya’s compassion) while contributing to the university’s larger goals. This perspective makes brand identity more relatable and actionable for marketing teams.

What is the role of AI in higher education marketing? 
Rebecca embraces AI as a creative and strategic tool, using it to streamline brainstorming and overcome creative blocks. While RIT is still formalizing AI policies, Rebecca appreciates the flexibility to experiment and share insights with her team. She views AI as a dynamic resource that reduces operational burdens, allowing marketers to focus on strategy and creativity.

How can institutions support AI adoption? 
RIT is working through the process of establishing AI guidelines while encouraging exploration. Rebecca stresses the importance of creating adaptable policies, given the constantly evolving nature of AI technology.

What advice does Rebecca have for marketers? 
Rebecca advises leaning into your community—faculty, staff, and students—as a source of strength and insight. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and shared purpose in building effective marketing strategies.

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

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Mallory sits down with Santhana Naidu, VP of Marketing and Communications at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, live at the AMA Conference. Together, they explore the transformative role of AI in higher education marketing, from enhancing team efficiency to fostering creativity. Santhana shares actionable insights on navigating resource constraints and adopting AI tools for strategic advantage. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your AI journey, this conversation offers invaluable takeaways.

• Embrace AI for Efficiency: AI can alleviate workload by automating repetitive tasks, enabling teams to focus on creativity and strategy.
• Leadership is Key: Leaders must invest time in understanding AI to guide their teams effectively.
• Transparency Matters: Educating stakeholders about AI’s use and benefits is crucial for institutional buy-in.
• Empower Teams: Encourage staff to experiment with AI tools and share insights, fostering a culture of innovation.
• Leverage Resources: Collaborate with internal and external experts to expand your understanding of AI applications.

Santhana highlights AI’s potential to transform higher education marketing by increasing productivity and personalizing user experiences. For institutions with resource constraints, AI can automate routine tasks and reduce burnout among teams. By focusing on efficiency, tools like ChatGPT and Apple AI help marketing teams streamline their operations while maintaining creativity and innovation.

He emphasizes the importance of leaders investing time in learning AI to overcome skepticism and drive adoption. This approach not only empowers teams but also ensures alignment with institutional goals.

Santhana addresses common concerns about AI and job displacement by reframing AI as an enabler rather than a threat. In under-resourced environments, AI helps teams achieve more without overworking staff. By automating mundane tasks, team members have more bandwidth for strategic and creative projects. This leads to a more engaged, balanced workforce and better results for the institution.

He also shares an example from Rose-Hulman’s summer retreat, where team members explored AI tools to enhance their workflows. Such initiatives demonstrate how AI can inspire collaboration and continuous learning within teams.

Santhana recommends two key strategies for leaders looking to adopt AI:

1. Empower Teams: Give staff the freedom to explore AI tools and report back on their usefulness. This hands-on approach fosters innovation and builds confidence.
2. Foster Transparency: Share how AI is being used with stakeholders to alleviate concerns and build trust. Highlighting ethical usage and clear benefits helps secure buy-in from leadership.

He also stresses the value of tapping into existing resources, such as internal experts or academic courses, to build institutional expertise in AI.

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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.