Recorded at the NAGAP GEM Summit, Mallory chats with Spenser Smith, Director of Admissions for Graduate Business Programs at Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Spenser shares his insights on navigating the complexities of admissions in a post-affirmative action world, and introduces us to the innovative, holistic admissions process designed to foster diversity and inclusion at Haslam.

• Impact of Supreme Court Decisions: The team at Haslam quickly adapted their admissions strategies following the Supreme Court's 2023 ruling on affirmative action, reinforcing their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all students.
• Holistic Admissions Process: Haslam College has introduced a revamped holistic admissions process that assesses applicants on more than just their academic and professional achievements, aiming for a more inclusive and diverse student body.
• Collaborative Decision Making: The admissions committee at Haslam includes representatives from various departments, ensuring multiple perspectives are considered during the admissions process.

Guest Name: Spenser Smith, Director of Graduate Admissions, Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Guest Bio: Currently the Director of Graduate Admissions at the Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Spenser Smith draws on a diverse background, including years in Admissions at both graduate and undergraduate levels in both the public and private sectors. With nearly a decade's immersion in enrollment management, he focuses on intentional communication to foster a sense of belonging for all, interweaving insights into personal growth and connections, which all began by guiding at-risk youth during high-ropes experiences.

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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.

Live at the NAGAP GEM Summit, Mallory sits down with Ryan Taughrin, Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management at the University at Buffalo's Graduate School of Education. Ryan shares his experiences and challenges of being a millennial manager, especially navigating the abrupt transition to remote work at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses his approach to leadership, emphasizing flexibility, servant leadership, and the importance of balancing work life with personal life to empower his team.

Key Takeaways:

• Adapting to Change: Ryan was thrust into remote management just days after starting his role, highlighting the importance of adaptability in leadership.
• Servant Leadership: Focus on prioritizing people over processes to foster a supportive team environment.
• Professional Growth: Encourages continuous learning and professional development outside traditional academic resources.
• Empowering Flexibility: Implements a hybrid work model to accommodate different working styles and life commitments, demonstrating trust and respect for team autonomy.
• Community and Connection: Underlines the importance of creating connection points for teams, even in remote settings.
• Balancing Roles: Ryan shares personal anecdotes to model work-life balance, encouraging his team to manage work without sacrificing personal responsibilities.

Guest Name:  Ryan Taughrin, Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management  at the University at Buffalo's Graduate School of Education

Guest Bio: Ryan Taughrin is the Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management at the University at Buffalo's Graduate School of Education. He has spent the last decade working in graduate enrollment management. His primary focus areas are staff support and mentorship, recruitment practices for adult and non-traditional students, and developing programming to disenchant the hidden curriculum within graduate school admission. He has also spent the last seven years involved in NYGAP and NAGAP, hoping to build community with other folks across the GEM lifecycle. When he's not working, he loves spending time collecting records, enjoying bourbon with friends, riding his Peloton, and spending time with his family. And most important, Go Bills.

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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.

Dr. Chris Lewis, Director of Graduate Programs at the University of Michigan, Flint, joins Mallory Willsea live from the NAGAP GEM Summit. They dive into the impact and insights from Dr. Lewis's extensive podcasting experience, both personally and professionally. With a focus on enhancing student engagement and recruitment, Dr. Lewis shares how his podcast, 'Victors in Grad School,' has become a strategic tool in connecting with and guiding prospective students.

• Podcasting as a Strategic Tool: Dr. Lewis leverages his podcast to answer frequent queries from students, effectively using it as a platform to guide and inform prospective and current students.
• Personal Journey to Professional Impact: Starting from a personal desire to share his experiences as a father, Dr. Lewis has expanded his reach to influence the higher education space, particularly in graduate studies.
• Content Utilization Across Platforms: Insights from podcast episodes are repurposed across digital channels, enhancing accessibility and engagement with university content.
• Success Through Storytelling: Sharing compelling stories, like that of a first-gen student turned physics professor in Australia, underscores the transformative power of education and mentorship.
• Sustaining Engagement: Consistency in content delivery and adapting to listener feedback are critical for podcast growth and impact.
• Measuring Impact: Dr. Lewis discusses the challenges of quantifying the direct impact of podcasts but highlights the importance of gradual growth and listener engagement as indicators of success.

Guest Name: Dr. Chris Lewis, Director of Graduate Programs at the University of Michigan - Flint

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

Guest Bio: Christopher A. Lewis, Ed.D serves as the Director of Graduate Programs at the University of Michigan - Flint. He is also the host of the Victors in Grad School podcast, amongst a number of other podcasts, including SA Voices from the Field and Dads with Daughters. Christopher is the President of the Rotary Club of Williamston Michigan and is the Treasurer of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education and was honored recently as a Pillar of the Profession from the NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education Foundation. He also co-founded an international organization called Fathering Together which supports fathers in being engaged members of their children’s lives.

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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 tackle the critical and complex challenges facing faith-based institutions, particularly Christian colleges. With a special focus on the startling rate of institutional closures, the discussion dives into the shifting landscapes of enrollment, market demands, and religious affiliation.

• Enrollment Trends: Christian colleges are facing a notable decline in enrollment and school closures that have spiked post-pandemic.
• Market Dynamics: Shifts in market demand away from liberal arts to more career-oriented outcomes and increased price sensitivity are notably affecting faith-based institutions.
• Cultural Shifts: A national move away from religious affiliation is putting additional pressure on faith-based schools.
• Regional Influences: Geographic location plays a significant role, with institutions in the Bible Belt experiencing sustained interest compared to those in the Northeast facing severe declines.
• Strategic Responses: Successful strategies for growth include diversifying academic offerings, clarifying brand differentiation beyond just being a Christian institution, and innovative tuition models.

https://universitybusiness.com/after-exhausting-all-avenues-to-avoid-going-under-notre-dame-college-closes
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-02-21/notre-dame-s-tiny-namesake-shows-plight-of-religious-colleges?embedded-checkout=true
https://www.highereddive.com/news/are-faith-based-colleges-in-trouble-it-depends/690597/

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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.

Brett DiMarzo, the Director of Graduate Enrollment Digital Strategy at Boston College, shares his extensive experience and unique strategies in enhancing digital engagement across various graduate programs. From leveraging advanced digital tools to crafting personalized communication across multiple platforms, Brett dives into the intricacies of creating a cohesive digital presence that caters to prospective students effectively.

• Strategic Integration: Brett emphasizes the importance of a coordinated digital strategy that integrates various communication channels—from social media to text messaging—to create a seamless student recruitment experience.
• Innovative Use of Technology: Exploring cutting-edge digital platforms and tools, such as AI and student engagement platforms, to improve interaction with students and streamline the enrollment process.
• Continuous Learning and Adaptation: The ongoing process of adapting to new digital trends and technologies to maintain a competitive edge in graduate recruitment.

Guest Name: Brett DiMarzo, Director of Graduate Enrollment Digital Strategy, Boston College

Guest Bio: Brett DiMarzo has been in the field of higher education for over 18 years and is currently the Director of Graduate Enrollment Digital Strategy at Boston College. After graduating from his bachelor’s degree program at Stetson University, he initially spent time as part of the management team within the Walt Disney Consumer Products division, enhancing his customer service and leadership skills. Returning to the field of higher education in 2003, he began his professional career in Financial Aid at MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, later moving to the Office of Admission as the Assistant Director of Admission. He also spent several years as Associate Director of Graduate Admission at Suffolk University and led the recruitment and admission efforts as Director of Graduate Admission for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Simmons University prior to coming to BC. He received his Master of Education degree in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University in 2011, has served in several positions in the New England chapter of NAGAP, has presented at both national and regional NAGAP conferences, and currently sits on the NAGAP Leadership Cultivation and Elections Committee and the Education Committee.

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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.

Lauren McGowan, the Assistant Dean for Admissions and Enrollment at the University at Buffalo's School of Social Work, sits down with Mallory at NAGAP. Fresh from her recent promotion, Lauren shares her journey from Director of Recruitment and Admissions to her current role, emphasizing the diverse skill sets needed in higher education leadership, from student recruitment to budget management. She also dives into the critical role of continuous learning, value of teaching yourself new skills, and the promise of AI in academic settings.

• Career Evolution in Higher Ed: Lauren discusses her transition from recruitment to strategic decision-making roles, highlighting the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.
• Professional Development: Lauren's involvement in the Professional Development Committee at NAGAP, planning institutes and seminars that foster career growth for both new and experienced professionals.
• Self-Directed Learning: Lauren emphasizes the necessity of self-teaching in today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, with personal anecdotes about her learning journey and resource recommendations.
• Networking and Professional Growth: The significance of building and leveraging professional networks in advancing one's career in higher education.

Book Recommendation: https://annhandley.com/everybodywrites/

Guest Name: Lauren McGowan, Director of Recruitment and Admissions, University at Buffalo School of Social Work

Guest Bio: Lauren McGowan is the Assistant Dean for Admissions and Enrollment for the University at Buffalo School of Social Work where she has worked for over seven years.  She previously worked for the University at Buffalo School of Nursing as a Graduate Recruitment Coordinator and for D’Youville College as an Undergraduate Admissions Counselor. She has a master’s degree in higher education administration from Buffalo State University and has been working in enrollment management since she graduated in 2012. Lauren received NAGAP’s Visionary Award at the 2023 Summit and serves as a co-host for the NAGAP Report Podcast. In 2019, she received a NAGAP Winter PDI Fellowship and the National Deans and Directors of Social Work Admissions Rookie of the Year Award.

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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.

Live from the NAGAP conference in Louisville, Mallory sits down with Tony Fraga, CEO of DD Agency, to discuss the transformative strategies in graduate enrollment marketing. Celebrating 40 years in business, Tony offers a seasoned perspective on navigating the complexities of higher education marketing, from evolving digital strategies to smart resource allocation. Tony shares how the agency assists institutions in optimizing their graduate recruitment efforts amidst ongoing industry shifts.

• Evolution in Graduate Marketing: How digital marketing and content strategies have adapted to meet the unique needs of grad schools.
• Sustainable Strategies: Insight into effective marketing techniques that balance innovation with practical execution, such as leveraging email and selective digital advertising.
• The Importance of Strategy: Emphasis on the necessity of a focused marketing approach rather than an omni-channel strategy, especially in resource-strained environments.
• Leveraging Legacy and Experience: DD Agency's 40-year journey showcases the value of deep industry knowledge and long-term relationships in driving success.
• Adapting to Market Demands: Discussion on how graduate programs are pivoting strategies to counterbalance undergraduate enrollment declines.

Guest Name: Tony Fraga, CEO of DD Agency

Guest Bio: For the past 15 years, Tony has helped schools make the paradigm shift away from traditional marketing efforts to more innovative strategies and tactics to do marketing smarter. He also teaches education professionals through cohorts and individual coaching as an enrollment marketing consultant.

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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 debut episode of this new Pulse Check series on leadership in Higher Ed, listeners will learn about the difference between managing and  leading teams and how to navigate between the two as a leader. Additionally, leaders will learn strategies to support teams and learn from Jenny about how to balance this with the desire to build trust. We close with how to prioritize self care to be present for your teams.  

Host Name: Carrie Phillips

Host Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriehphillips/
https://www.twitter.com/carriehphillips/

Guest Name: Jenny Petty - University of Montana 

Guest Social:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennydurnanpetty/
https://twitter.com/iamjennypetty

- - - -

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 is joined by Winston Robert. Known as “Teacher in a Suit,” this innovative middle school teacher shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to influential educator. He discusses the integration of artificial intelligence in his classroom at KIPP New Jersey, and his exciting transition into UPenn’s Master’s in Education Entrepreneurship program. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how forward-thinking teachers are embracing — not fearing — artificial intelligence and preparing their young students.

Key Takeaways:

• Practical AI Applications: Winston Roberts utilizes AI to make his financial literacy classes more relevant and practical, preparing students for a future dominated by technology.
• Impact of AI on Jobs: Discussion on the transformative role AI will play in creating new job opportunities and the necessity to adapt educational curricula accordingly.
• Educational Innovation: Insight into Winston’s upcoming participation in UPenn’s innovative program, blending business acumen with educational reform.
• Advocacy for Modern Teaching Methods: Winston advocates for a shift in educational approaches to embrace technology and prepare students more effectively for future challenges.
• Career Transition: From a legal assistant to a pioneering educator, Winston’s career journey highlights the importance of impactful work over traditional paths.

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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.

Sharan Singh, VP of Strategic Partnerships from the Minerva Project, joins the Pulse to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on higher education. Recorded live at the ASU+GSV AIR Show, this discussion focuses on how Minerva is pioneering personalized learning experiences and shaping the future of educational models through strategic AI integration and partnerships.

Key Takeaways:

• Minerva’s Innovative Approach: The Minerva Project is at the forefront of educational innovation, using AI to tailor learning experiences and extend their impact through global partnerships.
• Potential of AI in Education: AI offers opportunities to overhaul traditional teaching methods, emphasizing personalized student engagement and efficient curriculum development.
• Navigating Challenges: While AI presents significant advancements, it also requires institutions to adapt swiftly to these changes to remain relevant and effective.
• Vision for the Future: The integration of AI could dramatically reshape education, making it crucial for leaders to proactively embrace these technologies.
• Leadership and Implementation Advice: Institutions should foster an environment open to innovation, engage directly with students in AI initiatives, and invest in new technologies to lead the educational transformation.

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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.