In this high-energy follow-up episode, Brendan Henkel sits back down with Abe Dones, VP of Student Services, and Jessica Vaughan, Director of Enrollment Management and CRM Strategy at Durham Tech, to unpack how their team is transforming student success from a one-time alert into a continuous, high-touch strategy. The duo shares how they’ve implemented the “Early Success System” using Element451 to blend human connection with smart automation—and the ripple effect it’s having across campus. Spoiler: it’s not just helping students, it’s inspiring staff to get curious and rethink their own workflows.

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

Guest Bios: 
Dr. Abe Dones - Abe Dones is the Vice President of Student Services at Durham Tech, dedicated to enhancing the student experience through leadership, innovation, and support. Proudly Puerto Rican and hailing from Philadelphia, Abe brings a dynamic energy to his work — much like his passion for the Superbowl Champs Eagles. "Blow the whistle!" is more than just a game-day rally; it reflects his drive to break down barriers and create pathways for student access, success, and economic mobility. Whether leading transformation, streamlining processes, or improving efficiency, Abe is all about building community and championing growth. 

Jessica Vaughan - Jessica Vaughan is the Director of Enrollment Management and CRM Strategy at Durham Tech, specializing in project implementation and management, process improvement, and efficiency. Whether leading projects in Element451 or coordinating the Early Success System pilot, Jessica approaches every challenge with strategic purpose, ensuring all the moving parts come together seamlessly. Her passion for organization and planning isn’t limited to work — it’s the secret sauce that keeps her projects running smoothly. From managing data workflows to juggling family schedules and caring for her pets, Jessica believes that a little structure, a lot of teamwork, and some laughter make anything possible.

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Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Daniella Nordin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellanordin/
Brendan Henkel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkhenkel/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
In Your Element is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com. 

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Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register