What does it really mean to be a small college—and to thrive as one?

In this special Book Club Edition of the Education Marketing Leader Podcast, host Chris Rapozo sits down with Dr. Gary Daines, author of How to Be a Small College, along with regular EML Book Club members from across higher ed and the agency world.

Together, they unpack the “growth or die” mindset that dominates U.S. higher education and explore a more sustainable, mission-driven alternative focused on community, clarity, and authentic excellence.

🧠 Key Takeaways

• Growth isn’t the only measure of success. Dr. Daines challenges the assumption that bigger is better—arguing that excellence, focus, and community impact define true institutional health.
• Mission-fit over market-share. Serving “the right students” means aligning programs, people, and messaging with the institution’s authentic purpose.
• Leadership as teaching. Effective presidents and administrators act as teachers—modeling learning, transparency, and reflection in every communication.
• Operational wisdom matters. From resource alignment to avoiding “amenities bloat,” sustainability requires discipline and courage to say no as much as yes.
• Community impact is the ultimate ROI. The most meaningful success stories aren’t always from Wall Street—they’re from graduates strengthening their local communities.

💬 Featured Voices

• Dr. Gary Daines, author and interim president, Salem Academy and College
• Chris Rapozo, host, Education Marketing Leader Podcast
• Rafi Dersimonian (ERI Design)
• Jill Whitaker (Southern Utah University)
• Troy Singer (Ring Digital / The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast)
• Jeff Ebbing (Southeastern Community College)
• Pablo Mora (University of Santiago, Chile)
• Denise Nunley (Arizona Christian University)
• Patrick Anderson (Chepers)

🔍 Conversation Highlights

• The “Apple Watch Analogy” of endless growth goals
• How to advocate for right-sizing without sounding anti-growth
• The tension between prestige and purpose—status vs excellence
• Faculty of Attention: focusing on what matters most
• Real-world stories from campuses around the globe navigating trust, leadership, and community crises

📚 Next Up

December 4 Book Club Meeting: The Go-Giver by Bob Burg — a timeless business parable about giving first to grow. Bob Burg himself will join the live discussion for a 30-minute Q&A.

Connect & Subscribe

Follow the Education Marketing Leader Podcast wherever you listen. 👉 Join the EML Book Club and get your next read at https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13140172/

Connect with Chris Rapozo on LinkedIn for upcoming sessions, insights, and community updates.