By Daniella Nordin and Brendan Henkel
5
33 ratings
The podcast currently has 40 episodes available.
In this episode of In Your Element, recorded live at AMA in Las Vegas, Brendan reconnects with Michael Bettersworth, CMO at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), to delve into critical trends and challenges impacting higher education. They discuss the concerning decline in student enrollment, the importance of aligning educational offerings with workforce demands, and how institutions can adopt a more student-centered approach. Michael also shares how TSTC’s partnership with Element 451 has transformed the student application experience and highlights the need for seamless collaboration across departments to ensure long-term viability in higher ed.
Key TakeawaysWhat Trends Are Shaping the Future of Higher Education?
As institutions face increasing closures—now averaging one per week—Michael Bettersworth warns of the serious financial and demographic pressures reshaping the industry. With declining enrollment rates, especially for four-year colleges, he notes that institutions must adapt to changing student needs and labor market demands. Michael emphasizes that many institutions will need to reconsider their offerings, particularly those with low enrollment in specific programs. Schools without substantial endowments or government subsidies must confront market realities, ensuring their programs have both academic and financial sustainability to survive in the years to come.
How Can Colleges Align Programs with Workforce Needs?
Michael underscores the importance of outcome-based education for institutions, especially those focused on workforce-oriented programs. He suggests that colleges must continually engage with local employers to understand labor market demands and update their curricula accordingly. He shares an example from TSTC, which has developed partnerships with industry leaders like Tesla to provide students with clear career pathways post-graduation. This realignment process is rigorous and often involves closing underperforming programs that do not provide meaningful job opportunities for graduates. By focusing on placement rates, earnings, and debt ratios, institutions can ensure their programs remain relevant and sustainable.
What Role Does Element 451 Play in Improving the Enrollment Process?
TSTC’s partnership with Element 451 has transformed its application process, reducing abandonment rates from 75% to nearly zero. Michael praises Element’s ability to create a user-friendly application experience that is mobile-responsive and free of complex jargon, which can be especially intimidating for first-generation students. Element’s Student Hub offers a warm, welcoming environment where prospective students can track their application status and receive tailored content relevant to their program interests. By integrating with TSTC’s broader enrollment system, Element not only simplifies the application experience but also enhances student engagement, helping TSTC retain students and set them up for success from the start.
How Important Is Cross-Department Collaboration in Enhancing Student Experience?
Creating a positive student experience in higher ed requires close collaboration across IT, enrollment, and marketing teams. Michael points out that customer experience is often neglected in higher ed because no single department fully owns it. However, achieving a student-centered approach necessitates these teams working together with empathy and openness to feedback. He encourages institutions to move away from siloed structures, suggesting that a unified approach to student experience—from application through graduation—is crucial for retention. When IT, enrollment, and marketing departments work in harmony, institutions can foster a supportive environment that not only attracts but retains students throughout their academic journey.
What’s the Long-Term Vision for Higher Education’s Financial Health?
As the conversation wraps up, Michael reflects on the importance of financial sustainability for higher ed institutions. TSTC made a significant shift from funding based on contact hours to a model focused on student earnings and placement rates—a move that has increased appropriations and bolstered student success. He argues that institutions must adopt a financial model that emphasizes outcomes over enrollment numbers to remain viable. This shift toward accountability requires bold leadership and a willingness to make hard decisions about program offerings, ensuring that institutions can deliver real value to students and taxpayers alike.
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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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, recorded live at AMA in Las Vegas, Brendan sits down with Mike Margolies, CEO of NextGrad, and Ryan Barbauld, VP of College Partnerships at NextGrad, to explore the innovative ways they’re transforming out-of-home advertising in higher education. They discuss the value of partnerships in higher ed, how NextGrad leverages billboards in high schools to enhance student engagement, and the impact of collaborative efforts among education-focused companies. Listen in to hear how strategic partnerships and community-oriented approaches are reshaping student recruitment.
Key Takeaways
What Makes NextGrad’s Approach to Student Engagement Unique?
NextGrad offers a pioneering way to reach prospective college students by placing billboards directly within high schools across the U.S. and Canada. Unlike traditional out-of-home advertising, which relies on highway billboards or transit ads, NextGrad’s billboards are positioned in high-traffic areas inside schools, such as main entrances and hallways. These digital displays bring universities’ messages directly to students multiple times a day, making NextGrad a powerful complement to existing digital marketing strategies for colleges and universities.
Why Are Partnerships So Crucial in Higher Education Marketing?
Mike and Ryan highlight the importance of strategic partnerships in higher ed. NextGrad collaborates closely with agencies, institutions, and other companies to provide a multi-channel approach to student engagement. This partnership approach allows universities and marketing agencies to elevate their reach, particularly in local markets where students live and attend high school. By aligning with other companies that share a mission of student success, NextGrad not only strengthens its impact but also creates a network of resources that benefit students, institutions, and the community.
How Does NextGrad Choose Billboard Locations in High Schools?
Strategic placement is central to NextGrad’s mission. Mike explains that when entering a high school, NextGrad consults with school leaders to determine where students gather most. Locations are selected based on foot traffic patterns, ensuring that billboards are seen consistently throughout the day. From bustling corridors to school cafeterias, the goal is to capture students' attention in environments where they naturally spend time. In areas like Las Vegas, where schools often feature open-air layouts, NextGrad adjusts placement to make the most of each unique setting.
How Does NextGrad Empower Students Through Targeted Advertising?
NextGrad believes in the power of engagement, aiming to reach students directly and foster informed decision-making. Their out-of-home advertising approach empowers students by placing information within their daily environment, allowing them to become active participants in the college search. Ryan shared how NextGrad’s “three E’s”—empower, excite, and engage—serve as guiding principles in reaching high school students. This approach ensures that students encounter valuable college-related information that informs and inspires their choices, creating a more collaborative decision-making process between students and their families.
What Are Some Success Stories from NextGrad’s Partnerships?
An inspiring example comes from NextGrad’s work with the College of Western Idaho (CWI). As an institution deeply invested in student-centered engagement, CWI partnered with NextGrad to target prospective students directly within Idaho high schools. This collaboration has helped CWI extend its reach in local communities, ensuring students are well-informed about opportunities at CWI. By aligning with schools that prioritize student experience, NextGrad is able to provide meaningful support that resonates with students, educators, and parents alike.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, hosts Daniella and Brendan are joined by Brandi Hess, Director of University Web and Digital Content at the University of Southern Indiana (USI). Brandi shares USI’s journey as the first-ever "Bolt-only" partner with Element451, implementing the AI-powered chatbot Archie. She discusses how this tool transformed the student experience by answering key questions, addressing gaps in knowledge, and reducing workload for staff. Tune in for insights into how AI chatbots can solve real student problems while revealing opportunities for improvement in university processes.
Key Takeaways:
Calls to Action:
Guest Name: Brandi Hess, Director of University Web and Digital Content, University of Southern Indiana
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandihess/
Guest Bio: Brandi Hess is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in graphic and web design, specializing in evolving technologies and digital strategies. As the Director of University Web and Digital Content at the University of Southern Indiana, she leads a team to enhance the university’s web presence and user engagement. With expertise in UX/UI design, branding, SEO, and analytics, Brandi combines creativity with strategic insight. She also holds an MBA with a focus on Data Analytics and has contributed to education and community initiatives, including teaching and career mentoring.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode, Brian Emerson, Executive VP of Enrollment Management at Villa Maria College, shares how the small, Buffalo-based college achieved record-breaking enrollment growth (15% in 2023 and 14% in 2024). From struggling with disappearing students in 2020 to hosting over 1,500 campus visits and increasing applications by over 300 in 2023, Brian breaks down the hands-on tactics and tech-driven strategies that made it all possible. His team’s focus on creating personalized campus experiences and leveraging tools like Element led to remarkable success. Listen in for practical insights on revitalizing recruitment in today’s challenging higher ed landscape.
Key Takeaways:
Calls to Action:
Guest Name: Brian Emerson, Executive Vice President, Title IX Coordinator, Corporate Compliance Officer, Villa Maria College Enrollment Management
Guest Socials:
X: https://x.com/Emersonbrianj
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjemerson/
Guest Bio: Brian Emerson has over 20 years of experience in higher education enrollment management, student affairs, athletics, and college operations. He is currently the executive vice president of Villa Maria College outside of Buffalo, NY.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, recorded live at the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) Conference, Daniella interviews Kelly Sinacola, VP of Solutions Engineering and Integrations at Element451, and Jennifer Mayo, Director of Admissions and Records at Wayne Community College. They discuss the benefits of integrating the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) application with Element451, highlighting how it streamlines admissions processes, reduces data duplication, and saves time for admissions teams. Jennifer shares Wayne's impressive enrollment growth and how the integration has simplified their workflows, allowing them to focus more on serving students.
Key Takeaways:
Calls to Action:
Guest Names:
Jennifer Mayo, Director of Admissions + Records, Wayne Community College
Kelly Sinacola, VP of Solutions Engineering and Integrations, Element451
Guest Socials:
Jennifer Mayo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mayo-a230368b
Kelly Sinacola - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-sinacola/
Guest Bios:
Jennifer Mayo is the Director of Admissions and Records at Wayne Community College, where she leads efforts to streamline admissions processes and enhance student enrollment experiences. With a strong background in managing student data and integrating technology into higher education, Jennifer has been instrumental in implementing the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) integration with Element451, which has significantly reduced manual tasks and increased enrollment at Wayne. Known for her creative problem-solving and commitment to improving workflows, Jennifer is passionate about using technology to simplify admissions and support student success.
Kelly Sinacola brings over 15 years of experience in the higher education industry. Prior to joining Element451 as VP, Solution Engineering and Integration, she held positions in IT in end user support, web development, and Ellucian Colleague development before moving into consulting with Ferrilli in November 2011. While with the Ferrilli team, she worked with clients on developing solutions, managing projects, and leading technical teams to implement new features before moving into an executive leadership position leading services within Ellucian Colleague, Anthology, Workday, CRM platforms, software development and Security, Cloud, and Infrastructure supporting Ferrilli’s mission to improve student success for higher education institutions.
Kelly has a deep understanding of user issues and the ability to articulate technical processes clearly. This helps as she facilitates conversations across departments to solicit process improvement and systemic change.
Kelly holds a bachelor’s degree from Northwood University, with a dual major in business administration and management information systems. Her master’s in educational technology from Central Michigan University gives her additional insight into the teaching and learning process.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, co-hosts Daniella Nordin and Brendan Henkel sit down with Lenell Hahn, Director of Admissions at Southeast Missouri State University, to explore the transformative power of direct admissions. Lenell shares the journey from the initial concept to implementation, revealing the challenges, successes, and lessons learned along the way. The conversation delves into how direct admissions is simplifying the college application process, increasing accessibility, and driving enrollment success. With practical insights into leveraging technology and data, Lenell offers a masterclass in change management, showing how institutions can innovate and adapt to better serve students. Whether you’re in admissions, marketing, or student success, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories that will resonate with all higher education professionals.
Key Takeaways:
Start Small and Iterate: Southeast Missouri State began their direct admissions journey by targeting a specific student population—dual enrollment students—before expanding to broader groups like transfer students. Starting small allowed them to refine their processes and scale effectively.
Removing Barriers for Students: Direct admissions at Southeast Missouri State removes the need for a traditional application, offering students an automatic pathway to admission based on existing data. This approach simplifies the process and helps reduce students' fear of failure, encouraging more to pursue higher education.
Technology as an Enabler: The use of Element451 and other tools allowed Southeast Missouri State to streamline their admissions process. By importing data and automating offers of admission, the university was able to efficiently manage applications and personalize student communication.
Importance of Campus Visits: Data revealed that students who visited the campus were twice as likely to enroll, highlighting the critical role of in-person engagement in the decision-making process.
Flexibility and Adaptation: The institution’s willingness to adapt—first by developing an in-house direct admissions process and then by expanding through a partnership—demonstrates the importance of flexibility and creativity in overcoming challenges.
Calls to Action:
Guest Name: Lennell Hahn, Director of Admissions, Southeast Missouri State University
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenellhahn/
Guest Bio: Lennell Hahn joined the Admissions Team in July 2003 and has served as Director of Admissions since January 2013. Prior to this role, she was the Associate Director of Admissions from June 2011 to December 2012, Associate Director of Admissions for Operations and Communications from April 2009 to June 2011, Assistant Director of Admissions for Communications from July 2007 to March 2009, and Admission Web Counselor from July 2003 to June 2007.
As Director of Admissions, Lennell provides leadership by developing and implementing strategies to attract, enroll, and retain new students, advocating for access to higher education. The Office of Admissions offers pre-college awareness, recruitment, and counseling services to prospective students, families, and school counselors, executing an annual recruitment program to meet the University's enrollment goals.
She oversees adherence to the University's admission policy and processes undergraduate and graduate applications for all campuses, including regional and online programs.
Southeast challenged and believed in Lennell when she was a student. The relationships she built with faculty and staff were key to seeing her potential and encouraging involvement and leadership. From being a founding member of Omicron Delta Kappa's chapter at SEMO to winning first place in the Delta Epsilon Chi national competition and traveling abroad to four European countries, these experiences have shaped who she is today.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this special live episode from the North Carolina Community College System Conference, Daniella sits down with Kris Burris, Vice President of Student Success and Enrollment Management at College of the Albemarle (COA). Kris shares how COA leverages Element451 to address enrollment challenges, foster student success, and reach underserved communities. From tackling resistance to new technology to promoting wrap-around services for students, this episode is packed with insights on creating meaningful change in higher education.
Key Takeaways:
Calls to Action:
Guest Name: Kris Burris, Ed.S.Vice President, Student Success and Enrollment Management (SSEM)
Guest Bio: Kris Burris joined COA in 2020. Ms. Burris has a significant background in the South Carolina Technical College System. Previously, she served in a number of positions at Piedmont Technical College in Greenwood, South Carolina including adjunct instructor, Director of Student Support Services programs and Director of Dual Enrollment. In her vice president role at COA, Ms. Burris provides leadership and oversight for admissions and recruitment, financial aid and scholarships, student life and leadership, advising, career services, dual enrollment, student conduct and Title IX.
In addition, Ms. Burris currently serves as the NC Reconnect Lead, an Adult Learner Research Affiliate for the Belk Center, a member of the NC Career Coach Advisory Board, and the Northeastern Representative for the NC Student Development Administrators Association.
Ms. Burris earned an educational specialist degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College, a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Wofford College, and an Associate in Science degree from Spartanburg Methodist College.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, Brendan Henkel talks with Luis Caloca, Dean of Student Access at the College of Western Idaho (CWI) and winner of the 2024 Student Centric Institution Award. Luis shares how CWI has transformed its approach to student access and engagement using Element451. From fostering buy-in for new technology to leveraging AI for improved efficiency, Luis offers actionable insights on how institutions can better serve students. He also shares the impressive results of their recent efforts, including a dramatic increase in event attendance and streamlined student communications. Tune in to learn how CWI is setting new standards for student-centered leadership in higher education.
Key Takeaways:
Calls to Action:
Guest Name: Luis Caloca, Dean of Student Access, College of Western Idaho
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luiscaloca/
Guest Bio: Luis Caloca grew up in the agricultural heart of Treasure Valley, where he worked in the fields before pursuing higher education at Boise State University. After earning his bachelor’s degree, he returned for a master’s in public administration and later obtained the Strategic Enrollment Management Endorsement from the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in higher education administration.
Luis began his career in higher education in 2003 as a Career Counselor at Boise State and played a key role in founding the College of Western Idaho (CWI) in 2008. Now overseeing Admissions and One Stop Student Services at CWI, he is dedicated to improving student access through innovative use of technology, policy revisions, and effective communication strategies.
An active member of several professional associations, Luis has presented at regional conferences on topics including Idaho’s Direct Admissions Initiative and the integration of AI in higher education. He also contributes to his community as a board member for various organizations, including the Idaho Hispanic Business Association and the Nampa Schools Foundation.
In his free time, Luis enjoys spending time with family, gaming, exploring Nampa’s downtown, dancing, and karaoke.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, Cherron R. Hoppes, EdD, Chief Experience Officer at Notre Dame de Namur University, shares her extensive experience in higher education leadership, focusing on change management and technology adoption. With a background spanning student affairs, enrollment management, and academic program development, Cherron discusses the importance of empathy, strategic thinking, and clear communication in successfully leading change initiatives, particularly when introducing new technology in higher ed. She also highlights the value of understanding the "why" behind decisions and the dangers of over-customization.
Key Takeaways:
Calls to Action:
Guest Name: Cherron R Hoppes, EdD, Chief Experience Officer, Notre Dame de Namur
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherronhoppes/
Guest Bio: Cherron Hoppes is a seasoned higher education professional specializing in academic administration, enrollment management, and technology to support student services. She has diverse experience in mid-sized public and small private institutions, working with traditional undergraduates and adult learners. Cherron offers thought leadership through conferences, webinars, and collaborations, helping over 35 universities enhance student engagement and retention. Her expertise spans enrollment management consulting, operations assessment, instructional design, and learning outcomes assessment. She contributes part-time to Notre Dame de Namur University, focusing on strategic turnaround, and Texas A&M Kingsville, facilitating change management.
Previously, Cherron was the Chief Academic Officer at Ruffalo Noel Levitz and Helix Education, and Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University’s Ageno School of Business. Her responsibilities included managing outreach, admissions, academic advising, international student services, career services, counseling, disability services, student life, graduation certification, and commencement. She also taught business management, American government, and student success courses as an adjunct faculty member.
Cherron holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice and an M.P.A. from New Mexico State University, and an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from The University of Alabama.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
In this episode of In Your Element, we sit down with Ryan Hogan, VP of Enrollment Management, Marketing, and Communication at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC), and the 2024 Boltie Award winner for Student Engagement. Ryan shares how ABAC is setting new standards for personalized student engagement using strategic communication and technology. He emphasizes the importance of making every student feel wanted by the institution and highlights how data-driven decisions and collaborative efforts are key to transforming higher ed.
Key TakeawaysGuest Name: Ryan M. Hogan, Vice President, Enrollment Management, Marketing, & Communication, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Guest Bio: Ryan Hogan is the Vice President for Enrollment Management, Marketing, and Communication for Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC). Hogan began his career in 2000 as a student assistant at Valdosta State University (VSU). Upon earning his degree in 2004, he started a career in the Office of Admissions where he held the roles of Admissions Counselor (2004-2011), Associate Director of Admissions (2011-2015), and Director of Admissions (2015-2022). Mr. Hogan has a wide range of experience which includes automation of communication and document processing through customer relationship management systems (CRM). He also is well-versed in marketing campaigns to drive enrollment initiatives. When not at work, Mr. Hogan is a proud husband to Micha and father to Abram (13) and Archer (9). The Hogans are avid travelers and aspire to visit all the national parks in the country, having visited 10 out of 63 sites so far.
- - - -
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! Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
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
The podcast currently has 40 episodes available.
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