On this episode of In Your Element, we sit down with Emily Banks, an admissions representative from Faith Baptist Bible College, to discuss the game-changing improvements they made to their online degree application process. Emily shares how her team streamlined course selection, automated key communications, and integrated workflows to enhance the student experience. By leveraging Element’s automation tools, Faith Baptist simplified enrollment for students while reducing administrative burdens on staff. If you’re looking for actionable insights on optimizing the admissions journey, this episode is packed with quick wins and best practices.

Guest Name: Emily Banks, Admissions Representative, Faith Baptist Bible College 

Guest Social: http://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-banks-66b906348

Guest Bio: Emily Banks joined the Admissions team at Faith Baptist Bible College in 2022 and has been dedicated to growing and learning in her role ever since. She began as an Admissions Counselor before transitioning to a full-time traveling representative. She later returned to the office to take on the lead counselor position, where she now manages the communication and counselor team. Emily finds great joy in guiding students through the college decision process and helping them discover their place at Faith.

Originally from Wyoming, Emily cherishes her love for the mountains, hiking, and fly-fishing but is grateful to be in Iowa and part of the work happening at Faith. In addition to her role in Admissions, she serves as an assistant cross country coach. In her free time, she enjoys training for her first ultra-marathon.

• Simplifying enrollment increases engagement – Faith Baptist reduced student frustration by integrating course selection into the application process.
• Automation saves time and improves communication – Workflows and automated emails ensure students receive timely updates and next steps without requiring manual follow-ups.
• Internal collaboration is key – Aligning admissions, the registrar’s office, and financial aid through Element improved interdepartmental communication.
• Tracking student behavior leads to better retention – Monitoring how many students return for additional courses helps refine recruitment strategies.
• Improving the student experience drives enrollment growth – By removing friction in the admissions process, Faith Baptist has seen steady enrollment increases over the past eight years.

Faith Baptist Bible College noticed a major gap in its online enrollment process: after students submitted their applications, they were left to navigate course registration on their own. Many students struggled to find the right classes, register in Populi, and understand their next steps—leading to frustration and an influx of support calls.

To address these issues, Emily and her team introduced a supplemental form within Element, allowing students to select their courses immediately after submitting their application. Instead of requiring students to manually register, the registrar’s office now processes course enrollments seamlessly in the background. This simple but powerful change has made the transition from applicant to enrolled student much smoother.

One of the biggest improvements Faith Baptist made was automating key communications. Previously, students were often left wondering whether they had successfully registered for classes. Now, automated workflows send confirmation emails, course details, and book lists as soon as the registrar enrolls a student.

Faith Baptist also leveraged Element’s tags and labels to further personalize these emails. By assigning students to workflows based on the courses they enroll in, they receive customized information specific to their program—eliminating the need for manual follow-ups.

Beyond student-facing communications, automation also enhanced internal operations. Admissions staff and the registrar’s office now use status changes and task assignments to keep everyone on the same page. When a student is accepted, the registrar receives a notification, ensuring they don’t enroll students who haven’t been officially admitted.

Faith Baptist is tracking multiple metrics to measure the impact of these changes, including:

• Decrease in student complaints – Fewer students are calling with questions about enrollment.
• Higher re-enrollment rates – More students are taking additional online courses after their first experience.
• Faster completion of application steps – With clearer communication, students are submitting transcripts and completing financial aid forms more quickly.

While it’s still early, Faith Baptist is optimistic that these improvements will lead to higher conversion rates from online students to full-time degree-seeking students. Their admissions team is also seeing a major benefit: staff now have more time for proactive recruitment efforts instead of troubleshooting registration issues.

Faith Baptist Bible College’s success story proves that small but strategic changes can have a huge impact on both student satisfaction and enrollment growth. By focusing on automation, internal collaboration, and student experience, they’ve created a more efficient and welcoming admissions 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!

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 dive into the transformative work happening at Marshall B. Ketchum University (MBKU) with Tori Brady, CRM Data Manager, and Tom Rainey, Associate VP for Enrollment. They share how their team successfully centralized admissions, implemented automated workflows, and leveraged microsites to create a personalized and seamless student experience.

From a 18% increase in PA program applications to dramatically boosting event attendance, they discuss the power of automation without losing personalization. Plus, they highlight the importance of iterating on processes, leveraging data, and making technology a grounding force during institutional change.

This episode is packed with real-world insights for enrollment teams looking to streamline processes, free up staff for high-value student interactions, and use Element451 to its fullest potential.

Guest Names: 
Tori Brady, CRM Data Manager, Marshall B. Ketchum University
Tom Rainey, Associate Vice President for Enrollment, Marshall B. Ketchum University

Guest Socials: 
Tom - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-rainey/

Guest Bios: 
Tori Brady -Tori A. H. Brady is their Higher Education Consultant - currently working with MBKU as their CRM Data Manager. With over 15 years of experience in higher education, Tori specializes in project implementation, data analysis, and research to support colleges and universities in achieving their strategic goals. Having held roles in Housing and Residence Life, Admissions, and Student Activities/Engagement at schools of all types, Tori brings a deep understanding of institutional operations and student success. From streamlining processes and developing policies and procedures, to creating co-curricular programs, to managing software platforms and crafting data-driven insights, Tori provides flexible, results-oriented solutions tailored to the evolving needs of higher education institutions.

Tom Rainey - Tom is the Associate Vice President for Enrollment at Marshall B. Ketchum University and helped in implementing Element at MBKU. He has worked in Enrollment management at the undergraduate and graduate levels for the past 15 years. Prior to his time with MBKU, Tom specialized in international student admissions and recruitment. 

- - - -

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. 

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

Daniella sits down with Tyler Albright, CRM Content Coordinator at Johnston Community College (JCC), to explore how the institution revolutionized its student check-in process using Element451. Tyler shares how JCC creatively leveraged the platform’s task module to streamline student services, improve data tracking, and enhance student engagement. From trial and error to impactful insights, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for institutions looking to optimize student interactions.‍

• Innovative Use of Element451 – JCC repurposed the platform’s task module to create a customized student check-in system, eliminating the need for multiple software solutions.
• Improved Student Experience – By centralizing student services into a single queue, JCC can track student visits, provide better follow-ups, and gain deeper insights into student needs.
• Data-Driven Decision Making – Insights from Element 451 help JCC identify peak service hours, student engagement trends, and service demand, enabling more efficient resource allocation.
• Automated Student Surveys – A seamless workflow now sends students post-visit surveys via email and SMS, leading to higher response rates and improved service feedback.
• Encouraging CRM Adoption – Training student services staff on Element451’s features has increased internal engagement, with more departments leveraging the platform for communication and support.

JCC’s Student Success Center serves as a one-stop shop for student services, from financial aid to academic advising. Before implementing Element451, staff relied on a separate queuing system that required switching between multiple platforms to track student visits. This fragmented process made it difficult to get a holistic view of a student’s journey. By using the task module within Element 451, JCC built a check-in system that not only queues students for services but also provides a centralized record of their interactions.

When a student arrives at the Success Center, they enter their ID on a keypad, which pulls up their profile in Element451. Staff then create a task associated with their visit, using pre-built templates categorized by service type (e.g., advising, career services, financial aid). Tasks are assigned dynamically—either to a specific staff member or a department queue—ensuring seamless tracking and service distribution. If a student requires multiple services, a new task is created for each stop, building a comprehensive visit history.

JCC utilizes Element451’s queue system to keep track of student wait times and service distribution. Instead of juggling multiple platforms, staff can now see all waiting students in one place, making service allocation more efficient. By categorizing tasks within queues, teams can prioritize and manage student needs dynamically, ensuring faster service and reducing bottlenecks during peak hours.

To ensure a seamless experience, JCC conducted a mass student data import into Element451. Ongoing integration with North Carolina’s application system (CFNC) ensures that new applicants are automatically added to the platform. For prospective students who haven’t applied yet, staff can quickly create a basic profile with minimal information, ensuring they are in the system for future tracking and engagement.

Since launching in September, JCC has processed over 4,150 student check-ins, serving 2,179 unique students, with nearly half returning for multiple services. The platform’s insights dashboard has provided game-changing data, revealing:

• Wednesdays at 10 AM as the busiest time for student visits.
• Advising as the most frequently used service.
• An average of 34 student check-ins per day.

With this information, JCC can now anticipate staffing needs, optimize scheduling, and make data-backed improvements to student services.

Previously, students received a paper card with a QR code for post-visit surveys, leading to low response rates. Now, an automated workflow sends an email and SMS after each visit, linking to a short feedback survey. This has significantly improved response rates, with 70% of students clicking the link and 50% completing the survey. The most valuable question asks whether students need further assistance, allowing JCC to proactively follow up and close service gaps.

Tyler emphasizes the importance of experimentation and iteration when implementing new CRM processes. “You won’t know what works until you try it,” she shares. Her key recommendations for institutions looking to enhance student success include:

1. Start Small – Begin with one service area (like advising) before scaling to other departments.
2. Leverage Insights – Use CRM analytics to identify trends and optimize staffing and service offerings.
3. Encourage Adoption – Provide staff training to increase comfort and engagement with CRM tools.

Automate Where Possible – Reduce manual tasks with workflows for communication and follow-ups. 

Guest Name: Tyler Albright, CRM Content Coordinator, Johnston Community College

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-albright1/

Guest Bio: Tyler Albright is the CRM Content Coordinator at Johnston Community College, where she began her career in Higher Education shortly after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 2023. Dedicated to creating engaging and effective content, Tyler works within multiple areas of Element451 to enhance student recruitment and provide support throughout their academic journey. She contributes to shaping impactful student experiences and fostering meaningful connections throughout the academic journey by blending creativity with data-driven insights. Outside of work, you can find her reading a good book, indulging in reality TV, and being a cat-mom to Dolly.

- - - -

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. 

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 and Daniella sit down with Brittany Meinssen, Director of Admissions and Recruitment at College of the Albemarle (COA), to uncover how her team is reshaping recruitment strategies for community colleges. Brittany shares how implementing Element451 helped COA streamline processes, engage adult learners, and deliver standout results. From targeted messaging to innovative community events, Brittany reveals the secret behind COA hitting its highest recruiting numbers on record. If you're looking for practical, inspiring ways to do more with less, this is an episode you can’t miss.

Guest Name: Brittany Meinsen, Director of Admissions + Recruitment, College of Albemarle

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-meinsen-61626843

Guest Bio: Brittany brings over a decade of experience in higher education admissions and recruitment. She previously held pivotal roles within university admissions, developing skills in enrollment management and student support. As the Director of Admissions and Recruitment at College of The Albemarle, Brittany oversees admissions, recruitment, student life and leadership, accessibility services, student conduct, and the NC Career Coaches program. Notably, she has implemented Element451 at two higher education institutions, enhancing recruitment strategies and student engagement.

- - - -

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. 

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, Daniella and Brendan from Element 451 sit down with Daniela Botello-Hernandez of Paul Quinn College to dive into the transformative power of a CRM in higher education admissions. They discuss how Paul Quinn’s decision to bring their application process in-house revolutionized their admissions workflow, improved completion rates, and created more personalized application processes. This dynamic conversation is packed with actionable tips for any institution looking to streamline its admissions process.

• Streamlining Admissions with Element 451: Paul Quinn moved from a third-party vendor to managing all applications within Element 451, doubling the percentage of completed applications.
• Customizable Applications for Diverse Student Groups: By creating specific applications for international students, transfers, and corporate partnerships, Paul Quinn tailored their processes to meet the unique needs of each demographic.
• Automation and Efficiency in Application Review: Features like core GPA calculations and task assignments allow for more intentional applicant evaluation and streamlined staff workflows.
• Engaging Student Ambassadors: Integrating students in the admissions process through the task module encourages peer engagement and better application tracking.
• The Power of Innovation and Buy-In: With no previous CRM experience, Paul Quinn’s admissions team embraced change, achieving significant improvements through openness to new processes and teamwork.

Paul Quinn College faced challenges with limited resources and third-party vendor constraints, managing only two application types. Transitioning to Element 451 allowed them to take full control, expand to four application types (with more in the pipeline), and save significant costs. The move also empowered them to customize their applications for different groups, including first-time freshmen, transfers, international students, and Guild corporate partners.

Daniela Botello-Hernandez highlighted how this shift enabled better organization and alignment with the institution's goals. For instance, international applications could now include specific documentation needs, streamlining processes for both applicants and administrators.

Element 451’s automation features have been game-changing for Paul Quinn. Automated GPA calculations, letter of recommendation ratings, and resume evaluations have allowed for a more holistic review process. This is especially impactful at Paul Quinn, where many students come from underserved communities. By looking beyond traditional GPA metrics, the admissions team considers the broader story of each applicant, emphasizing work ethic, character, and lived experiences.

This intentional approach aligns with Paul Quinn's mission to meet students where they are and evaluate them as whole individuals. The workflows have not only improved the quality of admissions decisions but also reduced the administrative burden on staff.

A unique aspect of Paul Quinn’s success has been the involvement of student ambassadors. Using Element 451’s task module, these students are tasked with reaching out to prospective applicants, helping them complete applications, and building relationships. This peer-to-peer connection has been a vital part of moving applicants through the admissions funnel.

By centralizing tasks in Element, ambassadors manage documents, upload files, and follow up with applicants seamlessly. This approach has doubled the percentage of completed applications and enhanced the overall student experience.

Paul Quinn’s journey with Element 451 also coincided with a broader transition to a new Student Information System (SIS). This "spring cleaning" process gave the team the opportunity to separate what belonged in the CRM versus the SIS, ensuring a cleaner, more efficient workflow. While the dual transitions posed challenges, the team embraced the changes, driven by their goal to leave systems better than they found them.

Guest Name: Daniela Botello-Hernandez, Assistant Director of Enrollment Management - Operations, Paul Quinn College

Guest Bio: Daniela Botello-Hernandez, a proud South Dallas native, graduated from Paul Quinn College in just 2.5 years at the age of 20. As a student, she participated in the Urban Work College program, gaining valuable experience through internships at Oncor and the Office of Enrollment Management. Her exceptional performance at the Office of Enrollment Management earned her a full-time role upon graduation. Starting as a Coordinator, Daniela’s dedication and innovative approach led to her promotion to Assistant Director of Enrollment Management- Operations within six months. In this role, she led the implementation of Element451, Paul Quinn College’s first CRM system, revolutionizing the department by replacing manual, spreadsheet-based processes with a streamlined, automated, and highly efficient operation. Her leadership continues to drive operational excellence and improve the student enrollment experience at Paul Quinn 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!

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

Guest Name: 
Abigail Petrosky, Director of Marketing and Public Relations,Northern Pennsylvania Regional College 
Kelsey Angove, Assistant Director of Recruitment, Northern Pennsylvania Regional College

Guest Bios:
Abbi Petrosky is the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College. She's spent her career in higher education, with the last six years serving a variety of roles at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC), including assistant to the president and the marketing and public relations coordinator. Most recently, recruitment has been integrated under the marketing umbrella at NPRC. Abbi has a passion for data and informed decision-making, as well as intentional communications. When she's not immersed in marketing strategy, she enjoys her time coaching high school soccer and supporting her local chamber of commerce with events for businesswomen. 

Kelsey is the Assistant Director of Recruitment and Engagement at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College. She joined NPRC almost two years ago after spending the earlier years of her career as the Marketing Director for a senior care facility. In her current position, Kelsey plays a key role in utilizing Element451 to improve recruitment strategies and build meaningful connections between the Student Recruitment team and prospective students. In her personal time, Kelsey serves as the treasurer for her local theatre group and can often be found performing on stage.

- - - -

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. 

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 AI-focused episode, hosts Daniella and Brendan sit down with Claire Skelton, Assistant Director of Content Marketing at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), to unpack the transformative role AI plays in streamlining student engagement and application processes. Claire shares SEMO’s journey from launching “Sadie,” an AI-powered bot, to creating custom AI teams tailored to unique student populations. The conversation covers everything from optimizing AI responses to designing AI-driven email campaigns, revealing how SEMO is setting a high bar for integrating AI in higher education admissions.

Key Takeaways:

• Efficiency Metrics: SEMO’s AI has saved the admissions team approximately 65,000 human hours in just three months, showcasing the substantial impact of AI on administrative workflows
• Targeted AI Assistants: SEMO launched tailored AI “Bolt” teams, each designed to address the specific needs of different student populations, such as online and international students. This customization helps reduce confusion and improve the relevance of responses.
• Real-Time Insights and Adjustments: By analyzing AI interactions, SEMO identifies frequent student queries, helping them improve website content and refine AI responses for more accuracy and efficiency.
• Human-Enhanced Automation: SEMO’s admissions team leverages AI to monitor queries, but student workers are ready to step in when nuanced support is needed, creating a balanced approach to automation and human interaction.
• Iterative AI Training: AI is treated like an intern that improves over time. SEMO's team provides constant feedback to hone responses, ensuring AI-generated content feels relevant and personal to students.
• Future Possibilities with AI Calls: SEMO is exploring AI-driven voice assistants capable of initiating proactive calls, a potential game-changer for connecting with students who may hesitate to reach out directly.

Calls to Action:

• Tune in and Subscribe: Don’t miss future episodes on game-changing AI strategies in higher education admissions.
• Explore AI in Admissions: For teams considering AI, this episode is a roadmap for launching, customizing, and scaling AI tools in your enrollment workflows.
• Connect with Enrollify: Follow us to stay updated on the latest trends and strategies for leveraging AI in higher ed marketing.
• Try Custom AI Strategies: Consider how tailored AI assistants could serve different student populations at your institution.
• Share Your AI Journey: Connect with us on social media to discuss how your team is integrating AI into admissions.

Guest Name: Claire Skelton, Asst. Director of Content Marketing, Southeast Missouri State University 

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-skelton-4b6b89169/

Guest Bio: Claire Skelton is the Assistant Director of Content Marketing at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO). Her content marketing career began in 2018, and now, at SEMO, she creates content that connects with prospective students and families. As an alum of SEMO, Claire's passion for the brand has only grown stronger. She thrives on networking, crafting engaging email and social media content, and finding new ways to leverage AI in her work.

- - - -

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. 

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, Brendan and Daniella welcome Matt Bodenschatz, Director of Recruiting and Admissions at Penn Highlands Community College. Matt discusses the impactful journey of implementing Element451 and how its powerful CRM tools have streamlined the college’s admissions process, enabled quicker student responses, and significantly boosted enrollment rates. By leveraging features like task automation, milestones, and insights, Matt’s team has moved away from manual, spreadsheet-heavy workflows to an efficient, data-driven system that fosters deeper student connections.

Key Takeaways: 

• Automating Workflow to Enhance Student Engagement: Using Element451’s rules and task automation, Penn Highlands has eliminated manual tracking for new inquiries and applicants. Tasks auto-generate when students reach specific milestones, ensuring timely follow-up and reducing the need for constant manual oversight.
• Leveraging Milestones for Real-Time Tracking and Data Accuracy: Milestones have become the “source of truth” for Penn Highlands, allowing the team to see each student’s progress at any point. This functionality also enhances their data analytics, giving them a clear, visual picture of their recruitment funnel.
• A Data-Driven Approach to Increasing Enrollment: After the first full year of utilizing Element451, Penn Highlands saw a dramatic 32% increase in enrollments, attributed to more efficient communication processes and data-driven insights. Matt used this information to set benchmarks, motivating his team to optimize task completion rates, which have translated into higher enrollment numbers.
• Preparing for the Future with AI Tools: Matt’s team is now exploring Element451's AI Suite, with hopes that automation will further reduce administrative tasks, allowing them to devote more time to personalized student interactions. This aligns with their goal of moving away from transactional communication towards meaningful relationship-building.
• Continuous Improvement with a Team-Oriented Mindset: Matt emphasizes the collaborative approach taken by his team, especially with IT support, as they creatively adapt Element451 to meet their unique needs. This has fostered an environment of experimentation and growth, where team members feel empowered to contribute innovative ideas.

Guest Name:  Matt Bodenschatz, Director of Recruiting & Admissions, Penn Highlands Community College

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-bodenschatz-346373bb/

Guest Bio: Matt Bodenschatz is a 17-year college admissions recruiter currently serving as the Director of Recruiting and Admissions at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College in Johnstown, PA.  With a Master of Arts in Education Administration and a focus on Adult and Higher Education, Matt focuses his recruiting efforts on the post-traditional community and other underserved populations.  Throughout his career, he also has worked with traditional, transfer, graduate, continuing education, and international students.  Matt is the primary decision maker in the Admissions Office at Penn Highlands and was integral in selecting Element451 as the College’s CRM.

- - - -

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. 

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 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.

• Urgent Need for Adaptation in Higher Ed: Declining enrollments and increased closures highlight the need for institutions to realign their programs with current workforce needs.
• Outcome-Based Education: Programs should demonstrate clear, positive career outcomes to ensure sustainability and relevance in a shifting educational landscape.
• Enhanced Application Experience: Partnering with Element 451, TSTC achieved significant improvements in student application conversions by simplifying the process.
• Collaborative Approach to Student Success: Bridging IT, enrollment, and marketing teams is essential for creating a student-centric enrollment experience that drives retention.
• Importance of Industry Relationships: Engaging with local employers helps align educational outcomes with workforce needs, benefiting students and reinforcing institutional value.

What 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.

- - - -

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. 

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

• Innovative Student Engagement: NextGrad strategically places billboards in high schools across North America, reaching students where they spend most of their time.
• Value of Partnerships in Higher Ed: Collaborations with agencies and institutions allow NextGrad to amplify digital marketing efforts.
• Strategic Advertising Placement: Targeted billboard locations maximize visibility, with NextGrad focusing on high-traffic areas within schools.
• Empowerment Through Engagement: NextGrad aims to empower students by providing direct access to information about colleges and universities on their home turf.
• Real-World Solutions for Higher Ed Marketers: NextGrad supports both higher ed institutions and high schools, bridging a gap to create community-focused marketing strategies.

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!

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