In Your Element

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:

• Explore Direct Admissions: If your institution hasn't considered direct admissions yet, start a conversation with your team. Evaluate how it could simplify the application process and enhance student engagement. Take the first step by researching potential pilot programs or partnerships.
• Leverage Technology:Are you using the right tools to streamline your admissions process? Look into platforms like Element451 that can help automate and personalize your communications with prospective students. Schedule a demo or consult with your IT team to explore how you can integrate these tools.
• Partner for Success: Don't go it alone! Explore partnerships with organizations like Niche to expand your reach and offer direct admissions to a wider audience. Reach out to potential partners and schedule a meeting to discuss how collaboration can benefit your institution.
• Start Small, Think Big: Don't be afraid to start with a small, manageable pilot program. Identify a specific student population, like dual enrollment students, and begin testing direct admissions strategies. Use the insights from this episode as a guide, and remember, you can always scale up once you've refined the process.
• Stay Informed and Adapt: Keep learning and adapting. Attend conferences, like NACAC, where you can connect with industry leaders and learn about the latest trends in admissions. Be open to new ideas and ready to pivot when necessary to better serve your students.

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!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 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:

• Strategic enrollment recovery: COA used Element451 to combat declining enrollment by targeting underrepresented communities and tailoring outreach.
• Cross-campus collaboration: Chris emphasizes the importance of securing buy-in across all departments, from IT to academic affairs, when adopting new CRM technologies.
• Wrap-around services: COA’s approach to student success includes offering holistic support, such as financial aid guidance, child care assistance, and mental health resources.
• Data-driven storytelling: Presenting data effectively can align leadership and gain support for new initiatives, especially in enrollment management.
• Personalized outreach: Element 451 enables COA to create customized communication strategies, enhancing student engagement throughout their journey.
• Celebrating wins: Kris underscores the importance of celebrating small victories as part of maintaining momentum in creating change.

Calls to Action:

• Subscribe to *In Your Element* to hear more inspiring stories of change in higher education.
• Explore how Element451 can help your institution reach more students and improve enrollment strategies.
• Follow us for updates on upcoming episodes featuring industry leaders tackling big challenges in higher ed.

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!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 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:

• Proactive Buy-In Creation: Luis emphasized the importance of proactive buy-in when implementing new technology. CWI set aside regular training times, even during peak periods, to ensure staff were on board and equipped to use new tools effectively.
• Data-Driven Adjustments: By closely monitoring student interactions with their systems, CWI made on-the-fly adjustments to improve the user experience, like tweaking their admissions application to reduce user friction.
• Impact of Application Enhancements on Yield Rates: CWI made significant improvements to their admissions application process by closely monitoring student interactions and making real-time adjustments. These changes led to a noticeable improvement in application yield rates, with an estimated 20% increase from applicant to admitted student, highlighting the effectiveness of their streamlined, user-friendly approach.
• AI-Enhanced Efficiency: CWI is leveraging Element451's AI capabilities to automate routine tasks, allowing the team to focus on higher-impact student interactions. This shift has dramatically improved their responsiveness during peak periods.
• Engagement Success: CWI saw a significant increase in event attendance—from 88 to 250—by using personalized communication strategies through Element451, demonstrating the power of targeted outreach.

Calls to Action:

• Evaluate Your Technology Adoption Strategy: Reflect on how your institution approaches the adoption of new technologies. Are you creating the necessary buy-in among your team? Consider setting aside regular training sessions to ensure everyone is on board and fully utilizing the tools at their disposal.
• Optimize Student Interactions: Take a closer look at your admissions processes. Can you identify any areas where students may be struggling? Consider implementing data-driven adjustments like CWI did to enhance the student experience and improve yield rates.
• Leverage AI for Efficiency: Explore how AI tools can help your team manage routine tasks more effectively. Start by identifying repetitive tasks in your current workflows that could be automated to free up time for higher-impact activities.
• Personalize Event Outreach: Review your institution's approach to event marketing and communication. Are you using personalized messaging to increase engagement? Consider tailoring your outreach efforts based on the audience's level of interaction, similar to how CWI boosted event attendance.
• Join the Conversation: Engage with the broader higher education community by sharing your experiences and challenges on platforms like LinkedIn. Connect with others who are also leveraging technology to enhance student experiences, and learn from their successes and insights.

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!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 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:

• The significance of starting with a clear "why" when implementing change.
• Strategies for maintaining focus on what truly matters during change management.
• The importance of empathy and realistic expectations in tech implementation.
• The risk of over-customization and its impact on technology effectiveness.
• The evolving role of the Chief Experience Officer in creating student-centric environments.
• How cross-departmental experience provides a strategic advantage in higher ed leadership.

Calls to Action:

• Consider how your institution approaches change—are you prioritizing the right "why"?
• Evaluate your current use of technology; is it optimized, or are you over-customizing?
• Reflect on your team’s empathy and communication strategies during transitions.
• Explore the role of a Chief Experience Officer and its potential impact on your campus.
• Stay connected with *In Your Element* for more insights from higher ed leaders like Cherron.

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!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 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.

• Personalization is Key: ABAC prioritizes personalized communication to make students feel valued and understood, which is essential for effective engagement.
• Two-Way Communication: Utilizing technology like Element 451, ABAC fosters conversations with students, turning one-way messages into meaningful interactions.
• Strategic Shifts: Ryan emphasizes the importance of being open to strategic changes, especially when traditional methods are no longer effective.
• Data-Driven Decisions: ABAC relies on data from current and prospective students to guide their communication and engagement strategies.
• Full Student Lifecycle Engagement: ABAC integrates its CRM across all departments, ensuring consistent communication from enrollment through to graduation, which boosts retention.
• Innovative Programs: The introduction of initiatives like the "Nursing at Night" program showcases ABAC's commitment to meeting the needs of its community through targeted campaigns and digital engagement.

• Stay Updated: Subscribe to In Your Element for more insights on how higher ed institutions are transforming enrollment and engagement.
• Engage with Us: Share your thoughts on student engagement tactics—how is your institution making students feel wanted?

Guest 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!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of "In Your Element," hosts Daniella Nordin and Brendan Henkel sit down with Kathy Taylor, the 2024 Element451 Captain of the Year from Wake Tech. Kathy shares her journey from managing manual processes to leveraging Element451 for streamlined student engagement. She discusses the transformative impact of personalized communication and offers insights into best practices for CRM implementation in higher education.

Key Takeaways

• Streamlined Processes: Wake Tech transitioned from manual application processing to using Element451, reducing student touchpoints and enhancing communication clarity.
• Personalized Communication: Breaking down communication into manageable steps has significantly improved student engagement and reduced confusion.
• Importance of Networking: Kathy emphasizes the value of connecting with other Element451 users for shared learning and support.
• Utilizing Community Resources: Engaging with the Element451 community and utilizing forums for shared knowledge and best practices.
• Training and Adoption: Setting aside dedicated training time helps ensure staff are well-versed in the CRM, leading to better adoption and utilization.

Calls to Action

• Subscribe: Follow "In Your Element" for more insights and stories from higher education professionals.
• Engage: Join the Element451 community to share and learn best practices.
• Explore: Look into how personalized communication can improve student engagement at your institution.
• Implement: Consider setting up dedicated training times for your staff to maximize CRM adoption.
• Feedback: Share your experiences and challenges with the Element451 team to help improve the platform.

Guest Name: Kathy Beasley Taylor, Admissions Technology & Training Manager, Wake Tech Community College, Southern Campus

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-beasley-taylor-6a984544/

Guest Bio: Kathy Taylor has had the pleasure of working at Wake Technical Community College for the past 19 years. As the Admissions Technology & Training Manager, she blends technology and strategic communication to streamline their admissions processes. Her team's dedication to innovative solutions has greatly enhanced the student admissions experience, and she is proud to be part of that. In her free time, Kathy loves spending time with my family and friends. She also trains for and competes in triathlons (swim, bike, run), having completed many distances up to 70.3s. Her long-term dream is to complete a full Ironman 140.6.

- - - -

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of In Your Element, Amber Hett from Hesston College shares the strategies and tools that led to an impressive 20% increase in student enrollment. As the Admissions Office Manager, Amber discusses how implementing Element451 streamlined communication and data management, making both staff and students happier. Her insights into personalized communication and cohesive team efforts offer valuable lessons for anyone in higher education admissions and marketing.

Key Takeaways:

• Small-Team Implementation: Amber successfully managed the implementation of Element451 on her own, demonstrating the system's user-friendly design.
• Streamlined Communication: By centralizing communication through Element451, Hesston College achieved consistent messaging across departments.
• Personalized Outreach: Customized messages to prospective students, including their names and intended majors, significantly improved engagement.
• Quick and Efficient Data Management: The speed and efficiency of data handling in Element 451 allowed for timely communication with prospective students, reducing the likelihood of losing interest.
• Increased Staff Morale: Simplified processes and a user-friendly system led to happier, more motivated staff members.
• Enhanced Direct Admissions: Utilizing direct admissions workflows and landing pages streamlined the process, making it easier for students to apply and enroll.

Guest Name: Amber Hett, Admissions Office Manager, Hesston College 

Guest Bio: Amber Hett, a native of Hesston, KS, holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance from Wichita State University and a Grant Proposal Writing certification from Fort Hays State University.
With a decade of experience as a Grant Manager, Amber transitioned to her current role as Office Manager for Admissions at Hesston College. Over the past three years, she has been part of a remarkable team, working with inspiring students, and leading the implementation and adoption of Element451. Amber has embraced the opportunity to learn and explore its features, finding the experience both exciting and professionally rewarding.

- - - -

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Brendan Henkel live from eduWeb 2024 as he chats with Marcie, a communications specialist from Cypress College, about their implementation of Element451. Marcie shares her insights on networking at the conference, the power of automation and data integration, and her initial hesitations and newfound enthusiasm for AI in higher ed. Discover how Element451 has revolutionized their student engagement strategy and hear Marcie's top tips for successful CRM implementation.

- - - -

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of "In Your Element," we welcome Orna Shearin, CRM Specialist, from Guilford Tech Community College to discuss innovative strategies for student retention and engagement using Element451. Orna shares how the college is personalizing student communications, utilizing AI, and implementing effective communications to support students' academic and personal needs. Dive into the exciting developments at GTCC and discover practical ways to enhance student experiences at your institution.

Key Takeaways:

• Personalized communications via Element451 have significantly improved student retention and engagement.
• BoltBot handles nearly 1,000 student inquiries per month, enhancing support and accessibility.
• Open and click-through rates for emails and texts have increased, demonstrating the effectiveness of personalized outreach.
• GTCC uses data from applications to tailor support services for students with specific needs, such as first-generation students or those facing food insecurity.
• Effective payment plan communications remind students of due dates and provide options for financial aid or payment arrangements.
• Plans for the future include integrating AI assistants to streamline processes and enhance student support.

Calls to Action:

• Subscribe to "In Your Element" for more insights on innovative higher education strategies.
• Explore how personalized communication tools like Element 451 can benefit your institution.
• Attend the upcoming Engage Summit to learn about the latest developments in AI-assisted student support.
• Connect with GTCC to learn more about their successful retention strategies.
• Implement data-driven approaches to identify and address students' unique needs.
• Enhance your institution's payment plan communications to support student financial management.

Guest Name: Orna Shearin (she/her/hers), Customer Relationship Management Specialist, Office of College Advancement , Guilford Technical Community College

Guest Bio: Orna Shearin is a dynamic Customer Relationship Management Specialist at Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC), known for her strategic prowess and creative approach to enhancing student engagement and communication. Orna expertly manages the Element451 platform, designing and executing communication, application and retention workflows that resonate deeply with both current and prospective students. Her role extends beyond mere technical tasks to include the creation and management of captivating events tailored to enrich the student experience.

Collaborating across various departments, Orna ensures the seamless integration of CRM processes, fostering a supportive and efficient educational environment. Her blend of technical skill and creativity allows her to craft personalized messages and organize engaging events, making every student feel like a VIP from enrollment through graduation. This not only boosts student satisfaction but also streamlines administrative functions.

- - - -

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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of "In Your Element," host Brendan Henkel welcomes Kristina Faller, Director of Marketing and Brand Experience, and Nick Ciccarone, Manager of Data and Systems from RIT Certified. The discussion revolves around their experiences implementing and using the Element451 platform at RIT Certified, a division of Rochester Institute of Technology focused on non-traditional education and workforce development.

Kristina and Nick delve into the challenges and successes they've encountered while integrating Element451 into their operations. They explore how the platform has facilitated a dynamic and responsive marketing strategy, crucial for adapting to the rapidly changing job market and educational needs. The conversation also covers their innovative approaches to using data to enhance student engagement and tailor educational offerings to individual career paths.

Brendan shares insights on the pivotal role of technology in transforming educational environments, emphasizing the personalized student experiences made possible by Element451. The episode is a deep dive into the practical applications of AI and CRM technologies in higher education, illustrating RIT Certified's journey from implementation to mastery, and their ongoing efforts to align educational offerings with real-world demands.

Key Takeaways: 

1. Innovative Implementation: Kristina and Nick discuss their journey of implementing Element451 at RIT Certified, highlighting the transformative impact the platform has had on their operations and student engagement strategies.
2. Personalized Marketing Strategies: The episode dives into how RIT Certified utilizes Element451 to tailor marketing strategies that effectively meet the evolving needs of their non-traditional student base, emphasizing the importance of adaptive marketing in higher education.
3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Nick elaborates on the crucial role of data in understanding and segmenting their audience, which allows RIT Certified to deliver more personalized and effective educational offerings.
4. Non-Credit Education’s Value: The discussion underscores the growing relevance of non-credit courses in today’s job market, providing real-world skills without the traditional degree path, which is particularly vital in rapidly evolving industries.
5. Future-Proofing Education: The episode highlights the strategic use of technology to future-proof educational offerings, ensuring that RIT Certified can quickly adapt to changes in the job market and technology landscape.

Guest Names: 
Kristina Faller, Director, Marketing and Brand Experience, RIT Certified
Nick Ciccarone, Manager of Data & Systems, RIT Certified 

Guest Social Handles: 
Kristina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinafaller/
Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-ciccarone/  

Guest Bios: 
Kristina: Kristina has over 20 years experience in marketing, working on both the agency and client sides, and most recently  in higher education at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) where she started in the online division, and then jumped at the opportunity to build the marketing efforts for RIT Certified, RIT’s professional training and workforce development division.

Nick: Nick Ciccarone is the Manager of Data & Systems at RIT Certified, the professional education and workforce development division of Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). An RIT alum, Nick's responsibilities include system implementation, system administration, data integration, and data engineering, among others. In short, doing whatever’s needed to ensure technology works well for students and staff. Prior to working at RIT Certified, he worked in the investing world in various operational and analytical roles. He decided to make the transition to higher education, and to RIT Certified in particular, to engage in more impactful and purpose-driven 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 AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.