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 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.

• 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 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 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 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, 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 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

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 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 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 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," 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 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," the spotlight is on Element451 and its groundbreaking advancements in digital transformation for higher education. Eric Range, VP of Product, discusses how Element451 is leveraging AI to enhance student engagement and streamline administrative processes. He introduces the latest AI-driven tools, such as specialized assistants for admissions and financial aid, which are designed to provide personalized and efficient solutions. Eric also highlights the company's approach to integrating user feedback and prioritizing impactful product developments. The episode offers valuable insights into the future of AI in edtech and practical advice for institutions looking to improve their recruitment and enrollment strategies.

Key Takeaways

• AI-Powered Tools: Element451 continues to be on the forefront of innovation. Listen to Eric talk about our new AI assistants, which specialize in various fields like admissions and financial aid, providing more accurate and personalized student interactions.
• Feedback Integration: Importance of user feedback in shaping product features and the methodical approach to prioritizing and implementing changes.
• Future of AI in EdTech: AI is here to stay, and its integration into educational tools will continue to grow, enhancing both student and staff experiences.
• Digital Transformation: The need for higher education institutions to embrace digital tools and be prepared for the necessary changes to improve efficiency.
• Product Development: Element451's unique approach using the ShapeUp methodology allows for flexible and responsive product development cycles.
• Practical Advice: Eric's tips for institutions include focusing on progress over perfection and being open to change and leveraging new tools effectively.

Calls to Action

1. Subscribe: Follow the podcast for more insightful episodes with industry leaders.
2. Engage with Element451: Visit the Element451 website to explore their AI-driven solutions and upcoming features.
3. Join the Community: Participate in Element451's online community to share experiences and solutions with peers.
4. Watch the Keynote: Check out the recordings of the product keynote at Engage for a deeper dive into the new features discussed.
5. Provide Feedback: Engage with Element451 by sharing your feedback and suggestions to help shape future products.

Guest Name: Eric Range, VP of Product, Element451 

Guest Bio: Eric Range brings nearly 20 years of higher education and EdTech experience to his role as Element451’s VP of Product. Eric has served in a number of student affairs and enrollment management roles including Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management Operations at Drew University. As VP of Product Eric serves as part of Element451 Product Leadership team, delivering innovative solutions that serve our partners and improve the student experience every day.   
He’s passionate about leveraging technology to increase the human connections so important to enrollment management and student engagement. In addition to guiding institutions—from small private colleges to large public universities—in leveraging the power of conversational technology and CRM systems, Eric has also served as CRM Product Owner for a Fortune 500 company. 

- - - -

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 Bonus announcement, join Mallory, Chief Strategist of Enrollify, as she introduces the newly relaunched Enrollify.org. This episode highlights the fresh features and content now available on the site, emphasizing Enrollify’s commitment to revolutionizing higher education. Learn about the variety of resources—from podcasts to ourses to webinars—that can help professionals make impactful changes in their careers and institutions.

- - - -

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 sit down with Michael Bettersworth, Chief Marketing Officer at Texas State Technical College, to explore their pioneering Element451 integration. Michael shares how strategic tech implementation has transformed student enrollment processes, notably increasing their application conversion rate to nearly 90%. By focusing on user-friendly systems, TSTC has not only improved the application experience but also significantly lowered their cost per application, setting a new standard. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Insightful Leadership: Michael Bettersworth illustrates the power of thoughtful leadership and strategic foresight in navigating CRM implementations.
• User-Friendly Systems: TSTC's focus on user-friendly application processes has significantly increased application submissions and improved conversion rates.
• Strategic Cost Management: By refining their digital marketing strategy and application process, TSTC has dramatically lowered the cost per application.
• Cultural Shifts: Emphasizing a culture of efficiency and transparency, TSTC stands out in the higher education landscape for its dynamic approach to management and implementation.
• Future Focus: The episode also delves into the future strategies of TSTC, including plans to enhance student journey mapping and lead qualification processes.

Calls to Action:

• Subscribe to stay updated on innovative strategies in higher education.
• Follow us on our social media platforms to engage with a community of forward-thinking professionals.
• Share this episode with peers in higher education to spread valuable insights on tech integration and management strategies.

Guest Name: Michael Bettersworth, Chief Marketing Officer at TSTC  

Guest Social: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettersworth/

Guest Bio: Michael Bettersworth is the Chief Marketing Officer at Texas State Technical College, CEO of the Center for Employability Outcomes, and the Founder of SkillsEngine. For the last 20 years, Bettersworth’s career has focused on the intersection of education and the workforce. He created the Center for Employability Outcomes (C4EO) to model the underlying dynamics of skills and develop innovative strategies to ensure a highly competitive supply of talent. Michael was instrumental in the design and implementation of the nation’s first higher education funding model based entirely on student earnings outcomes. He has published more than 25 studies on emerging occupations and technologies, holds a patent in the application of machine learning in text-to-skill translation, and is an advisor and frequent speaker on workforce and education policy topics. Bettersworth founded SkillsEngine as a vehicle to build and scale solutions that align education with industry needs so that students are more employable.

- - - -

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