Episodes
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In this Enrollify webinar, Balancing Bites and Bonds: How AI Can Humanize Higher Ed, Mallory Willsea and an expert panel dive deep into how artificial intelligence is transforming student engagement in higher education. Featuring Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO host Jamie Hunt, Generation AI co-host JC Bonilla, AI for U host Brian Piper, and The Hidden Gem host Maya Demishkevich, the discussion addresses the dual challenge of automating processes while maintaining meaningful, human connections. Through innovative examples, insights, and lively conversation, this episode provides a roadmap for leveraging AI to create more personalized and efficient student experiences.
Key Takeaways:
AI as a Personalization Multiplier: AI enables hyper-personalization, allowing institutions to deliver tailored experiences at scale while freeing staff for high-touch student interactions.Balancing Efficiency and Empathy: AI can handle repetitive tasks and provide instant answers, allowing human advisors to focus on meaningful, personalized connections.Student-Centric Approach: Despite concerns, students generally value efficient solutions over the origin of communication, provided their needs are met.Ethical AI Use: Transparency, data security, and empathy should be foundational to AI implementations in higher ed.AI’s Potential for Scaling Impact: Tools like virtual assistants and predictive modeling have proven success in improving outcomes, such as higher grades and retention rates.1. How does AI enhance student engagement without dehumanizing it?
Panelists agreed that AI’s strength lies in its ability to manage repetitive tasks and provide hyper-personalized interactions. For instance, Dr. JC Bonilla emphasized that AI acts as a "personalization multiplier," allowing institutions to address individual student needs with a level of nuance and efficiency impossible through manual methods alone.
AI-powered tools, such as predictive analytics, enable institutions to identify at-risk students early. Brian Piper shared a compelling example from Ivy Tech Community College, where AI monitoring alerted counselors to students in danger of failing, resulting in a 98% success rate for these students in achieving a C grade or higher.2. What are examples of successful AI use in higher education?
Georgia State University: Direct text messages powered by AI helped first-generation students improve their grades by an average of 11 percentage points.Virtual Campus Tours: Maya Demishkevich shared an example where AI-powered avatars significantly increased engagement during online campus tours, providing institutions with scalable alternatives to human guides.AI Virtual Assistants: Institutions like Forsyth Tech have saved thousands of staff hours by automating responses to routine queries, enabling human staff to focus on higher-value tasks.
Several panelists highlighted successful AI applications:3. Do students care if AI is part of their experience?
Surprisingly, the consensus was that students care more about getting their needs met efficiently than whether the solution involves AI. However, transparency remains critical. As Brian Piper pointed out, institutions should disclose when AI tools are being used to ensure trust isn’t eroded.4. What are the ethical considerations in using AI for student communications?
Panelists underscored the importance of ethical AI use, advocating for transparency, data security, and empathy as foundational principles. Jamie Hunt stressed the need to ensure AI-generated content aligns with institutional values and human oversight remains part of the decision-making process.5. How can institutions address faculty and staff fears about AI replacing jobs?
To build trust, institutions should focus on training faculty and staff to use AI tools as enhancements to their roles, not replacements. As Maya Demishkevich noted, AI can save time by automating mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on strategic, human-centric work. JC Bonilla added that embracing the role of “AI champions” within institutions can help bridge the gap between AI skeptics and early adopters.6. What does the future of AI in higher ed look like?
Panelists agreed that AI’s future lies in hyper-personalization, advanced virtual assistants, and smaller, task-specific language models (LLMs). The emergence of AI "agents" tailored for distinct tasks will allow for even greater efficiency and impact.AI is transforming higher education by bridging the gap between efficiency and empathy. The insights shared in this episode reveal the exciting potential for AI to not only streamline processes but also amplify the human connections at the heart of higher education. To dive deeper, listen to the full episode of Balancing Bites and Bonds: How AI Can Humanize Higher Ed, and explore the possibilities for your institution.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Got a story to tell? An innovative idea to share? Fill out our guest nomination form, and let's chat!
Host Jaime Hunt speaks with Shaun Carver, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the International House at the University of California, Berkeley, about the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for better supporting international students in higher education. The discussion sheds light on the cultural and economic benefits international students bring, the need to foster inclusivity and free speech, and how universities can adapt to societal and political changes to create a more welcoming environment.
Key TakeawaysInternational students enrich learning environments: They bring unique perspectives that foster cultural understanding and prepare students for a globalized workforce.Political rhetoric impacts enrollment: Even without formal policy changes, unwelcoming political climates can deter international students from applying.Free speech and inclusivity matter: Universities should ensure students feel safe expressing differing viewpoints and engaging in civil discourse.Diverse support systems are essential: Institutions must focus on cultural exposure, community-building, and access to essential services for international students.A growth mindset fosters innovation: Encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones promotes intellectual curiosity and global leadership skills.Why Are International Students Important to Higher Education?International students bring a wealth of diversity to higher education, enriching campus communities with their perspectives, experiences, and cultural backgrounds. Shaun Carver emphasizes their vital role in fostering a global learning environment that prepares students for interconnected, multicultural workplaces.
Beyond academics, international students significantly contribute to local economies. From tuition payments to housing and daily living expenses, their economic impact extends beyond campus boundaries. Shaun also highlights how many international students go on to lead innovative startups and global companies, particularly in Silicon Valley, underscoring the long-term benefits of their presence in the U.S.
Despite these benefits, political rhetoric and visa uncertainties can deter international students, forcing institutions to miss out on their transformative contributions. Universities must address these concerns proactively to remain competitive on the global stage.
How Can Universities Create Welcoming Environments?Creating an inclusive and supportive environment for international students requires deliberate effort. Shaun outlines three key strategies:
1. Cultivating Free SpeechUniversities should encourage environments where all students feel comfortable expressing their viewpoints. At the International House at the University of California, Berkeley, 80% of residents feel free to share minority views without fear of judgment, serving as a model for fostering civil discourse on campus.
2. Building CommunityPrograms like the International House’s weekly diversity and coffee hour allow students to share their cultures through food, music, and storytelling. These events not only build a sense of belonging but also foster cross-cultural understanding among students from different backgrounds.
3. Providing Practical SupportWhile universities may not handle visa or employment processes directly, they can offer workshops, mentorship programs, and community events to help international students navigate their new environment. Ensuring that students feel supported in both practical and personal aspects is key to their success.
What Challenges Do International Students Face?International students often face unique obstacles, including navigating visa regulations, overcoming cultural barriers, and coping with homesickness. Shaun recounts stories of students who, despite immense financial and emotional pressures, strive to succeed in the U.S. education system.
For many, even basic needs like food can become a challenge. Shaun shares how implementing inclusive dining options at the International House, like dishes from various global cuisines, helps students feel more at home. These small yet impactful gestures can make a significant difference in a student’s overall experience.
Additionally, divisive campus climates can make international students feel unwelcome. Institutions must work to ensure their campuses are places where students of all backgrounds feel safe, valued, and supported.
What Can Universities Learn from the International House?For over a century, the International House has been a leader in creating inclusive, multicultural communities. Its model of hyper-diversity—housing students from over 80 nationalities under one roof—offers a blueprint for fostering cross-cultural connections. Shaun attributes the success of the International House to:
Encouraging Growth: Students are challenged to step out of their comfort zones and engage with others who have vastly different experiences and viewpoints.Promoting Civil Discourse: Creating spaces where students feel free to express their beliefs fosters open-mindedness and intellectual humility.Sharing Best Practices: By collaborating with other universities, the International House seeks to expand its model to campuses worldwide, addressing the growing need for inclusive and globalized educational environments.Looking Ahead: The Role of International Students in a Globalized WorldAs higher education continues to globalize, institutions must actively work to support international students. Shaun emphasizes the need for universities to rebrand themselves as inclusive and welcoming spaces. Beyond rhetoric, this requires actionable steps to build communities where diverse viewpoints thrive.
International students not only enrich the institutions they attend but also contribute to society and the global workforce in profound ways. Their courage and resilience in pursuing education abroad inspire us all, and their success benefits everyone.
Guest Name: Shaun Carver, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the International House at University of California Berkley
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauncarver
Guest Bio: Shaun Carver is currently Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the International House at University of California Berkeley and has been in the role since August 2020. He served as Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs in the Rady School of Management, UC San Diego (2017-2020), and as Executive Director of the Hult International Business School (Boston, New York, San Francisco, Shanghai; 2013-2017), where he oversaw 750 students representing 82 countries. Before that, he served in leadership positions in institutions of international higher education in China (2002-2013) at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, Tsinghua University, and the Sino-British College of the University of Shanghai Science and Technology (USST).
Shaun received his B.A. (High Technology Management), and an M.B.A. from California State University, San Marcos. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in education (Ed.D.) at the University of Southern California.
Shaun’s father is American and his mother British, thereby allowing Shaun to hold citizenship in both the United States and the United Kingdom. As a child, the family moved around often, within the U.S., and lived for two years in Ireland. Shaun traveled widely during his years in Asia, through China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Mongolia, Japan, and many other countries throughout the continent. He feels at home in cross-cultural situations.
He met his wife, Bei Bei Zheng, in Shanghai. Her family, originally from the seaport city of Wenzhou, is also international, with some members currently living in Italy. Their two children, LiAnne (age 8) and James Maxwell [Max] (age 6), are comfortable in multicultural environments, spending significant time with family in China, Italy, and the U.S.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Host Jaime sits down with Christian Cardona, Social Media Manager for ODU Global, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in managing social media for online learners. As a first-time attendee at the AMA conference, Christian shares his reflections, dives into strategies for building digital communities, and highlights the critical role of storytelling in fostering engagement among non-traditional students. This engaging conversation sheds light on how social media can effectively amplify the experiences of online learners, even when separated by distance.
Key TakeawaysStorytelling is essential: Highlighting faculty, student, and alumni stories builds trust, community, and enhances a school’s brand identity.Challenges of online communities: Unlike traditional campuses, finding and amplifying student stories in an online program requires proactive effort, leveraging tools like social media comments and team collaborations.Engagement matters: Online learners often engage through platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, with their feedback and stories forming the backbone of digital content.Team collaboration is key: Remote teams thrive with structured communication, fun interactions, and occasional in-person gatherings.Online learning spaces must reflect reality: Content for online programs should showcase students’ environments, from their homes to workplaces, emphasizing authentic day-to-day learning experiences.What’s it like to manage social media for online learners?
Christian Cardona shares his experience transitioning from managing on-campus social media to leading ODU Global’s online initiatives. Unlike in-person campuses where engagement happens naturally through visible activities, building connections online requires strategic outreach. Christian emphasizes the importance of storytelling—gathering insights from faculty, staff, and even comments on social media posts to highlight students’ unique journeys.How do you foster community for online learners?
Creating a sense of belonging for online students hinges on meaningful interactions. Christian notes that online learners often leave valuable feedback through social media posts, which helps identify standout individuals. By focusing on personal, relatable stories, the ODU Global team uses platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to drive engagement and foster a supportive digital community.What’s the secret to a successful remote team?
Christian highlights the importance of structured communication within his fully remote team. Tools like team chat platforms and weekly collaborative meetings maintain a sense of connection. A yearly in-person gathering helps solidify bonds and offers an opportunity to brainstorm collectively. Even in a digital-first world, these personal connections translate into better storytelling and collaboration.How do you create engaging content for online programs?
For online learners, showcasing relatable moments—like studying at home or thriving in a career—is critical. Christian’s team works across photography, videography, and graphic design to tell stories that resonate. The goal is to depict the authentic realities of online learning, making the experience tangible for prospective students.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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As higher ed faces increasing headwinds, hiring a Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) is no longer a luxury—it's a strategic necessity. As demographic shifts, escalating costs, and growing competition put more pressure on institutions, a CRO's role in unifying revenue-generating efforts becomes critical.
In this episode, Jaime sits down with Steven Rutt, the Chief Revenue Officer for Abilene Christian University, to tackle this topic. This episode includes insights about:
the ways a CRO can connect the dots between admissions, marketing, online programs, and fundraising;how a CRO ensures that traditionally siloed departments work together toward shared institutional goals;how a CRO can foster a culture of strategic thinking around student acquisition, retention, and lifetime value; andthe ways a CRO enhances financial sustainability and encourages innovation.Guest Name: Steven Rutt, Chief Revenue Officer, Abilene Christian University
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-rutt-02922832/
Guest Bio: Steven is a higher education executive with over 20 years of experience focused heavily in the online education space. His breadth of experience spans finance, student finance, business intelligence, analytics and performance marketing. With almost 14 years at one of the largest online universities, he has implemented significant operational efficiency initiatives as well as managed one of the largest marketing budgets in the industry.
Since 2019, Steven has been at Abilene Christian University mainly as the Chief Operating Officer of their Online Campus managing the finance, analytics, marketing, and campus operations departments. Over his first 5 years, he has helped the online campus more than double in size. As of September 2024, he has also added the role of Chief Revenue Officer over the entire university, focused on aligning marketing and enrollment strategies around an analytical culture and driving net tuition revenue growth.
Steven resides in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Celina, Texas with his wife (Jo) and 3 daughters (Annora, Ginger and Hollister).
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Host Jaime Hunt reconnects with Bryce Hoffman live from AMA to explore his remarkable career evolution. From an unexpected layoff to his newly appointed role as Vice President and Chief Marketing Communications Officer at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), Bryce shares insights on resilience, professional growth, and building meaningful connections in the higher ed marketing world.
Bryce Hoffman’s journey from career uncertainty to becoming a higher ed CMO is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. In this episode, Bryce reflects on the challenges of navigating setbacks, the value of leveraging your network, and the importance of embracing new opportunities with humility and confidence. His story offers actionable advice for aspiring CMOs and professionals facing similar crossroads.
Key TakeawaysGrowth Through Setbacks: Career setbacks can be opportunities for immense personal and professional growth.Intentional Networking: Building and maintaining strong professional relationships can open doors and provide critical support during transitions.Focus on Learning: Embrace new challenges by breaking them into manageable steps and being open to learning from others.Authentic Leadership: Be transparent about your strengths and limitations in interviews and on the job to build trust and credibility.Navigating the CMO Search: Maintain stamina and composure during rigorous interview processes by preparing thoughtfully and leaning on your network.Resilience Through Setbacks
Bryce shares how an unexpected layoff forced him to reevaluate his career and ultimately led to professional growth. He emphasizes the importance of reframing challenges as opportunities, noting, “When you’re at the bottom of a mountain, focus on the next 10 feet instead of the whole climb.”The Value of Networking
One of Bryce’s key strategies during his career transition was tapping into his professional network. From past supervisors to peers in the industry, he found support and mentorship that helped him navigate the job search process and prepare for his new role.Becoming a Higher Ed CMO
Bryce describes his excitement about joining WPI, a uniquely positioned institution with a strong STEM focus and global learning initiatives. He highlights his strategy for the first 90 days: listening, learning, and collaborating to make thoughtful, context-driven decisions that align with the university’s mission.Advice for Aspiring CMOs
For those looking to step into senior leadership roles, Bryce advises diversifying your skillset, taking on challenging projects, and remaining a lifelong learner. He stresses the importance of being authentic during interviews and relying on the expertise of your team once in the role.Bryce Hoffman’s journey underscores that setbacks are often stepping stones to something greater. His story offers a powerful reminder that resilience, intentional networking, and a commitment to learning can lead to incredible opportunities. Whether you’re an aspiring CMO or navigating your own career pivot, Bryce’s insights provide a roadmap for success.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this thought-provoking episode, Jaime Hunt sits down with Nick Ladany, President of San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), and Jamie Ceman from RW Jones, to explore the creation and launch of SFBU as a true “challenger brand” in higher education. They delve into SFBU’s radical student-centered model and its potential to disrupt the industry’s traditional norms, such as six-year graduation rates and inflated tuition costs. The episode highlights the university's distinctive mission to provide affordable, high-quality education while breaking down barriers to access.
Key Takeaways
Challenger Brand Definition: SFBU aims to disrupt the conventional higher education model by prioritizing student needs over institutional legacy.Radical Student-Centered Approach: The university is designed to center around students, focusing on practical, industry-relevant curriculum and strong student support systems.Cost Efficiency in Higher Ed: SFBU maintains low tuition fees by streamlining expenses, investing in student services over facilities like athletics and rock climbing walls.Thought Leadership in Higher Ed: SFBU’s leadership team actively contributes to the national conversation on higher ed reform, promoting transparency, efficiency, and a student-first ethos.Focus on Student Success: SFBU challenges the traditional six-year graduation rate, aiming instead for three to four years by emphasizing wraparound student support.What Is a Challenger Brand in Higher Education?
A challenger brand breaks away from industry norms to bring new ideas and models to the forefront, and SFBU embodies this by prioritizing students over traditional higher ed values. Unlike universities that focus on faculty prestige or institutional heritage, SFBU was built from scratch with the student as its focal point. SFBU aims to disrupt higher education’s entrenched practices, likening its approach to industry game-changers like Tesla or WhatsApp. By addressing the needs of a diverse student body and adapting to demographic shifts, SFBU is poised to create a more accessible and relevant education model.How Does SFBU’s Student-Centered Model Work?
SFBU’s approach begins with a clear mission: graduating 100% of its students in four years, ideally reducing that timeframe to three. To achieve this, the university reengineers the curriculum to make it more relevant to modern industry demands and ensures that faculty are not only content experts but also trained educators. This model includes comprehensive wellness support, unlimited mental health services, and extensive academic support, all with the goal of fostering student success. Every service, program, and interaction at SFBU is designed to provide students with a holistic educational experience, making the institution truly student-centered.What Role Does Branding Play in SFBU’s Mission?
SFBU’s brand, summarized in the motto "There’s No Stopping It," captures the university’s disruptive ethos. Developed in collaboration with Jamie Seaman, the brand emphasizes the unstoppable drive of both the students and the university itself to overcome traditional boundaries. This bold brand identity not only resonates internally, with staff and students proudly adopting it, but also serves as a message to the wider community. The branding aims to shift perceptions about higher education, making it clear that SFBU is determined to challenge outdated conventions and provide a streamlined, accessible education.How Does SFBU Address the National Debate on Higher Ed Value?
SFBU’s leadership, especially President Nick Ladany, is vocal about rethinking higher ed’s value. He argues for wider access to college and believes that higher education should cater to students from diverse backgrounds, including those with less traditional academic paths. The university rejects the idea that academic rigor should be reserved for select students, instead offering tailored support to ensure all students can succeed. SFBU advocates for transparency, avoiding tactics like tuition freezes paired with hidden fees, and promotes a four-year—or even three-year—graduation standard to maximize the value students receive.How Does SFBU Keep Tuition Low Without Sacrificing Quality?
SFBU has maintained an impressive tuition rate of $10,000 per year, with most students receiving scholarships covering up to 80% of costs. This is possible because SFBU prioritizes efficient use of funds, avoiding extravagant expenses like climbing walls and redirecting resources to essential student services. Faculty and staff are well-compensated, creating a supportive and motivated team culture, yet SFBU saves on extraneous amenities that don’t directly contribute to academic or personal success. This cost-effective model is designed to keep education affordable and accessible, focusing on necessary services and student-centered investments.What Is SFBU Doing to Advance Thought Leadership in Higher Ed?
President Ladany and the SFBU leadership team are committed to leading a national conversation on reforming higher education. They regularly contribute to forums and publications, like Forbes, to discuss issues such as hidden fees, tuition transparency, and the importance of a four-year graduation standard. Modani criticizes the norm of extended graduation timelines and argues for more efficient educational models. Through active participation in industry discourse, SFBU’s leaders aim to set new standards for accountability and transparency, pushing for reforms that prioritize student outcomes over institutional self-interest.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Every marketer knows the four Ps–Product, Price, Place and Promotion–but it is the rare higher ed marketing leader who gets to have a voice in anything beyond just Promotion. In this episode, Jaime sits down with Paul McGinnis, vice president for marketing and enrollment at Bethel University, to talk about how he led the charge to completely transform Bethel’s pricing strategy with a tuition reset.
Takeaways for this episode include insights into:
why Bethel felt it was important to move toward tuition transparencywhy marketing led the charge – and how they tackled this massive undertakinghow they communicated the change both internally and externallyhow a tuition reset could help struggling colleges make important changes that impact their trajectorywhy Jaime and Paul think that tuition transparency is an issue every higher ed leader needs to be consideringGuest Name: Paul McGinnis
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mcginnis-20ba46b/
Guest Bio: Paul McGinnis is the vice president of marketing and enrollment at Bethel University. With more than 25 years of ascending leadership experience in industries as diverse as finance, higher education, and technology—including at a Fortune 250 company—McGinnis specializes in harnessing the power of teams to move organizations forward.
McGinnis has a proven track record of successful change management, designing business models for sustained growth, and unlocking the potential in leaders at all levels. His ability to create high-performing teams, coupled with strategic and relational expertise, has helped him lead organizations to sustainable success and missional advancement.
McGinnis is passionate about developing purposeful Christian leaders and providing more than an education for students at Bethel University by fusing transformative academics and a vibrant, Christ-guided community.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Jaime’s nearly a decade as a higher ed CMO and vice president likely wouldn’t have been possible if she hadn’t earned a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from West Virginia University in 2011. For more the last 15 years, Jaime has used the program as an example of best practices in action for marketing an online graduate program
In this episode, Jaime sits down with Chad Mezera, Assistant Dean of Online Programs for the College of Creative Arts and Media at West Virginia University, to talk about the program, how it is marketed, and the future of online learning.
Takeaways for this episode include:
Insight into how WVU uses an integrated marketing communications approach to marketing an online graduate program.Advice on leveraging content marketing to grow interest in the programInsight into the ways a master’s degree can help grow your careerGuidance on leveraging alumni to tell your program’s storyGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-mezera-152bab2/
Guest Bio: Chad Mezera is the Assistant Dean of Online Programs for the College of Creative Arts and Media at West Virginia University (WVU). In this role, he oversees all online courses offered by the college and leads the online programs support team.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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There are some marketers you just don’t want to have to compete with. Grant Heston at Virginia Commonwealth University is one of them. In this wide-ranging episode, Jaime sits down with Grant to talk about AI, collaboration, creativity, brand building, and more. Takeaways from this episode include:
How to build consensus around the use of AI in marketing and communicationsIdeas around ways to enhance collaboration on your teamTips for building team culture with a distributed workforceAdvice on building a brand that is truly distinctive in the marketing place – and how to leverage AI to helpHow to build an internal brand that leads to greater support and resources for your teamGuest Name: Grant Heston
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantjheston/
Guest Bio: Grant Heston is vice president for Enterprise Marketing and Communications for Virginia Commonwealth University and VCU Health. After arriving in 2021, he built the first integrated branding, communications and marketing division that serves both the university and health system.
Grant previously spent more than 12 years in several roles — including vice president for Communications and Marketing and Chief of Staff to the President — at the University of Central Florida, one of the largest and most diverse research universities in the country.
Grant has an undergraduate degree in Journalism from the University of Florida and an MBA from the University of Central Florida. He has written professional and personal stories that have been published by The Washington Post, Sports Illustrated, The Chronicle of Higher Education and more.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Marketing is an investment, not an expense. But too many universities don’t treat it as such. Instead, marketers find themselves with a budget that is not adequate for accomplishing goals and expectations. In this episode, Jaime sits down with Kristin Nichols, a seasoned higher education leader and consultant, to discuss this challenge – and what marketing leaders can do to solve it.
Takeaways from this episode include:
Insight into the long-term consequences of an inadequately funded marketing officeEffective ways marketing leaders can advocate for larger budgetsTips for creatively stretching existing dollarsIdeas around building a culture that supports marketing as an investment and not an expenseGuest Name: Kristin Nichols
Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholskristin/
Guest Bio: Kristin Nichols is a higher education marketing professional with a wealth of experience spanning over twenty years. Throughout her career, she has worked at several top-tier institutions in the Northeast region. Kristin's skills in market research, brand development, digital strategies, and enrollment marketing have made a lasting impact on the industry. Currently residing in suburban Boston with her husband Chris and their two young children, Kristin devotedly balances a dedication to both her career and family. As a strategist and leader, she continues to shape the landscape of higher education marketing by contributing to the growth and success of the institutions she guides.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode, Jaime sits down with Kim Hallman to talk about the role placing faculty experts can play in an integrated marketing communications strategy. By strategically integrating faculty experts into an overall marketing communications strategy, universities can leverage their knowledge and reputation to enhance the institution’s image, attract and retain students, and potentially impact rankings. Takeaways from this episode include:
Advice on how to choose faculty members for strategic expert pitching – and how to train them to make the most of their interview opportunitiesInsight into ways colleges and universities can use earned media as part of a broad marketing strategyGuidance on how to craft a pitch that sells an expertInsight into trending topics – including the forthcoming electionStrategies for leveraging faculty expertise through short form videoGuest Name: Kim Hallman
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyhallman/
Guest Bio: Now in season 10 at 160over90, Kim leads the agency’s institutional marketing practice, helping colleges and universities, research institutes, health enterprises, and cause-based organizations raise awareness and raise funds to support a core impact mission. A former journalist turned publicist now all-around communications strategist, she first penned bylines in The Post-Standard in upstate New York, then worked as an editorial assistant for the National Campaign for the Arts in London, before landing on the marketing scene 18+ years ago. Originally focused in retail and hospitality PR, Kim quickly found that education category work fulfills her deep desire for lifelong learning. She holds a BA in English from Bucknell University and a master’s degree in Print Journalism from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. These days, when Kim’s not working, she’s soaking up all the firsts of new motherhood (and still trying to make some time for sleep).
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this compelling episode of "Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO," Jaime talks with Joe Picini, who opens up about his personal journey of navigating a sudden layoff and the critical role his professional network played in finding new opportunities.
Takeaways from this episode include:
Advice for building a network that can help you land on your feet after an unexpected career setback – or when your just ready to make a changeInsight into how a great professional network can help you overcome imposter syndromeStrategies for connecting with colleagues, mentors, and LinkedIn connections when you need professional supportTips for protecting your mental health when dealing with life’s curveballsListen to Joe’s inspiring story and gather actionable insights on how to leverage your network, stay resilient, and navigate the challenges of a job search. Whether you're facing job uncertainty or looking to strengthen your professional connections, this episode offers valuable lessons for all.
Guest Name: Joe Picini
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-picini-02496429/
Guest Bio: Joe Picini has over a decade of experience in higher ed marketing and enrollment strategy. He started his career at NYU as an admissions counselor before transitioning to NYU’s enrollment marketing team. He’s worked at a digital marketing agency as a strategist, a Director of Enrollment Marketing at an art school in Brooklyn, and currently serves as the Director of Recruitment Marketing at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) supporting their online portfolio. Throughout his career he’s had the chance to work with all student types (from precollege through masters programs) and all degree formats.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode, Jaime and Day Kibilds, VP for Strategy at Ologie, explore Ologie’s study on the parents of Gen Alpha, exploring the implications for higher education marketers and institutions. This episode examines the defining traits of Gen Alpha, the pivotal role of technology in their lives, and the profound impact of their parents on their educational choices.
Key takeaways for this episode include:
A look into the demographic and psychographics of Gen Alpha and their parents – and why that’s significant for higher ed marketers today.Insight into Gen Alpha’s parents, their influence on their children, and how their approaches to parenting and education differ from previous generations.An understanding of how Gen Alpha parents perceive the value of higher education and the factors influencing their attitudes towards affordability and necessity.Tips for reaching Gen Alpha’s parents – both from a channel perspective and a messaging perspective.Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive look at Gen Alpha and the evolving dynamics of higher education marketing. Whether you’re an educator, marketer, or parent, this discussion will provide valuable insights into engaging the newest generation of learners and their influential parents.
Ologie’s Parents of Gen Alpha Study: https://ologie.com/gen-alpha-parents/
To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO in your favorite podcast player.
Guest Name: Dayana Kibilds, VP of Strategy for Ologie
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dayanakibilds/
Guest Bio: Dayana is VP of strategy at Ologie, an employee-owned marketing and branding agency built for education. Prior to Ologie, Day led enrollment and digital innovation work at Penn State, Cornell and Western (Canada). She regularly speaks about enrollment marketing, email strategy, productivity and stakeholder management at conferences worldwide. Day is the host of Enrollify's Talking Tactics podcast, and is co-authoring a book about email to be released in August 2024. As a lifelong immigrant who has lived in six different countries, equity and diversity are really important to her. She sees content as a tool for equity, and part of her motivation to work in higher ed is to help students access the educational institutions they deserve to be a part of.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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AI is not the future of technology. It’s the technology of today that is shaping the future. With that mantra in mind, Jaime sits down with Claire Brady, president of Glass Half Full Consulting and a former vice president for student affairs, to discuss how AI is shaping the student experience.
Takeaways from this episode include:
A look into some of the most innovative ways colleges and universities are using AI.Insight into what barriers keep people – and universities – from exploring AI and ideas for overcoming them.Guidance on how to upskill yourself and your team to best leverage AI.Tips for how campuses can create more cohesive strategies for deploying AI solutions.To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO in your favorite podcast player.
Guest Name: Claire Brady
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairebradyedd/
Guest Bio: Claire is a seasoned executive and recognized change agent and coalition builder with significant experience improving processes, leading digital transformations, building world-class teams, and achieving strategic goals. She is a proud graduate of Michigan State University (BA & MA), and the University of Central Florida (EdD).
Claire has served in executive VPSA roles at Lake-Sumter State College in Florida and Ana G. Mendez University in Florida and Puerto Rico. Claire also has 10+ years of undergraduate teaching experience. Claire is a nationally recognized educator and passionate advocate for AI in higher education. She is leading the charge in AI literacy as a vocal advocate across higher education. Claire is dedicated to equipping executive teams and student affairs professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to leverage the immense potential of AI in their personal and professional lives.
Claire is an active member of regional and national associations and is engaged in her local communities by serving within organizations and on boards. Claire, her partner Ben, and their son Fox (12) live in Orlando. When she’s not picking up LEGO or discussing the intricacies of Minecraft, she enjoys travel, reading, AI, TV, crafting, Broadway shows, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.Claire's work with AI Consulting:
Dr. Claire Brady (she/her) is a nationally recognized educator and passionate advocate for AI in higher education.
As a leading voice in AI literacy, Claire is dedicated to empowering executive teams and student affairs professionals with the tools and knowledge to harness AI's immense potential in both personal and professional contexts.
Claire regularly consults with professional associations, university presidents & their executive teams, and vice presidents of student affairs (VPSAs) to determine how to ethically integrate AI technologies to advance the institutional mission and improve student outcomes.
She also offers a variety of AI-focused professional development opportunities, including full-day in-person training, as well as virtual facilitated sessions. Claire is also launching a suite of AI courses later this summer. In partnership with NASPA and the Strada Educational Foundation, Claire will soon release a national report focused on emerging and forecasted AI use cases in Student Affairs in advising, career services, and student success.Website: www.drclairebrady.com
Socials:
IG @drclairebrady
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairebradyedd/Blogs:
https://www.drclairebrady.com/blog
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode, Jaime and John Azoni, founder and executive producer of UNVEILD, explore short-form video content and its potential for colleges and universities. Jaime and John discuss the transformative influence of platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels on the video content landscape and how these changes are reshaping marketing strategies across the board.
Key takeaways include:
Great ideas for topics to tackle with short form video.Insight into the key elements for developing a successful video content strategy.Guidance on the equipment and technical set up needed to create short form video.Actionable advice and examples to help you get started.Guest Name: John Azoni, founder and executive producer of UNVEILD
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnazoni/
Guest Bio: John Azoni is a seasoned video producer having led a wide range of video projects over his 14-year career from documentaries and corporate videos, to commercials, social content, educational videos, and everything in between. He is the Founder and Executive Producer at UNVEILD, a video production company helping colleges and universities tell engaging human stories all year long through their subscription approach to video content creation.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode of our podcast, Jaime Hunt is joined by Patricia Maben and Jim Rogers from 3 Enrollment Marketing to discuss the transformative power of the experience economy within higher education. Patricia and Jim provide actionable advice for institutions to reimagine their approach to student engagement, emphasizing the importance of every interaction on campus from the classroom to extracurricular activities.
Topics discussed in this episode include:
how institutions can create memorable and effective experiences that go beyond traditional recruitment methods.innovative strategies to enhance campus tours, engage students, and ultimately, increase retention and success rates. examples of schools that excel in creating dynamic environments that captivate students.the challenges and opportunities presented by the current shifts in higher education, including the need for schools to adapt to the rising expectations of the experience economy.Guest Names:
Patricia Maben, President and Co-Founder of 3Enrollment Marketing
Jim Rogers, CEO and Co-Founder of 3Enrollment MarketingGuest Social:
Patricia Maben - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciamaben/
Jim Rogers - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrogers2022/Guest Bios:
Patricia Maben - With 30 years of professional experience in higher education, it is Patricia Maben’s passion to support colleges and universities through the success of their students from recruitment to graduation. Her career in enrollment management has been fueled by the recognition, experience, and satisfaction that higher education has a transformational impact on individuals, communities, and society. She has served as an on-campus enrollment practitioner, an enrollment marketing consultant, and as a builder of innovative enrollment marketing solutions. Patricia is a subject matter expert in recruitment marketing. She co-founded 3 Enrollment Marketing to address the need she saw for a better solution in helping enrollment leaders meet student needs while also managing the growing complexities of recruitment.Jim Rogers - James (Jim) Rogers brings three decades of experience in modern marketing strategy and execution to the helm of 3 Enrollment Marketing. He has a unique ability to foresee future trends and evolve with technology—while always keeping it connected to core goals and strategy. Jim is passionate about the power of higher education to transform individual lives and society, and he brings his experience in harnessing the power of modern marketing to advance the cause of higher ed.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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In this episode, host Jaime Hunt sits down with J-S. Stansel, founder of Saturn 9 Media and former social media manager at the University of Central Arkansas, to explore the landscape of social media management both inside and outside higher education. In this episode, J.S. and Jaime discuss:
The transition from higher ed to managing social media for major entertainment brands like Amazon Prime Video and the Avatar franchise.The complexities and nuances of using humor in social media, including the risks and rewards.The importance of social listening and how it can transform marketing strategies.The universal challenges faced by social media managers, such as dealing with silos, micromanagement, and the undervaluation of their roles.Listeners will gain valuable insights into how social media can be a powerful tool for engagement, the critical need for higher ed institutions to stay current with social trends, and the importance of empowering social media managers with the resources they need.
Guest Name: Jon-Stephen Stansel, founder of Saturn 9 Media
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsstansel/
Guest Bio: Jon-Stephen Stansel is an award winning social media professional with over a decade of experience managing, building, and creating content for brand social media accounts. He has run social media accounts for Amazon Prime's Invincible animated series, Hyper RPG, Better Place Forests, the University of Central Arkansas, Texas State University, the Texas Department of Transportation, as well as consulting for many television series, films, and small businesses. As Director of Social Media for Chaotic Good studios, Jon-Stephen worked on social media strategy and content for AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER and Amazon Prime Video’s LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER among several other major entertainment franchises.
In addition, he has taught courses in social media management and presented at many national and international conferences including HighEd Web, PSEWeb, the International Congress of Technological Innovation in Buenos Aires, and the Association of International Educators. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Radio and Television Production and a Master's degree in English both from Arkansas State University.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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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.
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Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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Environmental graphics can play a critical role in not only improving campus aesthetics, but also in building a sense of community and brand on campus. In this episode, Adrienne King, associate vice president for marketing at Indiana University, discusses how IU has leveraged environmental graphics to transform the IU campuses and build pride in their community.
Takeaways for this episode include:
Guidance on the process of bringing a graphic concept from concept to completion.Insight into solving the challenges of integrating visuals within a university's unique architectural and cultural landscape.Ideas for measuring the effectiveness of environmental graphics in terms of student engagement and recruitment.Tips for ensuring the sustainability of environmental graphics.A glimpse into emerging trends and innovations in environmental graphics that are set to shape the industry.Whether you're a higher education marketer or just fascinated by the intersection of design and marketing, this episode is packed with valuable advice.
To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO in your favorite podcast player.
Guest Name: Adrienne King
Guest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dradking/
Guest Bio: Dr. Adrienne King joined Indiana University in June 2023 as the new Associate Vice President of Marketing. She leads the university’s marketing strategy in support of the institution’s strategic goals, focusing on delivering a unified, brand experience fueled by research, data, and integrated marketing communications. She has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education marketing and communications, advancement, and alumni and community engagement, having previously served in similar leadership roles at the University of Toledo, Murray State University, Idaho State University and West Virginia University Institute of Technology. She received her doctorate in higher education administration and a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from West Virginia University, after earning bachelor’s degrees in graphic design and public relations from Marietta College. She also is a graduate of the 2018 Leadership America executive program and a 2021-22 American Council of Education Fellow.
- - - -
Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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As Joey Schmit, Associate VP of Global Marketing & Communications at New York University, pointed out in our insightful conversation, higher ed institutions often prioritize departmental needs over their students.
That realization motivated Joey and his peers at NYU to elevate the student experience through human-centered design, a framework that creates solutions using an empathic lens.
Joey shares how NYU is mapping the student journey by putting students first and addressing the internal cultural dynamics that impact strategic outcomes.
Join us as we discuss:
[4:38] Mapping the student journey through human-centered design[18:51] The initial research phase and getting buy-in from stakeholders[37:49] Internal dynamics and cultivating empathic storytellingCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:
IDEONYU’s 5th Annual Storytelling Summit RecapTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO in your favorite podcast player.
- - - -
Connect With Our Host:
Jaime Hunt
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimehunt/
https://twitter.com/JaimeHuntIMCAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Talking Tactics and Higher Ed Pulse.Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
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