Education Marketing Leader with Chris Rapozo

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader, I had the pleasure of talking with Jaime Hunt, an award-winning CMO and host of the Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO podcast. Jaime recently announced that she has a thrilling new venture, launching her own consulting firm:Solve Higher Ed🔑 Key Insights from my conversation with Jaime:Transition from CMO to Consultant: After a distinguished career, Jaime felt the pull to start her own firm to amplify her impact across multiple institutions, tackling pressing challenges like the enrollment cliff and the need for improved student retention strategies.AI in Higher Education: Jaime shares practical tips for integrating AI tools into higher-ed marketing strategies, pushing beyond the hype to enhance operational effectiveness.Student Retention Focus: One of Jaime's primary missions is enhancing student retention through strategic communications and robust journey mapping, areas often overlooked in traditional recruitment-focused marketing efforts.Jaime's shift from a CMO to a consultant is both a career change and a strategic move to foster broader improvements in the higher education sector. Her agency aims to deliver high-value, cost-effective solutions, especially for institutions that might not have the budget for larger agencies but still need to innovate and improve.Jaime's journey offers insights into navigating career transitions with strategic foresight and unwavering passion. Whether you're a marketer in the trenches or a leader looking to reshape your institution's future, there's plenty to learn from her bold moves and visionary approaches.🔗 Listen to the full episode by following the link in the comments below.Connect with Jaime for collaboration or consultation.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. 🙏Until next time. ✌#HigherEdMarketing #EducationMarketing #CareerTransition #Marketing #StudentRetention #MarketingLeadership

This week's Education Marketing Leader podcast episode concludes our community college series hosted in honor of Community College Month.I'm excited to share my conversation with Jeff Ebbing, Director of Marketing and Communications at Southeastern Community College and former National Council for Marketing & Public Relations president.I first met Jeff at NCMPR's National Conference in Orlando last year and got to know him better during a fun run through the streets of Seattle at this year's conference. Our conversation centered around practical strategies for higher-ed marketers. We explored how to craft messages that reach, resonate, and inspire action among audiences, providing tangible steps for implementation.Episode Highlights:Strategic Messaging: Jeff shared how simplifying complex messages like their "Get Paid to Go to Nursing School" campaign dramatically increased engagement and conversions. This practical approach cuts through the noise, reaching students where they're most attentive.Audience Engagement: We discussed the importance of directly engaging with students to gather feedback, utilizing programs like the Blackhawk Ambassadors. This real-time input shapes more relevant and impactful campaigns.Innovative Media Use: From traditional billboards to digital platforms, Jeff emphasized the need to constantly adapt and experiment with media channels to keep messages fresh and effective.Adapting to Change: Highlighting the evolution from traditional to digital tactics, Jeff provided insights on staying ahead in the rapidly changing landscape of digital marketing in education.This episode is a must-listen for all higher-ed marketers looking to sharpen their strategies and push the envelope on their campaigns.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. 🙏Until next time. ✌P.S. Be sure to connect with Jeff and follow Southeastern Community College social to see the strategies in practice. Resources mentioned during the episode: SCC Ad: Erin Wagner: "I know you can do this"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCReC9t6u1c

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Maya Demishkevich, the Chief Marketing Officer at Carroll Community College. Maya shared groundbreaking strategies on how her team uses social media to help Carroll Community College retain its students.One of the insights shared were the five key pillars affecting student retention:💲 Financial Burden: Engaging content that informs students about scholarships, financial aid, and budget management tips.🎓 Academic Challenges: Promotions for tutoring services and study groups to bridge knowledge gaps.👶 🛠️ Balancing Commitments: Support resources for adult learners and working students, showcasing flexible learning options.🧘‍♂️ Mental Health: Awareness campaigns focusing on wellness resources and support systems available on campus.🤝 Student Assistance Resources: Highlighting campus services like career counseling and health services, ensuring students know how to access these resources.💡 Why It's Crucial: These pillars represent students' core challenges, and addressing them through social media can significantly enhance their college experience and likelihood of success.Strategic Takeaways for Marketers:1️⃣ Targeted Campaigns: Each piece of content is tailored to address specific student needs, making social media a critical touchpoint for support.2️⃣ Faculty Involvement: Empowering faculty to participate in social media efforts amplifies reach and authenticity.3️⃣ Student Ambassadors: Leveraging student voices to relate and resonate, making the message more impactful.Tune in to the full conversation on the Education Marketing Leader podcast today. 🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. 🙏Until next time. ✌P.S. Be sure to connect with Maya and follow Carroll Community College on social to see how they put the advice Maya shared into practice.#HigherEducation #Marketing #StudentRetention #SocialMediaStrategy #Podcast

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jason Houlihan, MBA, the Executive Director of Marketing and Events at Del Mar College. 🎓I heard Jason speak at the 2024 NCMPR National Conference in Seattle last month and was so inspired by his talk that I invited him on the show. 🎙We focused the episode on how to craft memorable marketing messages in higher education.Here are the key takeaways:𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭Jason emphasizes the power of digital marketing, especially in engaging today's tech-savvy students. From memes that resonate with local culture to the strategic use of YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels, it's about meeting students where they are.𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐞𝐲Jason shared how Del Mar College uses storytelling to connect with students, making them the heroes of their educational journey. This approach not only enhances relatability but also boosts engagement and enrollment.𝐁𝐮𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐭-𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬Budget constraints are always a concern, so Jason highlighted the importance of cost-effective marketing strategies. Leveraging AI and CRM tools can automate and streamline processes, allowing marketers to focus on creativity and human interaction.𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧The landscape of digital marketing is ever-changing. Jason's approach involves constant learning and adapting to new platforms while ensuring brand consistency and engagement across all channels.🔗 Want to hear more about how Jason is transforming the marketing landscape in Corpus Christi, Texas? Tune in to the full conversation on the Education Marketing Leader podcast.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. 🙏Until next time. ✌P.S. Be sure to connect with Jason and follow Del Mar College on social to see how they put the advice Jason shared into practice. #HigherEducation #Marketing #DigitalMarketing #Storytelling #Podcast

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, Abby Humbel, Digital Marketing Manager at Hagerstown Community College, shared practical insights on implementing student influencer marketing. 💡Here's a breakdown of the episode:💠 Strategy IntroductionAbby explained the shift towards using student influencers to create authentic, relatable content that reflects real student experiences, aiming to connect with prospective students on a genuine level. 🤜 🤛💠 AdvantagesThe authenticity and relatability of student-created content stand out.Successful campaigns include study tips and "day in the life" videos, resonating well due to their genuine insight into student life. 🎓💠 ImplementationAbby outlined the process of working with student influencers who operate as contractors, producing content independently while adhering to set guidelines to ensure brand alignment and authenticity. 😎💠 Metrics and DiversityImportance is placed on engagement metrics and the diversity of influencer groups to ensure broad relatability.This approach helps refine the strategy and ensure that the content appeals to a wide audience. 📈🔑 Key TakeawaysAbby emphasized the need for clear program guidelines, the value of diversity among influencers, and the importance of balancing informative and entertaining content. 🤓For more detailed insights, Abby's full discussion offers a roadmap for starting or enhancing a student influencer marketing program at your college or university. Connect with her on LinkedIn for more on digital marketing in education.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌

In the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I sat down with Maria Kuntz, Communications Director at the University of Colorado Boulder.Maria shared her unexpected journey into higher education marketing and her commitment to inclusivity in communication. 💡Key insights for higher education marketing professionals:♦ Inclusivity Starts with Acknowledgment:Recognizing you don’t have all the answers is the first step toward fostering an inclusive environment.♦ Training is Crucial:Educating your team on bias and identity reduces fear around discussions of difference, enhancing inclusivity in your campaigns.♦ Safety to Learn:A psychologically safe team space encourages learning from mistakes, which is vital for developing inclusive storytelling.♦ Be Intentional with Storytelling:It’s about lifting diverse voices and ensuring content resonates authentically with a wide audience, respecting cultural nuances.♦ Retention Focus: Beyond attracting underrepresented students, focus on creating supportive environments to improve retention.♦ Mindful Questioning:Avoid unnecessary identity-based questions in interviews unless they serve a clear purpose in the context.♦ Navigating DEI Initiatives:With shifting policies, it’s essential to adapt and maintain a commitment to diverse and inclusive narratives.♦ Start Small and Be Curious:Implementing an inclusive mindset in marketing strategies begins with one project. Approach it with curiosity and be open to feedback.Maria’s advice emphasizes the importance of slowing down to ensure the inclusivity of both the process and the narrative. For those looking to explore inclusive marketing practices in higher education more deeply, connecting with Maria on LinkedIn could offer further insights.Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of integrating these principles into your marketing strategies.#HigherEdMarketing #InclusiveMarketing #EducationMarketingLeader

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Elliot Lollis, a Senior Brand Strategist at Up&Up. We discussed how colleges and universities can elevate their institution's brand amid the stiffening competition.Below are some takeaways from the show: 👂 Listen Before You LeapThe cornerstone of Elliot's strategy revolves around deep listening—understanding the unique DNA of an institution before crafting a brand story that resonates with both internal stakeholders and prospective students.🗝 Authenticity is KeyElliot emphasizes the importance of genuine storytelling. It's about capturing the essence of an institution's values, culture, and vision.🤝 Collaboration Across DepartmentsElliot discussed the silos within institutions that can impede a cohesive brand strategy. Her solution? Foster cross-departmental collaborations as a way to unify the brand voice and experience.😵 Avoiding the PitfallsElliot was candid about the missteps to dodge in higher education marketing—from the perils of inconsistency to underestimating the power of student voices in storytelling.🛠 Tools and TrendsAlways ahead of the curve, Elliot shared insights into the latest trends and tools that are reshaping how we approach brand strategy in higher education, underscoring the importance of staying adaptable and learner-centric.🎧 Why This MattersAs higher education marketing professionals, understanding the interplay between brand strategy, storytelling, and audience engagement is critical. Elliot's insights illuminate the path to stronger brand alignment and encourage us to think outside the traditional marketing playbook.For those eager to dive deeper into the world of brand strategy and storytelling, connect with Elliot on LinkedIn. Take advantage of the latest conversation with actionable strategies, personal anecdotes, and a roadmap to branding success.Until next time.✌️#highereducation #marketing #branding #pocdast

In the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I was thrilled to welcome Julie Johnson Novara, the visionary behind Julie Johnson Writing Services. 🔏With a rich background in international studies, education, and a deep-seated love for storytelling, Julie brings a fresh perspective to crafting compelling content strategies for higher education institutions. 💡Here are some key insights from the episode: 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲Begin by clearly understanding your content goals, knowing your audience intimately, and choosing the right channels to engage them.𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭Emphasize thorough research to grasp the nuances of your student body's needs and aspirations, ensuring your message hits home.𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞Achieve the right mix of informative and promotional content, tailoring your approach to inform, engage, and inspire your audience without overwhelming them.𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠Leverage your institution's unique stories to foster a genuine connection with prospective students and showcase real impact and value.𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐘𝐞𝐭 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝Stay abreast of evolving trends like AI and virtual reality, but anchor your content in the authenticity only human-created narratives can provide.𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫Focus on KPIs that truly reflect engagement and conversion, adjusting your strategy to optimize performance and ROI.𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲Encourage a synergistic environment where marketers, content creators, and academics collaborate to produce content that resonates and attracts.𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐲Julie advocates starting with well-defined objectives and progressively refining your approach based on audience feedback and evolving trends. Whether it's through impactful stories, innovative formats, or strategic engagement, the goal is to create content that deeply connects with your audience. 🤜 🤛Tune in to glean actionable advice that will:🔸 Empower you to refine your content strategy🔸 Engage prospective students more effectively, and🔸 Amplify your institution's narrative in the competitive landscape of higher education.🖇 Connect with Julie on LinkedIn to explore further insights into effective content strategy in higher education, or visit her website at www.johnsonwriter.comUntil next time. ✌️#marketing #highereducation EducationMarketing #HigherEdContent #ContentStrategy #Podcasting

🎙️ Exciting Recap from the Latest Episode of the Education Marketing Leader Podcast! 🚀In a recent episode, I learned about public scholarship and how to amplify research through podcasting from Robert S. Li 🎓🎙, co-founder of University FM and Professors.fm. For all you higher education marketing professionals, this episode is a wellspring of innovative strategies and valuable insights!🔊 Amplifying Faculty Voices Through Podcasting:Robert shared his journey from the University of Michigan to co-founding University FM, a platform transforming the landscape of higher education communication. We explored the transformative power of podcasts in making scholarly research accessible, engaging, and relevant to the broader public.🎓 The Power of Public Scholarship:We dove into how podcasts serve as a bridge, connecting complex academic research with the community, enhancing the institution's impact and reach. Imagine the potential when your faculty's groundbreaking research resonates with a global audience!🎧 Strategic Insights for University Podcasts:Whether you're contemplating a faculty-hosted show or a student-driven podcast, the key lies in aligning with your university's core message. We dissected the podcast production process into strategic phases.📈 Elevating Your University's Brand:Robert highlighted how scholar-hosted podcasts could significantly boost your university's reputation, drawing in prospective students eager to learn from renowned experts firsthand.🤔 Who Should Host? Navigating Choices:The decision between a faculty member or a marketer hosting your podcast can be pivotal. We discussed how this choice affects brand consistency, audience connection, and the overall success of your podcasting endeavor.Don't miss this rich discussion with actionable insights tailored for higher education marketers looking to innovate and elevate their institution's voice in the digital sphere.🔗 Connect with us to stay ahead in the dynamic world of education marketing, and tune in for more episodes that empower your strategies and spark transformation.Until next time, keep pushing the boundaries of educational marketing! ✌️#EducationMarketing #HigherEd #Podcasting #PublicScholarship #UniversityFM #InnovationInEducation

As a J-School grad, I'm always excited to speak with a TV reporter gone higher-ed marketer. During the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I spoke with Siobhan Lopez, the Assistant Director of Media Relations at Southern New Hampshire University. Siobhan's journey is a narrative that's as compelling as it is instructive.Here's the scoop:Siobhan's decade-long stint in broadcast journalism was more than a career—it was a masterclass in storytelling. Transitioning to higher ed marketing, she's now turning the spotlight on SNHU, proving that every great institution has a story to tell. Journalist's Instinct: Imagine leveraging a reporter's eye in your marketing strategy. That's Siobhan for you!Her advice? Hire those who know a reporter's beat, likes, and dislikes. Their storytelling is as effective as it is transformative. Pitch Perfect: These days, it's no longer just about pumping out press releases. It's about sending the right ones to the right outlets.Siobhan's mantra is clear – understand your audience, tailor your pitch, and watch your story get picked up.Real Relationships: Forget mass emails. Siobhan's success with media placements is all about those personal connections, knowing what journalists want, and delivering stories that resonate. It's networking gold. 🤝Authenticity is KeyIn a world buzzing with content, authenticity wins. Siobhan's work exemplifies this: turning SNHU's narratives into compelling, sought-after media stories that inspire and engage. 🌟🗣Siobhan's Takeaway: Transform your approach, think like a journalist, and tell stories that matter. Siobhan's background is impressive, and her episode is a blueprint for education marketers aiming to make a real impact.Eager to amplify your university's stories with the same finesse? Connect, share, and engage with this episode's golden insights. 🎓P.S. A special thank you to Kirk Hazlett, a former Education Marketing Leader podcast guest, and mutual connection, for introducing me to Siobhan.#EducationMarketing #HigherEdInnovation #MediaRelations #Storytelling #MarketingStrategy

Just dropped an insightful conversation with the brilliant Harrison "Soup" Campbell, Head of Community Experience at ZeeMee, where we dove deep into the evolution of student engagement in the higher education space. 🎓💡Soup shared his incredible journey from University Admissions Pro to the groundbreaking work ZeeMee is doing to revolutionize how colleges and universities connect with prospective students. 🌟🔑 𝕂𝕖𝕪 𝕋𝕒𝕜𝕖𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤:𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥: The shift from a digital portfolio platform to a thriving social community emphasizes the importance of early and authentic engagement with students. Soup stresses the need for relational over transactional interactions to build meaningful connections. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲: In the digital age, students crave genuine connections. Leveraging current students as influencers and hosting authentic events can significantly enhance engagement and foster a sense of belonging among prospective students. 🌐𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐄𝐈: Highlighting USC's success story, Soup shares how dedicated chat channels can lead to record-breaking enrollment increases, showcasing the effectiveness in supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 🎉𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞: Finally, the conversation circled back to the challenges and opportunities in engaging digital-native students. Understanding the culture of various online communities and the pivotal role of technology, especially AI, in shaping future engagements. 🚀This episode is a goldmine for higher education marketing professionals looking to elevate their strategies and connect with their audience meaningfully.👉 Don't miss out on this episode filled with actionable insights; head to our podcast page to listen now!And if Soup's journey or ZeeMee's innovative approach sparks an idea, feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn. Let's keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible in education marketing together. 🌱Until next time, stay curious and engaged. ✌️#EducationMarketing #HigherEd #DigitalEngagement #PodcastRecap #CommunityBuilding #ZeeMee #MarketingInsights

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Kathleen Stockham, the CMO at South College. Kathleen's journey from television news to e-commerce giant America Online and eventually to the helm of South College's marketing is nothing short of inspiring.Kathleen took us behind the scenes of South College's website overhaul, a project critical for modernizing their digital presence. The revamp was more than just about aesthetics. It was about creating a seamless, mobile-friendly user experience that resonates with prospective students and parents alike.Speed and personalization were at the core of the project. Drawing on her e-commerce expertise, Kathleen emphasized the need for fast, accessible content and the power of multimedia to engage prospective students. Thanks to Kathleen and her creative director, Jose Salas, personal stories, vibrant colors, and intuitive layouts now define South College's online identity.What sets Kathleen apart is her commitment to understanding student motivations. By gathering first-party data and prioritizing compliance without compromising consumer value, she's ensuring South College's website is a portal and a journey into the heart of what the college offers.The road to revamping a higher-ed website is fraught with challenges, from convincing stakeholders to ensuring mobile optimization. Kathleen's strategy? Continuous improvement and a relentless focus on the user experience.Whether you're knee-deep in marketing strategy or just fascinated by the intersection of education and digital innovation, this episode is a goldmine of insights."The website is a living entity demanding constant care," Kathleen reminds us. In higher education marketing, being static is not an option.Eager to dive deeper into Kathleen's strategies or start a conversation? Connect with her on LinkedIn.Keep pushing the boundaries of higher education marketing. Stay tuned for more episodes that blend expertise, strategy, and actionable advice.Until next time. ✌️P.S. A special thank you to Olivia Giamanco for the introduction. #HigherEdMarketing #Web #marketing

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I sat down with Kristin Nichols, Founder of Nichols Higher Education, to discuss a topic that many of us are interested in:𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭-𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬.With the enrollment cliff looming, Kristin underscored the untapped potential within this demographic.Drawing on over two decades of experience working in higher-ed, she shared how institutions can authentically connect with these students, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and included.🔑 Key Takeaways:🤔 Understand Their Unique Challenges:First-gen students often balance familial responsibilities alongside their studies.Marketing needs to highlight the student experience and the support systems in place, not just the ROI of education.🤝 Inclusivity in Communication:Many first-gen students come from non-native English speaking backgrounds. Translating digital and physical materials can make a significant difference.Simple, yet profound strategies like accommodating event times can make these students feel valued.👍 Authentic Engagement:Use a conversational tone in your messaging. Break down the college application process, financial details, and long-term benefits into digestible information.Storytelling, especially through digital platforms, is key. Share success stories of first-gen students to inspire and motivate.🤜 🤛 Community Engagement:Extend your marketing efforts beyond the campus.Engage with local communities through cultural events and exhibits. It's not just about bringing people to campus but building trust with them.⏩ Continuous Innovation:Stay agile. With demographics and trends constantly evolving, assessing and adjusting your communication strategies is crucial.Embrace new technologies and platforms where first-gen students spend their time.Kristin's insights remind us that a commitment to understanding and addressing first-generation college students' unique needs and challenges is at the heart of effective marketing to them.It's about creating a sense of belonging and support that extends from their first inquiry to graduation and beyond.This episode is for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of first-generation students and navigate the upcoming enrollment challenges.Connect with Kristin on LinkedIn and join her at the 2024 Cascade User Conference on February 22, where she is a panelist at a round table discussion on navigating the enrollment cliff.Don't miss it!Until next time.

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sean Beasley, Director of Marketing at Missouri State University's College of Business. Sean's journey from journalism to higher ed is a testament to the transformative power of personal touch in education marketing.Here's why this episode is a must-listen for higher education marketing professionals:👥 Personalization Is Key: In an era of fierce competition, Sean emphasizes the critical role of personalization in engaging prospective students. Tailored messages stand out and make students feel valued, significantly impacting their decision-making.📧 Emails That Speak Directly: Sean shares insights on crafting personalized, resonant emails. 🤝 Building Relationships: It's not just about being responsive; it's about being thoughtfully responsive. Missouri State's reputation for engaging with prospective students through personalized communication and responsiveness has set a benchmark for success in student recruitment.📈 Beyond Chatbots: While acknowledging AI's role in marketing, Sean advocates for a balanced approach that prioritizes genuine human interaction. 🎨 CTA & Email Optimization: Sean shares practical tips on optimizing email campaigns. 🧪 Experimentation & Learning: The conversation wraps up with Sean encouraging marketers to experiment with different strategies and learn from them. A/B testing, attending marketing conferences, and staying open to new methods are crucial for evolving and enhancing higher education marketing efforts.🔗 Connect & Learn: Sean is open to connecting on LinkedIn for anyone interested in diving deeper into personalization and effective marketing communication strategies in the higher education space.This episode is a treasure trove of insights for higher education marketing professionals looking to elevate their strategies and truly connect with their audience. Personalization is the future of effective higher education marketing.👉 Listen, Apply, Transform: Take these insights, apply them to your marketing strategies, and watch how personalization can transform your recruitment efforts.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌#EducationMarketing #HigherEd #Personalization #MarketingStrategies #StudentRecruitment #EmailMarketing #DigitalMarketing

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader, I had the pleasure of hosting Joshua Charles, the Director of Web Strategies at Rutgers University Business School. Josh's journey from web programming to marketing, driven by his passion for education, is inspiring.During the episode, Josh explains how web strategy acts as the digital front door for institutions, vital for attracting and retaining students, especially with the upcoming demographic enrollment cliff. He emphasizes that a university's website is a pivotal part of a broader marketing and communications strategy. Understanding the audience's journey is key to ensuring the website and customer journey are inextricably linked.Our conversation took a deep dive into the art of connecting business objectives with prospective students. Josh underlines the importance of aligning the institution's brand, values, and unique selling points with the audience's needs. He stresses the necessity of emotional and transactional content that resonates with diverse student backgrounds, like international students adapting to new environments.Personalization is king! Josh discusses strategies to foster a sense of belonging and diversity despite resource limitations. For instance, crafting content that emotionally connects with various student demographics is crucial.Looking towards the future, Josh and I explore the evolving landscape of higher education marketing, particularly the role of AI. He advises educators and marketers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace continuous learning.He encourages curiosity and open-mindedness to budding higher-ed web and marketing professionals, focusing on foundational growth rather than getting bogged down in tactical details.Don't miss this insightful episode!Listen now to elevate your education marketing game!For more insights from Josh and to dive deeper into the world of web strategy in higher education, connect with him on LinkedIn or the HighEdWeb Slack Channel. 🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌hashtag#marketing hashtag#highereducation hashtag#web

In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Jenny Martin and Tim Wombles from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Jenny, with her roots in higher education advancement, and Tim, who started as a graduate assistant and found his calling in digital communications, shared their journey toward transforming UMSL's web presence. The duo is gearing up to present at Hannon Hill's 2024 Cascade User Conference, showcasing how UMSL reclaimed its digital identity.This interview touches on some of the aspects of their efforts. Jenny and Tim discussed shifting from a fragmented web presence managed by over 400 individuals to a centralized, cohesive digital front. The pre-2020 era saw UMSL's digital landscape as a wild west of over 300 sites with inconsistent branding and structure. The creation of the First Central web team in 2022 was a game-changer, aligning the university's digital strategy with modern branding and features.Jenny and Tim emphasized the critical role of a unified brand by collaborating with faculty, staff, and graduate assistants; the web team revamped the university's website to resonate with prospective students.Their approach? A CMS template ensuring brand consistency and focusing on updating enrollment management university-wide.The team also highlighted the necessity of open communication and the power of compromise in enhancing user experience. Looking ahead, Jenny and Tim are excited about expanding UMSL's services to cater to diverse audiences, including corporate partners, adult learners, and transfer students. To dive deeper into their insights, connect with Jenny and Tim on LinkedIn or via their emails on UMSL's website.Join them at #CUC24 on Wednesday, February 21, at 1:45 p.m. to learn how you can reclaim your university website. 🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌#marketing #highereducation #web

In this episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I met one of the fastest men on the AMA HigherEd circuit: Shamell Forbes is the Campus Partnerships Associate at Campus Sonar, a former track and field star, the father of one cat, and the son of two immigrants. 🇯🇲We had a fascinating discussion on the pivotal role of inclusivity in higher education marketing communications.Shamell, with his background in social work and transition to higher education on the EdTech side, brings a unique perspective to the table when it comes to communicating inclusively with empathy. 💡As always, we started the episode by exploring my guest's unique journey and his decision to enter the higher education sphere, which was fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact -- a theme that resonated throughout our conversation.Shamell explained the essence of inclusive communication in higher education, emphasizing the need to foster a genuine sense of belonging among students from diverse communities. I learned it's about creating a welcoming environment through authentic marketing and communication practices. He also stressed to hire staff from underrepresented communities to ensure a more holistic and relatable approach to marketing.The conversation then shifted towards practical strategies for integrating inclusivity on an institution's website. Shamell highlighted the need for institutions to understand their target audiences, engage with students on social media, and be transparent about past issues. He shed light on the importance of showcasing the authentic experiences of all students, including those who might not fit the traditional narratives of excellence. This approach, he believes, can inspire and resonate with a broader audience.Learn how to communicate with diverse audiences in 2024 by listening to the complete episode on YouTube and your favorite podcast medium.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌#marketing #highereducation #SEO #DEI

Ever wonder how universities climb the ever-shifting mountain of Google rankings? Well, I recently sat down with a man who's built his agency into a sherpa for higher-ed institutions struggling to reach the peak. 🏔Meet Abu Noaman, CEO of Elliance, Inc., who shared his story of using digital marketing to unlock enrollment growth for colleges and universities.Abu's journey is one of personal triumph and a deep belief in the transformative power of education. 💪He saw education as a ladder out of hardship, and now, he helps others on the climb with a focus on SEO and student recruitment. During the episode, Abu paints a picture of SEO's evolution from the wild west days of Yahoo to the user-centric landscapes of today. He calls out the unique challenges facing smaller schools and community colleges, where visibility can be as scarce as funding. 💸Yet, through SEO, he's seen every single one of his clients break the Google glass ceiling and land on that coveted page one.But SEO isn't just about pleasing Google's algorithm. Abu champions the power of human thought leaders – those brilliant faculty and researchers with minds overflowing with original insights. He urges university marketers to tap this rich vein through interviews and collaborations, reminding us that AI-generated content, no matter how fancy, can't compete with the spark of a human-powered story.Listen to the complete episode to learn about Abu's insights on how to improve your SEO game in 2024, and join his session at Hannon Hill's Cascade CMS User Conference on February 21, where he'll present SEO in depth.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌

The first guest on the "Education Marketing Leader" podcast in 2024 is well-known on the higher-ed conference circuit. Her passion for empathy in communications and mission to break down content walls benefit equity-deserving students from around the globe. Meet Day Kibilds, Strategy Director at Ologie and host of the "Talking Tactics" podcast.During our chat, we focused on how to create inclusive Higher-Ed Web content.Her experience as an international student who had difficulties enrolling in a U.S.-based university, combined with her extensive background as an admissions professional, qualifies her to illuminate the challenges many students face, particularly those unfamiliar with academic jargon. Day emphasized the need for empathy in the application process, advocating for simplicity over complexity in web content.She highlighted the essential role of clear, straightforward language on websites, stressing the importance of tools like the Hemingway app and ChatGPT to ensure content is accessible to all.The statistics Day shared are eye-opening - 57% of high school seniors feel overwhelmed by the admissions process, often missing out on crucial opportunities due to complex language and procedures. She challenges higher education institutions to lower these barriers, making the journey more inclusive.Day also tackled the misconceptions around web accessibility. She argues that simplifying web content isn't about dumbing down but about equity and inclusion. 🤝 Day's message is clear: empathy, equity, and simplification are key to democratizing the higher education application process. Listen to the complete episode to dive deeper into Day's insights and vision for a more inclusive higher education landscape, and join her session at Hannon Hill's Cascade CMS User Conference on February 21, where she'll present the topic in depth.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌

In the final episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast of 2023, I interviewed one of the show's early supporters, who kept me accountable and introduced me to guests when needed.Meet Kat Liendgens, my boss and CEO of Hannon Hill.Kat, a fellow German immigrant, moved to the United States a few decades ago. After earning degrees in English and Information Technology, she used her academic and technical expertise as Associate Dean of IT.Following several years in the IT space, Kat took an opportunity to join Hannon Hill in 2009 as Professional Services Manager.She was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in January 2011 and then appointed Chief Executive Officer in November 2011 to strengthen culture and revitalize growth.A strong culture and an organization that operates with a growth mindset is what I found when I started at Hannon Hill in July 2022.Things are trending upward for the company, and that's what we want for our clients, most of whom are higher-ed institutions, as well.The episode focuses on how colleges and universities can harness the power of website personalization during the shifting higher-ed landscape to help attract new students, retain current ones, and keep alumni informed most efficiently.Personalization is especially relevant in the face of the demographic enrollment cliff, where it's more important than ever to create a digital experience that resonates with each visitor when they reach a website.But how should one get started?During our chat, Kat acknowledged the hesitations marketers often have about implementing website personalization.She recommends starting with small, focused experiments, particularly targeting personas that are harder to convert.Kat reiterated the power of being intentional with personalization efforts and that the key is to be thoughtful and understand the unique needs of each visitor.We also covered:How higher education institutions can effectively utilize data to personalize their websites without compromising privacy.Common challenges universities face when implementing web personalization, and how can they overcome them.Emerging trends in web personalization that higher education marketers should be aware of?To catch Kat's insights on leveraging website personalization in higher education for increased engagement, enrollment, and retention, tune into the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast.Contact Kat on LinkedIn or email her at kat@hannonhill.com to continue the conversation.🌟 If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. 🙏Until next time. ✌#marketing #highereducation #webpersonalization #personalization