Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO — with Jaime Hunt

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Jeff Kallay, Senior Vice President of Enrollment Consulting at Echo Delta, to explore the often-overlooked role of parents in the college search and decision-making process. With experience consulting on over 300 college campuses, Jeff brings a unique and data-informed perspective on how institutions can better engage parents, families, and caregivers—not just during campus visits but throughout the student lifecycle. Tune in for a provocative conversation filled with actionable insights and storytelling that will change the way you think about parent engagement in higher ed.Guest Name: Jeff Kallay, Senior VP of Enrollment Consulting, Echo DeltaGuest Bio: Jeff Kallay is a nationally respected authority on campus visit experiences and student recruitment. Over the course of his career, he has worked with more than 300 college and university campuses across the country to create compelling visit experiences—the kind of experiences that align with strategic enrollment goals while also forging strong connections with best-fit students and their families. Jeff graduated from Lee College with a Bachelor of Science in 1986. Now, as Senior Vice President of Enrollment Consulting at Echo Delta, Jeff serves as an on-campus advisor and training facilitator, providing analysis, insights, and generational research to help our clients showcase themselves with authenticity and transparency. Outside of his agency responsibilities, Jeff remains an active thought leader in the higher education space and regularly commands speaking engagements at workshops and conferences nationwide. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Mike Morris, Partner at the Ward Group, a leading executive search firm specializing in marketing and communications leadership roles. Together, they unpack how higher education marketers can position themselves for VP- and CMO-level roles—and how to build relationships with search firms that actually lead to job offers. This insightful conversation covers what presidents often misunderstand about the CMO role, how to craft a compelling resume, and why emotional intelligence may matter more than your title.Guest Name: Mike Morris, Director, The Ward GroupGuest Bio: Throughout Mike’s time at The Ward Group—a retained executive search firm that specializes functionally in marketing and communications leadership roles—he has focused primarily in the firm’s higher education portfolio. Working with presidents and search committees, from public research universities to liberal arts colleges and beyond, Mike brings a breadth of experience and insight to institutional partners across the country.Previously, Mike spent over a decade in higher education, namely college athletics recruiting. Working at schools such as Boston College, Harvard University, and Dartmouth College, he was heavily involved in the recruitment of prospective football student-athletes. In both college athletics and executive search, success is “all about the people.”Mike’s additional experience at TWG includes recruiting marketing and communications leaders for clients nationwide in categories like healthcare, financial services, and health tech.  For him, the natural synergy created by understanding clients’ values beyond the job description and getting to know candidates beyond the resume is the ultimate payoff. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with higher ed storyteller and communications strategist Kristin Hanson to unpack the strategic value of proactive storytelling. Together, they explore how colleges and universities can move from passive, transactional content to authentic, intentional narratives that deepen emotional connection, support enrollment and advancement goals, and highlight the real people behind the institution. If you're looking to elevate your storytelling game in higher education marketing, this conversation is your roadmap.Guest Name: Kristin Hanson, freelance writerGuest Bio: Kristin Hanson is an award-winning writer, editor, and communications strategist with 15+ years’ experience working with higher education institutions, independent schools, marketing firms, nonprofits, and businesses of all sizes. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jaime Hunt welcomes Dale Leatherwood, Chief Marketing Officer at Columbia Southern University, to explore one of the most pressing issues in higher ed today: the public’s shifting perception of the value of a college degree. Together, they dig into the real drivers behind skepticism—not the return, but the investment—and unpack how institutions can better align academic offerings, improve cost transparency, and reclaim the narrative around higher ed's true impact.Columbia Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees and certificates. Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.Guest Name: Dale Leatherwood, Chief Marketing Officer, Columbia Southern UniversityGuest Social: linkedin.com/in/daleleatherwoodGuest Bio: Dale Leatherwood is the Chief Marketing Officer for Columbia Southern University, and is in his 27th year of marketing and executive experience in training and higher education. Prior to joining Columbia Southern University, Dale was the vice president of brand, public relations and communications for American Public Education and was VP of marketing for Rasmussen University before its acquisition by APEI. During his extensive career, Dale has been a marketing executive for both colleges and higher-education focused marketing agencies, and has developed and led two online college campuses. In addition, he has served as a consultant with several universities on marketing and distance-learning initiatives while co-founding an education concierge firm serving working professionals seeking an online degree. Dale earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Coker University and an MBA with a marketing concentration from Regis University. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Collegis Education’s Dan Antonson to unpack how artificial intelligence is transforming the entire student lifecycle—from initial inquiry to post-graduation. The conversation dives deep into how AI is enabling smarter personalization, unlocking insights from previously untapped data, and helping institutions move beyond guesswork to strategic student support. Whether you’re grappling with summer melt or thinking about AI ethics in higher ed, this one’s worth a listen.Guest Name: Dan Antonson, Associate Vice President of Analytics & Technology Solutions, Collegis EducationGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danantonson/Guest Bio: Dan Antonson helps higher education institutions leverage technology and analytics to tackle some of higher education's biggest challenges across the student lifecycle. Whether it is to grow and optimize enrollment or create a better learning experience, Dan has hands-on experience with higher education data and systems to drive meaningful use-cases that create real tangible impact. Dan has more than 15 years of experience in digital analytics, marketing attribution and measurement, and he has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota. When he is not scribbling data and analytics systems on whiteboards, you’ll find him trying to stay upright on his mountain bike or tinkering with his home automation system (his robot lawn mower is his favorite gadget at the moment). - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this energizing episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt chats with Daniel Andreani, Creative Director at Do Not Disturb, about the critical need for creative reinvention in higher education marketing. From dissecting branding stagnation to exploring the evolving role of AI in creativity, this conversation dives deep into how institutions can—and must—break free from outdated visuals and messaging to truly connect with today’s students. If you're feeling stuck in the same old admissions campaign loop, this one’s for you.Guest Name: Daniel Andreani, Chief Creative Officer, Do Not DisturbGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielandreani/Guest Bio: Daniel Andreani is a creative leader and brand strategist who thrives on building stellar teams and creating work that truly resonates. As founder of Do Not Disturb (donotdisturb.love), he brings a human-centric approach to campaigns that audiences actively seek out. His philosophy remains simple yet powerful: respect your audience through quality storytelling and flawless execution, an approach that consistently delivers measurable business results and ROI for his clients.Beyond crafting award-winning work for the beverage industry, consumer packaged goods, QSR, automotive and higher education clients, Dan embraces life's adventures, conquering marathons, cycling Centuries and GranFondos, mountain biking, playing hockey and battling through zombie apocalypses video games with his son. Full-on ADD and proud of it, so if he asks for your name twice, just roll with it. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, Jaime Hunt sits down with leadership coach, author, and longtime friend Melissa Farmer Richards to unpack her new book, The 30-60-90 Day Handbook. The conversation dives deep into how new and seasoned leaders alike can thrive in higher ed by mastering the fundamentals of trust, credibility, and commitment—while navigating modern leadership challenges like burnout, crises, and emerging AI tools. Whether you're stepping into a VP role or eyeing leadership from your current position, this episode offers actionable strategies to lead with authenticity and resilience.The 30-60-90-Day Handbook: Checklists for Communications and Marketing Leaders in Higher EducationGuest Name: Melissa Richards, Founder and Principal, iMarketingMixGuest Socials: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/melissafarmerrichardsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/imarketingmix/Bluesky Social: https://bsky.app/profile/melissarichards.bsky.socialGuest Bio: Principal and founder of iMarketingMix LLC, Melissa Farmer Richards, MPA, APR is an author, teacher, consultant, facilitator, and leadership coach. Dubbed The Checklist Guru™, she authors The Weekly Leadership Checklist™ and designed The Three Fundamentals of Leadership™ proprietary coaching curriculum.Melissa’s 32-year career spans corporate industry, technology, small business start-ups, nonprofits, and higher education administration. She has held senior positions at start-up software companies and global technology organizations, and later led in such roles as chief of staff and vice president for communications, marketing, and enrollment, serving liberal arts colleges and a large public university. She also has founded two small businesses and co-founded two nonprofits, a children’s museum and a genetics research foundation.Melissa earned a Master of Public Administration at Virginia Tech and a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Virginia. She also achieved the Accreditation in Public Relations credential and the Association of Governing Boards Board Professional Certificate. Having led award-winning creative teams, she was nominated for the American Marketing Association Nonprofit Marketer of the Year 2022 and named one of 30 Vice Presidents to Follow in 2018 by Leadership in the Digital Age.A natural public speaker and experienced writer, Melissa has spoken at dozens of national conferences and authored more than 100 papers and articles. Her first book, “The 30-60-90 Day Handbook: Checklists for Communications and Marketing Leaders in Higher Education,” is now available from the Council of Advancement and Support of Education. She has collaborated to organize four major TEDx events — including pitching the event and mentoring dozens of speakers —and led numerous conference planning committees. Throughout her three decades of leading internal teams, she developed many small and large professional development events, including a 10-course brand ambassador certificate program. She has contributed her leadership of communications strategy to significant fundraising campaigns, the largest of which was $400 million.Melissa serves as chair of the Public Relations Society of America Northeast District and immediate past president of the Central New York Chapter. She is a part-time adjunct instructor at Aurora University and previously taught at Utica University and the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.iMarketingMix LLC is a CASE Educational Partner, a Rising Team Channel Partner, and a CenterState CEO Member. As an entrepreneur, Melissa is a member of The Upside and the Central New York Women’s Network. As an adjunct teacher, Melissa is a member of UPCEA, the online and professional education association.Author of The 30-60-90-Day Handbook: Checklists for Communications and Marketing Leaders in Higher Education (Council for Advancement and Support of Higher Education, 2025). - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jaime Hunt sits down with Ellen Whitlock Baker — executive coach, leadership consultant, and founder of EWB Coaching — for a candid, no-holds-barred conversation on what truly makes a good leader in higher education. They tackle toxic workplace norms, explore the role of empathy in leadership, and dig into how AI and generational shifts are reshaping leadership expectations. If you're rethinking what it means to lead well in this evolving higher ed landscape, this is your blueprint.Guest Name: Ellen Whitlock Baker, Wwner and Principal, EWB CoachingGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenwhitlockbaker/Guest Bio: Ellen Whitlock Baker is an executive coach, speaker, and leadership consultant who is passionate about challenging outdated workplace norms to create a more equitable, healthier work culture for all. A seasoned Advancement leader, Ellen has held leadership positions in alumni engagement at the University of Washington and Seattle University, and is active with CASE, most recently serving on the CASE Alumni Commission. Ellen is an Associate Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation and received her coaching certification through the Hudson Institute in Santa Barbara, CA. She is also a certified Everything DiSC practitioner. As the owner and principal of EWB Coaching, Ellen supports individual and team clients in managing transition, building healthy teams, getting unstuck, and setting boundaries that protect well-being. She speaks and writes about how to set boundaries to prevent burnout and how to get past resistance to change and move into action, among other topics. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jaime Hunt sits down with Cristina Lopez Yakimenko, marketing director at Florida International University’s Chapman Graduate School of Business, to explore the advantages of managing enrollment marketing entirely in-house. Cristina shares how her small but mighty team generates millions in ad spend, executes content marketing strategies, and drives enrollment growth—all without the help of an external agency. She also reveals how leveraging AI, optimizing real-time data, and fostering close collaboration with recruiters has been a game-changer. If you're curious about bringing digital marketing in-house or simply want to optimize your current strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Guest Name: Cristina Lopez Yakimenko, Associate Director of Marketing & Analytics, Florida International University Chapman Graduate School of BusinessGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristinaly/Guest Bio: Cristina is a dynamic marketing leader and computer engineer with over a decade of experience in marketing, analytics, and web application development. As the Associate Director of Marketing & Analytics at the Chapman Graduate School of Business at Florida International University (FIU), she oversees the marketing strategy for more than 25 graduate programs, driving growth through data-driven, omnichannel campaigns.With a background in web applications development, Cristina integrates technology with marketing to enhance user experience, optimize digital strategies, and streamline analytics. She is passionate about customer journeys, marketing research, and content creation, leveraging her expertise to create impactful marketing solutions.Cristina holds a Master of Science in Marketing from Florida International University and a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering from Technological University of Havana (CUJAE). Fluent in four languages, she brings a global perspective to her work, combining technical proficiency with strategic marketing leadership to elevate FIU’s graduate programs. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Social mobility is a defining mission for many regional public universities, but what does it take to truly move the needle? In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with Ellen Neufeldt, President of Cal State San Marcos, to discuss how institutions can break down barriers for first-generation and underrepresented students. From innovative dual enrollment programs to rethinking enrollment marketing strategies, Neufeldt shares actionable insights on how universities can drive economic and social change.Guest Name: Ellen J. Neufeldt, President, California State University San MarcosGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-neufeldt/Guest Bio: Ellen J. Neufeldt was appointed CSU San Marcos’ fourth president in May 2019. She came to CSUSM from Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, where she served as vice president of Student Engagement and Enrollment Services from 2011 until her appointment at CSUSM.​Before joining ODU, Neufeldt served as vice president of Student Affairs at Salisbury University, where she oversaw 15 offices and programs, including admissions, athletics and campus recreation, career services and student activities. Her higher education experience also includes serving as assistant vice chancellor for Student Development and dean of Student Life at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jaime Hunt sits down with Brittney Westbrook to discuss the nuances of working with graphic designers and managing creative teams. They dive into the challenges of balancing creative freedom with strategic goals, the importance of giving actionable feedback, and how marketing leaders can foster stronger partnerships with designers. Whether you’re leading a creative team or collaborating with designers on marketing projects, this episode is packed with insights on how to improve workflows, enhance communication, and ultimately create more effective marketing materials.Key TakeawaysDesigners are strategic communicators, not just decorators. They translate complex messages into compelling visuals that align with marketing goals.A well-structured creative brief is essential. It should outline objectives, audience, required content, and deliverables while still allowing room for creative autonomy.Collaboration is key. Designers should be involved in project kickoff meetings and work closely with writers and strategists to ensure alignment.Provide specific and actionable feedback. Avoid vague statements like "make it pop" and instead focus on objectives, audience needs, and functionality.Respect designers' time and creative process. Avoid last-minute changes and ensure they have the bandwidth to do their best work.Break down silos within marketing teams. Encourage cross-functional collaboration to create more cohesive and impactful campaigns.Higher ed marketing should look beyond higher ed for inspiration. Drawing from consumer brands and other industries can help create fresher, more engaging designs.Why Do Designers Need a Creative Brief?Many marketing teams push back on creative briefs, seeing them as an unnecessary extra step. But as Brittney explains, a creative brief doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can be as simple as a well-organized email that outlines key details: the project’s objectives, target audience, timeline, required elements, and deliverables.Having a structured brief prevents last-minute surprises and ensures designers understand the strategy behind the project. For ongoing campaigns, creating an overarching creative brief that can be referenced for multiple pieces can save time while maintaining consistency.How Can Marketers Give Better Feedback to Designers?One of the biggest frustrations designers face is vague or unhelpful feedback. Instead of saying, “I don’t like it,” try to pinpoint why: Does the design meet the project’s goals? Does it align with the intended audience? Is there a functional issue with readability or layout?Brittney suggests starting with what works before addressing areas that need improvement. Ask open-ended questions about design choices, rather than dictating specific changes. And most importantly, remember that designers are professionals—trust their expertise while providing clear, strategic guidance.What Are the Unique Challenges of Design in Higher Ed?Unlike corporate brands where strict brand guidelines are universally followed, higher ed institutions often struggle with brand consistency. Departments may push for unique identities that deviate from institutional branding, creating tension between designers and internal stakeholders.Marketing leaders play a crucial role in navigating these challenges. They should advocate for brand consistency while ensuring departments understand the value of strategic design. Additionally, fostering collaboration between designers and other communicators, rather than treating them as an “end-of-the-line” production team, helps prevent misalignment.How Can Marketing Leaders Support Creative Teams?Creativity doesn’t happen in a vacuum—designers need time and space to think, experiment, and refine their work. Marketing leaders should:Protect their designers’ time by minimizing unnecessary meetings and last-minute requests.Encourage cross-team collaboration from the start of a project, rather than operating in a handoff-based workflow.Recognize the strategic role of design in marketing and advocate for designers as key contributors to messaging and storytelling.By treating designers as partners rather than production workers, marketing leaders can create a culture where creativity thrives and projects are more successful.Guest Name: Brittney Westbrook, Senior Marketing Officer, University of Southern MississippiGuest Social: linkedin.com/in/brittneywestbrookGuest Bio: Brittney Westbrook is a strategic communications leader whose experience spans marketing, public relations, branding, and creative. Her signature contribution is seamlessly fusing strategy with creative execution to close gaps and deliver results.In her role as Senior Marketing Officer at The University of Southern Mississippi, she leads high-profile marketing communications initiatives, playing a pivotal role in telling the University’s best stories and shaping its brand. She also serves as the Associate Director of University Communications, where she oversees content strategy across multiple channels and provides guidance to departments across the University to implement marketing initiatives.Brittney holds degrees in graphic design and public relations. She enjoys giving back to the next generation of communications professionals by delivering guest lectures, networking with students, presenting at industry conferences, and judging student and professional competitions. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, host Jaime Hunt sits down with enrollment marketing expert Will Patch to tackle a critical issue in higher education—summer melt. They explore the key reasons why admitted students fail to enroll in the fall and share actionable strategies to combat melt before it happens. From financial aid misunderstandings to social anxieties, they discuss how institutions can proactively support students and improve yield. If you’re looking for ways to refine your enrollment marketing and retention strategies, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.Key TakeawaysSummer melt is preventable—but strategies must start early, long before June.Financial barriers are a major cause of melt, especially for first-generation and low-income students. Clear, proactive financial aid communication is crucial.Social anxieties play a significant role—helping students feel a sense of belonging early can make a difference.Parents are key influencers—providing them with resources and guidance can help reinforce their student’s decision.A strong anti-melt communication flow should include personalized outreach, two-way conversations, and content that addresses student concerns.Mental health support is critical—institutions should ensure students know where and how to access resources.Data-driven strategies should guide enrollment marketing efforts, ensuring institutions focus on what truly moves the needle.What Is Summer Melt and Why Does It Happen?Summer melt refers to the phenomenon where students commit to a college (through a deposit or other means) but ultimately do not enroll in the fall. While some melt is inevitable, a large portion is preventable with the right strategies. The two biggest contributors to melt are financial challenges and social anxieties.Financially, many students and families realize too late that they are unable to afford the costs, or they misunderstand their financial aid package. Socially, students may feel uncertain about their ability to succeed, worry about fitting in, or struggle with the idea of leaving home. These fears can be exacerbated if they don’t feel connected to the institution before they arrive.Additionally, intentional melt has become more common, with students placing deposits at multiple institutions to keep their options open. This makes yield forecasting more difficult and further complicates enrollment strategies.How Can Institutions Reduce Summer Melt?1. Build Early Affinity and BelongingTo prevent summer melt, institutions must start fostering a sense of community early—before a student even deposits. Strategies include:Engaging students with faculty, staff, and current students through personalized outreach and virtual meetups.Encouraging early participation in campus events, online forums, and social media groups to build connections.Assigning student mentors or ambassadors to check in and answer questions.The more "sticky" relationships a student builds with a college—whether through faculty, staff, or peers—the less likely they are to back out before the fall.2. Improve Financial Aid CommunicationFinancial uncertainty is one of the biggest drivers of summer melt. Colleges need to ensure that students and families clearly understand their financial aid packages by:Providing easy-to-read financial aid letters that differentiate between grants, loans, and scholarships.Hosting financial literacy workshops or Q&A sessions for admitted students and parents.Reaching out proactively to discuss payment plans, emergency aid, and alternative financing options.Training admissions and financial aid teams to have direct, transparent conversations about affordability.Students who feel confident about their financial situation are far less likely to melt.3. Engage Parents in the Enrollment ProcessParents are one of the most influential factors in a student’s college decision. Universities can strengthen parental involvement by:Creating parent-specific communications (emails, newsletters, or social media groups) with key deadlines and resources.Providing guides on how to support their student—covering topics like homesickness, academic struggles, and roommate conflicts.Encouraging parent participation in orientation programs to ease concerns.When parents feel informed and supported, they are more likely to encourage their student to follow through with enrollment.4. Monitor Engagement and Intervene EarlyTracking student engagement over the summer can help identify those at risk of melting. Indicators include:Not registering for orientation or choosing a later session.Failing to engage with emails, texts, or calls from the admissions team.Delays in completing financial aid paperwork or housing forms.For students showing signs of disengagement, schools should reach out directly—not just with automated emails, but with personal phone calls, text messages, and invitations to one-on-one conversations.5. Address Mental Health and Well-BeingAn increasing number of students experience mental health challenges, which can make the transition to college overwhelming. Universities should:Clearly communicate available mental health resources and counseling services.Provide peer support programs to connect incoming students with those who have successfully navigated similar challenges.Offer flexible support options, such as teletherapy or online workshops, for students who may not be able to access in-person services.Proactively addressing mental health concerns can help students feel more secure in their decision to enroll.6. Use Data to Guide StrategySuccessful melt prevention strategies rely on data-driven decision-making. Institutions should:Analyze past melt trends to identify common risk factors among students who didn’t enroll.Use chatbot transcripts, search console data, and social media engagement to uncover student and parent concerns.Monitor response rates and adjust communication strategies based on engagement levels.By leveraging real-time data, institutions can proactively address student concerns before they result in summer melt.Guest Name: Will Patch, CEO of Clarity EMGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willpatch/Guest Bio: After 9 years at Manchester University and 5 years at Niche where he developed the Enrollment Insights brand and established Niche’s research and survey work Will has taken on the challenge of doing more work 1:1 with campuses. With Clarity EM Will now offers custom surveys and analysis, consulting services, and staff training to better use and understand their data. Will is a frequent conference speaker and podcast guest. He has presented at NACAC, AACRAO-SEM, AMA Higher Ed, CASE V, EduWeb, and EMA. Will's work has been featured in Forbes, Inside Higher Ed, CNBC, CNN, the LA Times, and The New York Times among other outlets. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this lively episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, Jaime Hunt sits down with Robin Oliver, Vice President for Communications and Marketing at Ohio University, to discuss how creativity can break through the traditional boundaries of higher ed marketing. Robin shares the story behind Ohio University’s wildly successful "Name a Squirrel" campaign, her approach to fostering a culture of trust and creativity on her team, and the lessons she's learned about leading with boldness in an industry often bogged down by bureaucracy. If you're looking for inspiration to bring fresh, innovative thinking to your higher ed marketing strategy, this episode is a must-listen.Key TakeawaysA Creative Campaign Can Spark Engagement: Ohio University’s “Name a Squirrel” campaign turned a quirky idea into a fundraising phenomenon, raising over 140% of their goal by offering donors the chance to symbolically name campus squirrels.Hire for Creativity, Not Just Credentials: Robin emphasizes the value of looking beyond traditional higher ed resumes to hire talent that can think outside the box.Leadership Starts with Trust and Respect: Building an environment where team members feel safe to pitch bold ideas is essential for fostering innovation.Constraints Fuel Creativity: Limitations, like the inability to host in-person events during COVID, often drive some of the most ingenious marketing ideas.Eliminate the Fear of Failure: Most marketing risks aren’t life-or-death, so leaders need to encourage experimentation and focus on the potential for big wins.What Made the "Name a Squirrel" Campaign So Effective? Robin Oliver shares the origins of Ohio University’s lighthearted yet highly effective “Name a Squirrel” campaign. Ohio University’s Athens campus is known for its picturesque scenery, vibrant wildlife, and iconic squirrels, which became the stars of a social media-driven fundraising initiative. For a symbolic donation of $18.04 (the year of the university’s founding), alumni could name a campus squirrel. Creative touches like certificates and a cheeky FAQ page made the campaign even more engaging, and the initiative far exceeded its goals, bringing in over 1,000 gifts and inspiring repeat donations.This campaign wasn’t just a fundraising triumph; it showcased how humor, playfulness, and campus culture can be leveraged to connect with alumni. It also highlights the importance of low barriers to entry and targeted messaging for first-time donors.How Do You Build a Creative Team? Robin’s secret to fostering creativity starts with hiring the right people. Her decision to take a chance on a candidate with a non-traditional higher ed resume—Brooke Preston, a former satire writer—paid off in spades. Brooke’s unique background brought a fresh voice to Ohio University’s marketing efforts, including the witty copy that made the “Name a Squirrel” campaign so successful.Robin believes in creating an environment where her team feels empowered to dream big. She fosters trust and respect by giving team members the freedom to take ownership of their ideas and by showcasing the talents of everyone on her team, not just the loudest voices. “Respect comes first,” she says, “and trust follows.”How Can Leaders Support Creativity and Risk-Taking? Robin advises leaders to focus on removing the fear of failure from their teams. She reminds her staff that “there’s no organ in a cooler under your desk”—a metaphor for keeping things in perspective and realizing that marketing risks are rarely catastrophic. By encouraging her team to embrace uncertainty, she creates a safe space for experimentation and innovation.For example, Robin empowered her team to take Ohio University’s TikTok presence from “sad and lonely” to a vibrant, engaging channel. By trusting her team to run with bold ideas—like a video featuring the university president giving a Gen Z-themed campus tour—they’ve been able to create viral content that resonates with students and alumni alike.What’s the Role of Leadership in Breaking Down Bureaucracy? Robin acknowledges that higher ed is often hamstrung by bureaucracy, but she refuses to let red tape stifle creativity. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in persistence and problem-solving: “I make the obstacles my creative work,” she says. Whether it’s reimagining a brand launch during COVID or championing unconventional marketing campaigns, Robin demonstrates how to navigate institutional constraints without losing momentum.One standout example is Ohio University’s use of their campus graffiti wall. Traditionally reserved for student expression, Robin’s team decided to use the wall as part of their brand launch, creating an interactive installation that invited students to share their thoughts on what “Forever Ohio” meant to them. The result? A buzzworthy initiative that connected the university’s messaging with student voices in a powerful and memorable way.How Do You Balance Creativity and Strategy? While creativity is essential, Robin stresses that it should always be tied back to a clear goal. “What are we trying to achieve?” is the first question she asks her team when evaluating new ideas. Metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) matter, and Robin ensures her team’s bold ideas ultimately serve the university’s strategic objectives.At the same time, she recognizes that not everyone on her team will thrive in a high-risk, high-creativity environment—and that’s okay. Having a balance of big thinkers and detail-oriented team members helps ensure that wild ideas are executed thoughtfully.Guest Name: Robin Oliver, Vice President for Communications and Marketing at Ohio UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinoliver/ Guest Bio: Robin Oliver serves as the Vice President of University Communications and Marketing at Ohio University where she leads a central team of more than 60 staff members managing marketing and brand strategy, creative development, market research, web content and design, social media, media relations, internal communications and university publications. Having served at Ohio University for five years, Robin has more than 10 years of experience in higher education and 20-plus years of experience recruiting and retaining top talent in marketing and communications, including extensive experience working in rural markets.Link to the Squirrel Giving Day Campaign: https://giving.ohio.edu/schools/OhioUniversity/ohio-giving-day-2024/pages/name-a-squirrel - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, Jaime Hunt sits down with Eric Hollenbeck from Washington State University’s Carson College of Business to unpack the findings of the 2024 Ethical Marketing Survey. This groundbreaking research highlights public perceptions of ethical practices in marketing, including AI usage, misinformation, and the need for transparency. Together, they discuss actionable strategies for higher education marketers to build trust, address generational differences, and navigate the evolving ethical landscape of marketing in the AI era.Key TakeawaysTransparency is Key: 76% of survey respondents believe organizations should disclose AI usage in marketing. Higher ed institutions should develop clear policies and openly communicate AI’s role in their processes.Generational Differences in AI Comfort: Millennials are more comfortable with AI due to its integration into their daily lives. Tailoring messaging about AI benefits based on generational values can improve trust.Ethical Marketing Drives Long-Term Success: Public sentiment favors transparency and ethical practices, making them essential for institutions aiming to build lasting credibility.Media Literacy is a Higher Ed Responsibility: With only 57% of survey respondents confident in identifying misinformation, higher ed institutions have a pivotal role in fostering media literacy among students and the public.Policy Development Matters: Institutions should establish, review, and communicate policies on ethical marketing and AI use to ensure trust and accountability.Episode SummaryWhat is the 2024 Ethical Marketing Survey? Eric Hollenbeck describes the 2024 Ethical Marketing Survey, which surveyed 1,000 Americans to gauge public opinions on AI, misinformation, influencer marketing, and brand ethics. The survey offers key insights into public expectations, revealing that transparency and honesty are critical for maintaining consumer trust.How Should Higher Ed Marketers Approach AI Transparency? One of the standout findings was that 76% of respondents believe organizations should disclose their use of AI in marketing. Eric suggests that higher ed marketers should proactively communicate their AI use, especially for tools like chatbots or AI-generated content. He emphasizes that transparency builds credibility and aligns with the public’s call for openness.Jaime and Eric also explore the nuanced question of what AI usage warrants disclosure. They agree that while everyday uses like brainstorming might not require transparency, AI-generated visuals or personalized student experiences should be openly communicated. This distinction ensures ethical practices without overwhelming audiences with unnecessary details.How Can Higher Ed Tailor Messaging Across Generations? The survey highlighted generational differences, with millennials showing greater comfort with AI. Eric notes that marketers should focus on the benefits of AI technologies when crafting messages for each generation. For younger audiences, emphasize how AI improves convenience and responsiveness. For older generations, stress accuracy and reduced human error. This approach ensures messaging resonates with diverse audience segments.What Role Should Higher Ed Play in Media Literacy? Eric shares insights from Washington State University’s programs that integrate media literacy education into their curriculum. For example, the WSU Skills and Knowledge Accelerator teaches graduate students marketing and media ethics. Interdisciplinary collaboration across departments amplifies these efforts, helping students and the public navigate misinformation and develop critical thinking skills.Jaime and Eric stress that fostering media literacy isn’t just an institutional responsibility—it’s essential for preparing students to thrive in an increasingly complex digital world.What Ethical Practices Should Higher Ed Marketers Prioritize? Eric provides several recommendations for marketers to uphold ethical standards:Engage in Transparent Conversations: Clearly disclose AI use in marketing campaigns and communications.Focus on Authentic Storytelling: Highlight genuine student and institutional stories to build trust.Develop and Review Policies: Regularly revisit policies on data privacy, AI use, and ethical marketing to stay aligned with public expectations.Champion Media Literacy: Partner with faculty and academic units to educate students and the public on identifying misinformation.Jaime echoes these points, emphasizing that empathy-driven marketing is key to aligning with audience needs and building lasting trust. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jaime Hunt speaks with Jenny Petty about a pressing issue few are discussing: the “Search Cliff.” While the “Demographic Cliff” has been a hot topic for years, the Search Cliff highlights a significant shift in the availability of prospective student data, fundamentally altering how higher education institutions attract and enroll students. Tune in as Jenny breaks down this emerging challenge, its implications, and strategies institutions can adopt to stay ahead of the curve.Key TakeawaysThe “Search Cliff” refers to the rapid decline in the availability of student data due to changing privacy laws and the shift to test-optional admissions policies.Name purchases, once a cornerstone of enrollment marketing, are yielding significantly fewer enrollments, dropping from 0.131% in 2019 to 0.043% in 2023.Institutions must pivot to focus on organic lead generation, content marketing, and paid media strategies to fill the funnel.Strong collaboration between MarCom and enrollment management teams is essential for addressing these challenges effectively.The future of higher education marketing will demand creative, technology-driven solutions, including leveraging AI and exploring new engagement strategies.What is the Search Cliff, and How Does it Differ From the Demographic Cliff? The Search Cliff represents a dramatic reduction in the availability of prospective student names for purchase. This trend is driven by shifting privacy laws and the widespread adoption of test-optional policies during COVID-19. Unlike the well-documented Demographic Cliff, which focuses on population decline, the Search Cliff underscores the limitations of traditional name-buying practices. These changes threaten to disrupt enrollment marketing strategies reliant on purchased names to drive funnel growth.Why is the Search Cliff Happening Now? Jenny explains that privacy laws in over 20 states are restricting access to student data, while the move to test-optional admissions has further limited name availability. Institutions that once relied on buying large lists of prospective student names to fuel enrollment pipelines are seeing diminishing returns. For example, the yield rate for purchased names has plummeted by 56%, making traditional tactics increasingly unsustainable.How Can Higher Education Marketers Adapt? Jenny offers several solutions to address the Search Cliff:Invest in Inbound Marketing: Organic lead generation through blogs, white papers, and gated content can create a steady pipeline of interest over time.Shift to Paid Media and Social Advertising: Institutions must build robust paid advertising strategies to compete in an increasingly crowded digital space.Leverage AI Tools: AI-powered technologies, such as virtual recruiters and chatbots, can enhance student engagement and streamline the recruitment process.Rethink Organizational Structure: Jenny emphasizes the need to evaluate team roles, particularly as AI reshapes the workload and demands of MarCom teams.What Role Should Leadership Play in Navigating This Shift? For institutions to succeed, leaders need to embrace marketing as a strategic driver of revenue and success. CMOs should foster partnerships with enrollment management teams and educate themselves about institutional budget models, financial aid strategies, and marketing ROI. Additionally, integrating marketing leaders into cabinet-level discussions ensures their voices are heard in key decisions about institutional priorities.What Does Success Look Like in the Era of the Search Cliff? Jenny challenges institutions to rethink traditional measures of success, such as application volume, and instead focus on retention and lifelong student value. As higher education faces intense scrutiny and competition, institutions must align product offerings, pricing strategies, and marketing efforts with the evolving needs of today’s students. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jaime Hunthttps://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! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.