Mission Admissions

In this episode of Mission Admissions host Jeremy Tiers talks with Shane Baglini about the do’s and don’ts of starting a new senior leadership role.Guest Name: Shane Baglini, Executive Director of Marketing and Branding, William & MaryGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebaglini/Guest Bio: Shane Baglini serves as Executive Director of Marketing and Branding at William & Mary, where he is responsible for the strategic planning, leadership, and execution of the digital marketing, research and analytics, multimedia, and creative teams’ efforts to develop and sustain a comprehensive brand and marketing strategy. With a decade of experience in higher education, Shane’s background spans enrollment marketing, brand and creative strategy, digital transformation, and more. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.

If you’re wondering how you can embrace being an introvert in an industry that often favors extroversion, this episode of Mission Admissions is for you. Host Jeremy Tiers talks with Emily Hannon (an introvert) about some of the challenges she’s faced, and the strategies that help prepare her mentally for things like high school visits, phone calls, and socializing at conferences.Guest Name: Emily Hannon, Director of First-Year Admissions, St. Ambrose UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-hannon-17354494/Guest Bio: Emily Hannon is the Director of First Year Admissions at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa, where she has worked in enrollment management since 2018. She’s actively involved in the Iowa Association for College Admission Counseling (Iowa ACAC), serving on the Professional Development and Practices Committee since 2019 and as Chair of the committee from 2022-2025. Emily was also awarded the Iowa ACAC Rising Star Award in 2023 and is committed to advancing professional development in higher education admissions. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.

Over the past few years colleges and universities have increased the amount of text messages they send to prospective students, and many have also started texting parents and guardians. In this episode of Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers talks with Laura Rudolph about the secret shopping project she recently completed – signing up as both a student and parent at several institutions.Guest Name: Laura Rudolph, Founder, Square One ConsultingGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurakrudolph/Guest Bio: Laura Rudolph helps small-but-mighty higher education teams strengthen their enrollment marketing and create lasting impact. As founder of Square One Consulting, she works with colleges and universities to streamline processes, build capacity, and implement strategies that connect meaningfully with students and families. Guided by empathy and a deep understanding of the student journey, Laura blends strategic vision with practical execution to equip institutions with the tools and confidence for sustainable enrollment success. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers talks with Kate Speer about the art and science of saying “no”, and the importance of setting boundaries.Guest Name: Kate Speer, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development, Grandpa Joe’s Candy ShopGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-speer/Guest Bio: Kate Speer is a people-first, results-driven connection creator with expertise in marketing, communication, engagement, counseling psychology, and positive culture building. She currently serves as the Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development for Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop, and previously held a senior role at BNY Mellon. Kate is also a Certified Social Media Strategist from the National Institute of Social Media, and she was named a 2023 Woman of the Year nominee by The National Association of the Women's Interactive Network. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special compilation episode of Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers sifts through his Season 4 conversations to bring you some important leadership reminders, as well as a handful of customer service strategies that will help you deliver a more memorable college search experience for prospective students and families.Guest Names:Ken Anselment, Vice President for Enrollment Management, RHB Stephanie Dickerson, Associate Director of Admission, University of Louisville Pasquale Romano Jr., Hospitality Expert & Accounts Manager, UrVenue Dr. Matt McLendon, Associate Vice President and Executive Director of Enrollment Management at The University of Alabama  McKenzie Sullivan, Admissions Counselor, The University of Akron  Reece Baines, Junior, Wilson High School, PA Mickey Baines, Partner and Technology Services Practice Leader, Kennedy & Company Guest Social: Ken: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenanselment/Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-dickerson-m-a-a816779a/Pasquale: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pasquale-romano-jr/Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mclendon/McKenzie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenzie-sullivan-m-ed-36051b144/Mickey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeyb/Guest Bios: Ken Anselment is Vice President for Enrollment Management at RHB, a division of Strata Information Group. He joined RHB in May 2022 after serving as the Vice President for Enrollment at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, where he worked for 18 years.Stephanie Dickerson is currently in her eighth recruitment cycle with UofL. She began her career there in 2017 as an Admissions Counselor and progressed into a Senior Admissions Counselor role, then the Coordinator of the Dual Credit Program & AP Summer Institute, and now her current role as Associate Director. A seasoned hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience in Las Vegas, working with renowned hotels and nightlife/daylife concepts, Pasquale Romano Jr. is now an advisor for UrVenue the leading hospitality technology solution working with well-known hospitality brands like Tao Group, Groot Hospitality, and Wynn Nightlife.Dr. Matthew B. McLendon leads the University of Alabama’s enrollment efforts, providing strategic leadership for enrollment planning, implementation and assessment. He also has fiscal responsibility for all facets of enrollment management.McKenzie Sullivan currently serves as an admissions counselor at The University of Akron. In addition to her work at UA, she sits on the OACAC executive board as the Northeast Ohio Delegate and is a part of the NACAC NEXT leadership cohort for 2024-2025.Reece Baines is currently finishing up his junior year of high school in Pennsylvania. He’s an avid drummer, also works part time for a local community organization, and he volunteers as an orientation counselor at his high school. As a consultant and former practitioner in higher education, Mickey Baines has over 25 years of experience building, implementing, and leading enrollment and student success systems and teams. In his current consulting role he leads the technology services practice for Kennedy & Company, helping colleges and universities with their design, implementation, and customization of CRM technologies.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers chats with Conner Ellinghuysen about how becoming more self-aware and prioritizing self-reflection have made him a better leader.Guest Name: Conner Ellinghuysen, Director of Admissions, Buena Vista UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connerellinghuysen/Guest Bio: Conner Ellinghuysen has been the Director of Admissions at Buena Vista University since 2019. Before landing in Storm Lake he started his admissions journey at his alma mater, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Conner brings a blend of strategy, heart, and humor to the world of college admissions. He's an active member of Iowa ACAC and as President-Elect, Conner is focused on building community, creating opportunities for growth, and yes, sprinkling in the occasional Star Wars reference or dad joke. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers chats with Lauren Findley about her first 120 days as a first-time Vice President of Enrollment Management. Guest Name: Lauren Findley, Vice President of Enrollment Management, Texas Wesleyan UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-findley-798ab787/Guest Bio: Lauren Findley became the Vice President of Enrollment Management at Texas Wesleyan in February of 2025. Prior to that she served as the Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment at Jacksonville State University where she helped achieve the largest incoming classes in university history for the past four consecutive years. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.

Jeremy is joined by Hannah Downey, Social Media Strategist at the University of Wyoming, to discuss social media strategies that actually work in student recruitment, how to build buy-in and push boundaries, and more. Key TakeawaysSocial media offers a real-time, two-way communication channel that traditional admissions methods often lack.Prospective students—especially Gen Z—use social platforms like search engines when researching colleges.Aligning print, email, and social media creates a unified student experience across touchpoints.Content that performs well includes student-generated posts, admissions FAQs, and “day-in-the-life” stories.Building a strong social presence doesn’t require a massive team or budget—authenticity and consistency matter most.Social media trends can be adapted to campus messaging, but knowing your platform and audience is key.Evaluating performance through metrics like engagement rate and link clicks is crucial to improving over time.Guest Name: Hannah Downey, Social Media Strategist, University of WyomingGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-ellis-marketing/Guest Bio: Hannah Downey serves as the Social Media Strategist with Institutional Marketing at the University of Wyoming. A UW alumna, Hannah began her career with Institutional Marketing and has since grown the University of Wyoming’s digital presence and strategy. She manages the university’s flagship social media accounts and also places all the digital advertising for prospective student recruitment.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 quick take episode, Jeremy offers practical advice for those who have leadership and management aspirations. He talks about what it means to lead, shares skills and traits that effective leaders possess, and he outlines things you can do now to better prepare and position yourself for future opportunities.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers chats with McKenzie Sullivan from The University of Akron about their newly designed “College 101” and “College 102” campus visit sessions specifically for first-generation students and families.Guest Name: McKenzie Sullivan, Admissions Counselor, The University of AkronGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenzie-sullivan-m-ed-36051b144/Guest Bio: McKenzie Sullivan currently serves as an admissions counselor at The University of Akron. In addition to her work at UA, she sits on the OACAC executive board as the Northeast Ohio Delegate and is a part of the NACAC NEXT leadership cohort for 2024-2025. As a first-generation student herself, McKenzie recognizes the importance of breaking down barriers for students within this population and centers her work around this passion. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.

Reece and Mickey Baines are back for their second conversation on the pod. In Episode 49 they discussed campus visits and college emails as Reece - a high school junior - was starting to develop his list of schools. With his junior year winding down, Reece and his dad Mickey share how they’ve narrowed down the list of schools Reece will apply to, and they offer more eye opening feedback about emails, parent messaging, personalization, and more!Guest Names: Reece Baines, Junior, Wilson High School, PAMickey Baines, Partner and Technology Services Practice Leader, Kennedy & CompanyGuest Socials: Mickey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeyb/Guest Bios: Reece - Reece is currently finishing up his junior year of high school. He’s an avid drummer, also works part time for a local community organization, and he volunteers as an orientation counselor at his high school. Mickey - As a consultant and former practitioner in higher education, Mickey has over 25 years of experience building, implementing, and leading enrollment and student success systems and teams. In his current consulting role he leads the technology services practice for Kennedy & Company, helping colleges and universities with their design, implementation, and customization of CRM technologies. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Mission Admissions, host Jeremy Tiers chats with Bethanne Bialy, a former college admissions counselor turned high school college and career advisor. With firsthand experience on both sides of the desk, Bethanne gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to support high school students—and what college admissions teams can do to build stronger, more effective partnerships with counselors. This candid conversation unpacks the persistent challenges, communication gaps, and actionable strategies for cultivating real trust between high schools and colleges.Guest Name: Bethanne Bialy, College Counselor, Divine Savior AcademyGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanne-b-777973183/Guest Bio: Bethanne Bialy worked as an Admission Counselor at Lynn University in Florida for a little under a year and a half before moving into her current role as a College Counselor at Divine Savior Academy. Bethanne, who is currently working on her doctorate in education, is passionate about growing relationships with students and helping them throughout the college application process. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.

Jeremy Tiers sits down with Kyle Campbell, a higher ed marketing expert and sought-after speaker, to discuss the evolving role of college websites. Kyle shares insights into why traditional university websites are failing to engage Gen Z, the biggest mistakes institutions make with their content, and how colleges can reimagine their digital presence to drive conversions. If you're looking for actionable strategies to optimize your school's website and enrollment marketing strategy, this episode is packed with expert advice.Guest Name: Kyle Campbell, Founder And Managing Director, Education MarketerGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyledavecampbell/Guest Bio: Kyle Campbell is a higher ed marketing consultant and the managing director of Education Marketer, an insights and consultancy firm for higher ed. Every week on a Tuesday, he publishes The Education Marketer Newsletter, an accessible (yet hard-hitting) overview of the state of the sector and what matters to education marketers. He brings over a decade of experience for university professionals looking to build and engage student audiences, but keeps himself grounded as the founder of Nintendo Friends in HE - the definitive society for Nintendo fans working in higher education. His favourite Nintendo character is Boo. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.

Parents and guardians are the most influential external voices in a student’s college search. Yet, many colleges still struggle to engage them effectively. In episode 60 of the Mission Admissions podcast, Jeremy Tiers sits down with Derek Faasse from Capital University to discuss how their admissions team has transformed its approach to parent-specific engagement. From tailored communications to reimagined events, Faasse shares strategies that have increased event attendance, improved family conversations, and strengthened enrollment outcomes.Guest Name: Derek Faasse, Director of Undergraduate Admission, Capital UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekfaasse/Guest Bio: Derek Faasse is currently the Director of Undergraduate Admission at Capital University, located in Columbus, Ohio. He has previously worked regionally for Lake Superior State University, The University of Alabama, and the University of Toledo. Derek also currently serves as the Treasurer of the Ohio ACAC organization, and outside of the admissions world he’s a composer for marching bands, and a dad to four young children.Key TakeawaysParents need their own communication strategy. Simply CC'ing them on student emails isn't enough—Capital University sends separate, targeted messages tailored to parents' concerns.Financial investment messaging resonates with parents. While students focus on campus life and academics, parents want to know about long-term return on investment, career outcomes, and affordability.Event attendance improves with proactive parent outreach. By directly involving parents in event reminders and follow-ups, Capital University has dramatically increased their show rates.Parents ask different questions than students. Concerns about safety, internships, and career readiness often come from parents, making it essential to provide clear and proactive answers.Segmentation and personalization make a difference. Capital has refined its approach by tailoring outreach based on geographic location, program interest, and demonstrated engagement.How Capital University Enhanced Parent Engagement in AdmissionsRecognizing the Tipping Point: Why Parent Engagement Had to ChangeLike many colleges, Capital University initially focused most of its communications on students. However, repeated questions from their Vice President of Enrollment Management made it clear—parents weren’t getting the information they needed. Instead of treating parents as secondary recipients, the team at Capital began viewing them as essential partners in the admissions process.The first step was to reconsider what content was reaching households. While students received updates on student life and campus experiences, parents needed different messaging—something that spoke to their role in financing and supporting their child’s education.How Capital Transformed Its Parent Outreach StrategyRather than launching an overwhelming, year-long plan all at once, Capital University took an incremental approach. They started by adjusting their event communication strategy, recognizing that parents often decide whether or not a student will visit campus.One major change was creating parent-specific emails instead of simply copying them on student messages. This not only resolved an issue where parents unsubscribing also removed students from communications, but it also allowed for more tailored messaging. Instead of campus events and student organizations, parents received emails focusing on investment value, career preparation, and financial aid clarity.By refining their strategy, Capital University found that parents became more engaged, asked more questions, and felt more confident in their family's decision-making process.The ROI of Parent Engagement: Increased Event Attendance and Stronger ConversationsThe results of Capital’s efforts have been undeniable. Their admitted student events now see nearly perfect attendance, a testament to the power of direct parent communication. By ensuring that parents receive weekly event updates, personalized outreach, and detailed logistical information, Capital has significantly improved both registration and attendance rates.Beyond just numbers, the shift in parent engagement has led to richer conversations. Parents are now asking more in-depth questions about career readiness, internships, and post-graduate success—topics that students may not always think to explore on their own.How Capital Structures Parent Engagement at EventsOne of Capital’s most successful initiatives has been dedicated parent programming at admitted student events. Rather than simply accompanying their students, parents are given the opportunity to meet with current faculty, alumni, and other parents who have already navigated the college investment process.This approach serves multiple purposes:Encouraging open conversations. Without their students present, parents feel more comfortable asking direct questions about safety, finances, and student support services.Building trust through peer-to-peer connections. Hearing from current parents reassures prospective families about their decision.Providing clear post-graduate outcomes. Parents want to know how a college will prepare their child for life after graduation, making career services and alumni success a focal point.Segmentation and Personalization: The Key to Meaningful EngagementCapital University’s ability to refine their parent communication strategy is largely due to their emphasis on segmentation. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, they tailor messaging based on factors such as:Academic interest – Parents of nursing students, for example, receive information about clinical experiences, while business parents get details on internships and networking.Geographic location – Given that students within 100 miles are more likely to enroll, Capital prioritizes outreach differently based on distance.Demonstrated interest – Parents whose students have visited campus or engaged with emails receive more personalized follow-ups.By breaking down their communications into more targeted segments, Capital has been able to make their outreach more relevant, engaging, and actionable.Lessons for Other Institutions: Small Steps Lead to Big ChangesFor colleges looking to improve their parent engagement strategy, the key takeaway is this: start small and build from there. Schools don’t need to overhaul their entire process overnight. Instead, they can begin by making simple adjustments:Introduce a parent-specific email campaign.Enhance event communication with personalized reminders.Create opportunities for parent-to-parent conversations.Segment messaging based on student interests and family needs.By taking an incremental approach, institutions can gradually refine their strategies and create a more inclusive, informed admissions process for families.Final ThoughtsEngaging parents isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must. Schools that prioritize meaningful, transparent communication with families will stand out in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape. Capital University’s success proves that when parents feel informed and valued, they become active partners in the enrollment journey. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Episode 59 of the Mission Admissions podcast, host Jeremy Tiers sits down with Kelli Roberts to discuss her thoughts on work-life balance as a working mom and leader, emphasizing the importance of communication, asking for help, and managing your energy.Guest Name: Kelli Roberts, Director of Admission, Drury UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelli-roberts-b2644b7b/Guest Bio: Kelli Roberts currently serves as the Director of Admission at Drury University, where she also teaches Business Communication Writing. In addition to her role at Drury, she is the President-Elect for the Missouri Association of College Admission Counseling, and a proud mother of four children. A first-generation college student, Kelli is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys time near the water and practicing hot yoga. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Jeremy discusses the increasing trend of transfer enrollment with his guest Ben Houston. They explore the challenges and opportunities within this population, the importance of utilizing data, and the need for a supportive environment when transfer students start their journey on a new campus.Guest Name: Ben Houston, Associate Director for Transfer Admissions, University of IndianapolisGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-houston-m-a-7b23173a/Guest Bio: Ben is the Associate Director for Transfer Admissions at the University of Indianapolis. He started at UIndy in 2016 as a Graduate & Adult Learning Programs admissions counselor, and has overseen all transfer student recruiting, as well as development and implementation of new transfer enrollment initiatives and supports, since 2019. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 Episode 57 of the Mission Admissions podcast, host Jeremy Tiers sits down with John Azoni, a video storytelling expert and owner of Unveiled, to explore how colleges and universities can leverage video content to engage prospective students. From crafting student testimonials to creating scalable video systems, this episode dives into actionable strategies for enrollment marketers to harness the power of video in an increasingly digital and visual world. If you're looking to better connect with Gen Z or improve your institution's video marketing strategy, this episode is a must-listen.Key TakeawaysVideo is the preferred medium for Gen Z: Over 70% of students say they’d rather watch a video on a college’s social media page than read an email.Start small with scalable content: Focus on low-input, high-reward formats like man-on-the-street interviews or video podcasts that can be repurposed across multiple platforms.Focus on storytelling, not just promotion: Authentic student stories showcasing transformation resonate far more than generic promotional content.Match video to platform: Avoid repurposing polished, commercial-style videos on Instagram or TikTok. Instead, align content style with user expectations on each platform.Test and adapt: Use metrics like watch time, click-through rates, and audience engagement to refine your video strategy and double down on what works.Why Video is a Must-Have in Enrollment Marketing Jeremy kicks off the episode with data that underscores the importance of video in higher education marketing. With platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram dominating the daily habits of Gen Z, colleges that fail to incorporate video content into their strategies risk falling behind. John emphasizes that video is particularly powerful for storytelling because it resonates with younger audiences who’ve grown up in a video-first world.But the challenge isn’t just creating videos—it’s creating systems for video production. John notes that many schools feel overwhelmed by the idea of consistently producing content, often citing budget constraints and lack of bandwidth. His advice? Start small with simple, repeatable formats like "man-on-the-street" interviews or video podcasts that can generate a wealth of content in one shoot.Overcoming Barriers to Video Production When asked why more schools aren’t embracing video, John points to two main obstacles: a lack of systems and a misunderstanding of ROI. Many higher ed leaders view video as a one-off project rather than an ongoing strategy. This mindset can lead to hesitation, as video doesn’t always deliver immediate results. However, John explains that video is a long-term investment that builds brand trust and awareness over time.To combat concerns about bandwidth, John suggests prioritizing scalable content. For example, interviewing multiple students in a single day can provide months of social media content. Similarly, video podcasts can be broken into smaller clips for different platforms, ensuring a steady stream of engaging content without overwhelming your team.Creating Impactful Student Testimonials One of the most valuable uses of video in enrollment marketing is showcasing authentic student testimonials. John highlights a simple yet powerful format:Old Normal: Where the student was before they joined the institution.Turning Point: What happened to shift their perspective or decision.New Normal: How the institution transformed their life or career trajectory.By focusing on transformation and “side door” content—unique, personal stories that don’t feel like marketing speak—schools can create testimonials that resonate deeply with prospective students. For example, instead of asking generic questions like “What do you like about this school?” focus on specific moments or challenges that shaped the student’s journey.Balancing Authenticity and Brand Guidelines  Another common hurdle for higher ed marketers is balancing authenticity with brand consistency. John argues that while a baseline level of consistency is essential (e.g., fonts, logos, and colors), schools shouldn’t be so rigid that they miss opportunities to create engaging content.He points out that Gen Z values realness over polish. Overly glossy, commercial-style videos can come across as “fake” to students, especially when they’re looking for genuine insights into campus life. Schools should embrace a mix of polished and raw content, leveraging vlogs, user-generated content, and unfiltered stories to build trust.Distribution is Key: Meeting Students Where They Are Creating great videos is only half the battle—distribution is just as important. John emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to where and how videos are shared. For example:Use short, snappy videos on Instagram and TikTok to capture attention at the top of the funnel.Place longer, more detailed videos (like testimonials or program overviews) on landing pages or in email follow-ups for students deeper in the decision-making process.Think beyond traditional platforms. For instance, embed videos in automated emails or include them in SMS campaigns to create a more dynamic communication experience.Ultimately, John urges marketers to view video as part of the student journey, not just a standalone asset.Common Mistakes in Higher Ed Video Marketing Jeremy and John also discuss common pitfalls schools should avoid:Generic Messaging: Repeating buzzwords like “small class sizes” or “dedicated faculty” fails to differentiate your institution.Overly Glossy Content: Polished commercials often feel inauthentic to Gen Z.One-Size-Fits-All Strategy: A video designed for YouTube might not resonate on Instagram or TikTok. Tailor content to each platform’s audience and format.Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Higher Ed Video? While higher ed is slow to change, John sees growing interest in short-form video and scalable content systems. He predicts more schools will experiment with student-led vlogs, user-generated content, and videos that directly address prospective students’ concerns. The key, he says, is to focus on what works for your audience. Test, analyze, and iterate. With data-driven insights and a willingness to experiment, schools can create video strategies that truly move the needle. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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 quick take episode, Jeremy shares some important advice that will help admissions teams and enrollment marketers increase their school’s yield. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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, Jeremy and Ken Anselment talk through a variety of common situations that many leaders face each year - including retaining staff, micromanaging, giving constructive criticism, and navigating the transition from being a colleague to being someone’s boss. They also unpack why so many leaders continue to deal with imposter syndrome.Guest Name: Ken Anselment, Vice President for Enrollment Management, RHBGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenanselment/Guest Bio: Ken Anselment is Vice President for Enrollment Management at RHB, a division of Strata Information Group. He joined RHB in May 2022 after serving as the Vice President for Enrollment at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, where he worked for 18 years. Ken’s background in higher ed enrollment spans nearly three decades, beginning at his alma mater, Marquette University. He’s also the host of The Admissions Leadership Podcast, and recently self published a book titled ‘Climbing the Admissions Leadership Peak: Lessons from the ALP.’ - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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, newly elected 26 year old South Dakota State Senator Amber Hulse shares her thoughts on self awareness, gaining confidence, the importance of mindset and daily habits, as well as other things that have helped her grow and experience success as a young professional.Guest Name: Amber HulseGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-hulse/Guest Bio: Amber Hulse is a rising leader who recently became one of the nation’s youngest legislators when she was elected to the South Dakota State Senate at age 26. Originally from Hot Springs, South Dakota, Amber graduated Phi Beta Kappa, Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Dakota, and went on to receive her law degree from Georgetown Law this past spring. Amber’s dedication to public service extends beyond her legal career, having been named Miss South Dakota 2019 and Miss South Dakota USA 2023.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jeremy Tiershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/https://twitter.com/CoachTiersAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Mission Admissions 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.