The Higher Ed Marketer

Higher ed marketers, a digital watering hole has appeared on the scene that you should be taking advantage of.The ZeeMee app allows for authentic connections between your university and prospective students on their terms. This app is revolutionizing the college recruitment game by meeting students where they are.We’re joined by Olivet Nazarene University’s Executive Director of Traditional Enrollment, Luke Franklin, and Asbury University’s Vice President of Enrollment & Marketing, Jennifer McChord, to talk about how ZeeMee has transformed campus culture at their institutions.In this episode, we break down why you should give ZeeMee a try today.Join us as we discuss: [5:22] Fostering relationships through ZeeMee[7:42] What is ZeeMee?[13:52] How Zeemee can help marketers glean Gen Z insights[26:10] Why Zeemee is a critical enrollment funnel assetCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:The ZeeMee AppChasing Mission Fit by Bart CaylorHarrison “Soup” Campbell at ZeeMeeTyler Groepper at ZeeMeeJennifer McChord on Linkedinjennifer.mcchord@asbury.edu Luke Franklin on LinkedinOlivet Nazarene University’s WebsiteTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

With a marketing world that feels like it's shifting every day, our teams need to be agile. Having a team with a diverse background is paramount to handling whatever life throws your institution's way.Being intentional when building or integrating teams and having an understanding of everyone’s background is critical to team cohesiveness.It’s about finding the right seat on the team bus for the members of your unit.Kin Sejpal, the VP of Marketing and Communications at University of Redlands, gets our conversation started on the keys to navigating challenging mergers.In this episode, we dive into the keys to crafting an efficient and effective team.Join us as we discuss: [6:41] Changing up perspectives in team building[10:34] Weighing aptitude versus attitude[20:07] Being taught to learn[28:05] Company culture reimaginedCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Kin SejpalJensen Hong, The Future of Technology videoTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

It’s time to switch from transactional to strategic.In an era where making your institution stand out is a top priority, raising the bar for Marketing and Communications is essential.By developing and implementing a maturity model, your university can start elevating the student experience.  Knocking down the silos and utilizing an integrated approach to marketing and communications can completely change the game.2023 AMA Higher Ed Marketer of the Year and Senior Executive VP of RW Jones Agency, Jamie Ceman, sat down with us to dive into the integrated MarComm approach.In this episode, we break down the essentials of marketing and communications in higher education.Join us as we discuss: [2:47] Marketing and communications as one integrated unit[14:26] How CMOs can stay active in marketing strategies[18:33] Measuring an institution's brand perceptionCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Three Things That University Presidents Should Know About Marketingjamie@rwjonesagency.com To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Generating ownable brand ideas can spark from unique qualities hidden in plain sight — not taking the little things for granted. What may seem like an odd quirk could set your university apart.Strangers with experience can get the conversation started and completely transform your school's brand.We’re chatting with Brian MacDonald, the co-founder & CCO at Zillion. After working with big consumer brands, Brian wants to bring higher education institutions to the same level of branding focus.In this episode, we tackle finding distinctive brand ideas.Join us as we discuss:[4:40] Unique selling propositions and brand ownership[10:32] Building brand credibility[22:32] Finding strength in your brand’s detractors[30:48] How to tailor your school’s narrativeCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:zillionagency.comBrian MacDonald on LinkedInTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

On November 30th, 2022, ChatGPT changed the world.Just months before, Dave Hunt, Director of Digital Marketing Communications and Creative Director at Old Dominion University, had been developing a large-scale email marketing campaign at another university.Dave discovered that the months of work that went into creating it could all be done in minutes now. It hooked him into looking at how to use generative AI further to keep his new team at ODU doing the creative work instead of grunt work.In an episode that will change the way you think about using generative AI with your team and how it factors into the marketing of your college or university, we’ll discuss:[8:32] Focusing on the tasks AI can’t do[22:38] Enhancing audience engagement with prospective students[28:34] The challenge of authenticity with Gen-Z and Gen Alpha[33:42] Achieving brand voice alignment when using AICheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:vectorizer.aiMonday.comheygen.comopenai.com/soraTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The enrollment cliff is real, and it will be here before you know it.If small and medium-sized higher ed institutions want to survive this drastic dropoff in traditional-aged college students, marketing teams will need to prove their brands’ value.For the introductory episode in our weekly review series of Bart Caylor’s book, Chasing Mission Fit, we’re joined by Chris Rapozo, Marketing Specialist at Hannon Hill. Chris helps unpack the book’s first chapter, which focuses on the enrollment cliff and what steps colleges and universities should take to ensure their survival.Join us as we discuss:[8:31] Why mission-fit strategies will be critical in enrollment marketing[19:19] Redefining future traditional student demographics[27:06] The potential impact of influencers on higher ed marketingCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Chasing Mission Fit on LinkedIn LIVE with Troy Singer - April 3, 2024Education Marketing Leader With Chris RapozoWestern Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE)ZeeMeeNavigating the Demographic Enrollment CliffThe Demographic Enrollment Cliff: Forecasting the Great Dropoff featuring Tim FullerTake Your Voice Back: Being Change Agents in Higher Ed Marketing featuring Carrie Phillips2024 Cascade User Conference KeynoteTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Higher education has been known for its slower pace of adoption and for often resisting change. With approaching headwinds, including the enrollment cliff, disruption of generative AI, the negative public perception of higher ed, and competition with outside players (Google, Amazon, etc.), it is more critical than ever to lean into the mission-fit marketing.   That’s why many institutions are turning to partners like Ologie, a higher ed branding agency that helps schools by leveraging their most important asset — curiosity.Fernando Bergás-Coria, Ologie’s Chief Digital and Media Officer, joins us to share how Ologie is helping schools optimize their marketing efforts through a lens of renewed professional growth and innovative strategies. Join us as we discuss:[4:40] How higher ed red tape stunts new ways of thinking[14:30] A tactical approach to segmentation and personalization[23:31] 4 buckets for optimizing enrollment marketing outcomesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:fbc@ology.comThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon HillTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Personalized AI chatbots used to be a muse for science fiction writers.But with the rapid rise of these sophisticated AI tools, the possibilities for how these bots can augment the prospective student journey seem endless.You can certainly hear the enthusiasm in the voice of Ardis Kadiu, the founder and CEO of Element451, as he talks about the capabilities of these futuristic assistants.Ardis shares how he and his team are incorporating AI chatbots into their product offerings and how schools can use them to give students the personalized attention and responsiveness they deserve.Join us as we discuss:[3:23] 3 areas of opportunity for generative AI tools in higher ed[12:35] Augmenting the student journey with personalized chatbots[27:12] The future of conversational AI and chatbot personasCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Enrollify Podcast NetworkGeneration AI with Ardis KadiuChatGPTPi.AICharacter.AITo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

It’s time for schools to embrace the big, audacious goals and put together a strategy to accomplish them. That’s what the University of Kentucky did. They’re implementing programs that will advance student success at their institution. It’s never too late to go for the challenge.We’re talking to Kirsten Turner, the Vice President of Student Success at the University of Kentucky. Through partnering with Fidelity, UK is empowering their students to develop early financial literacy.In this episode, we explore the University of Kentucky’s groundbreaking student initiatives.Join us as we discuss:[2:40] The four pillars of meaning and purpose[17:22] The UK student investment program[20:51] Why financial literacy is important for college students[26:22] How UK’s initiatives have positively impacted studentsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Kirsten.turner@uky.eduTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Teaching critical thinking is the first step to media literacy in the digital age.With varying perspectives, social channels, media outlets, and technological advancements knocking at our door every day, we have to remember the bigger picture.Being able to have challenging conversations with people with opposing views and critically analyze information allows us to grow as marketers.Joining our crucial conversation are Chris Davey and Bart Verhulst. Chris and Bart share findings from their extensive research into the importance of critical thinking and media literacy.In this episode, we delve into advancing understanding in the digital age.Join us as we discuss:[9:37] The new age of information warfare[15:12] Diversifying our information intake[23:30] Balancing the “flavor” of AI[37:35] How Universities can make a differenceCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Twin Crisis in Truth and Trust: A New Strategy for Higher EducationThe Content Trap by Bharat AnandBart Verhulst on LinkedInbart@presspage.comChrisdavey on XTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When was the last time you were at a college fair and students immediately walked away after seeing your price tag?It’s time to be transparent, intentional, and communicative about available resources.We’re challenging misconceptions and unlocking the value and opportunity of higher ed.Getting the ball rolling is Ken Sigler, the Director of Enrollment Management at Mount Carmel College of Nursing. Ken claims he’s “never really left college” as he’s seen higher ed from all sides.In this episode, we unveil the keys to unlocking how to communicate your institution's value.Join us as we discuss:[5:05] Higher ed myths and misconceptions[10:49] The dreaded college application[15:50] “Only people with good grades get in!”[28:59] Leaning into higher ed’s valueCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ksigler@mccn.edusiglerken@gmail.comTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Higher Ed marketing is not one size fits all.Each institution is unique and can’t be all things for all people.Finding what consistently works for your brand and sticking to it is crucial to brand growth.The first steps towards success are removing personal bias, having a goal, and understanding that it requires investment.Jay Rathell, Senior Media Buyer for Yamaro83, gets our conversation started on digital literacy and discovering what marketing strategies work for your institution.In this episode, we delve into the niche of digital media strategies.Join us as we discuss: [8:20] Identifying the best social platforms for your target audience[12:50] Faith-based flagging on social platforms like Facebook[15:47] Budget allocation for your school’s marketing department[28:20] How to avoid personal biasesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ChasingMissionFit.comJay Rathell on LinkedinYamaro83.comTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

It’s hard to ask for help. Putting pride aside and leaning on others to enhance your knowledge is nothing to be ashamed of in the realm of higher education.Collaboration, shaking things up, and attempting different strategies can create waves and allow you to think differently.With over 35 years of experience in higher ed marketing, Bart Caylor, the Founder of Caylor Solutions, is launching his new book, Chasing Mission Fit. Bart is passionate about helping schools succeed, so he’s eager to share this evergreen advice with your institution.  In this episode, we break down Bart’s tools for higher ed marketing success.Join us as we discuss: [4:38] Why asking for help is okay[13:53] Money does not equal better marketing[19:45] Creating waves with the upcoming enrollment cliff[22:46] How to seek out your studentsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ChasingMissionFit.comGeneration AI on the Enrollify NetworkBart Caylor on LinkedIncaylor@caylorsolutions.com To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The admissions process can get stuck in an endless loop of application deadlines, essays, and transcripts.By investing in “radical hospitality” and focusing on relationship-building with students, admissions teams can discover the clearest path possible.Acting intentionally to show students they matter is key to unlocking their true career path.Hopping on the podcast today is John McGreal, the Dean of Enrollment at Waukesha County Technical College. John knows the marathon of the admissions process and emphasizes pacing yourself because it’s not a sprint. In this episode, we explore different ways to enhance your admissions process.Join us as we discuss: [2:34] The evolution of admissions[8:41] Integrity and customer service[12:04] Strategies for streamlining[21:11] The tools of technologyCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Unreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraJohn McGreal on LinkedInjmcgreal@wctc.edu Jfmcreal on XTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Customer service often takes a back seat in the process of higher ed recruitment. Every interaction with a prospective student is crucial to how they view your institution.This means staying up-to-date, trying new tactics, and being intentional about your customer service philosophy.Above all else, consistency is key to maintaining mindful and constructive interactions. Getting our conversation started is Brett DiMarzo, the Director of Graduate Enrollment Digital Strategy at Boston College. Brett breaks down the importance of crafting a customer service philosophy and the five key steps to doing so. In this episode, we delve into the consistency and care of customer service.Join us as we discuss:[3:24] Is customer service overlooked in higher education?[14:36] Technological enhancements[23:51] The five essential steps of customer serviceCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:The Experience Economy by Joseph Pine and James Gilmorebrett.dimarzo@bc.edu To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you utilizing all the tools in your toolbox?Thinking bigger, more interactive, and focusing on fueling engagement is within reach.By learning with AI, your college or university’s fundraising campaigns can be crafted and completed much faster and even at the click of a button. We get the AI ball rolling with Josh Kligman, the Co-founder and CEO of Storyraise. Josh is a big proponent of speeding up the processes so things can be more creative and effective for you!In this episode, we explore donor engagement using AI tools.Join us as we discuss: [7:55] Digging deep into compelling stories[10:16] Means of effective storytelling[21:17] Utilizing AI for campaign development[30:42] Insight into future AI trendsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:MemoryFoxStoryraise.com Givzey.comTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Making higher education accessible to all is big as we approach the enrollment cliff. Identifying the needs of all prospective students and really asking the ‘why’ makes Gen Z feel seen and heard. It’s time to tailor your marketing strategy to meet the needs of the next generation. We’re getting the conversation started with Spenser Smith , the Director of Admissions for Graduate Business Programs at Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. In this episode, we dip into Gen Z’s preferred marketing strategies. Join us as we discuss: [10:40] Effective communication strategies to dig deeper [14:47] Following up with prospective students [20:45] How to tailor marketing strategies [30:12] Getting Gen Z at the table Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: spenser@utk.edu To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Telling the authentic transformative stories of students and staff on your campus helps foster real emotional connections. Without forming a genuine connection with your prospective students, they may see right through you. Stories are everything – it’s time to show the impact your university has had on those in your community. Documentary storyteller Ryan Koral, the Founder of Enroll Films, gets our conversation started on the importance of letting your students tell their stories. In this episode, we explore all the aspects of transformative storytelling. Join us as we discuss:  - [14:33] Marketing amidst inevitable change - [16:51] Documentary storytelling and fundraising - [26:11] Making your interviewees comfortable Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: - 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dr. Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan - Ryan’s Checklist - Ryan Koral on LinkedIn and Instagram - ryan@enrollfilms.com To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Different generations are beginning to have an increase in educational influence. Having a marketing strategy that can adapt but be intentional when helping non-traditional students is key. With information expected to be accessible at the click of a button, how can your institution firmly support these prospective learners with potentially limited marketing resources? Brad Entwistle, Founding Partner at imageseven takes us down under with a unique Australian perspective. Drawing parallels between the U.S. and Australian educational systems, Brad helps us understand how to deconstruct different generational communication styles and interactions. Join us as we discuss:  - [11:22] Millennial parent content preferences - [16:21] Varying financial influences for students - [21:23] How to present to Gen Alpha - [36:49] AI in Australia and the U.S. Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: - Mindstuck by Michael McQueen To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The higher education experience is changing. With attention spans shifting and life getting in the way, institutions need to adapt. Now more than ever, learning needs to be functional for the nontraditional student. Getting the conversation started is Troy Brown, the VP and Director of Recruitment and Enrollment at the University of West Los Angeles. As the new Dean of Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Transformation (DIET), Troy wants to make sure every student's voice is heard. In this episode, we shed light on the importance of the nontraditional experience Join us as we discuss:  - [6:06] A different degree pathway - [11:08] Why higher ed’s biggest competition is life - [24:43] Bitesize courses and certificates - [40:57] A relational versus transactional campus Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: - troy@uwla.edu To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.