The Enrollify Podcast

In the final 2025 episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea curates the most impactful AI-focused conversations of the year, featuring expert voices like Soup Campbell, Jeremy Tiers, Jason Smith, Mike Bell, Marina Cooper, and John Carrere. This mashup episode explores how AI reshaped the student journey, enrollment strategies, and campus operations. More than a tech trend, AI became a spotlight—revealing the cracks, contradictions, and opportunities institutions can no longer afford to ignore.Listen to the full episodes:Is Meta's AI Rewriting the Future of Advertising?Is Your College Showing Up in AI Search?What High School Seniors Really Think About AIInside the 2025 AI Search Trends ReportWhat DC's AI Executive Order Means for Higher Ed - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Guest Name: Ben Burke, Senior Data Scientist, SlalomGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-burke-data/Guest Bio: Ben is a Sr. Data Scientist and AI Engineer consultant developing Generative AI solutions for Fortune 1000 companies. He's known for his practical, human-centered approach to AI adoption, and for teaching professionals how to partner with AI to improve clarity, collaboration, and decision-making. His business, Between The Data, helps teams using AI 'build the right things'. You can find him on LinkedIn where he posts about AI, team formation, project management, and his family. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Willsea sits down with David Weil, SVP for Strategic Services and CIO at Ithaca College, to unpack a bold thesis from his recent EDUCAUSE article. The two dive deep into how AI's most transformative potential in higher education isn't found in flashy tools or automations — it's in building a longitudinal view of the student experience. From data ethics and institutional silos to retention strategies and responsible design, this conversation challenges the status quo and outlines a human-first path forward for AI in higher ed.David's Article: Three Years In: Reflections and Considerations for the Next Chapter of AI in Higher Education - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

We're closing out the 2025 Enrollify Hall of Fame series with a powerful and personal voice — Harrison Campbell, better known as Soup. A former dean of admissions, current VP of Campus Partnerships at Ardeo Education Solutions, and a parent who recently experienced the college search from the other side, Soup brings a rare blend of professional insight and personal empathy to the table.Across his appearances on Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager and Higher Ed Pulse, Soup has challenged the higher ed community to reexamine how we communicate with students and families — not just what we say, but how it feels to be on the receiving end.His message is the perfect way to end this year's Hall of Fame series: technology should build trust, not walls — and student support starts with understanding the full human experience. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Part 3 of this Pulse Check series, host Jake Tolman reveals the real prep work for effective project managment — the parts that never make it into the sales deck. You'll learn how to identify your project manager, early risks to watch for, and effective change models to guide your people. You'll walk away knowing exactly what to look for in an effective project leader, what to prepare them for, and whether you need expert guidance to get there.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

For our next inductee to the Enrollify Hall of Fame, we're celebrating the game-changing contributions of John Azoni, founder and executive producer at UNVEILD — a creative studio on a mission to help colleges and universities tell better stories through repeatable, student-centered video content. Across episodes of Talking Tactics, Mission Admissions, and Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, John has consistently challenged institutions to think beyond one-off glossy video productions. His vision? A smarter, scalable system that helps enrollment and marketing teams meet Gen Z where they are — with authenticity, consistency, and strategy. In this special episode, we've compiled some of John's most impactful clips across the Enrollify Podcast Network — a masterclass in both the craft and the strategy of video in higher ed. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

- - - - Connect With Our Host: Mallory Willsea  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/ https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea About The Enrollify Podcast Network: The Higher Ed Pulse 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 https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we spotlight Marina Cooper, Senior Associate Vice President for Integrated Marketing and Brand at Johns Hopkins University. Known for her strategic boldness and deep empathy, Marina shares insights on navigating AI in higher ed marketing, overcoming imposter syndrome, and leading with intentionality. From dynamic creative optimization to building supportive professional networks, this episode offers a masterclass in modern leadership for higher ed marketers. Tune in to discover how Marina blends curiosity with discipline and innovation with integrity. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Part 2 of this Pulse Check series, Jake Tolman sits down with Kirsten Gallagher, founder of Kaizen Ninja and a process improvement expert, to explore how AI can be a powerful tool for refining operations and driving better student outcomes in higher ed. This episode dives deep into the messy middle of project implementation—where systems break down and process gaps become most apparent—and explores how AI can help campuses spot inefficiencies, adapt quickly, and scale with confidence. Whether you're mapping out admissions workflows or figuring out how to better serve military students, this is a must-listen for higher ed PMs and campus leaders alike. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Meet the next inductee into Enrollify's Hall of Fame: Sarah Russell, Vice President of Marketing at Education Dynamics. In this special edition episode, host Mallory Willsea explores Sarah's most compelling insights pulled from her appearances on Higher Ed Pulse, EduData, and The Application. With 16+ years at the intersection of digital disruption and higher ed, Sarah dives deep into how AI is rewriting the rules of SEO, brand marketing, and enrollment strategy. This highlight-packed episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the messy middle of the student journey in 2025. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory sits down with one of the youngest AI creators to grace the show—eight-year-old Cora Budd, a third grader at Division Street Elementary. Together, they explore how Gen Alpha is already using AI not just for learning, but for bold, imaginative storytelling. From building entire fictional universes to designing merch and comics, Cora shows how her generation is blending creativity and technology in remarkable ways. This episode offers a glimpse into the future of AI in education, through the lens of a curious, confident third grader.Related Links:Parent Survey Finds Half of Gen Alpha Students Using AIGen AI and Gen Alpha: The impacts of growing up in an innovation cycleChildren's Mental Models of Generative Visual and Text Based AI Models  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Welcome back to the Enrollify Hall of Fame series, where we spotlight some of the most compelling voices and visionary thinkers in higher education marketing and enrollment. Today, we're featuring Carrie Pitts-Densmore, Vice President of Enrollment and Marketing at Johnston Community College. Carrie's fearless leadership style, her candor around AI and culture shifts, and her relentless focus on student-centered strategy make her a standout across multiple shows on the Enrollify Network. If you're grappling with how to implement tech, lead with equity, or build empowered teams, this Hall of Fame episode is a masterclass you won't want to miss. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Jake Tolman, CEO of MainForm Consulting, kicks off a four-part pulse check series from Enrollify with guest John Connolly of PMO Delivery Partners. Together, they explore how the traditional Project Management Office (PMO) in higher education is evolving amidst digital transformation and the rise of AI. With deep insights on project governance, organizational learning, and AI's growing role in project management, this episode sets the stage for how institutions can future-proof their project work and governance models.mainformconsulting.com  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Welcome to Enrollify's 2026 Hall of Fame series, where we resurface the most transformative conversations ever featured across the Enrollify Podcast Network. We're kicking things off with none other than Faton Sopa, Co-Founder and CEO of Manaferra, whose groundbreaking insights have reshaped how enrollment marketers think about the college decision journey. In this highlight reel episode, pulled from his appearances on The Application with Allison Turcio, AI for You, Higher Ed Pulse, and Higher Ed Geek, Faton shares the game-changing role Reddit, TikTok, and AI now play in how students search, validate, and choose a college. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Willsea brings the Enrollify panel back together for a no-holds-barred reunion following their viral AMA session. Featuring Enrollify creator trio Jaime Hunt, Safaniya Stevenson, and Carrie Phillips, this episode revisits the spicy, unfiltered energy that turned heads at the 2025 AMA Symposium. From roasting overused marketing jargon to unpacking the real implications of AI hallucinations in fundraising campaigns, this conversation offers a pulse check on where higher ed marketing stands—and where it's headed. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory dives into the world of Broadway with creative strategist Toni Marie Perilli, exploring how higher ed can learn from the theater district's masterful storytelling. Drawing inspiration from the cultural resurgence of Wicked, Sesame Street, and even Duolingo, the episode uncovers how colleges can deliver educational content that actually connects with Gen Z. From TikToks to Career-Chela festivals, this episode is a masterclass in edutainment with intention.Broadway has found its Gen Z audience — by telling Gen Z stories - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 final episode of First Movers, a pulse check series brought to you by Enrollify and Everspring, we explore how DePaul University's Driehaus College of Business is pioneering the integration of AI across its curriculum. Host Rhea Vitalis is joined by James Moore, Director of Online Learning, and Jim Mourey, Associate Dean of Graduate Programs, along with Andrea Gilbert of Everspring, to unpack how DePaul is transforming both business education and student discovery through intentional AI adoption. From curriculum design to marketing strategy, the episode offers a front-row seat to how one institution is closing the AI skills gap—and what others can learn from their bold approach. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with two-time Red Stapler winner Melanie Lindahl, Senior UX and Web Designer at the University of Texas at Austin School of Law. Together, they unpack why so many college websites fail usability tests — and what higher ed marketers can do about it. Melanie reveals her four-part user testing framework and explains why even beautifully designed sites often miss the mark for real users. From spicy clicks to system flaws, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to build student-first digital experiences. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Part 2 of First Movers, a Pulse Check series, hosts Rhea Vitalis and Andrea Gilbert, of Everspring, sit down with Dr. Suzanne Zivnuska, Dean of the College of Business at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSU-MB). The conversation explores how CSU-MB is navigating the dual disruption of AI-driven student discovery and rapid workforce transformation. From rethinking SEO for AI to aligning curriculum with employer needs, this episode offers powerful insights for enrollment marketers, academic leaders, and anyone invested in the future of higher education. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Live from the AMA Higher Ed Symposium, Carrie Phillips sits down with Jen Brock, newly minted Vice President at Mount Holyoke, to talk about what it's like stepping into leadership, finding your people in the industry, and the importance of peer learning. Jen shares how AMA has shaped her journey, why she's leaning into AI despite a learning curve, and how in-person conferences can double as team bonding retreats—especially when your team works hybrid across states. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, Mallory Willsea sits down with Harrison “Soup” Campbell, newly minted VP of Campus Partnerships at Ardeo, for a candid conversation recorded live at the American Marketing Association's Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education. The two unpack the realities of career transitions, the evolving landscape of enrollment leadership, and the pressures facing today's higher ed professionals. This honest, empowering episode offers both practical advice and a call to unity for those navigating change within the industry. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 live episode from AMA, Mallory sits down with Jason Smith, Managing Director at OHO Interactive, to unpack a crucial — and often overlooked — aspect of AI and higher ed marketing: how generative AI tools describe your institution online. Jason introduces OHO's new AI Visibility Scorecard and reveals some surprising findings from their early research. You'll learn what content AI is pulling, where it's coming from, and why now is the time to clean up your digital house. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Recorded live at the AMA Higher Ed Symposium at National Harbor, Carrie Phillips connects with Jasmine Hunter, a first-time attendee and session leader. Jasmine shares her excitement for the event, strategies for maximizing the experience, and her passion for internal communications. Whether you're a conference veteran or first-time attendee, this conversation offers a vibrant, behind-the-scenes look at how higher ed marketers are showing up, learning, and growing. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Tracey Halvorsen of Adeo and Yianni Mathioudakis of Deeo to explore how top creative agencies are baking artificial intelligence (AI) into their workflows—not as shortcuts, but as accelerators of curiosity, strategy, and creative clarity. From mood boards to brand worlds, these leaders share how AI is being woven into agency culture, not just tech stacks, to amplify good taste and push bold ideas forward. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 the premiere episode of First Movers, a new Pulse Check series by Enrollify in partnership with Everspring, co-hosts Rhea Vitalis and Andrea Gilbert sit down with Dave Hunt, Director of Enrollment Marketing at the University of Kansas. The episode explores how the KU enrollment team is responding to the massive shifts in student behavior brought on by AI-driven search, stealth applicants, and the collapsing marketing funnel. Hunt shares practical strategies on content differentiation, leveraging AI for operational efficiency, and how to rethink SEO to stay discoverable and drive enrollment in a rapidly evolving landscape. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with David Ludlam, Vice President of Marketing Communications at Colorado Mesa University (CMU), and Maria Kuntz from the University of Colorado Boulder to unpack one of the boldest higher ed campaigns of the year — Featherstone University. Part satire, part strategy, this fictional “Ivy” school took aim at higher education's elitism, and in doing so, CMU held a mirror up to the entire industry. We explore the campaign's origin story, its creative risks, and how it's redefining what higher education marketing can look like.Related Links:Featherstone University CampaignInside Higher Ed: One Industry, Two PlaybooksChronicle: ‘Featherstone University' Isn't Real. But Its Message About Higher Ed Packs a Punch - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Episode Title: Emma's First Open HouseKevin and Emma take a road trip to Emma's first Open House.  The two hosts talk about their observations, especially those of Emma. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Kemi Jona joins Ty Fujimura live at the ASU Agentic AI and the Student Experience event to explore the intersection of AI in higher education and workforce development. As the Vice Provost for Online Education and Digital Innovation at the University of Virginia, Jona shares real-world examples of how his team is deploying AI to boost access, streamline course production, and build stronger bridges between higher ed and employers. This candid conversation unpacks both the promise and pitfalls of generative AI and provides a blueprint for institutions eager to innovate responsibly. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Joel Goodman, former founder of Bravery Media and now the new VP of Growth Strategy at Squiz. The conversation dives into Joel's bold career transition from agency life to a global EdTech company, his evolving views on AI in higher education, and the future of digital strategy in a consolidating industry. With nearly two decades of experience in higher ed web strategy, Joel offers a critical — and refreshing — perspective on what's next for institutions looking to actually move the needle. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Bridges, Squirrels, and Tank Tops: A Review of Virtual Info SessionsKevin and Emma Cavanagh dive deep into their experience attending virtual information sessions hosted by several highly-ranked colleges. This father-daughter duo shares what worked, what flopped, and how enrollment marketers can better connect with prospective students in a virtual setting. If you're in higher ed marketing or admissions, this is the behind-the-scenes feedback you need to hear. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Willsea sits down with Tyrone “T.Y.” Stone, a senior at Augustana College, to discuss how students are really using AI in and outside of the classroom. T.Y. isn't just using AI to write essays — he's leveraging tools like ChatGPT and Poe to structure his thinking, spark creativity, and streamline side projects, all while dreaming up a nonprofit called CoBlack to teach coding and design to at-risk youth. Tune in to learn how this student is challenging assumptions about generative AI in education and pushing for equity in tech literacy from the ground up.T.Y's LinkTree - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Welcome back to the third installment of High School to Higher Ed. Today's episode is Part 1 — The School of the New York Times and the Value of Pre-College Programs.  - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Adam Heidebrink-Bruno, Digital Content Specialist at Finger Lakes Community College and winner of Best in Conference at the 2025 Digital Collegium Annual Conference. Adam's session — “Preparing for AI Search and the Generative College Discovery Process” — dove deep into how AI-powered search is transforming how prospective students discover and evaluate colleges. In this conversation, Mallory and Adam unpack what it really means to optimize for generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity, the rise of zero-click search behavior, and why your institution's content strategy may need an urgent overhaul.Check out Adam's Red Stapler Presentation Deck - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Part 4 of this Pulse Check series, Scott Cline sits down with Geoff Baird, higher ed thought leader and author of The Signal Solution, to discuss how AI in higher education admissions is driving a seismic shift in how institutions engage with prospective students. Drawing parallels to the urgency of innovation during COVID-19, Baird argues that AI represents a "silent pandemic" in admissions — one that requires institutions to rethink processes, strategy, and student engagement at lightning speed. This episode is a must-listen for enrollment leaders navigating the new realities of enrollment marketing and technology adoption.Guest Name: Geoff Baird, Founder & CEO, enroll mlGuest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffbaird/https://www.enrollml.com/signalsolutionGuest Bio: Geoff Baird is the founder and CEO of enroll ml and author of the recently released book, The Signal Solution: How Smart Colleges Stop Chasing Applications and Start Converting Students. Over 35 years, Geoff has guided entities ranging from Fortune 50 business units to higher ed institutions through high-stakes operational and financial decisions to deliver growth, sustainability, and innovation. His company, enroll ml, is an AI-driven platform that helps institutions improve middle funnel enrollment yield, force-multiplying admissions teams and enhancing the effectiveness of new student recruitment investment. In 2024, enroll ml was named to GSV Ventures and Google Cloud's list of the 50 most innovative ed-tech startups worldwide. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Willsea is joined by Heather Mueller, Chief Customer Officer and Co-Founder of Capture Higher Ed, to unpack OpenAI's groundbreaking analysis of 1.5 million ChatGPT conversations. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping behavior—not just as a task assistant, but as an advisor—and what that means for higher ed marketing, enrollment strategy, and the future of student support. This is a must-listen for enrollment leaders navigating AI's fast-evolving role in our industry.Related Links:OpenAI: How people are using ChatGPTRegister for the AI Engage Summit - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Part 3 of this Pulse Check series, Scott Cline sits down with Dr. John Haller, former VP of Enrollment Management at the University of Miami and current higher education consultant, to unpack how AI agents are being used across college admissions offices. From streamlining essay reviews to decoding enrollment trends and anticipating student persistence, this episode tackles the promise and pitfalls of using AI in higher ed. If you're a higher ed leader wrestling with how (or whether) to integrate AI into admissions and marketing, this episode offers a refreshingly honest, behind-the-scenes perspective.Guest Name: Dr. John Haller, Special Assistant to the President, Strategic Initiatives at Denison UniversityGuest Social: johnhaller.orgGuest Bio: Dr. John Haller is a higher education consultant and professor.  Most recently, he served as the Special Assistant to the President, Strategic Initiatives at Denison University.  For 10 years John served as the Vice President of Enrollment Management and New Student Strategies at the University of Miami.  During his time at Miami, he led the movement from a largely merit-based to a hybrid merit- and need-based financial aid strategy where 100% of financial need is met.  Also, the institution realized a 30%+ increase in applications and a 50%+ increase in yield.  The institution realized a decrease in student indebtedness ($10,000) and the highest freshman retention (94%) and six-year graduation rates in University history (82%).  Dr. Haller also served as the Associate Provost for Enrollment Management at Saint Joseph's University and had experiences in student success at Drexel University, MBA Admission at Vanderbilt University, and Undergraduate Admission at Denison University.  He is an honors graduate in economics and statistics from the University of Michigan, received master's degrees in business and higher education, and received his Ed.D. in higher education from the University of Pennsylvania.  He can be contacted via his blog at johnhaller.org. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Willsea sits down with Benjamin Rickert, a higher ed communications leader, to explore what it truly means to serve students during a crisis. They reflect on the emotional and logistical challenges institutions face during natural disasters — and how a single, well-timed message can change the course of a student's life. This episode offers a powerful reminder of the human impact behind emergency communication in higher education. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Part 2 of this Pulse Check series, Scott Cline sits down with Emily Thayer Owens, a college access strategist, counselor, and AI ethics advocate. With nearly two decades of experience across admissions, policy, and student support, Emily shares a refreshingly grounded perspective on how AI is already transforming the college admissions landscape—and what higher ed leaders are completely missing in this moment. From digital divides to transparency gaps, this episode unpacks what it takes to build trust and adapt strategically in the age of intelligent agents.Guest Name: Emily Thayer, Director of Career & College Counseling, Alumni Supports, Venture AcademiesGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilythayer/Guest Bio: Emily Owens is a recognized college access strategist, speaker, and advocate with almost two decades of experience in admissions, counseling, and postsecondary success. She has built and led initiatives across K-12, higher education, and statewide partnerships to build more equitable systems, while staying hands-on with students along the way.  Emily specializes in human centered programs that bridge the gap between intention and impact - whether it's integrating AI with ethical frameworks into student supports, shaping inclusive education practices, or advising on direct admission policy. Her leadership roles on executive boards for organizations like MACAC and MnACC, along with various speaking engagements, and her involvement in the Minnesota tech industry such as serving on the leadership board for Global AI - TC Chapter, have positioned her as a strong voice on how institutions can meet the moment with authenticity and innovation. With a deep commitment to civic engagement and transforming systems for good, Emily brings a powerful blend of practitioner insight and policy experience to every conversation. She believes the future of enrollment is about reimagining pathways for students and truly emboldening students in their future. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Wilsey as she sits down with Fabrizio Vallejos for a special episode recorded live at the Prima Conference! Fabrizio shares his biggest takeaways from attending Prima, including the power of collaboration across higher ed institutions and the advantages of not reinventing the wheel. Hear his real-world story of how he quickly leveraged AI-powered tools inside Element451 to solve a critical compliance challenge—streamlining student form collection in record time. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Mary Keister, Principal at Mary Keister Consulting and a seasoned strategic communications pro, to unpack one of higher ed's most pressing issues: the rapidly declining public trust in the value of college. With Gallup and Lumina Foundation data showing alarming trends in student and family skepticism, this conversation dives into what's fueling the crisis—and what institutions can actually do about it. From missed messaging opportunities to long-overdue operational pivots, Mary and Mallory explore how to reframe the higher ed value proposition for today's reality. Related Links: https://news.gallup.com/poll/695003/perceived-importance-college-hits-new-low.aspxhttps://www.luminafoundation.org/news-and-views/the-cost-vs-value-paradox-what-americans-really-think-about-college/https://www.highereddive.com/news/higher-education-survey-new-america-varying-degrees-2024/722992/https://www.bethel.edu/more/ - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Welcome to the debut episode of this new pulse check series, AI Arms Race: Navigating Leadership in the Agentic Admissions AI Era, hosted by Scott Cline. Guest Name: Dr. Stephen Ostendorff, Dean of Admissions, Molloy UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ostendorff/Guest Bio: Dr. Stephen Ostendorff is a strategic enrollment and marketing leader with over two decades of experience driving growth and innovation in higher education. Currently serving as Dean of Admissions at Molloy University, he has led record-breaking enrollment through data-informed strategies, advanced CRM integrations, financial aid optimization, and the ethical use of AI in recruitment. With a background spanning private, urban, and mission-driven institutions, he is known for collaborative leadership, taking a tech-forward approach to enrollment management, and a future-focused mindset when it comes to student engagement and retention.He holds an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership Studies from Northeastern University, an M.S.Ed. in Student Development Practice in Higher Education from St. John's University, and a B.A. in English from Clark University. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Higher Ed Pulse, hosts Mallory and Gil Rogers break down the real reason 95% of AI projects fail—and it's not the tech. From underground AI usage to rising trust issues and executive scrambling for structure, this episode explores how leadership—not capability—is the biggest hurdle for AI adoption in higher education and beyond. Whether you're an institutional leader or front-line staffer experimenting with AI, this conversation offers timely insights on how to approach AI integration with intention, empathy, and strategy.Related Links: MIT Study: 95% of Generative AI Projects FailAI as Boss? Workers Push BackChief AI Officers Emerge Across IndustriesThe Shadow AI Workforce - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Welcome to the final installment of this Pulse Check series — Advancement Amplified: The IA MarCom Shift — Part 5: The 90-Day Blueprint. Dan Giroux teams up with higher ed marketing powerhouse Jaime Hunt—host of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO and author of Heart Over Hype—for a co-led conversation that delivers big, bold ideas and actionable next steps. Together, they offer a compelling, cross-functional perspective on what it means to build future-ready advancement marketing and communications (MarCom) teams—and how to do it in just 90 days. If you're serious about integrated strategies, sustainable structures, and breaking down silos, this is the episode for you.Notes / Resources:AI Maturity Matrix: https://www.solvehighered.com/ai-maturity-matrixHeart Over Hype: https://www.heartoverhypebook.comSolve Higher Ed: https://www.solvehighered.com - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Mallory Willsea welcomes Fran Zablocki, Head of Strategy at Fastspot, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming workflows—not by replacing human expertise, but by enhancing it. Drawing on two decades of experience in digital strategy, Fran shares how tools like Perplexity, Notion, and Claude are being integrated into agency workflows and what higher ed leaders can learn from past waves of technological disruption. If you're curious about practical AI adoption in higher education, this episode delivers fresh perspective grounded in strategy. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Welcome to Part 4 of this Pulse Check series — "From Lessons to Action". Dan Giroux hits pause to distill key takeaways from the first three episodes and translate them into tangible actions for higher ed MarCom and advancement professionals. Whether you're just tuning in or have been along for the ride, this episode offers a practical roadmap to help your team move from reactive order-takers to strategic partners in institutional advancement. Focused on real-world applications and actionable frameworks, this pulse-check episode lays the groundwork for sustainable, visible progress.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Dan's newsletter, DJG Marketing Insights: https://djg-marketing.kit.com/newsletter - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Learn about the 2025 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

The Advancement Strategic Communicators Network is a growing national hub for higher education philanthropic communicators. Learn more on the ASC website  (https://asc.ucdavis.edu/)  or join the ASC Linkedin Group (https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12740101/) to get connected.Guest Name: Gabrielle Giddings, Associate Vice Chancellor, Campaigns, University of DenverGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellegiddings/Guest Bio: Gabrielle Giddings is the associate vice chancellor of campaigns at the University of Denver, leading campaign communications, advancement events, and campaign operations for the University's $1B Denver Difference campaign. An advancement leader with 30+ years of experience, she believes clear, authentic storytelling builds donor trust and fuels giving. Previously, she served as assistant vice president for marketing and communications at Temple Health Institutional Advancement and the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, directing an integrated program across the health system, the school, and the university. Her expertise spans campaign communications, high-impact events, direct response, donor and alumni engagement, community relations, and crisis/media management. She holds a B.A. in Archaeology from Bryn Mawr College and an M.S. in Communication Management from Temple University (communication theory and cross-cultural leadership). - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

In this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Faton Sopa, Co-Founder and CEO of Manaferra, to unpack the most in-depth research yet on how students are searching for colleges in 2025. From the rise of platform switching to the impact of AI and peer-driven validation, Faton shares actionable insights into how student behavior is evolving—and how enrollment marketers must adapt their strategies to keep pace. If you're still focused solely on winning the first click on Google, this episode will shift your perspective fast.Download: How Students Search for Colleges in 2025 - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

In Part 2 of this Pulse Check series, Dan Giroux sits down with Melissa Fincher and Shanna Hocking for a compelling look at how advancement marketing and communications teams can adapt to today's climate of fiscal uncertainty, evolving talent needs, and constant change. This episode dives deep into how higher ed leaders can rethink team structures, integrate AI responsibly, and develop talent that drives long-term value. Whether you're leading an advancement team or building one, this is a must-listen conversation for navigating the next era of higher education marketing.Resources provided by Melissa:WittKieffer Open Searches in Marketing, Communications, & Strategy: https://wittkieffer.com/positions?excellence=227WittKieffer Interim Talent Network: https://wittkieffer.com/form/interim-talent-networkWittKieffer Insights: https://wittkieffer.com/insightsWittKieffer Executive Searches on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/current-executive-searches/Resources provided by Shanna:HBR “5 Qualities to Look for in a New Hire”: https://hbr.org/2024/03/5-qualities-to-look-for-in-a-new-hireBOLD Blueprint for Women in Advancement: https://www.hockingleadership.com/research-studyGuest Names: Melissa Fincher, Principal and Practice Leader, Marketing & Communications, WittKiefferShanna Hocking, Founder and CEO, Hocking LeadershipGuest Socials:Melissa: MFincher@wittkieffer.comShanna: shanna@shannaahocking.comGuest Bios: Principal Melissa Fincher serves as the Marketing & Communications Practice Leader for WittKieffer's Education Market. She has partnered on 170+ executive searches with a wide variety of mission-serving clients. Her varied experiences make her uniquely qualified to support institutions with their short and long-term talent strategies and solutions. She started her career at Rutgers University in undergraduate admissions. She then served Johns Hopkins, first as a member of the Development & Alumni Relations senior leadership team and then as the inaugural talent acquisition consultant. Prior to joining WittKieffer, Melissa was a talent and organizational development consultant at The Ohio State University.Shanna (rhymes with Donna) is a nationally recognized expert in higher education advancement and nonprofit leadership, and the author of One Bold Move a Day (McGraw Hill). She is the founder and CEO of Hocking Leadership, a strategic advisory firm that helps universities and academic medical centers strengthen their leaders, build high-performing teams, and develop workplace cultures that increase retention and grow philanthropy. Shanna spent more than 20 years as a fundraising executive, leading teams and raising transformational gifts at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, the University of Alabama, and Duke University. Today, she partners with chief advancement executives and their teams to solve their most complex leadership challenges.She is a LinkedIn Top Voice and her expertise has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Fortune, Fast Company, and The Wall Street Journal. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

On this episode of Higher Ed Pulse, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Carol Keese, VP for Communications and Chief Marketing Officer at the University of Oregon, to explore what happens when fear—not clarity—drives AI strategy. This conversation dives deep into the dangers of AI copycat culture, the hype cycle gripping higher ed, and the critical importance of grounding decisions in institutional values. Tune in to learn why now is the time for thoughtful, strategic adoption—not reactive moves.Related Articles:In the Room Where It Happens: Generative AI Policy Creation in Higher EducationMarketing and Enrollment Management AI Readiness Report 2025 - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse 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.

Dan Giroux sits down with higher ed marketing trailblazer Terry Flannery to explore how advancement marketing communications teams can break free from reactive, order-taking roles and step into their rightful place as strategic partners. With decades of experience leading marketing and communications at top universities and now as EVP and COO at CASE, Terry offers a 360-degree view on the myths, opportunities, and mindset shifts needed to maximize impact. From debunking the “press release as pizza order” mentality to cultivating trust with advancement leaders, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to elevate advancement MarCom strategy. - - - - Connect With Our Host: Mallory Willsea  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/ https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea About The Enrollify Podcast Network: The Higher Ed Pulse 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.