Higher Ed Pulse

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. Co-hosts Kevin and Emma Cavanagh dive into the value of pre-college programs through a personal lens. Emma shares her recent experience attending the prestigious School of The New York Times summer program, offering enrollment professionals a raw, first-person account of what students are really getting out of these experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how these programs influence student perceptions of college—and what that means for enrollment 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. 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. 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 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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 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 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. 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, 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: [email protected]: [email protected] 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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://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 Carrie Pitts-Densmore, VP of Enrollment and Marketing at Johnston Community College, to unpack the quiet chaos unfolding in higher ed teams. This timely discussion explores why proactive employees are losing patience, how AI inequity is disproportionately affecting women, and what institutional leaders must do now to retain top talent. If you’re not thinking of AI strategy as a retention strategy, you’re already behind.Related Links: Marketing and Enrollment Management AI Readiness Report 2025Research: The Hidden Penalty of Using AI at WorkRegister for PRIMA NC - - - -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 final part of this Pulse Check series, Dave sits down with Anne Murphy, founder of SheLeadsAI and Empowered Fundraising Consulting, to explore the intersection of gender, leadership, and AI. Anne shares how a personal health crisis and a chance encounter with ChatGPT reshaped her professional life and ignited a movement to ensure women — particularly Gen X women — play a central role in the AI revolution. Tune in for a conversation packed with truth bombs, real-world insights, and inspiring takeaways for anyone navigating AI in higher education and beyond.Guest Name: Anne Murphy, Founder, She Leads AIGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/she-leads-ai/Guest Bio: Anne Murphy is the founder of She Leads AI, a movement bringing accomplished women together to advance AI for global prosperity. She’s a leading AI operations consultant, helping organizations integrate AI responsibly through a focus on people, process, and culture Anne has trained thousands of professionals in responsible AI deployment and serves on advisory boards shaping the future of ethical AI. She also brings decades of experience in fundraising, driving growth for STEM education and research in higher education, now serving the nonprofit sector throughfirm, Empowered Fundraiser Consulting.When she’s not working at the intersection of AI, leadership, and impact, Anne is an avid backpacker and outdoor enthusiast, and a proud mom of three. - - - -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 Mike Bell, Chief Marketing Officer at Everspring, to explore the disruptive impact of AI search tools on college discovery and decision-making. Drawing from Everspring's just-released 2025 AI Search Trends report, they unpack how platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity are reshaping the higher education marketing funnel. With over 450,000 student interactions analyzed, the data reveals a major shift in student behavior—and a warning for marketers who aren’t ready. If you're a higher ed CMO wondering where your institution stands in AI-generated search results, this episode is your wake-up call.Related Links: 2025 AI Search Trends Report by EverspringRegister for the Admission + AI Summit on August 21st - - - -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, Dave Hunt sits down with Maya Georgieva, Founding Senior Director of the Innovation Center and the XR, AI, and Quantum Labs at Parsons School of Design at The New School. Maya unpacks what it means to be a “narrative futurist” and explores how creative professionals can meaningfully engage with frontier technologies like spatial computing, generative AI, and quantum systems. The conversation dives deep into authorship, ethics, immersive storytelling, and how to maintain the human voice in an increasingly automated world.Guest Name: Maya Georgieva, Senior Director, Innovation Center - AI, XR (VR, AR, Spatial Computing) and Quantum Labs, The New SchoolGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayaig/Guest Bio: Maya Georgieva is a futurist, immersive storyteller, and global thought leader shaping the future of learning, creativity, and innovation. She is Senior Director of the Innovation Center and the XR, AI, and Quantum Labs at The New School, where she leads strategic work at the intersection of storytelling, emerging technologies, and design. At Parsons School of Design, Maya teaches the largest Immersive Storytelling course in the U.S., guiding students in building speculative worlds using VR, AR, and generative AI. A sought-after speaker and writer, Maya’s work has been featured in the EDUCAUSE Review, The Economist, The Atlantic, and she has presented at the United Nations, UNESCO, SXSW, and more. Most recently, she co-authored several landmark reports on AI ethics, XR in education, and immersive learning. - - - -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 is joined by David Weil, Senior Vice President and CIO at Ithaca College, for a conversation about one of the most urgent issues in higher education today: the disappearance of entry-level jobs due to AI automation. They explore how institutions can evolve curricula, redefine readiness, and support students in launching careers in a workforce being rapidly reshaped by artificial intelligence. This episode offers timely insights into AI literacy, human-centered skills development, and the future of work.Related Link: https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/career-advice/advancing-administrator/2024/02/01/key-questions-top-higher-ed-leaders-should - - - -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, Dave Hunt sits down with Lori Mazor—architect turned author, innovator, and CEO of Synthetivity—to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping creativity. Lori, author of TEMPERATURE, Creativity, and the Age of AI, breaks down how thinking differently about creativity, control, and collaboration with AI can lead to more human-centered, purpose-driven innovation. Whether you're a skeptic or an AI evangelist, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and reframe your role in a future shaped by intelligent tools. Perfect for creative professionals, higher ed leaders, and AI-curious marketers, this episode highlights how AI can be a partner in expanding—not replacing—our humanity.Guest Name: Lori Mazor, bestselling author and CEO of SYNTHETIVITYGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorimazor/Guest Bio: Lori is bestselling author of TEMPERATURE: Creativity in the Age of AI, and is a leading voice in artificial intelligence and creativity. She began her career as an architect focusing on cultural and academic projects, then quickly rose to become the first vice president for Planning and Design at New York University.Today, she’s the CEO of SYNTHETIVITY, where she develops and delivers groundbreaking educational programs that equip leaders and creatives with hands-on skills to integrate AI into their workflows.Through her educational programs and Humans of AI newsletter, she fosters a vibrant community of professionals exploring the impact of AI on society and creativity. Lori is passionate about leveraging AI tools to help people become better humans, ensuring that technology enhances our humanity rather than diminishes it. - - - -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 Devin Purgason, AVP of Student Experience Marketing and Outreach at Forsyth Technical Community College, to dive into the behind-the-scenes of deploying AI on campus. From building better knowledge bases to turning karaoke into community-building, Devin shares key lessons from the 2024 Engage Summit, his takeaways as an AMA Symposium planning committee member, and his vision for a more human-centered, tech-enabled future in higher ed.If you're an enrollment marketer exploring AI in higher education or seeking practical student success strategies, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.Related Links: ‍Register for the 2025 AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher EducationWatch all the sessions from the 2025 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 2 of this Pulse Check series, Dave Hunt sits down with Nick Gyani, Head of Higher Ed Sales at Canva, to explore how Canva is empowering campus marketers and creative teams through AI-driven tools and collaborative design workflows. Nick shares how Canva is not just simplifying visual communication but transforming the way higher ed institutions work—giving time back to creative pros and empowering non-designers to stay on brand. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about AI in higher education and what the future of design and content creation looks like on campus.Guest Name: Nick Gyani, Head of Higher Ed Sales, CanvaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Nick Gyani currently leads Higher Ed sales for Canva. Originally from New York City, he is currently based in Austin, Texas. He has been with Canva for about 5 years and was one of the founding members of the Canva Enterprise team back in 2020. His background is in a wide range of industries, but for the past 9 years, he has been focused on driving growth in high performing SAAS companies. Nick is passionate about empowering educators and students through visual communication. Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 year old daughter, trying new restaurants in the Austin food scene, and playing golf. - - - -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 CASE Summit, host Carrie Phillips welcomes Becca Altimer to unpack powerful insights from the conference. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration across campus units, the emotional core of advancement work, and how institutions can cultivate courage and connection in uncertain times. Whether you're in enrollment, admissions, or advancement, this episode offers actionable takeaways and fresh perspectives to inspire your 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. 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 Kyle James (again!) to tackle the deep divide between how startups and higher ed institutions adopt and implement AI. This conversation dives into why experimentation, failure, and iteration are the lifeblood of startup growth—and how higher ed can start borrowing from that playbook. From low-code/no-code AI tools to agile workflows and international student personalization, this episode is packed with actionable insights that challenge the higher ed status quo.Related Articles:AI Translation Platform Article: https://3sixtyinsights.com/from-afterthought-to-strategic-superpower-ais-expanding-role-in-translation-and-gtm/ Example - AI Agents to write Free Resources for Users: https://www.soundgtm.com/playbooks-and-agents Kate Reed Interview - "No Code Builder": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3iQjMiQILA&list=PLd1KZs09PNgQZLpSDwUwJIcdqtCT9g5r9 - - - -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 this new Pulse Check series, Ctrl + Create: AI for Creatives, host Dave Hunt sits down with Matt Owens, Co-founder and Chief Design and Innovation Officer at Athletics. With decades of experience in design, branding, and demystifying new tools, Matt shares how his team is using AI to push creative boundaries, streamline workflows, and preserve the magic of craft. This episode explores how creative studios—and higher ed marketers—can embrace AI with curiosity and confidence, not fear.Guest Name: Matt Owens, Chief Design and Innovation Officer & Founding Partner, Athletics - http://athleticsnyc.comGuest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/volumeone/https://www.instagram.com/mattvolumeoneGuest Bio: Matt Owens is a New York-based designer, creative director, founder, and entrepreneur, and the author of the book A Visible Distance: Craft, Creativity, and the Business of Design, published by Set Margins. With 25 years of experience across all facets of creative practice, Matt works with ambitious leaders, strategists, designers, creative technologists, and marketers to bring rich multi-faceted creative ideas and experiences to life.A Texas native, Matt studied graphic design at the University of Texas at Austin and received a Master’s Degree in graphic design from Cranbrook Academy of Art. He is a founding partner of Athletics, a brand innovation studio based in New York City, and serves as Chief Design and Innovation Officer. Founded in 2004, Athletics has grown through a commitment to design innovation and an ability to work with clients such as Major League Soccer, IBM, Citrix, Google, Amazon, and Square to meet the challenges of contemporary brand-building.Matt has helped teams leverage new tools and processes across disciplines and led projects for clients including Abbott, NYU, XQ, Guild, The Pulitzer Prizes, and Culligan. He has spoken internationally, and his work has been recognized by the Art Directors Club, The American Center for Design, and the AIGA. His thought leadership has been published in Print Magazine, Fast Company, Ad Week, and AdAge. His early experimental design work at volumeone.com was selected to be in SFMoMA’s permanent collection. In his spare time, Matt can be found writing about design and entrepreneurship on Substack and Medium, experimenting in Cinema 4D, and developing new ventures like Kingston Standard and the creative and strategic foresight collective Preseason. - - - -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.

Erin reconnects with Savanna Mcdede of Element451 to unpack one of the most buzzed-about sessions from the 2024 Engage Summit. Inspired by the powerful talk from Tom Andriola (UC Irvine) and Gary Moser (California Community Colleges), the conversation explores how higher ed institutions can move from AI pilots to true, strategic transformation. If you’ve ever asked, “But how do we actually do this AI thing?”, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. - - - -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 Engage 2025, host Carrie Phillips sits down with Katy Campbell of VisionPoint Marketing for a quick chat about how effective leadership intersects with AI innovation in higher ed. Together, they explore how human-centered leadership, strategic prioritization, and intentional tech adoption can help institutions confidently navigate the fast-evolving digital landscape. If you're leading a team through change, this episode is your roadmap. - - - -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 Kyle James — startup founder, product leader, and former college webmaster — to explore how AI is fundamentally reshaping the way business gets done. This high-energy conversation challenges higher ed professionals to ditch the pilot phase and start thinking like a startup. From automated call transcripts to no-code development and the future of white-collar work, this is a must-listen for anyone serious about innovation in higher education.Related Articles: How AI Is Helping Students Find the Right CollegeHow Babson College went all-in on 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.

In this special bonus episode of The Pulse from the Engage Summit, host Erin sits down with Kylee Beasley, a Content Strategist at Southeast Missouri State University, to unpack her very first conference experience at Engage. As a newcomer to both higher ed and conferences, Kylee offers a refreshing, real-time perspective on the energy, insights, and takeaways that make Engage a standout event. From AI in higher education to breaking silos in communication teams, this conversation is packed with inspiration for anyone looking to say "yes" to bold professional growth. - - - -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.

Pulse Check: The Culture Code: Leading with Diversity — Part 5: Culturally Relevant Prospective Student Campus VisitsIn the final part of this Pulse Check Series, host Christian Ponce sits down with Dr. Ana Luz Williams to dive into the importance of cultural intelligence and authenticity in higher ed marketing. The conversation explores how universities can better connect with Hispanic families through intentional campus events, thoughtful messaging, and a deeper understanding of cultural nuances. Dr. Williams shares personal stories and actionable strategies for creating inclusive, welcoming environments for prospective students and their families. If your institution is serious about improving Latino student enrollment and retention, this is a must-listen.Guest Name: Ana Luz Williams, Associate Director of Enrollment, Old Dominion UniversityGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ana-luz-williams-aa9966236/Guest Bio: Dr. Ana Luz Williams is a seasoned, fully bilingual education professional with a background in communications, public relations, and educational leadership. She is passionate about lifelong learning, equity, and building collaborative and inclusive communities.As Associate Director of Undergraduate Enrollment at Old Dominion University, she leads strategic communication and recruitment initiatives to support student success. Outside of her role, she is deeply involved in community leadership and advocacy, serving on several boards and speaking on topics such as education, cultural diversity, and social justice. - - - -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 Carrie Phillips sits down with Michele Ehrhart, Chief Communications Officer at the University of Memphis, for a forward-thinking conversation on AI, leadership, and change management in higher education. Michele shares the mindset shifts and practical leadership skills needed to help teams embrace innovation in an era where transformation feels constant. It’s a powerful dialogue about building a culture of experimentation and making the most of the tools you already have. - - - -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.

Carrie Phillips chats with Claire Masterson, Director of Marketing at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), about the evolving role of AI in higher education and how leadership strategies can support meaningful change. Claire shares how her team is using automation tools to reduce burnout, enhance student engagement, and foster a culture of experimentation. If you're looking to turn AI anxiety into empowerment, this episode delivers. - - - -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 bonus episode of Higher Ed Pulse recorded live at the 2025 Engage Summit, host Mallory Willsea sits down with Hannah Wilson, Knowledge Management and CRM Coordinator at Forsyth Tech Community College. This episode explores the vital role of clean data, the evolving relationship between humans and AI in student engagement, and how smart use of chatbots can revolutionize community college communications. From innovative experiments to real-world enrollment gains, Hannah shares how Forsyth Tech is leading the charge in AI implementation 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.

Erin Fields sits down with Safaniya Stevenson, a brand strategist, cultural analyst, and all-around narrative detective. The conversation centers on how tools like Pulsar’s Narrative AI can empower higher ed marketers to uncover meaningful audience stories, identify trend-worthy content, and track cultural conversations before they hit the mainstream. If you're ready to stop guessing and start understanding what your audience actually cares about, this one’s for you. - - - -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 bonus episode of Higher Ed Pulse, recorded live at the Engage Summit, host Carrie Phillips sits down with Carrie Pitts-Densmore, VP of Enrollment and Marketing at Johnston Community College. Together, the two Carries unpack how to lead through rapid transformation, especially when it comes to adopting AI in enrollment operations. With themes of adaptive curiosity, culture change, and practical tech solutions, this episode offers a refreshing and actionable take on what it means to lead with purpose in a time of disruption. - - - -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.