2024 Hall of Fame: Dr. Janet Spriggs

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About the Episode:

This episode celebrates the 2024 Enrollify Hall of Fame, spotlighting visionary leaders shaping the future of higher education. Host Mallory Willsea introduces Dr. Janet Spriggs, President of Forsyth Technical Community College, who shares groundbreaking insights on leveraging a $30 million NSF Engines grant and innovative AI tools to drive equitable economic mobility, enhance student success, and revolutionize enrollment strategies. Dive into Dr. Spriggs’ dynamic vision for education’s future, from biotechnology pathways to AI-powered student experiences.

Check out the episodes Janet appears in: 

• Breaking Silos Episode 2
• AI For U Episode 4 

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Key Takeaways

• Advancing Economic Mobility: The $30 million NSF Engines grant empowers Forsyth Tech to drive equitable economic mobility through biotechnology education, advanced career pathways, and impactful community development.
• AI in Higher Education: Forsyth Tech leverages AI for predictive analytics, adaptive learning, and personalized student support, significantly boosting enrollment and retention rates.
• Empowering Adult and Diverse Learners: AI tools tailor educational experiences for diverse student populations, addressing the unique needs of high schoolers and adult learners.
• Operational Efficiency through AI: Tools like chatbots and AI-powered workflows streamline administrative tasks, enabling staff to focus on meaningful, human-centered student interactions.
• Data-Driven Insights: Predictive analytics enhance enrollment management, allowing Forsyth Tech to allocate resources strategically and maximize student success.

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Episode Summary

How is the $30 Million NSF Engines Grant Transforming Forsyth Tech?

Dr. Janet Spriggs highlights the transformative potential of a $30 million NSF Engines grant at Forsyth Technical Community College. This investment is not just about acquiring cutting-edge biotechnology equipment but also about creating high-tech career pathways that empower underserved populations. By focusing on equitable economic mobility, Forsyth Tech aims to connect first-generation and low-income students to family-sustaining careers. The grant exemplifies community colleges' commitment to meeting students where they are and guiding them toward generational change through education.

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What Role Does AI Play in Enhancing the Student Experience?

AI tools are at the forefront of Forsyth Tech’s efforts to personalize and enhance the student experience. Predictive analytics identify at-risk students, enabling timely and targeted interventions. Adaptive learning platforms offer tailored educational content, meeting students where they are academically and ensuring their success. AI-powered chatbots provide 24/7 support, a critical feature for students juggling life’s demands, particularly during unconventional hours. These innovations contribute to increased enrollment and retention, setting a new standard for student engagement in higher education.

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How Is AI Supporting Diverse Student Populations?

Forsyth Tech embraces AI to cater to the distinct needs of its diverse student body, from high schoolers seeking a head start to adult learners retooling for new careers. AI tools adapt to varied learning styles and support requirements, ensuring all students have access to resources that match their unique journeys. This approach has been instrumental in addressing the fastest-growing student populations—adult learners and high school students—while fostering inclusivity and equitable education.

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What Operational Efficiencies Are Achieved Through AI?

AI streamlines Forsyth Tech’s operations by automating routine tasks, enabling staff to focus on student engagement. Chatbots significantly reduce call volumes, freeing up student care representatives for in-person interactions. Marketing workflows powered by AI ensure prospective students are nurtured effectively through personalized, human-like communications. Additionally, predictive analytics provide actionable insights, helping the institution focus resources where they will have the greatest impact, thereby driving success with fewer resources.

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Connect With Our Hosts:

Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

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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!  

Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.

Enrollify is produced by Element451 —  the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

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