The Unique Structure of NC State’s Social Media Team

About the Episode:

Megan Ellisor,  Director of Social Media at NC State, gives us a look into their innovative Social Media Hub at NC State, which fosters collaboration and enhances the university's digital presence as a whole. Jenny and Megan also discuss the importance of mission-driven work, the evolution of social media roles, and the benefits of a centralized yet flexible social media structure.

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Key Takeaways

• Collaborative Model: The Social Media Hub unites full-time social media specialists from colleges and units, creating a cohesive strategy while maintaining unit-specific priorities.
• Resource Sharing: Members benefit from shared tools like enterprise software, dedicated training, and access to professional-grade equipment like laptops and phones.
• Student-Centric Content: A student creator program amplifies authentic storytelling and ensures content resonates with NC State’s diverse audience.
• Intangible Benefits: Being in the same physical space fosters natural collaboration, idea-sharing, and creative synergy among team members.
• Scalable Framework: While not mandatory for all units, the hub provides a scalable model adaptable to the needs of individual colleges or departments.

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Episode Summary

A Unique Social Media Strategy

The NC State Social Media Hub offers a pioneering approach to social media management in higher ed. Megan Ellisor explains how this opt-in program provides a dual-reporting structure, where social media specialists report to her team while maintaining ties to their respective college or unit. Members benefit from centralized resources like enterprise-level software, training, and equipment, all while gaining strategic guidance from NC State’s communications leadership.

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Building Relationships and Amplifying Impact

Collaboration lies at the heart of the hub’s success. The physical proximity of team members encourages organic communication and quick problem-solving, allowing specialists to focus on creating impactful content. With shared expertise and resources, units can align their strategies with the larger university mission while highlighting the unique stories of their communities.

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The Role of Student Creators

A key innovation within the hub is the student creator program, which brings the authentic voices of students to the forefront. These creators represent diverse colleges, produce video content, and serve as the faces of NC State’s digital presence. Megan highlights how empowering students to drive storytelling enhances the university’s connection with its audience.

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Advice for Institutions

For colleges and universities interested in adopting a similar model, Megan advises starting with open dialogue. Engaging college-level communicators and aligning the hub’s goals with institutional priorities is critical to ensuring buy-in and success.

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About the Show: Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager covers the do's, don'ts, and dynamics of the complex and challenging social media ecosystem. We analyze the successes and failures of those in the higher education social space — what went right, what went wrong, and what are the lessons learned. We’ll share actionable steps so you can push past the pitfalls others have faced. No matter if you're on a team of 20 or a team of one, we've got you covered. Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is hosted by Jenny Li Fowler and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

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Connect With Our Host:

Jenny Li Fowler

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/

https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network:

Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager 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 Higher Ed Pulse and Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO.

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