About the Episode
About the Episode: In our first episode, Dr. Courtney Skiles shares her journey from Trinity Valley Community College student to admissions recruiter to Director of Enrollment Services. We dive into how she was able to implement Element451, and ultimately, elevate the college's recruitment and engagement strategies. This episode sheds light on the significant challenges faced by community colleges and how technology, particularly CRM tools like Element451, can offer solutions that drive enrollment, enhance student experiences, and streamline administrative processes. Courtney's story is not just about personal achievement; it's about the broader implications of embracing technology in creating more accessible and empowering educational pathways.
Embracing the Challenge: TVCC's Pivotal Moment
Dr. Courtney Skiles recounts the critical period when TVCC faced a steep decline in enrollment numbers, a challenge compounded by the onset of the global pandemic.
With a backdrop of declining numbers since 2008 and the institution grappling with outdated technological systems, the introduction of Element451 marked a turning point for TVCC. This segment of the podcast underscores the urgency and necessity of innovation in the face of adversity.
A Technological Leap: The Adoption of Element451
The decision to implement Element 451, a comprehensive CRM tool, signaled a new era for TVCC.
Skiles discusses the initial resistance and the eventual realization that a robust digital infrastructure was imperative for the college's survival and growth. The implementation of Element 451 allowed TVCC to streamline communication, improve recruitment processes, and offer personalized experiences to potential and current students, highlighting the transformative potential of technology in higher education.
TVCC's Enrollment Soars by 8%
The transformation at TVCC, spearheaded by the adoption of Element451, has yielded remarkable successes that are quantifiable and inspirational.
Following the implementation of this cutting-edge CRM technology, TVCC experienced an impressive 8% rise in enrollment numbers, reversing a decade-long trend of decline and signaling a new chapter of growth for the college. Furthermore, the efficiency and effectiveness of their recruitment and engagement strategies were significantly enhanced, leading to a surge in student engagement.
These improvements were not just in numbers but also in the quality of interaction between the institution and its students, creating a more personalized and supportive educational journey. The data and figures underscore the pivotal role of technology in driving success in higher education, demonstrating how strategic investment in digital tools can revitalize institutions and pave the way for future achievements.
Key Takeaways:
- Implementing Element451 at TVCC: Courtney discusses the decision to adopt Element451, highlighting its adaptability and the significant impact it had on increasing enrollment by 8%.
- Challenges and Solutions in Student Engagement: The conversation covers the unique challenges of engaging students in a rural community college setting and how Element451 provided innovative solutions.
- The Power of Technology in Education: Insight into how CRM tools can transform the student journey from prospect to alumni, emphasizing personalized communication and support.
- Leadership and Vision: Courtney's role in leading the adoption and integration of Element451, showcasing her visionary approach to leveraging technology for institutional advancement.
- Future Directions for TVCC: Discussion on the ongoing and future initiatives at TVCC involving Element451, aiming for continuous improvement in student engagement and success.
Dr. Courtney Skiles' narrative is not just a success story but a forward-looking perspective on the continual journey of innovation and adaptation in higher education. TVCC's experience serves as an inspiring example for institutions worldwide, demonstrating that with the right tools and a visionary approach, challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and success.
TVCC's journey, as shared by Dr. Courtney Skiles is a compelling case study of how technology can empower educational institutions to overcome challenges, enhance student experiences, and achieve remarkable growth.
Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Daniella Nordin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellanordin/
Brendan Henkel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkhenkel/
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: In Your Element 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 Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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.
Connect with Us at the Engage Summit: Exciting news — Daniella and Brendan will be at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, on June 25 and 26, and we’d love to meet you there! Sessions will focus on cutting-edge AI applications that are reshaping student outreach, enhancing staff productivity, and offering deep insights into ROI.
Use the discount code Enrollify50 at checkout, and you can register for just $99! This early bird pricing lasts until March 31.
Learn more and register at engage.element451.com — we can’t wait to see you there!
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