The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast

Lessons and Laughter: Insights from Nearly Five Decades in Education [S4:E3] Feb 21, 2025

With nearly five decades of experience in independent schools, Jeff Escabar has a collection of amusing and insightful stories to share. In his book Laugh Your Apps Off, he shares a delightful collection of anecdotes from the world of independent schools. Join me for a conversation with Jeff that's sure to make you smile—and maybe even share a few laughs.

Resources:

Laugh Your Apps Off

Expanding Partnerships [S4:E2] Jan 31, 2025

Independent school leaders are forging innovative partnerships to expand opportunities for their students and communities. In March 2024, Wayland Academy (WI) and Ripon College unveiled a groundbreaking pilot program guaranteeing admission and financial aid to Wayland’s international students who meet specific academic requirements. Join us as we discuss this transformative initiative with Jason Warnick, Head of School at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.

Live from AC24: The Evolution of Strategic Enrollment Management [S4:E1] Oct 26, 2024

Join us for a special live episode of the Enrollment Spectrum Podcast, recorded at EMA’s Annual Conference (AC24). This session features a dynamic lineup of EMA’s podcast hosts and a special appearance by Heather Hoerle, EMA’s Executive Director and CEO. Together, we explore the past decade’s evolution in strategic enrollment management and share insights into its future. With audience questions and perspectives woven throughout, this engaging discussion captures the voices and vision of those shaping the field.

Building TASIS Portugal: A Journey of Leadership and Innovation [S3:E7] - Part I Oct 07, 2024

In this episode, we will hear from Keith Chicquen, Founding Headmaster of TASIS Portugal, and Aimee Gruber, Assistant Head of Enrollment Management and Marketing. Keith and Aimee share their incredible journey of moving from Canada to Portugal in 2019 to establish the fourth TASIS school. Join us as we dive into their backgrounds in education and leadership, the challenges they faced during the pandemic, and their insights on building a school from the ground up. It’s a conversation full of inspiration and valuable lessons in resilience and innovation.

Building TASIS Portugal: A Journey of Leadership and Innovation [S3:E8] - Part II Oct 06, 2024

In Part II of our conversation, we will hear from Keith Chicquen, Founding Headmaster of TASIS Portugal, and Aimee Gruber, Assistant Head of Enrollment Management and Marketing. Keith and Aimee share their incredible journey of moving from Canada to Portugal in 2019 to establish the fourth TASIS school. Join us as we dive into their backgrounds in education and leadership, the challenges they faced during the pandemic, and their insights on building a school from the ground up. It’s a conversation full of inspiration and valuable lessons in resilience and innovation.

Meet EMA's New Head of School Podcast Co-Hosts! [S3:E6] Jul 09, 2024

The Enrollment Management Association (EMA) is excited to welcome Anne-Marie Kee, Fran Ryan, and Suzanne Walker Buck as the new co-hosts of EMA's Head of School Podcast. This season will continue to focus on topics related to strategic enrollment management, providing valuable insights and discussions tailored specifically for school heads.

Tune in to hear from our dynamic new co-hosts as they share their perspectives on key topics and give a preview of what's to come this season!

2023-2024 The Ride to Independent Schools Report: 3,000+ Families Tell Us About Their Journey [S3.E5] May 02, 2024

The 2023-2024 edition of The Ride to Independent Schools Report (The Ride) is The Enrollment Management Association's (EMA) fourth edition of this flagship report. It offers valuable insights into the behaviors and opinions of families applying to independent schools. Previous studies were conducted in 2014, 2017, and 2020. This edition of The Ride was a collaboration between EMA and Mission & Data, EMA's strategic data partner.

Join us as we explore some of the highlights from The Ride with Ari Betof, Co-founder and Partner of Mission & Data, and Sarah Enterline Roch, Institutional Research Consultant at Mission & Data and Director of Institutional Research at St. Mark’s School (MA).

Click here to access The Ride to Independent Schools Report and visit the interactive dashboard to analyze the data.

Unlocking Success: The Crucial Partnership Between Heads of Schools and Senior Enrollment Leaders Apr 30, 2024

The partnership between the head of the school and the senior enrollment leader is critical to the sustainability of independent schools. Join me as we explore the dynamic collaboration between Perry Martin, President of La Salle College Preparatory in Pasadena, CA, and Keenan Kurihara, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Chief Communications Officer at La Salle College Preparatory. During Perry and Keenan's tenure at La Salle, student enrollment grew by over 10 percent, and the school increased its net tuition revenue by over 15 percent. Join us for an insightful exploration of how their strategic approach to enrollment management and communication has fortified La Salle College Preparatory against the challenges confronting independent schools nationwide.

Institutional Research in Independent Schools Apr 26, 2024

Institutional research is closely linked to a school’s strategic enrollment management efforts, making this discussion about the Center for Institutional Research in Independent Schools (CIRIS) 2023 Institutional Research State of the Industry Report especially pertinent for independent school leaders. Join us as we explore the key insights and takeaways from this essential resource with Eric Heilman, Director of Institutional Research at Maret School (DC) and Executive Director of The Center for Institutional Research in Independent Schools (CIRIS) at Maret, and Victoria Muradi, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Durham Academy (NC) and EMA Board of Trustees Governance Chair.

CLICK HERE to access the 2023 Institutional Research State of the Industry Report.

Mastering the First Year: Five Essential Tips for New Admission Professionals [S3.E2] Apr 24, 2024

If you are new to the admission profession, join me for a lively conversation with five of EMA's Admission Training Institute (ATI) faculty members: David Baker, Director of Admission & Financial Aid, St. Mark’s School of Texas (Dallas, TX) and Chair of AIT, Dr. Jasmine Harris, Head of School, TMI Episcopal (San Antonio, TX), Molly Dorais, Director of Admission & Financial Aid, Colorado Rocky Mountain School (Carbondale, CO), Steve Brown, CEO & Founder, Steve Brown Academy (Atlanta, GA), and Anne Behnke, Director of Admission and Enrollment Management, St. Mark’s School (Southborough, MA). Gain insights and learn from their collective years of experience in enrollment, admission, and independent school leadership!

For more information about the Admission Training Institute, EMA's premier training program for those new to admission, select the following link: https://www.enrollment.org/professional-development/seminars/ati.

Live from AC23: EMA Podcast Hosts All in One Room! Sep 28, 2023

Welcome to a special episode of the Enrollment Spectrum Podcast, where we broadcast live from EMA's 2023 Annual Conference in Las Vegas. In this unique episode, we have gathered all your favorite EMA podcast hosts under one roof. This includes Rebecca Malotke-Mmeslin and Lynne Macziewski from 'Confidently You,' John Gentile and Rohan Arjun from 'Different Perspectives,' and Ari Betof and Christian Donovan from 'Impossible Questions.' Join us as we share memorable moments from our last podcast season, dive into the latest trends shaping independent schools, and provide a sneak peek into exciting episodes awaiting you in the upcoming season.

Advice for New Admission and Enrollment Directors Jun 29, 2023

Join us for a conversation with Andrew Weller and Brad Brown. Andrew is the Dean of Enrollment and Strategic Marketing at St. Stephens & St. Agnes School in Alexandria, Virginia. Andrew has served in several leadership roles and was a member of EMA's inaugural Admission Leadership Council (ALC). Brad is the Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management at Trinity School in Atlanta, Georgia. Brad also served as the Chair of the Atlanta Area Association of Independent School (AAAIS) Admission Directors Group. Not only are Brad and Andrew strategic enrollment leaders, but they are also two faculty members and advisors for EMA’s Admission Directors Institute (ADI). ADI is an intensive two-day program offered in person as part of EMA’s Annual Conference every September as part of the pre-conference programming. In this episode, Andrew and Brad offer advice and resources for all new admission and enrollment directors to consider as they enter their new leadership roles.

Future Leaders Jun 13, 2023

Please join us for a conversation with Quentin McDowell, Head of School at Mercersburg Academy (PA), Barbara Eghan, Founding Executive Director of Civic Lab at the Georgetown Day School (DC), Jill Thompson, Director of Admission at Phillips Academy (MA), and Christian Donovan, Head of School at Friends School of Baltimore (MD). Quentin, Barbara, Jill, and Christian are the founders of the Enrollment Management Association’s Future Leaders Institute, which focuses on the individual goals of enrollment professionals who wish to build their career, enhance their leadership skills, and grow their professional network.

Addressing Impossible Questions 2.0: An Enrollment Spectrum and Impossible Questions Crossover May 12, 2023

Join us for a special crossover episode of the Enrollment Spectrum Podcast and EMA's Impossible Questions Podcast. Guest co-host Ari Betof joins me today. Ari is the Co-Founder and Partner of Mission & Data and the host of EMA’s Impossible Questions Podcast. In this episode, we welcome Christian Donovan, Head of School at Friends School of Baltimore, as the new co-host of EMA's Impossible Questions Podcast. We will share some highlights and lessons learned from the Impossible Questions first season. Stick around to the end of the podcast to hear the exciting things Ari and Christian have lined up for season two.

State of the Independent School Enrollment Industry 2023 Apr 19, 2023

Please join us in welcoming Ari Betof and Sarah Enterline to the show! Ari is the co-founder and partner at Mission & Data where Sarah is an Institutional Research Consultant and Director of Institutional Research at St. Mark's School in Southborough, MA. Mission & Data is a firm dedicated to the effectiveness, health, and vitality of educational institutions and other organizations that make the world a better place, through strategy consulting, custom data products, audits, and leadership coaching. Ari is also the co-host of EMA’s Impossible Questions Podcast. Ari and Sarah were instrumental to the data collection, analysis, and writing of EMA’s flagship special report The 2023 State of the Independent School Enrollment Industry Report (SOTI) which is out now.

The Supreme Court's Upcoming Ruling on Affirmative Action in College Admissions Apr 13, 2023

Please join us for a conversation with attorney Brian Garrett. Brian is counsel in the Litigation Department and Chair of the Education Law Practice Group at McLane Middleton one of New England’s premier full-service law firms with over 100 attorneys and 25 paralegals throughout offices in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Most recently Brian spoke at our Anti-Bias workshop in January. Stick around to the end of the podcast for some actionable takeaways on some steps you should take at your school based on this upcoming decision.

Plan Your Next Admission Event Like a Pro Apr 06, 2023

Please join us for a conversation with Mary Birnie. Mary is the President of Birnie & Associates, Inc. For more than 20 years, Mary and her team have been coordinating meetings and events that meet strategic goals and make guests feel welcome. Mary is also EMA's partner for the annual conference and she works with many other associations in the independent school space to make all of our conferences go off without a hitch.

We're also joined by a special co-host for this episode, Jennifer Davis EMA’s Associate Director of Professional Development.

Reimagining Tuition at Glen Urquhart School Mar 23, 2023

Join us for a conversation with Gretchen Forsyth and Katie Chhu. Gretchen is the Head of School and Katie is the Director of Admission at Glen Urquhart School (GUS), a progressive day school for students in grades Pre-K through eight located in Beverly, Massachusetts. In this conversation, we explore the reimagined tuition program at GUS.

Six More Marketing Ideas Made Easy Mar 09, 2023

Join us for part two of our conversation with Chuck English where we continue to explore complicated independent school marketing ideas, try to demystify them, and turn them into actionable tactics you can use right away!

Featuring the Confidently You Podcast Feb 23, 2023

While you’re waiting for more episodes of The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast I want to share another show with you that I really like.

We recently launched the Confidently You: Women in Leadership Podcast hosted by Rebecca Malotke-Meslin and Lynne Macziewski. On this new show, they explore what it means to be a woman in leadership in independent schools. On their show, Rebecca and Lynne cover a wide range of topics such as leading the school where your kids are students, celebrating your successes, and becoming a better risk-taker.

We hope you enjoy this episode of Confidently You! Check out this show and all the shows we've recently launched at enrollment.org/podcasts.

Five Marketing Tactics You Can Actually Use Right Now Feb 09, 2023

Join us for a conversation with Chuck English and cut through the marketing speak, buzz words, jargon, and other useless advice for five marketing tactics you can actually implement in the coming weeks. In this episode, we talk about search engine optimization (it's not that scary), video (you can make good ones using your phone), focus groups (you don't need an outside firm), refining your application process (a massive topic but we give you some ideas on how to start), and the differences between a rebrand and a new logo (that actually make sense).

We hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we did making it and stay tuned for part two of this series soon!

Optimized for Social Impact Jan 26, 2023

Please join us for a conversation with Dr. Vivienne Ming. Vivienne is a theoretical neuroscientist, entrepreneur, author, and mother of two. She is featured frequently for her research and inventions in The Financial Times, The Atlantic, Quartz Magazine, and the New York Times. Co-founded with her wife Dr. Norma Ming, Socos Labs is a mad science incubator dedicated to solving some of the world's most pressing problems and she was a keynote speaker at AC22 in Orlando, Florida.

Featuring the Different Perspectives Podcast Jan 12, 2023

While you’re waiting for more episodes of The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast I want to share another show with you that I really like.

We recently launched the Different Perspectives podcast hosted by Rohan Arjun and John Gentile. On this new show, they explore what diversity, equity, and inclusion looks like, sounds like, and feels like outside independent schools. Season one is out now featuring conversations with folks from the worlds of marketing, software, finance, and more.

In this episode, we'll be featuring one of their shows for you to enjoy and you can check out all the shows we've recently launched at enrollment.org/podcasts.

Live From AC22: Considerations for a Return to Admission Assessments Oct 20, 2022

Join us live from AC22 for this episode of The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast! Are you considering a return to admission assessments as a part of your overall enrollment strategy? In this episode, we'll share best practices to get your whole school on board as well as common mistakes to avoid with our four guests:

Dr. Keith Wright, The Enrollment Management Association (NJ)
Dr. Nathan Kuncel, University of Minnesota (MN)
Amy Sayfie Zichella, Ransom Everglades School (FL)
John Hutchins, Phillips Exeter Academy (NH)

Let's Take a Look Back at 110 Episodes Jul 07, 2022

After 110 episodes of The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast our intrepid host Peter is moving on to the next stage of his career! Join us for a send-off episode where we reflect back and look ahead.

But don't worry, even though our host is moving on the podcast will continue!

Are You Thinking of Your Parents as Partners? Jul 07, 2022

Please join us for a conversation with Renee DuChainey-Farkes. Renee was most recently the head of school at The Woodward School just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. Prior to joining The Woodward School Renee was the founding head of school at Kingsley Montessori School in Boston which started with 65 students and grew to an enrollment of more than 325.

Renee is now working as a coach, consultant, and advisor to independent schools, both private and Montessori, looking at ways to further partner with parents in school communities. She also wrote ‘Learning From Home’ for the fall 2020 issue of The Yield.

The Next Step Forward for DEI Jun 16, 2022

Join us for a conversation with Nikki Turpin. Nikki is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall in Waltham, Massachusetts.

A former teacher at Nashoba Brooks School in Concord, MA, she sits on multiple Inclusivity and Diversity Boards including the Bay State Brawlers and Hudson Sloop Clearwater and is a consultant for BeWellBeHere.

Nikki’s DEI work is motivated by her belief that everyone should feel like they belong, that their surroundings always feel like ”a home,” and that you are invited to be your authentic self, unapologetically every day.

Nikki also recently wrote an article in the Fall 2021 issue of The Yield titled 'Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Next Step Forward.'

How to Create an Enrollment Management Strategic Plan May 19, 2022

Join us for a conversation with Josh Clark.

Josh joined TASIS The American School in England in August 2020 as the Director of Student Recruitment and Admissions.

In this episode, we'll hear Josh's thoughts on how to create an enrollment management strategic plan!

What’s New and Shiny (and tried and true) in Independent School Marketing Apr 28, 2022

Please join us for a conversation with Angie Ward.

Angie is the founder and president of Enroll Media Group based in Massachusetts and she has 15 years of experience in media and marketing, most of which have been within the education industry.

Angie has helped over 200 colleges, universities, and K12 schools with result-driven digital marketing campaigns.

How COVID-19 Has Affected the Demographics of Enrollment Apr 14, 2022

Join us for a conversation with Professor Nathan Grawe.

Nathan is the Ada M. Harrison Distinguished Teaching Professor of Social Sciences & Economics at Carleton College in Minnesota.

Nathan’s 2018 book, Demographics and The Demand for Higher Education examines how recent demographic shifts are likely to affect the demand for higher education. His most recent book, The Agile College, provides examples of how proactive institutions are grappling with demographic change.

It's time for a tuition reset! Two schools share their stories. Mar 24, 2022

If you're considering a tuition reset at your school this episode is for you! Recorded live during EMA's Financial Aid Symposium, this conversation will provide helpful data and actionable insight into what you should do at your school.

The Whole Student Podcast Mar 03, 2022

Kal Balaven is the Head of School at Dunn School in Los Olivos, California but that’s not why we asked him to come on the show. In addition to his other duties as Head of School, Kal is also a podcaster hosting a show called The Whole Student Podcast which offers notable people the chance to share the story of the teachers who influenced them. In this episode, we'll not only hear from Kal about why he started a podcast, but we'll also hear about the teacher who changed his life.

Get Real and Get In: How to Get Into the College of Your Dreams by Being Your Authentic Self Feb 17, 2022

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Aviva Legatt. Aviva is the author of Get Real and Get In: How to Get Into the College of Your Dreams by Being Your Authentic Self.

Aviva is a faculty member in Organizational Dynamics at the University of Pennsylvania and at The Wharton School, teaching in-person and online through Coursera.

Her courses on diversity and teamwork have reached thousands of learners and have been recognized by Poets & Quants as a “Best Business Course.”

Interested in using this podcast in your next team meeting or board packet? Download our Listening for Action Guide.

Cultivating an Authentic DEI Commitment in Organizations: Pitfalls & Best Practices Feb 03, 2022

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Derrick Gay. Derrick runs a global boutique consultancy focused on strategic inclusion and equity. Over the past 24 years, he has partnered with over 600 organizations to deepen their diversity and inclusion capacity; enhance inclusion and engagement; attract, hire, and retain the best talent; and design strategy to maximize business and education goals.

Use Tuition Discounting to Help Achieve Your Mission Jan 20, 2022

Please join us for a conversation with James Palmieri and Elizabeth Dabney. James is the Executive Vice President at the National Business Officers Association and Elizabeth is the Director of Research and Data Analysis.

The National Business Officers Association recently published a special report on tuition discounting and we dig into it!

Marketing Reports to Enrollment Management at Woodward Academy Jan 06, 2022

Please join us for a conversation with Nija Meyer. Nija joined Woodward in August 2014 to lead the Academy's marketing and communications efforts and is now the Vice President for Enrollment Management. Prior to joining Woodward she served in strategic marketing and consulting roles for The Coca-Cola Company, Andersen Consulting's Strategic Services, and GE Capital.

At Woodward Academy the marketing department reports to the Director of Enrollment Management and we'll hear the story of how this came about.

How We Launched a Transitional Kindergarten Program in May (and filled it in 21 days) Nov 04, 2021

Join us for a conversation with Mark McKee and Laurel Baker Tew.

Mark is the Head of School at Viewpoint School in Calabasas, California where Laurel is the Assistant Head of School for Enrollment Management. Mark and Laurel are deeply committed to independent schools and the field of enrollment management.

Mark and Laurel are also longtime contributors to EMA: Laurel has served on EMA’s Board of Trustees, both Laurel and Mark have spoken at many of our events, and both were on the podcast back in July of 2020 when they were talking about their reopening plans for the fall.

Five Steps to Promote Racial Equity in the Workplace Oct 21, 2021

Please join us for a conversation with Dr. Robert Livingston.

Dr. Livingston is a Lecturer of Public Policy at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government where his research focuses on diversity, leadership, and social justice. His work has been published in multiple top-tier academic journals and has been featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, and many other media outlets.

His award-winning article How to Promote Racial Equity in the Workplace is the foundation for our conversation.

Marketing in an Unscripted World Oct 14, 2021

Please join us for a conversation with Sam Birdsong.

Sam has been creating films that inspire purpose and lead with humanity for the last decade. He co-founded the film company Chispa House, which focuses on producing authentic and cinematic video.

Using Your Brand Voice to Speak with Transparency & Trust Aug 26, 2021

Please join us for a conversation with Risa Engel. Risa is the Chief Marketing Officer at Finalsite where she leads the talented team responsible for worldwide marketing. She joined Finalsite in 2019 with a background in education, finance, and tech marketing communications.

Most recently at Stuart Country Day School in Princeton, NJ, Risa transformed the school's brand awareness through innovative programs including the CASE Circle of Excellence award-winning #LEADLIKEAGIRL K-12 conference.

Born and raised in Silicon Valley, Risa cut her teeth at tech startups and is excited by the opportunities technology provides educators to build community with the students and families they serve.

Addressing Impossible Questions Aug 05, 2021

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Ari Betof as we discuss how to address impossible questions. We'll also introduce EMA's new podcast available now!

Managing Change in Independent Schools Jul 23, 2021

Please join us for a conversation with Dr. Mary Halpin Carter and Tom Olverson.

Mary is the head of school at the Derryfield School in Manchester, NH where she has been for eight years. Prior to her appointment to head of school she was a teacher, director of admission, and assistant head for faculty and academic programs, in addition to other roles.

Tom is a veteran of 38 years in independent schools, serving as a Head for 27 of those years. Today Tom is a search consultant at RG175 and has completed more than 18 head of school searches.

What’s Your Recipe for Retention? Jun 24, 2021

Please join us for a conversation with Brandi Eppolito. Brandi is the Vice President of Marketing at SchoolAdmin, which is now a part of FinalSite, providing admission and enrollment solutions to independent schools.

Prior to joining SchoolAdmin, Brandi was involved with marketing and content development for several for-profit organizations in Texas and was in recruitment, marketing and admission at The University of Texas.

SchoolAdmin recently launched The Recipe for Retention: Cooking up an award-winning retention strategy for your private school and they are soon to launch a new report titled, Widening the Aperture: Redefining the Enrollment Experience. We’re excited to dig into both of these reports on this episode!

Let’s Redesign the External Functions of the School Jun 10, 2021

Join us for a conversation with Ann Snyder and Jennifer Hillen.

Ann is the Director of Independent and International Schools at The Council for Advancement and Support of Education. Prior to joining CASE, she was the Director of Enrollment and External Affairs at Stuart Hall School. Prior to Stuart Hall, she was in corporate marketing.

Jennifer is the Chief Learning Officer at the National Business Officers Association. Prior to joining NBOA, she worked in assurance and advisory services for Ernst & Young, she then joined Harpeth Hall School where she served as the business officer.

Exclusivity and Access in Higher Education May 27, 2021

Join us for a conversation with Jeff Selingo. Jeff has written about higher education for two decades. He is the author of two New York Times bestsellers, a contributor to The Atlantic and the Washington Post, and a special advisor at Arizona State University. Jeff has been a keynote speaker at our annual conference and has been on the show twice before! Jeff’s latest book Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions came out last fall.

The Ride to Independent Schools 2020-2021 May 13, 2021

Please join s for a conversation with Chuck English. Chuck is the driving force behind English Marketing Works where he has successfully worked with dozens of schools, helping them achieve strategic goals through effective branding, messaging, marketing, and creative initiatives.

Chuck has written numerous e-books, reports, and journal articles on independent school marketing. In fact, he wrote EMA’s last State of the Industry report that was released in 2019.

This year, Chuck authored EMA’s Ride to Independent Schools 2020-2021 which is why we’ve asked him to join us today.

The Biggest Problems To Solve Apr 15, 2021

Join us for a conversation with John Gulla and Grant Lichtman.

John is the Executive Director of the Edward E. Ford Foundation which seeks to improve secondary education by supporting U.S. independent schools and encouraging promising practices.

Grant is an internationally recognized thought leader on the transformation of K-12 education. He works with school teams to develop a comfort and capacity for change in a rapidly changing world.

Six More Predictions for 2021 Apr 01, 2021

We asked our 2020 podcast guests to send us a short voicemail with their predictions for 2021 and the response was overwhelming! In fact, we have so much content we're doing a two-part episode on predictions for 2021. In this episode, you'll hear from Susan Emery, Suzanne Walker Buck, Nicole Oakes, Tim Fish, Kelly Page, and David Willows.

What are your predictions for 2021? Send us a voice memo at hmundahl@enrollment.org!

Six Predictions for 2021 Mar 18, 2021

We asked our 2020 podcast guests to send us a short voicemail with their predictions for 2021 and the response was overwhelming! In fact, we have so much content we're doing a two-part episode on predictions for 2021.

In this episode, you'll hear from Greg Martin, John Barrengos, Kevin Plummer, Kristen Mariotti, Ari Betof, and Kevin Folan!

What are your predictions for 2021? Send us a voice memo at hmundahl@enrollment.org!

Thoughtful, Agile & Intentional: Independent Schools and COVID-19 Mar 11, 2021

Join us for a conversation with John Katzman. John is the founder and CEO of Noodle Partners which is transforming the way prospective students find and learn about degree programs.

Before founding Noodle Partners, John founded and was CEO of 2U, which helps colleges and universities build and run high-quality online degree programs.

Prior to 2U, Katzman founded and ran The Princeton Review, which helped half of the students applying to U.S. colleges and universities each year find, get into, and pay for school. John also serves on several for- and not-for-profit boards of directors and has authored many articles and five books.

Is Constrained Optimization the Future of Admissions? Feb 25, 2021

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Rebecca Zwick. Rebecca is a researcher at ETS where she holds the title of Distinguished Presidential Appointee.

She earned her doctorate in Quantitative Methods in Education at UC Berkeley and her postdoctoral fellowship was at the Psychometric Laboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Her recent work has focused on test validity and fairness and she wrote the 2017 book Who Gets In? Strategies for Fair and Effective College Admissions.

Reimagined From the Ground Up: Northfield Mount Hermon’s Lab Program Feb 11, 2021

Please join us for a conversation with Brian Hargrove and Grant Gonzalez from Northfield Mount Hermon School.

Over the past two decades, Brian has successfully held leadership roles both in education and in the private sector and has been the Head of School at NMH since 2019. Grant is the Assistant Dean of Faculty, a Social Entrepreneurship Teacher, and Director of the NMH Lab program which is the topic of this episode!

Anti-Racism Best Practices for Independent Schools Jan 28, 2021

Dr. Derrick Gay is an internationally recognized diversity and inclusion strategist and has worked with over 500 organizations around the world. Dr. Gay began his career teaching and serving as a senior administrator in a number of independent schools across the country. His work has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, 60 minutes, El Tiempo Latino, and The Washington Post, to name a few. And he event consults with Sesame Street!

Derrick spoke at both our 2019 and 2020 annual conferences and he was a guest on the podcast last winter way back before COVID, exploring opportunities and challenges around Diversity and Inclusion.

This coming spring Derrick is running his popular online course again: Reframing and Leading Diversity Through and Post-COVID-19, where he frames Diversity and Inclusion issues and strategies for independent school administrators.

We’re All In This Together: How one group of enrollment leaders is working together to better serve families Jan 14, 2021

Join us for a conversation with Julie Wadland. Julie is the Associate Director of Admission at Concord Academy in Concord, MA. Prior to joining Concord Academy Julie was at Loomis Chaffee, UC Berkeley, an executive search firm in San Francisco, and Phillips Academy where she was also a student. In this episode, Julie will talk about how a group of enrollment leaders came together to better serve families in their region.

Re-inventing the International Student Program at Oaks Christian School Dec 31, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Nicole Oakes. Nicole is the Director of the International Student Program at Oaks Christian School in Westlake Village, CA.

We’ve invited Nicole to speak with us as a part of our ongoing series about how schools are reopening to hear how she has re-invented her work with international students and their families.

Stop Strategic Planning & Start ‘Strategic Do-ing’: How Baylor School Opened a COVID-19 Testing Lab Dec 17, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Dallas Joseph.

Dallas is the Chief Operation Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Baylor School in Chattanooga, TN. Dallas arrived at Baylor in 2000 from Fisk University in Nashville, TN. Before Fisk University, Dallas was the Vice President for Finance of Sumi College (on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan), and for seven years prior to that position, he worked as an accountant and comptroller for Shaw University. Dallas is also the Chair of EMA’s Board of Trustees.

In this episode, we'll hear more about Baylor School's COVID-19 testing program and how it not only is helping the local community but is also a revenue stream for the school.

Redefining the Independent School Business Model at Providence Country Day School Dec 10, 2020

Please join us for a conversation with Kevin Folan. Kevin is the Head of School at The Providence Country Day School in Providence, Rhode Island. Kevin has spent the past fifteen years in education. He started at the Hyde School and was the head of Hilltop Country Day School in New Jersey before moving to Providence Country Day.

We'll discuss Providence Country Day's recently announced initiative to reduce tuition by 35% and launch a number of other initiatives.

Lessons From Higher Ed: The Role of Character in College Admission Nov 26, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Trisha Ross Anderson and Brennan Barnard.

Trisha is the College Admissions Program Director for Making Caring Common, a project of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Trisha has spent over a decade supporting a wide variety of schools and non-profits.

Her work centers around social and emotional learning and character development, the promotion of positive school climate, and intervention development and evaluation.

Brennan is the co-author of the new book, The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together and the director of college counseling and outreach at The Derryfield School in New Hampshire.

He is also the College Admission Program Advisor at Making Caring Common. Brennan writes about college admission for the New York Times, Washington Post, Forbes.com, HuffPost, Concord Monitor and Journal of College Admission.

Live from AC20: A conversation with Homa Tavangar and Will Richardson Nov 12, 2020

Join us for a special live conversation with Homa Tavangar and Will Richardson from EMA's AC20!

Homa’s work has addressed themes of culture, innovation, leadership, global citizenship and global competence, and deep diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion. She connects timely topics of the moment with the timeless desire to work with purpose and make a difference – whatever one’s circumstances. Homa is the author of widely-acclaimed Growing Up Global: Raising Children to Be At Home in the World and newly released Global Kids activity cards from Barefoot Books.

A former public school educator of 22 years, Will has spent the last 15 years developing an international reputation as a leading thinker and writer about the intersection of social online learning networks, education, and systemic change. In 2017, Will was named one of 100 global "Changemakers in Education" by the Finnish site HundrED, and was named one of the Top 5 "Edupreneurs to Follow" by Forbes.

Homa and Will are co-founders of The Big Questions Institute.

How Enrollment Leaders Can Think Like Rocket Scientists Oct 29, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Ozan Varol. Ozan is a rocket scientist turned award-winning professor and author. A native of Istanbul, Turkey, he learned English as a second language and moved to the United States by himself at 17 to attend Cornell University and major in astrophysics.

While there, he served on the operations team for the 2003 Mars Exploration Rovers project that sent two rovers–Spirit and Opportunity–to Mars. He built stuff that went to the red planet and wrote code that snaps photos of the Martian surface.

Ozan is the author of Think Like a Rocket Scientist: Simple Strategies You Can Use to Make Giant Leaps in Work and Life and recently spoke with Heather Hoerle, EMA’s Executive Director and CEO at the opening of our online annual conference.

Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions Sep 15, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Jeff Selingo. Jeff has written about higher education for two decades. He is the author of two New York Times bestsellers, a contributor to The Atlantic and the Washington Post, and a special advisor at Arizona State University. Jeff was a keynote speaker at our annual conference last fall and was a guest on the podcast back in episode 59.

Jeff’s new book Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions comes out on September 15.

Fall Reopening: A Multi-Layered Approach at Avenues: The World School Sep 03, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Matt Lai and Dave Buckwald from Avenues: The World School.

Matt is the Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management at Avenues Silicon Valley (CA). Prior to joining Avenues, Matt spent 14 years at Woodside Priory School (CA) in a number of capacities, including Director of Admissions & Financial Aid, Dean of Students, Dean of Residential Life, and a teacher and coach. Matt is also an EMA trustee.

Dave is Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management at Avenue, The World School in New York. With 15 years of experience in highly selective college admissions, Dave joined Avenues in the summer of 2018. Most recently, Dave served as a director in the undergraduate admission office at Columbia University.

Fall Reopening: An All Remote Approach at Stoneleigh-Burnham School Aug 21, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Kristen Mariotti. Kristen is the Assistant Head of School for Enrollment at Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Massachusetts and has nearly 20 years of experience in admissions and enrollment management at independent schools, colleges, and universities.

We invited Kristen to speak with us on the podcast as a part of our ongoing series exploring how schools are planning to reopen in the fall.

Fall Reopening: A Hybrid Approach at Tampa Prep Aug 17, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Kevin Plummer. Kevin became the seventh Head of Tampa Preparatory School in July 2007.

Kevin is deeply committed to independent schools and serves as Vice President of the Florida Council of Independent Schools, is a member of the Bay Area Association of Independent Schools, and served as their President in 2009-2010, and of course as board chair of EMA’s Board of Trustee.

We were also lucky enough to have Kevin join our online Heads Institute as a cohort leader. We’ve invited Kevin to speak with us today as a part of our series exploring how schools are planning to reopen in the fall.

Bennett Labs: Innovation With the Intent to Share Aug 13, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Kelly Page. Kelly is the director of Bennett Labs at Bennett Day School in Chicago. She is a social and digital innovator, entrepreneur, educator, and learning consultant with a Ph.D. in the Psychology of Web Knowledge and an obsession with social digital storytelling. She has over 18 years of experience working at the intersection of social innovation, and social design for startups, universities, schools, school districts, and Fortune 500 companies.

Fall Reopening: An In-Person Approach at Randolph-Macon Academy Jul 29, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Brigadier General Retired David Wesley. Dave served as an active-duty officer in the Air Force for 26 years before retiring in 2014. For the last five years, he’s been the president of Randolph-Macon Academy in Virginia. We’ve invited Dave to speak with us today as a part of our new series exploring how schools are planning to reopen in the fall.

The Governor Declared Schools Will Be Online in the Fall… Now What? Jul 23, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Mark McKee and Laurel Baker Tew.

Mark is the Head of School at Viewpoint School in Calabasas, California where Laurel is the Assistant Head of School for Enrollment Management. Mark and Laurel are deeply committed to independent schools and the field of enrollment management. In fact just last week Laurel spoke last at our online Heads Institute where Mark was also a cohort leader.

Whittle GO!: How One School Launched an Online Program Jul 10, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Susan Emery as she describes Whittle GO! a new online program.

Susan is Co-Head of Admissions, Director of Financial Aid, and Associate Director of Boarding Admissions for the DC Campus of Whittle School & Studios. Before that she had more than 15 years of international and domestic experience in education, advising, and school administration.

Hungry, Humble & Nimble Jun 29, 2020

Join us in a conversation with Anne-Marie Kee.

Anne-Marie became Head of School at Lakefield College School in Ontario, Canada in 2017. Before that she was the Executive Director at the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) for 11 years.

Anne-Marie also attended EMA's first Heads Institute last summer.

Lessons From the Front Lines: From School Business Office to Long Term Care Jun 26, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Melissa Orth.

Melissa is the President and CEO of The Legacy Senior Communities, a Jewish, faith-based, continuum care community in Dallas, Texas. She was previously the COO/CFO of Greenhill School, a co-educational independent school serving 1,300 students, pre-kindergarten through 12th grades, in Addison, Texas.

Melissa has moved from the school world to the healthcare world and that’s why we’ve asked her to join us on the show.

Does Admission Have a Strategy Problem or a Tactics Problem? Jun 20, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Professor Nathan Grawe.

Nathan is the Ada M. Harrison Distinguished Teaching Professor of the Social Sciences & Economics at Carleton College in Minnesota. Nathan recently published Demographics and The Demand for Higher Education which examines how recent demographic shifts might affect demand for higher education.

Boarding School Enrollment Check In: We Go to our Values Jun 18, 2020

Join us for a conversation with John Barrengos. John is the Director of Admission and Financial Aid at The Putney School in Vermont.

Introducing the Head of School Podcast Jun 10, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Hans and Peter as they discuss the upcoming Heads Institute Online and announce the launch of a new podcast especially for heads of school.

Make Better Use of Your Enrollment Data Jun 01, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Lisa Pullman as she talks about how to better use your enrollment data.

Lisa is Executive Director at INDEX which is a member-driven, not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing data, analysis, research, and information to Independent Schools to aid in decision-making, policy development, and strategic planning.

To Lower Tuition or Not To Lower Tuition? May 28, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Jay Rainey and hear how MICDS lowered their tuition by $2,000 for the fall.

Jay is wrapping up his first year as head at Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School in St. Louis, Missouri. Prior to joining MICDS, Jay was the head of school at Randolph School in Huntsville, Alabama.

Stimulate the Base: Bucking K-8 enrollment headwinds May 21, 2020

Join this conversation with Amy Jolly. Amy is the Head of School at Applewild School in Massachusetts.

Before taking the headship at Applewild, Amy was at Shady Hill School and Fenn School both in the greater Boston area. Amy has been on the podcast before back in episode 19 when she talked about her work leading Maine Girls Academy as that school ultimately decided to close its doors.

Colleges plan the fall: on campus, online, or hybrid? May 19, 2020

Join us in a conversation with Jeff Selingo.

Jeff has written about higher education for two decades. He is the author of two New York Times bestsellers, a contributor to The Atlantic and the Washington Post, and a special advisor at Arizona State University. Jeff was also a keynote speaker at our annual conference last fall.

And he has a new book coming out on September 15th, Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions.

Paul LeBlanc on SNHU’s Plan to Redefine and Reimagine Campus-Based Learning May 08, 2020

In this episode we speak with Dr. Paul LeBlanc President of Southern New Hampshire University as he describes strategies for redefining and reimagining campus-based learning including:

Be student obsessed
Bet on the cards you have
Constantly be piloting
Embrace diverse thought partnership

From Enrollment Leader to Head of School May 04, 2020

Join us as we hear from Jason Warnick to learn about his journey from enrollment leader to head of school.

The Power of Serving Others May 01, 2020

Join us as we hear from Jason Kreutner, Head of School at University School of the Lowcountry as he describes how his school is giving back during this difficult time.

Reconsidering your tuition for the fall? Apr 27, 2020

If you're reconsidering your tuition for the fall you're not alone. Many schools are asking tough questions about price going forward. In this conversation we hear from Tom Sheppard who has done signficant work on this topic.

Beyond the College List: Value, Parents & Independent School Enrollment Apr 20, 2020

Let's talk about value proposition. How do we help parents see beyond the college list to the true and lasting benefit of the independent school experience? Leigh Moore from Real College Matters helps us out!

Steps to Financial Sustainability in a Time of COVID-19 Apr 20, 2020

Will we be back to normal in the fall? How should schools be thinking about their financial sustainability? This conversation with Ari Betof president of Organizational Sustainability Consulting will help you get started. This podcast is a great one to share with your head of school or board!

Learning How to Pivot Apr 03, 2020

What does it mean to pivot? In this conversation with Dr. Greg Martin we find out!

Ensure Enrollment in the Fall by Thriving Today Mar 31, 2020

One of the most popular lessons from our 'Rethinking Enrollment due to COVID-19' course was from Ian Symmonds. Join us as he dives deep into topics of interest to school leaders.

Enrollment in Uncertain Times: Values, Kindness & Being Heard Mar 30, 2020

How should you reimagine your enrollment process due to COVID-19? For David Willows at the International School of Brussells it starts with demonstrating your values, emphasizing kindness, and remembering that helping families feel heard is critical.

Announcing EMA's Idea Factory: A free online unconference Mar 26, 2020

Announcing EMA's Idea Factory - a free online unconference on April 2, 2020. Stay tuned for more information and sign up details!

How to Adopt a Startup Mentality at Your School Mar 26, 2020

Join us for this conversation with Kirk Wheeler and check out two of his recent posts to dig deeper into how to adopt a startup mentality at your school!

Financial aid in uncertain times: questions every school must ask today Mar 24, 2020

What will the effect of the COVID-19 crisis be on independent school tuition and financial aid? Mark Mitchell from NAIS helps us with some historical context.

After the 2008 financial crisis:

FA applications went up 16.7%
Students receiving aid went up 17.8%
Total FA spending per student went up 21%

In this conversation Mark advises us that although we can't predict the future we can start asking the right questions to help our schools prepare today.

Now is a Good Time to Launch an Idea Factory Mar 21, 2020

Join us for a conversation with Suzanne Walker Buck, Head of School at Western Reserve Academy.

COVID-19: A Conversation with NAIS Mar 19, 2020

What is happening all around the country? Join us as we speak with Tim Fish and Donna Orem and get the big picture perspective.

COVID-19: A story from a school on the front line Mar 18, 2020

In this episode of The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast we speak with Rob Phillips, Head of School at Seattle Academy to hear how he and his community made the decision to move to remote learning.

COVID-19: What we're hearing Mar 14, 2020

Join us in welcoming Jennifer Hillen and Amber Stockham from the National Business Officers Association to the show. Jennifer is the NBOA’s Vice President for Professional Development and Business Affairs and Amber is the Director of Human Resources Programs.

We share many resources such as:

Business operations considerations
FAQ’s for school leaders
Legal topics
OneSchoolHouse link
Two sessions of a webinar about virtual events

Recruiting International Students: Trends, Opportunities & Pitfalls Mar 09, 2020

Whether you recruit students internationally for a boarding program or a homestay you rely on students from outside the US and Canada. In this episode we'll dive deep with John Williamson of Linden Educational Services to find out which countries are still hot and which countries to watch.

The Double Edged Sword of Diversity Feb 21, 2020

Dr. Derrick Gay is an internationally recognized consultant to businesses, educational, arts, and philanthropic organizations around the world regarding issues of diversity and inclusion.

His work has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, and The Washington Post, and Derrick spoke at our annual conference this Fall in Washington, DC. He’s also a consultant to Sesame Street! Later this year, Derrick will be hosting a deep-dive workshop with EMA for enrollment professionals on June 9th, 2020 in LA.

Independent School Coronavirus Webinar Feb 10, 2020

On February 6th we recorded a webinar regarding the Coronavirus in collaboration with The Association of Boarding Schools, The National Association of Independent Schools, The National Business Officers Association, and The Southern Association of Independent Schools.

You can find a recording of the full webinar including slides and resources at learn.enrollment.org.

Let's start a satellite campus! Feb 05, 2020

Has your leadership team ever discussed opening a satellite campus? Perhaps you're wondering how to extend the reach of your school, create a feeder system, or develop partnership opportunities? If you’ve ever thought about how to embark on this exciting (and daunting) journey then this episode is for you!

Join us as we have an in depth conversation with Sean Duncan, Head of School at Winchendon School’s New York City campus. We’ll discuss how the idea got started, the opportunities and roadblocks they uncovered, and their plans for the future.

Pathways to Leadership Jan 22, 2020

What is your pathway to leadership? That’s a question we’ve been asking this year on the podcast as we interview enrollment leaders, heads, and college presidents.

In this wide ranging interview with Inez Odom from La Jolla Country Day School we discuss her pathway to leadership, the role of mentors on her career, and how to use data in the admission process. That’s a topic she discussed on her own podcast when she interviewed Harry Bloom of Measuring Success.

Every school should be thinking about a merger Jan 13, 2020

Every school should be thinking about a merger, acquisition, or partnership. That’s the message Chad Tew talks about on this episode of The Enrollment Management Spectrum Podcast.

Chad Tew, founder of LearnCollab a consulting practice focused on situational analysis, mergers, and acquisitions, has worked with all kinds of schools, but he says the hardest conversations are the ones that come too late. “It’s difficult to help a school if they aren’t sure they have the funds to finish the current school year” says Chad, “it’s never too early to think about this.” If your school is thinking about big steps like a merger or considering more incremental change like a local partnership this episode will be interesting and informative.

Small Colleges are Under Threat, This School is Reinventing Itself Dec 16, 2019

A small school facing enrollment challenges and under threat from powerful external forces makes tough choices to reinvent itself. Sound familiar? Think we’re talking about an independent school? Not quite.

In this episode of The Enrollment Spectrum Podcast we talk with Dr. Susan D. Stuebner, President of Colby-Sawyer College and take lessons from higher ed that will be critical for independent schools of the future. We talk about the recent acquisition of Marlboro College, innovative college programs like this two year academy, and the bold steps Colby-Sawyer is taking.

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