2024 Hall of Fame: Devin Purgason

Got a story to tell? An innovative idea to share? Fill out our guest nomination form and let's chat!

‍

About the Episode:

Mallory Willsea spotlights the groundbreaking strategies and innovations from Enrollify’s 2024 Hall of Fame inductees. Featuring key moments from thought leader Devin Purgason, this episode dives into the future of higher education marketing, equity-focused student support, and transformative approaches to enrollment management. Whether you're a higher-ed marketer or an admissions professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Check out the other episodes Devin appears in:

• Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager Episode 28 
• Breaking Silos Episode 2
• The Hidden Gem Episode 2

‍

Key Takeaways

• Equity-Driven Marketing and Support:
  • Shift from traditional recruitment models to equity-based, student-centric service delivery.
  • Meet students where they are with holistic wraparound services that remove barriers to enrollment and retention.
• Personalized and Diverse Strategies:
  • Design marketing strategies that address the unique needs of diverse populations, including adult learners and nontraditional students.
  • Use tailored messaging, open houses, and success coaches to enhance engagement.
• Community-Oriented Approaches:
  • Build a sense of belonging for students through targeted events, free childcare, and holistic care services.
  • Establish wraparound networks, like Forsyth Tech Cares, to address students' academic and personal needs.
• Seamless Student Experiences:
  • Go beyond attracting students by shepherding them through every stage of the journey, from inquiry to graduation.
  • Create frictionless transitions within institutions by reducing departmental silos.

‍

Episode Summary

Reimagining the Student Funnel

Devin Purgason of Forsyth Tech highlights how traditional enrollment funnels often leave students feeling unsupported. Forsyth Tech reshaped this model with a student-centric approach rooted in equity, focusing on providing continuous guidance and care throughout the student lifecycle.

‍

The Importance of Meeting Students Where They Are

Forsyth Tech’s marketing strategy prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, especially for adult learners. Initiatives include:

• Adult Learner Open Houses: Events designed to accommodate working adults and their families, complete with childcare and meals.
• Success Coaches: Personalized support for navigating technology, academics, and life challenges.
• Holistic Wraparound Support: The Forsyth Tech Cares program provides essential items like baby formula, food, and school supplies to help students focus on their education.

‍

Shifting Demographics Demand Diverse Strategies

As Devin explains, the student body today spans from teenagers to retirees, creating a need for marketing that resonates with all ages. Forsyth Tech has embraced this challenge by utilizing diverse platforms and messaging strategies tailored to different demographics.

‍

A Culture of Support

Devin emphasizes the importance of making every student feel like they belong. At Forsyth Tech, this means treating each individual not as a "seat" but as a valued member of a community, fostering a culture of love and service.

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!

The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education.

Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.

👉🏻 Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st.