About the Episode
LGBTQIA+ students, like all students, need to see themselves represented in university marketing materials. An inclusive marketing strategy ensures that these students feel welcomed and valued by the institution, which can be a deciding factor in their college selection process. In this episode, Jaime sits down with Kevin Tyler, Director of Marketing and Community Engagement at Simpson Scarborough, to discuss how to authentically market to LGBTQIA+ students and – perhaps even more importantly – how to ensure that LGBTQIA+ students feel supported on your campus. Takeaways for the episode include:
- Best practices for demonstrating a commitment to LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and alumni
- Cautionary tales that reflect the importance of authenticity
- Insights into how to integrate LGBTQIA+ supportive messaging into everyday campus life, not just during Pride Month
- Tips for partnering with student organizations and advocacy groups to craft campaigns that resonate
- Resources for staying current on the evolving language around LGBTQIA+ topics
The goal of the episode is to equip university marketers with the knowledge and tools to create and implement marketing strategies that genuinely support and affirm LGBTQ+ students, ensuring that inclusivity is woven into the fabric of the institution's brand and community engagement efforts.
Episode Summary
What role can marketing play in fostering belonging for LGBTQIA+ students?
Marketing in higher ed plays a powerful role in fostering a sense of belonging by telling authentic stories and ensuring diverse representation in campaigns. By creating content that speaks to the experiences of LGBTQIA+ students, institutions can demonstrate genuine support and set an inclusive tone. Kevin emphasizes that marketers in higher ed need to be proactive in representing the diversity of their student body, ensuring that LGBTQIA+ students, especially those in marginalized communities, feel seen and celebrated.
How can higher ed institutions ensure authentic inclusivity?
Kevin highlights that inclusivity goes beyond superficial gestures. True inclusivity means engaging in continued learning about the evolving language and culture of LGBTQIA+ communities. Institutions should prioritize fluency in LGBTQIA+ issues and be prepared to have supportive policies in place, such as acknowledging students' pronouns and considering their needs during transitional times. Engaging with campus LGBTQIA+ centers or consulting with students is essential in ensuring that inclusivity is embedded in university culture.
What are effective ways to communicate LGBTQIA+ inclusivity year-round?
Both Jaime and Kevin agree that LGBTQIA+ inclusivity should be celebrated year-round. Universities should avoid confining representation to Pride Month and instead, weave LGBTQIA+ stories into everyday campus life and communications. This approach not only reinforces a consistent message of inclusion but also normalizes LGBTQIA+ visibility on campus, showing prospective students and faculty that they are supported throughout the year.
What resources can marketers use to stay updated on LGBTQIA+ language and trends?
To remain informed, Kevin recommends GLAAD’s LGBTQIA+ glossary as a resource for marketers to familiarize themselves with evolving terminology. Many institutions have developed diversity glossaries and resources, often including specific language on LGBTQIA+ communities, which can aid in creating inclusive content. Understanding the cultural, historical, and social context of each community helps marketers connect authentically and accurately in their messaging.
Why is representation in leadership essential for inclusivity?
Having LGBTQIA+ leaders on campus sends a strong message of acceptance and representation. Kevin and Jaime emphasize that students need role models they can identify with, which means actively recruiting and elevating LGBTQIA+ leaders across departments. When LGBTQIA+ students see faculty and staff who share their experiences, it fosters a sense of validation and belonging that goes beyond traditional diversity initiatives.
About The Enrollify Podcast Network
The Enrollify Podcast is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam-packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional.
Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Jaime Hunt, Allison Turcio, Dayana Kibilds, Dustin Ramsdell, Terry Flannery, Mallory Willsea, and many more.
Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours!
.svg)
.svg)
