Blockbuster Marketing: From Entertainment PR to Campus Comms

In this episode, Jaime dives into the world of marketing and storytelling with a guest who has seamlessly transitioned from the dynamic realm of entertainment PR to the intricate landscape of higher education marketing. Entertainment and education, while distinct, share common ground in the art of storytelling. Our guest takes us on a journey, beginning with her unique background in entertainment PR and how it has fundamentally shaped her approach to promoting higher education institutions. She highlights the surprising ways her skills have effortlessly transferred, demonstrating the power of adaptable expertise. Alonda Thomas, Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Jackson State University, is an award-winning and trailblazing professional who has seen it all – from working with Spike Lee to navigating campus crises.  

Takeaways for this episode include:

• A look into the skills and strategies learned in the entertainment industry that have proven invaluable in Alonda’s role as a higher education marketer.
• Insights into what higher ed marketers can learn about storytelling from Hollywood.
• Tips for sharing the rich history and traditions of a university in a way that resonates with a diverse audience.
• Insight into how bringing more voices to the table makes universities stronger. 

This episode is brought to you by our friends at Mindpower:

​​Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is sponsored by our friends at Mindpower- a full-service marketing and branding firm celebrating nearly thirty years of needle-moving, thought-provoking, research-fueled creative and strategy. Mindpower is women-founded and owned, WBENC certified, nationally recognized, and serves the social sector – higher education, healthcare, non-profits, and more. The Mindpower team is made up of strategists, storytellers, and experience creators. From market research to brand campaigns to recruitment to fundraising, the agency exists to empower clients, amplify brands, and help institutions find a strategic way forward. Learn more about Mindpower here! 

About the Enrollify podcast Network:

Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO 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 Mickey Baines, Zach Busekrus, Jeremy Tiers, CEddie Francis, Jaime Gleason 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!