About the Episode
About the Episode:
In this episode, Jeremy talks with enrollment leader, Dr. Jay Jacobs. Their chat focuses on multiple aspects of professional development and management.
Key Takeaways
- Professional Development is Essential: Dr. Jacobs emphasizes taking ownership of your growth and seeking opportunities to build skills for future success.
- Balancing Responsibility: Supervisors play a key role in fostering professional development, but individuals must also advocate for their growth.
- Collaborative Leadership: Effective leaders trust their teams, focus on strategic goals, and prioritize building strong, cross-departmental relationships.
- Emerging Leaders Academy as a Model: UVM's program demonstrates how to nurture talent and develop interdepartmental understanding, setting the stage for succession planning and innovation.
- The Importance of Clear Communication: Regular, transparent communication helps teams align on goals and understand one another's roles.
Episode Summary
What Inspired Dr. Jay Jacobs' Leadership Journey?
Dr. Jacobs shares how his early experiences as an admissions officer and his passion for problem-solving led him to pursue leadership roles in higher education. He reflects on his "why"—the challenge of aligning teams to meet institutional goals—and how this perspective has shaped his approach to leadership.
How Can Professionals Take Ownership of Their Development?
Professional development, as described by Dr. Jacobs, involves identifying the skills needed to succeed and actively seeking out opportunities to grow. He shares personal anecdotes about enrolling in Drexel University's master's program and advocating for himself early in his career. His advice for professionals: take risks, ask for opportunities, and align development goals with your career aspirations.
What Role Should Supervisors Play in Staff Development?
Supervisors must listen, assess requests for growth opportunities, and actively identify and nurture talent within their teams. Dr. Jacobs outlines the dual responsibility of leaders to support their staff's aspirations while ensuring their teams are equipped to meet institutional objectives.
How Can Institutions Foster Leadership Through Programs Like the Emerging Leaders Academy?
Dr. Jacobs details the Emerging Leaders Academy at UVM, a year-long initiative designed to prepare aspiring leaders in enrollment management. Participants gain insights into leadership styles, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic planning through monthly sessions led by institutional leaders and external experts. This program not only develops future leaders but also fosters immediate collaboration across departments.
How Can Leaders Build Collaborative, Effective Teams?
Dr. Jacobs highlights practical steps such as interdepartmental meetings, cross-training sessions, and a monthly newsletter to improve communication. UVM's Summer Enrollment Academy further bridges gaps between enrollment management and other campus partners by demystifying processes like admissions reviews, financial aid strategies, and strategic planning.
How Can Leaders Avoid Burnout and Isolation?
Dr. Jacobs underscores the importance of building a support network both within and outside the institution. He shares how leaning on mentors, colleagues, and even family members helps him navigate the challenges of leadership.
About the Show: Jeremy Tiers, a well-known speaker in college admission, enrollment marketing, and leadership circles is your host for Mission Admissions. Join him every other week as he sits down with industry leaders and difference makers from both inside and outside of Higher Ed. You'll walk away with advice, tips and strategies you can apply in your day-to-day life.
Connect With Our Host:
Jeremy Tiers
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremytiers/
https://twitter.com/CoachTiers
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: Mission Admissions 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 The Application with Allison Turcio.
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.
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