Making Bets: Picking Future Winners in EDU

About the Episode:

Join Mallory and Seth as they channel their betting spirit into predicting the future winners of higher education. This episode highlights standout institutions and leaders poised to shape the future, including Lincoln Education Services, Forsyth Tech Community College, Dr. Michael Thomas, and CMO Michael Bettersworth. Get ready for an inspiring discussion on innovative strategies and bold leadership driving success in higher ed.

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Webinar: Overcoming Recruiting and Engagement Challenges: Lessons Learned from Forsyth Tech

Connect with Michael Bettersworth on LinkedIn

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Key Takeaways

• Vocational Education Renaissance: Non-degree programs like those offered by Lincoln Education Services are seeing tremendous growth as students seek faster, career-focused pathways.
• Community Colleges Thriving: Institutions like Forsyth Tech Community College are proving that innovation in student success models and technology can reverse enrollment declines.
• Faith-Based Leadership in Action: Presidents like Dr. Michael Thomas of Concordia University Irvine are redefining what it means to lead private, faith-based institutions.
• Transformative Leadership: Michael Bettersworth at Texas State Technical College is revolutionizing the student journey through tech-enabled, data-driven strategies.

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Episode Summary

Betting on Institutions: Lincoln Education Services and Forsyth Tech Community College

Mallory and Seth each placed their bets on standout institutions they believe are paving the way forward in higher education:

• Lincoln Education Services: Seth highlights Lincoln as a leader in the growing vocational education space. With demand for non-degree programs like automotive and health on the rise, Lincoln is thriving. Their stock is up 63% year-over-year, and they’re expanding campuses to meet increasing demand. Seth predicts their continued dominance as a key player in a revitalized trades education market.
• Forsyth Tech Community College: Mallory champions Forsyth Tech as a shining example of how community colleges can defy national trends. With initiatives like a revamped student success model, a CRM overhaul, AI-powered workflows, and a brand refresh, Forsyth has seen a 7% enrollment increase and significant operational efficiencies. Their innovative approach has earned them national recognition, making them a safe bet for ongoing success.

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Betting on Leaders: Dr. Michael Thomas and Michael Bettersworth

The hosts also spotlight leaders driving change in their respective corners of higher ed:

• Dr. Michael Thomas, Concordia University Irvine: Seth praises Dr. Thomas for his bold leadership of a faith-based institution facing industry-wide challenges. By prioritizing brand research, doubling down on healthcare programs, and pursuing strategic expansion, Dr. Thomas is setting Concordia up for long-term success.
• Michael Bettersworth, Texas State Technical College (TSTC): Mallory picks Michael Bettersworth, a leader whose strategic vision is transforming TSTC’s admissions process and student outcomes. With efforts like reducing application abandonment rates from 75% to 10% and cutting the cost per application by over $300, Bettersworth is making waves. His ongoing focus on integrating career services into the enrollment process signals even more innovation ahead.

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What Can We Learn From These Standouts?

Mallory and Seth explore what these institutions and leaders can teach us about thriving in challenging times:

1. Adaptability is Key: Whether it’s investing in trades education or revamping outdated processes, success requires bold decisions and strategic pivots.
2. Leverage Technology Wisely: Both Forsyth Tech and TSTC demonstrate the power of AI and CRM systems to improve student experiences and operational efficiency.
3. Strong Leadership Drives Change: Visionary leaders like Dr. Thomas and Michael Bettersworth remind us that progress often requires challenging the status quo and embracing innovation.

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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

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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.

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