About the Episode
About the Episode: In this episode we explore the evolving landscape of affordable public education. I’m joined by Dr. Kathie Fleck, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Ivy Tech Community College, one of the largest community college systems in the United States. We’ll discuss innovative strategies for positioning high-quality, accessible education in the public eye and uncover what's next for promoting the value and impact of community colleges in the ever-changing educational ecosystem.
Key Takeaways
- Outreach to diverse communities: Ivy Tech partners with local organizations and uses a variety of communication platforms to raise awareness, ensuring messaging is accessible and relatable.
- Public perception and affordability: Ivy Tech works hard to combat the misconception that affordable education equates to low quality, emphasizing their hands-on instruction and industry partnerships.
- Demand for upskilling: With Indiana’s growing tech industries, Ivy Tech is in high demand to provide necessary training, evolving their programs rapidly to meet workforce needs.
- Multi-platform marketing: From traditional billboards to innovative campaigns on Twitch and Reddit, Ivy Tech uses data-driven approaches to reach students across demographics.
- Stackable credentials: Ivy Tech offers flexible education pathways, allowing students to start with certificates and build towards associate or bachelor’s degrees.
Episode Summary
What’s next for Ivy Tech’s outreach to underserved communities?
Ivy Tech’s mission focuses on serving everyone across Indiana, especially those underserved by traditional higher education. With 19 campuses, Ivy Tech collaborates with local and statewide organizations to reach communities. The college uses diverse channels like social media, email, and text messaging to engage potential students. A key aspect of their approach is simplifying communication, avoiding academic jargon to better connect with people where they are in life.
What are the biggest challenges in public perception for community colleges like Ivy Tech?
Dr. Fleck identifies a growing challenge: fewer students are pursuing higher education post-high school, particularly young males. While Ivy Tech’s enrollment is rising, the perception that "college is expensive" continues to deter many. Ivy Tech tackles this by highlighting its low tuition rates and the fact that most students graduate without debt. Additionally, the college emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to gain practical experience early in their studies, especially in fields like IT, nursing, and automotive technology.
How does Ivy Tech promote high-quality education while maintaining affordability?
Despite its affordable tuition, Ivy Tech maintains rigorous academic standards, as evidenced by its partnerships with top four-year universities in Indiana. These agreements ensure Ivy Tech graduates can seamlessly transfer credits. Additionally, partnerships with major employers, such as Eli Lilly, highlight the high value of Ivy Tech’s programs. Initiatives like the "Achieve Your Degree" program allow employees to upskill without financial burden, with employers directly covering tuition costs. Dual enrollment programs in Indiana high schools also help students experience the college’s high-quality education firsthand.
How does Ivy Tech reach adult learners and working professionals?
Ivy Tech employs a multi-pronged marketing strategy combining digital and traditional methods. They utilize billboards, streaming services, and robust online platforms. Targeted digital campaigns on platforms like Google, Snapchat, and even Twitch are designed to reach specific demographics. Additionally, data-driven insights help personalize messaging, ensuring outreach resonates with adult learners who may be juggling work and family responsibilities while pursuing education.
What role does technology and innovation play in Ivy Tech’s future marketing efforts?
Ivy Tech continues to explore non-traditional platforms like Reddit and Twitch to engage with niche audiences interested in technology and gaming. These efforts align with Ivy Tech’s focus on stackable credentials, where students can incrementally build their education through certificates, eventually progressing to associate or bachelor’s degrees. Innovative programs, such as their free summer courses for high school students, further promote Ivy Tech’s reputation for offering flexible, high-quality, and affordable education.
Connect With Our Host:
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: Mastering the Next 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 The EduData Podcast and Generation AI.
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.
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