About the Episode
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About the Episode:
It’s been a full year since In Your Element launched, and hosts Daniella and Brendan Henkel are celebrating with a special recap episode! They revisit their top three favorite episodes, breaking down the most impactful conversations, game-changing insights, and jaw-dropping results from some of Element 451’s most innovative partners. From application overhauls to strategic change management, this episode is packed with the best lessons from the past year.
Key Takeaways
- Streamlining applications boosts enrollment. Colleges like TSTC and Paul Quinn College saw application completion rates soar after simplifying their processes with Element 451.
- Technology adoption thrives with strong leadership. Champions like Courtney Skiles (TVCC) and Luis Coloca (CWI) showcase how internal buy-in and training create transformative success.
- Data-driven decisions lead to real-time improvements. Institutions that leverage analytics—like College of Western Idaho—can refine their processes in real time, eliminating friction for students.
- Relevancy drives engagement. Kellogg Community College’s personalized Michigan Connect campaign achieved an 82% open rate by delivering the right message at the right time.
- Change management is key. Leaders like Cherron Hoppes emphasize the importance of guiding teams through tech transitions to maximize impact and ensure success.
Top Insights from the Best Episodes
1. Texas State Technical College (TSTC) – Michael Bettersworth on Student-Centric Applications
Higher ed is slow to change, but Michael Bettersworth, CMO of TSTC, isn’t waiting around. TSTC reimagined the student experience by focusing on user-friendly, intuitive applications—and the results were staggering. After switching to Element 451 and simplifying the application process, TSTC saw a 154% increase in applications and boosted completion rates from 25% to 90%.
Lesson learned: A smooth, frictionless user experience can significantly impact application and enrollment rates.
2. Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) – Courtney Skiles on Being a Tech Champion
The power of an internal champion can’t be overstated. Courtney Skiles, TVCC’s Director of Enrollment, took Element 451 and ran with it—leading a full-scale adoption that resulted in an 8% increase in enrollment (now approaching double digits!). Her enthusiasm and strategic approach turned TVCC into a model for seamless tech integration.
Lesson learned: Buy-in from leadership and frontline users ensures smooth implementation and stronger results.
3. College of Western Idaho (CWI) – Luis Coloca on Data-Driven Enrollment Strategies
CWI isn’t just using Element 451—they’re maximizing it. Luis Coloca’s team actively analyzes student behavior in real time to improve the application process. They’ve created strategic training programs that align with peak enrollment periods, ensuring staff is always prepared to use the platform efficiently. Their efforts led to a 20% increase in applicant-to-admitted student conversions.
Lesson learned: Institutions that embrace analytics can make quick adjustments and see immediate enrollment gains.
4. Kellogg Community College (KCC) – Jenni Kotowski on No-Code Success
Many institutions rely on IT for even small changes, but KCC has fully embraced a no-code, user-driven approach with Element 451. By taking control of their application process, they’ve reduced reliance on IT and increased operational efficiency. Their Michigan Connect program—a personalized financial aid workflow—resulted in an incredible 82% email open rate.
Lesson learned: Institutions that manage their own technology can create highly relevant, high-impact campaigns with minimal effort.
5. Notre Dame de Namur University – Cherron Hoppe on Change Management
Tech implementation is only as good as the leadership behind it. Cherron Hoppe shared invaluable insights on how to guide an institution through change, focusing on asking the “why” behind every decision. Without strong change management, even the best technology can fail.
Lesson learned: Thoughtful leadership and strategic planning make or break a successful tech transition.
6. Paul Quinn College – Daniela Botella Hernandez on Bringing Processes In-House
Paul Quinn College transformed their application and enrollment process by moving away from third-party applications and fully adopting Element 451. Their completed application rates more than doubled from 7% to 16.8%, leading to faster admission decisions and a smoother student experience.
Lesson learned: Bringing processes in-house increases transparency, improves efficiency, and empowers teams to take full control of their enrollment strategy.
Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: In Your Element 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 Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Higher Ed Pulse.
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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