Rebranding Higher Ed

About the Episode:

Mallory and Seth dive into the pressing issue of higher education's reputation for lagging behind other industries. They discuss why higher ed institutions often struggle with innovation and explore practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. Drawing insights from their experiences and industry trends, they highlight the importance of embracing technology, fostering a culture of change, and rethinking traditional structures to drive progress and ensure the sector's future relevance.

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Key Takeaways

• Slow Pace of Change: Higher education institutions are often seen as slow to innovate due to traditional structures, long recruitment cycles, and a resistance to change.
• Cultural and Structural Barriers: Long-term staff, established bureaucracies, and misaligned incentives contribute to stagnation.
• Role of Technology: There's a critical need for higher ed to fully integrate and lead in technology adoption, from recruitment to the student experience.
• Product Evolution: Higher education must rethink its core offerings, moving beyond traditional degrees to modular, flexible learning opportunities.
• Talent Retention: Addressing talent churn and investing in professional development are crucial for fostering a dynamic and innovative workforce.
• Institutional Focus: Rebranding efforts should focus on individual institutions rather than the entire industry to drive meaningful change.

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Episode Summary

Why Higher Ed Feels "Stuck"

Higher education often faces criticism for being slow to adapt to change. Seth and Mallory attribute this to cultural, structural, and leadership challenges. Long-established institutions are often resistant to innovation, and many leaders prioritize stability over transformation. However, the hosts emphasize that the stakes are higher than ever, with public confidence in the value of a college degree steadily declining.

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The Role of Technology

Higher ed has lagged behind other industries in adopting and integrating technology. From websites to CRM systems, the hosts share examples of missed opportunities, particularly in areas like AI and modular learning. The challenge lies not just in acquiring new tech but in using it effectively to enhance the student experience and make education more accessible.

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Rethinking the Student Journey

Mallory suggests higher ed must reposition itself away from a "degree factory" mindset to one of lifelong learning. She highlights her own experience at Medill, where alumni receive ongoing access to courses and career resources. Seth builds on this by stressing the need for modular, flexible education models that better align with modern learners' needs.

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Talent as the Cornerstone of Change

Seth and Mallory agree that attracting and retaining top talent is essential for transformation. Professional development must be prioritized, and institutions should embrace remote work to attract a wider talent pool. Without the right people in place, efforts to innovate will likely fall short.

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The Path Forward

The hosts emphasize that the real opportunity lies at the institutional level. While higher ed as an industry may face challenges, individual colleges and universities have the power to reposition themselves as leaders in innovation. Seth underscores the importance of staying optimistic and committed, reminding listeners that education remains a powerful tool for opportunity and equity.

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Don’t Miss This Pulse Check Series!

If today’s episode resonated with you, don’t miss the new Pulse Check series starting this Thursday. Hosted by Kinsej Paul, Finding Your Why will bring together top leaders to explore how to rediscover your passion for higher ed. Get practical tips for finding meaning in your work and hear inspiring stories from those who’ve successfully reignited their purpose.

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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.

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.