Admit It, An AACRAO Podcast

In this live episode of Admit It!, host Dr. Alex Fronduto sits down with Dr. Shannon Fuhrman, Director of Training & Development at Regent University, to discuss her engaging SEM Conference presentation: “Credentialing Your Campus: Building a Culture of Learning Within Your Enrollment Team.” Shannon shares how Regent University has developed a structured credentialing model to strengthen professional growth, elevate staff expertise, and foster a culture of continuous learning within enrollment management. The conversation explores why credentialing matters, how it improves team performance and morale, and what it takes to implement a scalable, sustainable learning framework on campus. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor, Northeastern University Guests: Dr. Shannon Fuhrman, Director of Training & Development, Regent University

In this live episode of Admit It!, host Dr. Alex Fronduto sits down with Jessie Richardson, Online Program Manager, and Mason Mulnix, Data Analyst, both from The University of Alabama, to explore their innovative SEM Conference presentation: “Your First Class Free: Using Tuition Grants to Increase Admit to Enrollment Conversion and Reach Enrollment Goals.” Together, Jessie and Mason break down how their institution leveraged a tuition-grant model to lower barriers for newly admitted students, improve yield, and strategically support enrollment growth. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guests: Jessie Richardson, Online Program Manager, The University of Alabama Mason Mulnix, Data Analyst, The University of Alabama

In this special Admit It! and Transfer TEA crossover episode, hosts Alex Fronduto and Loida González Utley sit down to discuss one of the most persistent challenges in higher education—bridging the divide between freshman and transfer admissions. Drawing from national data and institutional experiences, they examine why these two areas often operate in silos, the impact that disconnect has on students, and what innovative models are emerging to close the gap. The conversation explores institutional culture, communication, pathways, and practical strategies for creating a more seamless student experience from recruitment to graduation. Hosts: Dr. Alex Fronduto Associate Teaching Professor & Faculty Program Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration Graduate School of Education, Northeastern University Loida González Utley Director, Recruitment and Enrollment Services Texas A&M University–Central Texas

In this episode of Admit It!, host Alex Fronduto sits down with Jack Miner, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at the University of Cincinnati and Director of the AACRAO Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) Conference. Together, they discuss the upcoming 35th Annual AACRAO SEM Conference, taking place November 9–12, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Jack shares insights into what makes SEM such a cornerstone event for enrollment professionals, highlights this year’s key themes and sessions, and offers valuable perspective on why attending the conference can be transformative for individuals and institutions alike. Whether you’re new to the SEM community or a returning attendee, this episode offers a glimpse into the collaboration and innovation that define the field of strategic enrollment management.   Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guest: Jack Miner, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management, University of Cincinnati AACRAO SEM Conference Director

In this multi-part series, we speak with professionals who presented at the AACRAO Annual Meeting and discuss the key points of their presentation in case you missed it at the conference. These will help you move forward as you plan for the next recruitment cycle. This episode features Alicia Kalka, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management, and Summer Boggess, Director of Admissions, from Fairmont State University, who led a fantastic session on Enhancing Enrollment through Community Engagement in Rural and Marginalized Communities. This episode highlights how community engagement events have connected underserved communities in West Virginia with opportunities in higher education. We dive into how these initiatives were implemented and the impact they've had on post-secondary enrollment.   Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor, Northeastern University Guests: Alicia Kalka, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management, Fairmont State University Summer Boggess, Director of Admissions, Fairmont State University

In this multi-part series, we speak with professionals who presented at the AACRAO Annual Meeting and discuss the key points of their presentation in case you missed it at the conference. These will help you move forward as you plan for the next recruitment cycle. This episode features Becky Tankersley, Director of Enrollment Marketing and Communications at Georgia Institute of Technology, and Patrick Frazier, Associate Director of Admissions Marketing & Events at Western Carolina University, who led a fantastic session on Adventure is Out There! Communication Tips to Standout to Prospective Students. In a world of overwhelming college marketing, how can your institution truly stand out? This episode explores how two schools use storytelling, connection, and a touch of creativity to cut through the noise and capture students’ hearts. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guests: Becky Tankersley, Director of Enrollment Marketing and Communications at Georgia Institute of Technology Patrick Frazier, Associate Director of Admissions Marketing & Events at Western Carolina University

In this multi-part series, we speak with professionals who presented at the AACRAO Annual Meeting and discuss the key points of their presentation in case you missed it at the conference. These will help you move forward as you plan for the next recruitment cycle. This episode features Eric Sanford, University Registrar at Friends University, who led a fantastic session on The Power of Questions in Higher Education. This episode explores the transformative power of asking the right questions in higher education. Learn how strategic questioning can spark curiosity, challenge assumptions, and deepen engagement in any academic setting.   Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guest: Eric Sanford, University Registrar at Friends University

In this multi-part series, we speak with professionals who presented at the AACRAO Annual Meeting and discuss the key points of their presentation in case you missed it at the conference. These will help you move forward as you plan for the next recruitment cycle. This episode features Julie Taylor, AVP of Enrollment Management at the University of North Alabama, who led a fantastic session on Rapid Improvement = Growing Enrollment. Rapid Improvement events—rooted in lean methodology—to guide cross-functional teams from their current state to a stronger future state. In this episode, we explore their approach, the challenges they faced, and how the team embraced change.   Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guest: Julie Taylor, AVP of Enrollment Management at the University of North Alabama   

In this episode of Admit It, host Alex Fronduto, Associate Teaching Professor at Northeastern University, sits down with Daisy Ogunedo, Senior Associate Director at Smith College, to discuss career growth, leadership, and the power of networking in admissions. Daisy shares insights on empowering others, navigating upward mobility, and building meaningful professional connections or your own “Board of Directors”. She also offers valuable perspectives for professionals of color in the field, reflecting on her own experiences and providing guidance for those looking to advance in their careers. Whether you're new to admissions or looking to take the next step, this conversation is full of actionable advice and inspiration. Tune in for an engaging discussion on what it takes to grow and thrive in higher education admissions! Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guest: Daisy Ogunedo Senior Associate Director, Smith College

In this episode of Admit It, host Alex Fronduto, Associate Teaching Professor at Northeastern University, sits down with Carlos Cano, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Stevens Institute of Technology, to explore his professional journey in admissions. Carlos shares insights on career growth, his approach to leadership and supervision, and practical advice for aspiring and current admissions professionals. Whether you're looking to advance in the field, refine your leadership style, or gain new perspectives on enrollment management, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to hear Carlos’s experiences, lessons learned, and strategies for success in the world of higher education admissions. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guest: Carlos Cano, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Stevens Institute of Technology

Today, we're diving into a hot topic that's reshaping how we connect with prospective and current students: the use of AI chatbots in higher education. I’m excited to be joined by two outstanding professionals who have firsthand experience implementing and using chatbots to enhance the student experience. In this conversation, we’ll walk through the journey of AI chatbot implementation: Why these institutions decided to explore AI tools and how they selected their chatbots. The process of implementation, from vendor selection to overcoming challenges. The current successes and insights their institutions have gained. And most importantly, how you can apply their experiences to your own institution. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor  Northeastern University Guests: Devin Purgason, Associate Vice President of Student Experience, Marketing, and Outreach at Forsyth Technical Community College. Lenell Hahn, Director of Admissions at Southeast Missouri State University.

Today, we're exploring a topic every admissions professional knows is critical—innovative approaches to campus visits. From getting students to campus, to creating memorable experiences, and following up effectively, we're breaking it all down. I'm thrilled to be joined by three incredible guests who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. Together, we'll discuss everything from innovative timelines for campus visits to non-scripted tours, virtual options, and the follow-up strategies that truly work. We'll cover the full journey: how to get students to campus, what they experience while they're there, and how to maintain that connection after their visit. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Associate Teaching Professor  Northeastern University Guests: Tiana Hakimzadeh, Director of On-Campus Programs at American University. Emily C. Stanley, Executive Director of Admission at Lasell University. Alex Galbreath (she/her), Director of Admissions at OSU-Cascades.

This episode focuses on how to best utilize design thinking to build team culture, discuss important topics, and in this specific case, refine a graduate admissions process. Dr. Mary McNamara will walk you through her design of an offsite staff retreat and the activities associated with it that allowed her to learn about herself, her team, and the needs of the applicants to their business school.   Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Assistant Teaching Professor  Northeastern University Guest: Mary McNamara, Ed.D. Assistant Dean of Graduate Recruitment & Admissions D’Amore-McKim School of Business at Northeastern University

In this multi-part series, we speak with professionals who presented at the AACRAO Annual Meeting and discuss the key points of their presentation in case you missed it at the conference. These will help you move forward as you plan for the next recruitment cycle. Luke Schultheis, Ph.D., Senior Advisor and FDU Faculty presented on Increasing Equity, Elevating Revenue: The Path to Millions in Net Tuition. The enrollment struggle is real. myFootpath will outline how they re-enroll your stop-outs, assess who needs extra support, and provide retention services. Case studies and a university partner will demonstrate significant tuition revenue contributions, increased degree production, and improvements in equity as well as an easy implementation. If you're interested in learning more about the work that myFootpath does, we encourage you to check their website at https://myfootpath.com. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Assistant Teaching Professor  Northeastern University Guest: Luke Schultheis, Ph.D., Senior Advisor and FDU Faculty

In this multi-part series, we speak with professionals who presented at the AACRAO Annual Meeting and discuss the key points of their presentation in case you missed it at the conference. These will help you move forward as you plan for the next recruitment cycle. Becky Tankersley and Patrick Frazier presented on Breaking Through the Noise: Creating an Effective Communication Plan. The enrollment cliff is looming, and students and families are questioning the value of higher education. In an era of decreasing students and increasing skepticism, are your communications effectively targeting your audience and sharing your institution's story? Join us for this session where we will discuss the critical elements of an effective communication plan, including audience segmentation, setting up marketing campaigns, and collaborating with campus partners to enhance your story. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Assistant Teaching Professor  Northeastern University Guests: Becky Tankersley, M.Ed., Director of Communications, Enrollment Management Georgia Institute of Technology   Patrick Frazier, Ed.D. Associate Director of Admissions Marketing & Events Western Carolina University

As we all deal with shrinking student volume and the implications that has on recruitment, how can our institutions remain competitive? How do we get prospective students to get to our websites, to contact us, and ultimately into the enrollment funnel? Digital marketing plays a key role in prospective student engagement. Stephanie Krusemark is joined by Kim O'Rourke from LocaliQ, as they discuss what makes a successful digital marketing campaign, including;  Setting campaign goals  Identifying the audience Gathering the right data  Tailoring the message Keeping the prospect engaged through the admissions process

Stephanie Krusemark is joined by Admit It's new Co-Host, Alex Fronduto.  In this episode, they discuss enrollment funnel topics that both new and seasoned admissions professionals should be considering. Hosts: Dr. Stephanie Krusemark Vice President of Enrollment Management Illif School of Theology Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Assistant Teaching Professor Northeastern University

In this two-part series, we delve deep into the landmark Supreme Court rulings from June 2023 that have sent shockwaves through the world of college admissions and higher education. Our episodes provide a thought-provoking exploration of the implications of these rulings. This episode (Part 2) focuses on the student loan forgiveness ruling which in turn amplifies the ongoing discussion around higher education affordability. In these engaging discussions, we bring you a diverse range of perspectives from guests outside of enrollment management, making this an episode you won’t want to miss. We hope this episode leave you thinking about the evolving landscape of college admissions in a rapidly changing world. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Assistant Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guests: Dr. Noor Ali Principal Al-Hamra Academy Dr. Jacquelynn Rich Fredericks Senior Managing Legal Resources Attorney National Association of Colleges and Universities Attorneys

In this two-part series, we delve deep into the landmark Supreme Court rulings from June 2023 that have sent shockwaves through the world of college admissions and higher education. Our episodes provide a thought-provoking exploration of the implications of these rulings. This episode (Part 1) focuses on the impact of race-conscious admission practices now and into the future. In these engaging discussions, we bring you a diverse range of perspectives from guests outside of enrollment management, making this an episode you won’t want to miss. We hope this episode leave you thinking about the evolving landscape of college admissions in a rapidly changing world. Host: Dr. Alex Fronduto Faculty Lead, M.Ed in Higher Education Administration & Assistant Teaching Professor Northeastern University Guests: Dr. Noor Ali Principal Al-Hamra Academy Dr. Jacquelynn Rich Fredericks Senior Managing Legal Resources Attorney National Association of Colleges and Universities Attorneys

Admit It sits down with Dr. Lisa Perry at the University of California - Merced to learn about the one stop model and its impact on student enrollment and retention. UC Merced's Students First Center has experienced student success at its campus, listen to learn how.