Editor's note: The title and image have been updated to reflect the appropriate session, "Jack of All Trades, Master of Some: Navigating the Evolving Role of College Registrars," at the 110th AACRAO Annual Meeting.
By Heather Zimar, Managing Editor, Journals and Publications, AACRAO
Three registrars from small colleges shared with AACRAO Annual Meeting attendees on Monday how they have navigated their roles in light of the changes in higher education, new technology, and complex student expectations and institutional needs.
Changing with the landscape
Michael Murray, registrar at Columbus College of Art & Design, pointed out that the registrar’s office is both a leader and collaborator in student services, academic affairs, and institutional planning, which inevitably leads to increased involvement with staff, departments, and committees across campus.
Anthony Cole, registrar at the College of Saint Mary, noted the importance of “having connection points with those who have more interaction with students” and “working really collaboratively.”
Sara Hicken, registrar at Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, said breaking down concepts, such as regulations, for faculty is a part of her role.
Murray added that he often serves as a mediator between faculty and administration in an effort to build bridges across campus. “The relationships are really the core of how to make my office run,” he said. “I have to rely on a lot of people to get things done.”
Adapting to technology advancements
The presenters noted the many technological advancements that have impacted the way registrars do their work. These include:
- Moving from paper to electronic platforms and automation.
- Implementing SISs and data management.
- Using data analytics and business intelligence in decision-making.
- Integrating new technologies (such as cloud systems, mobile apps, and AI) into existing infrastructures.
For Hicken, a challenge on her campus is “too much technology.” Her institution is a flipped classroom medical school, and she works with about a dozen systems daily, and most aren’t integrated.
Student-centered service and experience
The presenters shared how they have placed an increasing emphasis on exceptional service to students, faculty, and staff. This includes more proactive communication with students and supporting student success through academic advising.
A key effort on Murray’s campus was establishing a one-stop shop. “It just changed the way people thought about the registrar’s office and how we do business.”
Hicken said she, too, hosts a one-stop during orientation week and participates in training in digital communications in order to reach students effectively.
Murray added that changing the name of his office (from the registrar's office to student records) helped make his work more understandable to students. In addition, he mentors student workers about the work of the registrar. “My goal is to get them to understand and buy into it,” he said.
The presenters spoke about the increased need in their roles to better serve neurodiverse students. Murray, for example, said he rearranged the furniture in his office and adjusted the lighting to be more welcoming and calming to students.
Compliance and regulation challenges
Cole and Hickens emphasized the importance of understanding data compliance, including the complexity around international student enrollment, being up to date on FERPA, and building trust on campus so that staff and students feel comfortable answering questions.
“The registrar's role is essential," Murray said. “I think most campuses realize that.”