By Heather Zimar, Managing Editor, Journals and Publications, AACRAO, Live from SEM 2024
Seasoned enrollment managers Steve Pultz of the University of San Diego, Erin Hays of the University of Oregon, and Julie McCulloh of Gonzaga University shared their tips for developing the skills needed to transform new higher education practitioners into leaders at the SEM 2024 Conference in Boston.
McCulloh shared how to develop the foundational skills unique to higher education enrollment management:
Learn the institution and the policy (e.g., catalog, accreditation)
Discover the purpose of the role (i.e., why my work is important)
Appreciate the “why ?” of the work (i.e., advocate to do the best for the student)
Begin to connect the work to the bigger picture (e.g., graduation rates and satisfaction)
“I believe if we teach our young employees the ‘why,’ change management is easier,” McCulloh said. “The ‘why’ allows us to be adaptable.”
McCulloh added that encouraging curiosity and a big-picture connection is key. This includes talking about rising issues in higher education and data literacy, nurturing curiosity, and encouraging engagement in problem-solving.
An audience member added that early public speaking training is important to new employees in higher education.
Moving forward in developing rising experts and leaders, Hays suggested supervisors listen, observe, assess, and take action. This includes gathering information through one-on-one meetings, with agendas driven by employees, and annual “stay interviews” to discuss what employees like about their jobs and what interests them. “Then look for ways to grow that interest,” Hays said.
She added that other questions to explore include:
- What is frustrating to you about the work?
- What type of support would be helpful?
Really, she said, it’s about being present, especially during critical moments. “At the core,” Hays said, “people just want to be seen.”
Hays shared a range of mid-management professional programs that campuses can share with their employees, including the College Board Enrollment Leadership Academy, NASFAA Executive Leadership Collective, and AACRAO’s SEM Endorsement Program (SEM-EP), among others.
Pultz ended the presentation by discussing how to put the pieces together:
Understand the power structure/politics/culture of your campus
Be present for faculty, staff, and other administrators
Stay engaged in the profession through conferences, best practices, and networking
Celebrate your team, and celebrate with them (even the minor victories)
Choose your partners carefully
Practice and teach self-care
“Constantly assess your own strengths and weaknesses,” he said, “And constantly review the skills and talents of your team.”