Higher education is constantly evolving, and this week’s top stories highlight key trends shaping the industry. From the power of alumni networks in marketing to the challenges of online learning, each article offers valuable perspectives for educators, administrators, and policymakers.
One major takeaway is the importance of alumni networks in strengthening a school’s reputation. Featuring graduate success stories can help attract new students and foster a sense of community. Schools that actively engage with their alumni see benefits in both marketing efforts and overall institutional credibility.
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Another pressing topic is email deliverability in higher education. Many legitimate messages end up in spam folders due to factors like poor sender reputation, content structure, and lack of engagement. Schools need to fine-tune their email strategies to improve outreach and engagement.
Online learning continues to reshape access to education. With the rise of digital courses and MOOCs, students from diverse backgrounds now have greater opportunities. However, digital literacy and accreditation remain crucial for maintaining quality and credibility.
Higher education’s role in personal and economic growth is also emphasized. Beyond academics, institutions help students develop critical thinking, life skills, and career readiness. These benefits extend to society by fostering innovation and upward mobility.
Lastly, concerns around Online Program Management (OPM) contracts are growing. Many institutions rely on OPM providers for online course management, but revenue-sharing agreements and data ownership terms can have long-term implications. Leaders must scrutinize these contracts to safeguard institutional interests.
5 Common Takeaways
- Alumni networks strengthen a school’s brand and help attract prospective students.
- Email deliverability affects student engagement, making content strategy crucial.
- Online learning provides greater access to education but requires strong digital literacy.
- Higher education plays a vital role in social mobility and economic development.
- Schools must carefully review OPM contracts to maintain financial and data control.
5 Controversial Ideas
- Over-reliance on alumni stories in marketing may create unrealistic expectations for students.
- Spam filters may unfairly penalize smaller institutions without robust IT support.
- Online learning could lead to lower-quality education if accreditation standards are not enforced.
- Some argue that college degrees are becoming less relevant compared to vocational training.
- Revenue-sharing OPM contracts may benefit providers more than institutions.
The Importance of an Alumni Network
2025-03-12T15:28:01.000Z
The Power of Alumni Networks: Featuring Graduate Success Stories in Your Marketing Strategy
Synopsis:
- The article explores the value of incorporating graduate success stories into higher education marketing strategies.
- It highlights the significance of alumni networks in promoting a school’s reputation and attracting prospective students.
- The author discusses the various ways to leverage alumni network success stories, such as testimonials, case studies, and alumni spotlights.
- Examples of successful marketing campaigns using alumni success stories are provided to inspire higher education institutions.
- The article emphasizes the importance of engaging with alumni and building strong relationships to enhance the effectiveness of alumni network marketing efforts.
Background resources:
- The article does not cite any specific background resources.
Noteworthy positions taken by the author:
- The author highlights the potential impact of including graduate success stories in marketing strategies.
- They emphasize the importance of actively engaging with alumni to foster strong relationships and maximize the benefits of alumni network marketing.
Summary with takeaways:
- Incorporating graduate success stories in marketing strategies can significantly enhance a higher education institution’s reputation and attract prospective students.
- Testimonials, case studies, and alumni spotlights are effective ways to leverage alumni network success stories for marketing purposes.
- Engaging with alumni and building strong relationships are crucial in maximizing the impact of alumni network marketing efforts.
🔓💪 Unlock your alumni network! 🎓 Showcasing success stories boosts reputation & attracts students. Engage & grow! #HigherEdMarketing #AlumniPower
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Why your messages are getting flagged as spam—and how to avoid it
https://eab.com/resources/blog/enrollment-blog/why-your-messages-are-flagged-as-spam
2025-03-12T12:00:00.000Z
Why Your Messages are Flagged as Spam
Synopsis:
- Many legitimate emails are flagged as spam due to various factors.
- Email filters use complex algorithms to determine whether an email is spam or not.
- Factors that contribute to email spam flagging include:
- Content: Emails with certain language, excessive use of capital letters, or excessive links may be flagged.
- Sender reputation: If the sender’s IP address or domain is associated with previous spam, emails may be flagged.
- Recipient engagement: If recipients consistently mark emails as spam or do not interact with them, future emails may be flagged.
- Structural issues: Emails with poor HTML coding or improper formatting may trigger spam filters.
- Notable positions in the article:
- The author emphasizes the importance of crafting email messages carefully to avoid triggering spam filters.
- The author suggests monitoring sender reputation and implementing strategies to improve engagement with recipients.
- The article acknowledges the complexities of email spam filtering systems, noting that even legitimate emails can be mistakenly flagged.
- Takeaways:
- Pay attention to the content and structure of your emails to avoid triggering spam filters.
- Build and maintain a good sender reputation by following best practices.
- Encourage recipient engagement to minimize the chances of your emails being flagged as spam.
💌🚫 Emails in spam? 😱 Learn why & how to fix it! 💡 Improve deliverability & reach inboxes. #EmailDeliverability #Spam #EmailMarketing
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How online learning opens up higher education to a broader spectrum of students
https://continuingedupdate.blogspot.com/2025/03/how-online-learning-opens-up-higher.html
2025-03-12T10:00:00.000Z
How Online Learning Opens Up Higher Education Opportunities for All Students
Synopsis:
- The article discusses how online learning is revolutionizing higher education by breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for all students.
- It examines the benefits and challenges of online learning, including accessibility, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
- The author highlights the importance of digital literacy skills and support services to ensure the success of online learners.
- The article also addresses the concern of quality in online education and emphasizes the need for accreditation and rigorous standards.
- It explores the increasing popularity of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and the role they play in democratizing education.
- The author presents real-life examples of students who have benefited from online learning, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds or with barriers to traditional education.
- Noteworthy Position: The author argues that online learning has the potential to level the playing field in education and create equal opportunities for all learners, regardless of their circumstances.
- Background Resources: The article mentions reports and studies by respected institutions and experts in the field of online education.
Takeaways:
- Online learning is transforming higher education and providing access to education for students who face barriers in traditional learning environments.
- The flexibility and accessibility of online courses make education more inclusive and equitable.
- Digital literacy skills and support services are crucial for the success of online learners.
- Quality assurance measures, such as accreditation, must be in place to ensure the credibility and value of online education.
- Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) play a significant role in democratizing education and expanding access to diverse learning opportunities.
🌐🎓 Online learning is reshaping education! 📚🔓 Flexibility & accessibility break barriers, empowering all. #OnlineLearning #HigherEducationOpportunities
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Making the Case for Why Higher Ed Matters
https://www.carnegiehighered.com/blog/why-higher-ed-matters
2025-03-11T14:12:59.000Z
Why Higher Ed Matters
Synopsis:
- This article discusses the value and importance of higher education.
- The author emphasizes that higher education is not only about the acquisition of knowledge but also about personal growth, critical thinking, and building life skills.
- The article highlights the role of higher education in fostering economic development, social mobility, and creating informed citizens.
- The author cites various resources, including studies and data, to support their arguments.
- No unique or noteworthy positions taken by the author are identified.
Takeaways:
- Higher education plays a crucial role in personal development, critical thinking, and acquiring life skills.
- It contributes to economic development and social mobility.
- Higher education helps create informed citizens who can actively participate in society.
🎓 Higher ed builds more than knowledge—growth, skills & critical thinking! 🚀 Key for 📈 economy & social mobility. #HigherEdMatters #EducationMatters
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Which OPM Contract Terms Should Concern Campus Leaders and Why?
https://upcea.edu/which-opm-contract-terms-should-concern-campus-leaders-and-why/
2025-03-10T16:49:12.000Z
Which OPM Contract Terms Should Concern Campus Leaders and Why?
Synopsis:
- The article discusses the importance of understanding the terms and conditions of contracts between higher education institutions and Online Program Management (OPM) providers.
- It emphasizes the need for campus leaders to be aware of potential issues that may arise from certain contractual terms.
- The author explains how OPM contracts often involve revenue-sharing models, exclusivity clauses, and data ownership agreements.
- Revenue-sharing models can impact institutional revenue and control over programs, while exclusivity clauses may limit the institution’s ability to work with other OPM providers.
- Additionally, data ownership agreements can raise concerns about privacy, security, and the ability to utilize data for institutional purposes.
- The article provides several case studies and examples to illustrate the potential implications of these contract terms.
- It highlights the importance of negotiating and reviewing contracts carefully to ensure they align with the institution’s goals and values.
Background Resources:
- The article does not cite any specific background resources.
Unique/Noteworthy Positions:
- The author takes the position that campus leaders should actively engage in the contract negotiation process with OPM providers to protect the institution’s interests.
- They argue that revenue-sharing models, exclusivity clauses, and data ownership agreements should be carefully examined and potential risks should be identified and addressed.
- The article also suggests that institutions should consider alternative models like fee-for-service arrangements instead of revenue-sharing to maintain control over financial aspects.
Takeaways:
- It is crucial for campus leaders to thoroughly understand the terms and conditions of OPM contracts.
- Revenue-sharing models can impact institutions’ revenue and program control.
- Exclusivity clauses may limit the ability to work with multiple OPM providers.
- Data ownership agreements raise concerns about privacy and security.
- Negotiating contracts carefully and considering alternative models can help protect institutions’ interests.
🎓 OPM contracts matter! 🔑 Revenue-sharing, exclusivity & data risks—negotiate wisely to protect your 🏫. #HigherEd #OPMContracts #InstitutionalRisk
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Engaging families: A key to boosting college student retention
2025-03-10T09:00:00.000Z
Engaging Families: A Key to Boosting College Student Retention
Synopsis:
- The article focuses on the importance of engaging families in the college experience to improve student retention rates.
- It highlights the role of families in supporting students’ academic success, mental health, and overall well-being during their college journey.
- The author emphasizes the need for colleges and universities to collaborate with families and provide them with resources and information to effectively support their students.
- The article suggests various strategies to engage families, including orientation programs, parent newsletters, family weekends, and workshops aimed at helping families understand the college experience.
- The author also argues that engaging families can enhance the overall college experience for students and lead to better retention rates.
- Several examples of successful family engagement programs implemented by colleges are cited, showcasing the positive impact they have had on student retention.
- The article draws upon studies and research that highlight the correlation between family involvement and improved student outcomes.
- Noteworthy position: The author posits that colleges should view families as partners in the educational process rather than just spectators.
Takeaways:
- Engaging families in the college experience is a crucial factor in boosting student retention rates.
- Collaboration between colleges and families is necessary to provide the best support for students.
- Strategies such as orientation programs, newsletters, and workshops can effectively engage families.
- Successful family engagement programs have demonstrated positive impacts on student retention.
- Colleges should view families as active partners in the educational process.
🎓👪 Family engagement boosts student retention! Support & collaboration enhance success & well-being. 🤝 #StudentRetention #FamilyEngagement
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Diversifying college admissions: Why test-optional is not as effective as we hoped
2025-03-10T09:00:00.000Z
Diversifying College Admissions: Why Test-Optional is Not as Effective as We Think
Synopsis:
- Many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional admissions policies in an attempt to diversify their student bodies.
- Test-optional policies allow students to choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, in their college applications.
- However, this article argues that test-optional policies may not be as effective in promoting diversity as they claim to be.
- According to the author, test-optional policies primarily benefit wealthier students who can afford test preparation resources and private tutors, giving them an advantage over disadvantaged students.
- Test scores, although imperfect, provide valuable data that can help admissions officers evaluate students from different backgrounds fairly.
- The article suggests that instead of relying solely on test-optional policies, colleges should focus on implementing holistic review practices that consider a wide range of factors, including test scores, grades, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
- The author emphasizes the importance of providing resources and support to underprivileged students to improve their chances of success in college admissions.
Background resources:
- The College Board: https://www.collegeboard.org/
- ACT, Inc.: https://www.act.org/
Noteworthy positions taken by the author:
- Test-optional policies mainly benefit wealthier students and may not effectively promote diversity in college admissions.
- Standardized test scores, although imperfect, provide valuable data to evaluate students fairly.
- Holistic review practices that consider multiple factors should be prioritized over test-optional policies.
Summary:
- Test-optional policies in college admissions may not be the solution to diversify student bodies, as they may inadvertently favor wealthier students.
- Instead, colleges should adopt holistic review practices that consider various factors, including test scores, to evaluate applicants fairly.
- It is crucial to provide resources and support to underprivileged students to ensure a more equitable college admissions process.
Takeaways:
- Test-optional policies may not effectively promote diversity in college admissions and could widen the achievement gap.
- Holistic review practices that consider multiple factors, including test scores, should be embraced by colleges.
- Providing resources and support to underprivileged students is crucial for a more equitable admissions process.
🎓🌍 Test-optional isn’t enough! 🧪📝 Holistic reviews ensure fairness. 👥💪 Support underprivileged students for equity! #DiversifyAdmissions #EquitableEducation
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AI-Driven Academic Support Systems for Student Success
https://element451.com/blog/ai-driven-academic-support-systems
2025-03-08T00:00:00.000Z
AI-Driven Academic Support Systems
Synopsis:
- AI-driven academic support systems are improving student success and retention rates in higher education institutions.
- These systems use machine learning algorithms to analyze student data and provide personalized support and intervention.
- They can identify at-risk students, recommend appropriate interventions, and predict future outcomes.
- Features of AI-driven support systems include early warning systems, adaptive learning, and virtual tutors.
- Institutions benefit from improved retention rates and increased student satisfaction.
Background Resources:
- Research papers on the use of AI in education.
- Case studies of institutions implementing AI-driven support systems.
- Whitepapers on the impact of personalized interventions on student success.
Noteworthy Positions:
- The author emphasizes the importance of using AI-driven systems to complement human support rather than replacing it entirely.
- The potential ethical and privacy concerns surrounding the use of student data in AI algorithms are discussed.
Summary:
AI-driven academic support systems are revolutionizing higher education by leveraging machine learning algorithms to analyze student data and provide personalized interventions. These systems can identify at-risk students, recommend appropriate support strategies, and predict future outcomes. Institutions implementing AI-driven support systems report improved retention rates and increased student satisfaction. However, the author reminds readers that these systems should be used in conjunction with human support, and thorough consideration should be given to ethical and privacy concerns.
Takeaways:
- AI-driven academic support systems use machine learning algorithms to personalize interventions for students.
- These systems can identify at-risk students and recommend appropriate support strategies.
- Institutions can benefit from improved retention rates and increased student satisfaction.
- Ethical considerations should be taken into account when implementing AI-driven support systems.
🤖💡 AI-powered support boosts student success! 🎓 It personalizes interventions, identifies at-risk students & improves retention. #AIinEducation #PersonalizedLearning
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Enterprise-Wide CRM for Higher Education: A Complete Guide
https://element451.com/blog/enterprise-wide-crm-for-higher-education
2025-03-07T00:00:00.000Z
Enterprise-Wide CRM for Higher Education
Synopsis:
- The article discusses the importance of implementing enterprise-wide Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems in higher education institutions.
- It highlights how CRM can improve student recruitment, engagement, and retention.
- The author provides insights into the challenges faced by higher education institutions in implementing CRM and offers solutions.
- The benefits of adopting an enterprise-wide CRM solution are explored, including improved efficiency, data integration, and enhanced communication.
Background Resources:
- The author refers to a study conducted by the Education Advisory Board that shows the success of CRM implementation in higher ed institutions.
- Examples of successful CRM platforms used in higher education, such as Salesforce and Element451, are mentioned.
Noteworthy Positions:
- The author emphasizes the need for an enterprise-wide CRM solution rather than individual or departmental CRM systems.
- They address concerns related to data privacy and compliance in CRM implementation.
- The author recommends involving stakeholders from all departments in the CRM implementation process for maximum effectiveness.
Summary and Takeaways:
- A comprehensive CRM system is crucial for higher education institutions to streamline student recruitment, engagement, and retention efforts.
- An enterprise-wide CRM solution offers numerous benefits, including improved efficiency, data integration, and enhanced communication.
- Involving all stakeholders from various departments ensures successful CRM implementation.
- Choosing the right CRM platform, such as Salesforce or Element451, is essential.
- Data privacy and compliance should be prioritized in CRM implementation in higher education.
Tweet: 🎓 Enterprise-wide CRM boosts recruitment, engagement & retention! 📈 Improve efficiency & communication. #HigherEdCRM #StudentSuccess
Conclusion
This week’s discussions highlight both opportunities and challenges in higher education. From leveraging alumni networks to managing OPM agreements, institutions must navigate complex decisions that impact students, faculty, and overall institutional success. As education continues to evolve, thoughtful strategies will be key to long-term growth and sustainability.
