Federal policy, the labor market, and student and family expectations are converging in ways that demand a rethink of program planning.

When the VPEM seat is suddenly empty, the right interim solution depends on more than who is available. This article explores the leadership models presidents should consider and the questions that can turn a period of transition into an opportunity to strengthen enrollment leadership.

In traditional enrollment management, March and April are framed as “yield season.” That narrow window is short-sighted—yield is the cumulative outcome of everything an institution does, all year long.

Most institutions that undertake strategic enrollment planning emerge with a document. Fewer emerge with a team capable of executing it.

Small colleges have already built one of their most effective recruitment systems in athletics. The same principles that make athletic recruiting work—proactive outreach, personal relationships, a clear value proposition, and a ready-made sense of belonging—can also transform an honors program into a powerful enrollment tool.

Faculty can be powerful partners in recruitment, but asking them to “go recruit” isn’t enough. The greatest impact comes when faculty understand the unique role they can play, focus on the relationships and expertise only they bring, and are given clear direction on where their involvement can make the biggest difference.