Strategic Enrollment Management Leadership Academy
The Strategic Enrollment Management Leadership Academy is a cohort based professional development experience designed to prepare university professionals to lead effectively in an increasingly complex enrollment landscape. This academy brings together emerging and mid level leaders from across the institution to deepen their understanding of enrollment management, build leadership capacity, and develop the skills needed to support student access, success, and belonging.
Through a structured series of interactive, in person sessions, participants explore how enrollment decisions are made, how units across the university intersect, and how inclusive leadership and emotional intelligence strengthen organizational effectiveness. The academy emphasizes collaboration, reflection, and practical application, equipping participants with tools they can immediately apply within their roles.
Program Purpose & Learning Outcomes
Participants in the Strategic Enrollment Management Leadership Academy will:
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of strategic enrollment management across the full student lifecycle
- Gain insight into how admissions, financial aid, records, institutional analysis, and student support functions work together to advance enrollment goals
- Strengthen leadership effectiveness through inclusive leadership practices grounded in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
- Build emotional intelligence skills that support communication, collaboration, and decision making
- Expand professional networks across Enrollment Development, College Futures, and partner units
- Earn a non credit Certificate in Strategic Enrollment Management Leadership upon successful completion
The academy is intentionally designed to prepare participants to navigate current and future enrollment challenges, including demographic shifts, affordability pressures, and evolving student expectations.
Program Format & Structure
The academy consists of five in person, one day sessions, each focused on a core area of enrollment management. Sessions run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and include a working lunch.
Each session features:
- Dynamic presentations and facilitated discussions led by campus leaders and subject matter experts
- Hands on pre work to support reflection and applied learning
- Opportunities for continued learning and cross functional dialogue
- Practical examples and case based discussion relevant to today’s higher education environment
Sessions are held across the Allendale, Pew, and Health Campuses, providing participants with exposure to multiple institutional contexts.
Application Requirements & Process
The Strategic Enrollment Management Leadership Academy is designed for 10 to 15 committed participants from across the university. There is no minimum years of experience required, and individuals from a variety of functional areas are encouraged to apply.
This program is particularly well suited for professionals who:
- Are interested in leadership development and career growth
- Want to better understand enrollment management beyond their current role
- Are motivated to collaborate across divisions and departments
- Are passionate about student access, success, and belonging
Prospective participants are encouraged to discuss this opportunity with their supervisor prior to applying. Selected participants will be notified by the academy team and asked to confirm their participation. Upon confirmation, participants will receive additional program details, including a full schedule and preparatory materials.