Enrollment Development and College Futures launches new podcast

The Division of Enrollment Development and College Futures has launched a new podcast dedicated to the stories, strategies and partnerships driving college access and student success. 

"The Pathways Project with B. Donta Truss" is hosted by Truss, vice president for Enrollment Development and College Futures, and features conversations that reflect the university's commitment to opportunity in higher education.

Each episode brings together educators, administrators, community partners and higher education leaders to examine the programs and policies that help students find their path to and through college. The podcast is designed to serve a broad audience, including higher education professionals seeking practical insight, school counselors and community partners working with students and families, and prospective students navigating the college-going process. 

Truss and his guests discuss a range of topics from admissions, financial aid, retention, support, belonging and TRIO programs to transfer pathways and enrollment development strategies.

Truss and his guests discuss a range of topics from admissions, financial aid, retention, support, belonging and TRIO programs to transfer pathways and enrollment development strategies.

“We launched this podcast to create a trusted space where prospective learners can get clear, relevant answers to the questions shaping their educational journey,” Truss said. “It also provides an opportunity to showcase the expertise of our outstanding GVSU team members and thought leaders from across the country as they share perspectives on the evolving landscape of higher education.”

The podcast launched last week with "From FAFSA to Enrollment: Rethinking Financial Aid and Access," featuring Michelle Rhodes, associate vice president for Financial Aid. Truss and Rhodes explored the rapidly shifting financial aid landscape, including recent FAFSA changes that have reshaped the student experience, and discussed how financial aid has evolved into a central part of how colleges communicate value and affordability to prospective students and their families.

Future episodes will highlight GVSU initiatives, including the 8th Grade Pathways to GVSU program, and the changing landscape of college admissions.

"The Pathways Project with B. Donta Truss" is available on YouTube , Apple Podcasts , and Spotify . 

– Amanda Rainey is the associate director of admissions and divisional marketing and communications.