In the latest episode of The EdUp Experience, Joe Sallustio sat down with Brian Gann, VP of enrollment and student services at Wake Technical Community College. Together, they delve into the challenges and innovative solutions that Wake Tech has been implementing. 

From revolutionizing enrollment practices with AI to providing wraparound support through the Care Center Model, this episode is packed with valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions. Join us as we explore the world of higher education like never before. 

From Note Cards to AI: How Wake Tech is Revolutionizing Enrollment

Remember the days of index cards and filing cabinets? Well, Wake Tech Community College sure does. Brian shared the evolution of enrollment practices at Wake Tech, from handwritten note cards to utilizing AI-powered technology. 

Amid this digital revolution, Brian’s leadership upheld the importance of human interaction. The very essence of education rests on fostering connections and relationships, and this was a principle that Wake Tech was determined to preserve. 

Despite the integration of AI-powered technology, the college recognized that human touch and personal engagement were irreplaceable. Adapting to the digital age did not entail forsaking the core values of empathy, understanding, and guidance that define the educational experience.

The Key to Future Success in Higher Education

In an age where technology seems to dominate our daily lives, personalization and building trust stand as pillars of success in higher education. Brian emphasized the significance of fostering personal relationships with students and creating a sense of trust to ensure student success. 

The synergy between personalization and trust-building is potent. Tailoring educational experiences to meet individual needs is a manifestation of respect for students' autonomy and uniqueness, which in turn fuels trust. Conversely, trust provides the fertile ground upon which personalized educational strategies can flourish, as students are more likely to embrace innovative approaches when they believe in the expertise and intentions of their mentors.

"And so the story we have to tell is around the skills that we can help students to have, to go into the marketplace, and we are continually working at how we tell that story about the skills that community colleges provide." — Brian Gann, VP of enrollment and student services at Wake Technical Community College

The Care Center Model: Providing Complete Support for Student Success

One size does not fit all when it comes to student support. Wake Tech's innovative Care Center Model takes a holistic approach, providing wraparound support that includes everything from food and housing security to mental health support and academic advising. 

The Care Center Model embodies the notion that education does not exist in isolation; rather, it is intricately woven into the fabric of students' lives. The model recognizes that students' potential to thrive academically is intimately intertwined with their overall well-being. By offering this type of support, it reaches beyond the confines of traditional academic assistance, encompassing a spectrum of essential elements that students require to flourish. 

Facing the Uncomfortable and Adapting to New Roles

Gone are the days when higher education administrators were solely responsible for academic matters. Administrators have transcended their conventional roles to embrace multifaceted responsibilities, including the creation of customer care models. 

The archaic dichotomy of education as a product and students as consumers has given way to a more holistic approach, where institutions acknowledge that students are more than mere recipients of knowledge. 

The modern administrator has been entrusted with fostering an environment akin to customer care, where students' needs and experiences are at the forefront. This reimagining of education as a service underscores the need for administrators to grapple with concepts that were once seemingly incongruous with academia—such as user experience, satisfaction, and relationship-building.

Preparing for the Pendulum Swing

In today's rapidly changing job market, the value of a degree is being questioned. Some states have even removed degree requirements for government jobs. But as Brian points out, the pendulum is bound to swing back. 

He also shared insights on how higher education institutions can prepare to highlight the skills and value of a degree, ensuring that graduates are equipped for success in the workforce and beyond.

Building Bridges and Building Futures

Wake Tech Community College is not just an institution; it's a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity. Brian takes pride in the impact Wake Tech has on the local workforce, connecting students with businesses and improving economic prospects. 

From leveraging AI to revolutionize enrollment to implementing the Care Center Model, Wake Tech serves as a beacon of innovation and support for students. Have a listen to explore the challenges, the triumphs, and the unwavering commitment to student success.

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