Higher education is in flux.

On this episode, we dig into what’s working—and what’s not—as colleges and universities face shrinking enrollment, rising competition, and shifting expectations.

We break down the big trends shaping 2025:

• AI in marketing
• Demographic freefall
• Budget stress
• Branding battles
• The push for retention

You’ll hear smart takes on how to market smarter, serve adult learners, personalize outreach, and keep students engaged. We also explore how community colleges are stepping up for workforce training—and why financial sustainability is non-negotiable.

Quick, clear, and full of insights you can use.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro: The Crossroads of Higher Ed
00:52 - What is the "Messy Middle"?
02:06 - Demographics: Fewer Students, Bigger Stakes
03:32 - Data-Driven Marketing Wins
06:18 - AI: Game-Changer or Just Buzz?
08:30 - Stand Out: Brand or Get Buried
10:03 - Retention: Keep Who You’ve Got
12:46 - Serving Adults & Workforce Shifts
15:20 - Dollars & Sense: Financial Survival
16:15 - Wrap-Up: Clarity in the Chaos

Learn more about the Higher Education Marketing Institute:

• Website: https://highereducationmarketinginstitute.com/
• X: https://x.com/HEMInstitute
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-education-marketing-institute/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HigherEducationMarketing