Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager

Jenny Li Fowler
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Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Manager returns with new host Jenny Li Fowler! Tune in for the do’s, don’ts, and dynamics of the complex and challenging social media ecosystem. We’ll analyze the successes and failures of those in the higher education social space — what went right, what went wrong, and what are the lessons learned — with actionable steps and takeaways for your team. Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is hosted by Jenny Li Fowler and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

  1. 4d ago

    Ep. 68: Higher Ed Conferences: What You Should Know Before You Go

    Higher ed professionals have more conference options than ever before—but with limited budgets, packed calendars, and countless acronyms to navigate, how do you know which events are actually worth your time? On this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler welcomes back Dr. Josie Ahlquist, higher education consultant, researcher, and longtime conference enthusiast, for a practical conversation about making the most of professional conferences. Together, they unpack the differences between major higher ed gatherings like AMA, NASPA, CASE, NACAC, and emerging niche events, while sharing strategies for maximizing learning, networking, and career growth. From choosing the right conference for your goals to defining your own "Return on Conference Attendance" (ROCCA), this episode offers actionable advice for both first-time attendees and seasoned conference veterans. Guest Name: Dr. Josie Ahlquist, CEO and principal of Dr. Josie Ahlquist Inc. Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dr. Josie Ahlquist guides educational leaders, organizations, and students to practice purposeful digital leadership through speaking, coaching, and consulting. Her practical, evidence-based frameworks empower clients to build and implement a digital engagement strategy that fits their life, audience, and purpose. Josie’s work is grounded in the grant-funded and award-winning research that has allowed her to train thousands around the globe as a speaker; provide consulting services to institutions and companies; and coach professionals in branding, voice, and positioning. Josie 's work has appeared in The Handbook of Student Affairs Administration, The Journal of Leadership Studies, NASPA Leadership Exchange, Technology and Higher Education, and Contested Issues in Troubled Times: Student Affairs Dialogues on Equity, Civility, and Safety (Stylus Publishing, 2019). She also served as co-editor and author of the New Directions in Student Services volume Engaging the Digital Generation and the New Directions in Student Leadership volume Going Digital in Student Leadership. In 2023, Dr. Ahlquist was selected as a NASPA Pillar of the Profession, one of the highest honors for the field of student affairs. Josie is a three-time LinkedIn Top Voice in Education has been recognized by Ed Tech Magazine as one of the “Top 50 Must-Read Higher Education Technology Blogs” for five years. Her podcast, Josie and The Podcast, has been featured by The Chronicle of Higher Education and Inside Higher Ed. Her new book, Digital Leadership in Higher Education: Purposeful Social Media in a Connected World was listed as an Amazon #1 new release for college and university student life. Josie received her EdD in higher education leadership from California Lutheran University, an MEd in counseling from Northern Arizona University, and a BA in sociology and human development and family studies from South Dakota State University. Prior to her independent path, Josie spent nearly 15 years on college campuses in areas of student leadership, student activities, residence life, and student affairs communications and marketing. She previous served as a research associate and instructor at Florida State University Leadership Learning Research Center, where her curriculum builds digital literacy and leadership skills for undergraduates to doctoral students. For more information about Josie Ahlquist’s research, speaking, coaching, and consulting, visit  www.josieahlquist.com . - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min

  2. May 28

    Ep. 67: The Secret to More Engaging Content? Start by Listening

    On this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Aubrey Ugorowski, communications specialist for the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, to unpack how social listening can completely reshape a higher ed content strategy. Working as a communications team of one, Aubrey shares how she balances social media alongside donor communications, email campaigns, and other responsibilities while still building a consistent, audience-focused presence online. Guest Name: Aubrey Ugorowski, Communications Specialist, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Department of Materials Science and Engineering Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Aubrey Ugorowski is a communications specialist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she supports digital strategy and storytelling for the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. She began her career as a sound engineer and production lead before pivoting during the pandemic and finding a home in higher education. Today, she draws on her multimedia background to create clear, accessible content that strengthens the department's digital presence. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    26 min

  3. May 14

    Ep. 66: Remember When Social Media Was Actually Social?

    Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Erica Colaianne, Director of Content Strategy and Audience Development at the University of Michigan, and Kellen Manning, Director of Digital and Social Media Content at Penn State University, for an honest conversation about how social media in higher education has evolved over the last decade. From the early days of Twitter and live tweeting to today’s algorithm-driven, entertainment-focused landscape, the trio reflects on what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what higher ed marketers need to rethink moving forward. This episode is packed with practical insights for enrollment marketers, higher education content marketing professionals, and social strategists navigating today’s increasingly fragmented digital ecosystem. The conversation explores platform evolution, social listening, audience engagement, crisis communications, and the growing role of social media in institutional strategy. Guest Names: Kellen Manning, Director of Digital and Social Media Content  Erica Colaianne, Director of Social Media, University of Michigan Guest Socials:  Kellen: LinkedIn  Erica: LinkedIn Guest Bios:   Kellen: As director of digital and social media content, Kellen builds, executes and oversees the University’s earned digital social strategy and content channels such as @penn_state, @psuresearch, @nittanylion, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. He uses digital storytelling to establish a meaningful connection between the University brand and its core audiences by highlighting research from across Penn State, serving as a sounding board and counselor for communicators across the Commonwealth, engaging with communities through social channels, and establishing strategies that are tied to key presidential priorities. Before joining Penn State, Kellen worked as the assistant director of communications for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s admissions office. In this role, he built a deep bench of student creators who developed content ranging from emails/newsletters, webtoons, animated videos, vlogs, discord servers, print pieces, social media campaigns, Spotify playlists, and various other initiatives with a strong focus on amplifying the voices and talents of the MIT community. Over the course of his career, Kellen has worked in communications for admissions, athletics, alumni, student life, and undergraduate relations. Kellen holds a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication, with a concentration on public relations from Point Park University. Erica: Erica Colaianne is the Director of Content Strategy and Audience Development at the University of Michigan where she spearheads the content strategy for the University of Michigan portfolio of digital platforms. Erica leads the university’s social media team that creates dynamic and engaging content for audiences of more than 2.9 million. She fosters a collaborative environment that demonstrates the impact of the institution and tells the stories of Wolverines’ experiences through authentic approaches. She previously worked in communications and marketing at Wayne State University and prior to joining the higher education community she led communications and marketing efforts for a range of organizations including healthcare, media companies and nonprofits. She has degrees from Wayne State University and Eastern Michigan University.   - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 hr

  4. Apr 30

    Ep. 65: How the Comments Became the Main Character

    This episode featuring Carissa Estreller explores a powerful shift in higher education content marketing: the rise of the comment section as a strategic asset. What used to be an afterthought is now a core driver of engagement, insight, and even content ideation. Carissa introduces the concept of a “comment strategy” and explains why social media managers—especially in higher ed—can no longer afford to ignore it. If you're thinking about leveling up your enrollment marketing approach, this episode offers a fresh, data-informed perspective. Guest Name: Carissa Estreller, Digital Culturalist, Founder of Hook and Anchor Media Guest Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cestreller/ Substack: https://digitalculturist.substack.com/ Guest Bio: Hi, I'm Carissa Estreller. I'm a digital culturist, and I study the internet so brands can sleep at night. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  5. Apr 16

    Ep. 64: How Northeastern Turned a Commencement Announcement Into a Moment

    Instagram Reel Guest Name: Cam Sleeper, Senior. Social Media Video Producer, Northeastern University Guest Socials:LinkedInInstagram  Guest Bio:  Cam Sleeper is an award-winning Senior Social Media Video Producer for Northeastern University. Over six years, he has built the university’s TikTok presence from the ground up and produced platform-spanning content whose videos have earned tens of millions of engagements. Sleeper has been at Northeastern since 2019, where he also earned his M.S. in Arts Administration, after receiving a B.A. in Visual Media Arts from Emerson College. He is the proud caretaker of more than 30 houseplants. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    22 min

  6. Apr 2

    Ep. 63: How One Post Can Wreck Your Brand And What to Do About It

    In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager hosted by Jenny Li Fowler, guest Wilsar Johnson delivers a masterclass on misinformation strategy and its growing impact on higher education institutions. Drawing from experience in political communications and narrative strategy, Wilsar explains how misinformation has evolved from a political issue into a major brand and institutional threat. The conversation unpacks proactive strategies for identifying, managing, and neutralizing false narratives before they spiral. If you’re navigating enrollment marketing or institutional reputation in today’s digital landscape, this episode is a must-listen. Guest Name: Wilsar Johnson, Wilsar Creative  Guest Social:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilsarjohnson/  Blog: https://callmewilsar.posthaven.com Guest Bio: Wilsar Johnson, CDMP, is a brand strategist and social media consultant who has spent her career at the intersection of politics, platforms, and public narrative. She got her start on Capitol Hill, where she was part of the generation that created the social media manager role in Congress—working in the House, the Senate, and on committees before the job had a name. From there, she joined SKDK, one of the country's leading political communications firms, where, as SVP, she advised elected officials, advocacy organizations, nonprofits, and education institutions on narrative strategy, social listening, and how information moves in high-stakes environments. Today, she writes and publishes independently on the emerging threat of misinformation as a brand and institutional risk, including what organizations operating in politically adjacent spaces need to do differently. Her work lives at The Wilsar Johnson Blog. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    43 min

  7. Mar 19

    Ep. 62: How to Build a High-Retention Student Content Team

    Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Stephanie Ramirez, Director of Social and New Media at Amherst College, to unpack how she built one of the most engaged student content teams in higher education. Stephanie shares how her team of student creators produces authentic social media content while gaining real professional experience along the way. From weekly rituals and collaborative ideation to strategic training in brand voice and accessibility, Stephanie reveals how thoughtful mentorship can transform student workers into strategic storytellers. The conversation offers powerful lessons for enrollment marketers and social media managers looking to strengthen their higher education content marketing efforts through student voices. Guest Name: Stephanie Ramírez, Director of Social and New Media at Amherst College Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: As Director of Social and New Media at Amherst College, Stephanie Ramírez manages and oversees the College's central social media channels, as well as the social media team. At Amherst, the social media team is responsible for brainstorming creating content (photography, videography, graphic design), answering messages and comments, setting the social media strategy and liaising with campus partners, reporting analytics, developing data-driven goals and tactics, and everything else in between. Stephanie also established and now manages an incredible team of student interns who develop content for and help run the accounts. Before joining Amherst College in 2020, Stephanie worked as a Communications Specialist and Staff Writer at Princeton University Library, where she helped launch the department's first-ever communications office and primarily oversaw social media and editorial content. She holds a master's degree in communications, with concentrations in digital communication and political communication, from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor's degree in journalism and political science from UMass Amherst. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min

  8. Mar 5

    Ep. 61: From Agency to In-House: How Clemson Took Control of Paid Social

    Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Hillary Smith of Clemson University to unpack a bold move: bringing paid social media in-house—and outperforming an agency in the process. What started as a learning opportunity evolved into a powerful case study in smarter enrollment marketing and stronger cross-team collaboration. Hillary shares how Clemson’s centralized marketing structure, internal audience insights, and access to real-time data analytics in higher education led to better results at half the cost. This episode is a must-listen for higher ed marketers questioning whether agencies are always the right answer for paid campaigns. Guest Name: Hillary Smith, Assistant Director of Social Media at Clemson University Guest Socials:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillaryruthsmith/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hillaryrsmith/?hl=en Guest Bio: Hillary Smith serves as the Assistant Director of Social Media at Clemson University. She oversees the paid social media strategy, analytics, and reporting needs for the brand's social media accounts. In addition, Hillary serves as a resource for the campus community focusing on social media account assistance, paid social media campaigns, reporting, and digital accessibility. Hillary graduated with a B.S. in Marketing from Youngstown State University and an M.S. in Marketing from Clemson University. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    20 min
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Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Manager returns with new host Jenny Li Fowler! Tune in for the do’s, don’ts, and dynamics of the complex and challenging social media ecosystem. We’ll analyze the successes and failures of those in the higher education social space — what went right, what went wrong, and what are the lessons learned — with actionable steps and takeaways for your team. Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is hosted by Jenny Li Fowler and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

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