The Pathways Podcast with B. Donta Truss

GVSU Division of Enrollment Development and College Futures

Sharing stories, challenging systems, and talking about how higher education is moving forward with a focus on moving the needle in higher ed and providing future learners with information that can enhance their ability to navigate their own educational journey. 

Episodes

  1. Jul 23

    Episode Three: Beyond Recruitment: Building Belonging in a Changing Enrollment Landscape

    In this episode, the B. Donta Truss sits down with GVSU's Associate Vice President of Admissions to explore how the role of admissions is evolving in a rapidly changing higher education landscape. Their conversation focuses on the “moment we’re in”—from shifting student expectations to the growing impact of AI on recruitment strategies. Together, they unpack how admissions teams can thoughtfully integrate new technologies while still maintaining the human connection students value, and what it really takes to deliver personalized, authentic engagement at scale. The episode also examines the broader challenges facing institutions, including declining demographics and the looming enrollment cliff, and why enrollment management must be approached as a strategic, institution-wide priority. From there, the discussion turns to yield—reframing it as an opportunity to build early belonging and confidence—and the importance of helping students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, find the right institutional fit. Grounded in both strategy and day-to-day practice, this conversation offers insight into how admissions leaders can adapt, lead, and better serve students in an increasingly complex and competitive environment.

    Episode Three: Beyond Recruitment: Building Belonging in a Changing Enrollment Landscape

  2. Jun 10

    Episode Two: Building Pathways: Student-Centered Education from K–12 to College

    In this episode, the B. Donta Truss sits down with Kyle Smitley, Founder & Executive Director, Detroit Achievement Academy & Detroit Prep, for a conversation that bridges K–12 education and higher education—and the pathways that connect them. Kyle reflects on her leadership journey, from founding Detroit Achievement Academy to building Detroit Prep into a school community grounded in purpose and student-centered design. She shares what it means to truly center students in practice, and how her schools define success beyond traditional metrics like test scores—focusing instead on long-term growth, opportunity, and readiness. The conversation also explores the power of early exposure to higher education, particularly for students in urban communities. The episode highlights the role of meaningful partnerships between K–12 schools and higher education institutions, and how those collaborations can open doors and strengthen student pathways. Production Support Provided By:  The Bridge The Division of Enrollment Development and College Futures Media Production Intern, Grace Truss University Libraries

    Episode Two: Building Pathways: Student-Centered Education from K–12 to College

  3. Apr 30

    Episode One: From FAFSA to Enrollment: Rethinking Financial Aid and Access

    In this first episode, the Vice President for Enrollment Development & College Futures sits down with Michelle Rhodes, Grand Valley’s Associate Vice President for Financial Aid, to unpack the rapidly shifting financial aid landscape and what it means for students, families, and institutions. Their conversation explores the real impact of recent FAFSA changes, how federal policy is shaping enrollment strategy, and why financial aid is no longer just a back-end process but a central part of how colleges communicate value and affordability.  From reframing college as a long-term investment to offering actionable advice on scholarships, budgeting, and reducing debt, this episode highlights what it takes to build trust, improve access, and support students in making informed choices about their future.

    Episode One: From FAFSA to Enrollment: Rethinking Financial Aid and Access
  • 3 Episodes

About

Sharing stories, challenging systems, and talking about how higher education is moving forward with a focus on moving the needle in higher ed and providing future learners with information that can enhance their ability to navigate their own educational journey. 

Information

  • Creator
    GVSU Division of Enrollment Development and College Futures
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Pathways Podcast with B. Donta Truss
  • Show Website
    The Pathways Podcast with B. Donta Truss