Ep. 34: Increase first-generation enrollment with automatic admission

For many institutions, increasing access is a strategic priority. With this tactic, you can do just that. Melody Ferguson, Dean of Admissions at Pacific Lutheran University, discusses the success of their Automatic Admission Partnership Program (AAP) in increasing enrollment, and with it, the percentage of first-generation and students of color admitted to PLU. In fact, 60.7% of this year’s incoming class admitted through the AAP is first generation, and 63.2% are students of color. Listen to this episode to start walking the walk on removing barriers to your institution too. 

Guest Name: Melody Ferguson, Dean of Admission, Pacific Lutheran University

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melody-ferguson-wa/

Guest Bio: Melody Ferguson has worked 23 years in Higher Education at 3 very different universities. As a first-generation college graduate, Melody has always been passionate about creating opportunities for access to education. Currently serving as the Dean of Admission at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) in Tacoma, WA, Melody has spent the last 12 years shaping the university's approach to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds. She also happens to be a parent to a rising high school senior, which helps her understand the challenges of the college admission process firsthand. 

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Connect With Our Host:
Dayana Kibilds
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dayanakibilds/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Talking Tactics is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Some of our favorites include Mission Admissions and Higher Ed Pulse.

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