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Article Type

Professional Proficiency

Article Abstract

Related Issue:

Enrollment and retention in higher education can be challenging under normal circumstances, but combined with a global pandemic and changes in the overall prospective student landscape, institutions will need to look at strategies to help navigate these uncertain times. This article outlines how a college navigated these challenges within the context of Kotter’s organizational change management theory and successfully maintained their enrollment. Through the lens of qualitative research, leaders at the institution were interviewed to garner data on how this collective effort transpired. Five key themes emerged from the study. First, collaboration was a key component for enrollment and retention initiatives, guiding the strategic planning to enhance sustainable outcomes. Second, technological advancements in enrollment and retention platforms secured seamless transitions during the crisis. Third, external support helped to reduce financial barriers to enrollment. Fourth, investments in enrollment and retention support systems was a critical element of maintaining headcounts. Fifth, community partnerships and the creation of new academic programs and support positions provided the needed backbone for enrollment and retention growth.

Author(s)

Jennifer Passenti, Ed.D., is the Director of the Lake Region Center of Lackawanna College, located in Hawley, Pennsylvania. Lackawanna College has seven campuses across Northeast Pennsylvania, with the main campus located in Scranton. Passenti has worked at Lackawanna College for the past thirteen years, first serving as an adjunct professor, followed by enrollment specialist, and for the last six years as the director of the campus.

As the director, Passenti is responsible for performance management and hiring of all faculty and staff positions; overseeing and administering all programs, services and activities at the center; developing and implementing the center’s marketing plan; evaluating program offerings to ensure their fiscal viability and that they meet the needs of the community; and ensuring the center is compliant with all federal, state, institutional and accreditation guidelines and regulations.

Prior to coming to Lackawanna College, Passenti worked for the New York City Board of Education where she taught in The Bronx for many years. She earned her master’s degree in elementary education at Mercy College, and a bachelor’s degree in speech communications and public relations from Kutztown University. Passenti also holds professional certifications in both Six Sigma Green Belt and Lean Six Sigma through Villanova University, and completed her Ed.D. at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

References

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