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Article Abstract

Related Issue:

Educational leaders are increasingly concerned about how colleges and universities impact equity, diversity, inclusivity, and decolonization. This article explores the work of enrollment management in this space. A systematized review goes through a critical analysis and synthesis process to explore the intersection between strategic enrollment management and equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization in postsecondary educational institutions. The researchers provide implications for improving and increasing the enrollment and academic and post-graduation success of members of marginalized communities. The authors suggest topics for further studies about the intersection of SEM and equity in postsecondary educational institutions.

Author(s)

connell-k-j--mdKeith J. Connell, M.B.A., a Professor of Design and Visual Arts at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario, has an
extensive background in both academia and the corporate world. Prior to his current role, he served as a program
coordinator for business, marketing, computer studies, and interactive media web design. Throughout his tenure in
these roles, Connell gained invaluable insights into the unique challenges and remarkable resilience possessed by
marginalized and international students in Canada.

Connell’s academic journey is enriched by the diverse roles he played during his careers. His robust corporate
background has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge facilitating the ability to teach in various disciplines,
including digital content creation and strategy, big data, computer studies, and business. This multifaceted
expertise enables him to provide a well-rounded educational experience to his students.

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy at the University of Windsor in Ontario, Connell is
focused on making significant contributions to the field of education. His research spotlights the experiences of
international students and their resilience and choice to persist in higher education. With a strong commitment to
promoting equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization within the classroom, he aims to develop best practices
that enhance the educational landscape.

Connell’s dedication to lifelong learning and growth reflects his philosophy: “It’s a great day to learn something
new,” seeing himself as both teacher and student. He holds two diplomas, one in advertising marketing communications
and another in computer studies, both earned from Georgian College. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from York
University and an M.B.A. from the University of Fredericton, specializing in leadership and innovation.

smith-c--smClayton Smith, Ed.D., is Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Windsor and Associate Faculty at
Royal Roads University where he teaches in the Graduate Diploma in SEM program. Dr. Smith previously held senior
enrollment management positions at the University of Windsor, the State University of New York College of
Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill, Tallahassee Community College in Florida, and the University of Maine at
Augusta.

Known for his focus on comparative enrollment management, Dr. Smith has performed collaborative research into the
distinctive qualities of enrollment management in the United States and Canada that has allowed educational leaders
from both countries to compare and share best practices. Dr. Smith has, with research colleague Susan Gottheil,
co-edited SEM in Canada: Promoting Student and Institutional Success in Canadian Colleges and Universities
(2011) and The Effectiveness of SEM in Canada: Reflections from the Field (2022). His recent research
focuses on the faculty role in SEM, how change management impacts successful SEM institutional implementation, and
Canadian enrollment leaders’ reflections on the effectiveness of SEM in Canada.

Dr. Smith is a leader in the field of enrollment management, with special emphasis on the areas of institutional SEM
readiness, implementing SEM, enrollment planning, change management, international student affairs, and student
success and retention.

Dr. Smith holds a B.A. in political science from the University of Southern Maine, an M.A. in political science from
Drew University, an M.P.A. in public administration from the University of Maine, and an Ed.D. in higher education
from Florida State University. He is a senior consultant with AACRAO Consulting and currently serves as
Editor-in-Chief of Strategic Enrollment Management Quarterly.

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