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2019 SEM-EP Graduate
For over a decade, Dr. Ruger has led data-informed recruitment, admissions and student program initiatives for Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM) where she serves as the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Life. During her tenure at MSUCOM, she has led multiple initiatives to improve departmental efficiency, increase the enrollment of mission-fit candidates, and enhance the overall applicant and student experience.
Capstone Project: In the spaces of higher education leaders are increasingly working to align institutional mission, vision and values by shifting strategy as a result of the evaluation of market needs and expectations. Many publications and references to strategic enrollment management (SEM) practices focus on both undergraduate and graduate programs and institutions. A gap exists in SEM within professional schools—such as medical colleges—many of which may be stand-alone institutions or function independently within a larger college or university structure. Hence, SEM may not be as prevalent in the medical college industry. Just like other undergraduate and graduate school enrollment, medical college enrollment is affected by changing student populations, diversity challenges, increased competition, and one’s perception of return-on-investment when alternative career options are available. This study provides a summary of how some medical colleges are responding to these challenges using SEM principles.