By Autumn Walden, Editor, AACRAO Connect, Content Strategy Manager, AACRAO
Stepping into leadership requires intention and action. For Bethany Parmer, Cohort 4 ASCEND alum, that journey was kick-started at the AACRAO Conference for Strategic Enrollment Management, where ASCEND participants cultivate relationships and competencies for leadership. After delivering a standout TED-style talk at last year’s Conference for SEM in Boston, Parmer returns to host an upcoming webinar on December 3, 2025, designed to help prospective applicants to the ASCEND program (sponsored by Spelman Johnson) understand the program from the inside.
“She is destined to grow into more responsible leadership roles in the coming years,” remarked Dr. Michelle Brown Nevers, Parmer’s coach during the program. “We continued our engagement throughout the year with monthly virtual meetings and may have talked once or twice outside of our scheduled meetings as needed. My experience working with Bethany has been very positive. I am looking forward to hearing greater things about her development and will continue to be a resource for her as she needs.”
Inspired by new generations of learners and energized by professional colleagues, Parmer offers candid, practical insights for those charting similar leadership paths.
How did you prepare for your TED-like talk at SEM 2024? What advice would you give to emerging presenters?
Speaking at SEM 2024 was a brand-new experience for me. I’ve presented at conferences before, but this one felt different—being part of a general session brought a mix of excitement and nerves!
As I prepared, I really wanted to highlight what the ASCEND program has meant to me. It was important to share not only my capstone project, but also how the program—and Michelle’s guidance in particular—helped me grow as a leader. I was also able to develop a SEM plan for my own institution, which has inspired me to focus on new ways to enhance our students’ experiences.
For anyone just starting out with conference presentations, my advice is simple: say yes to every opportunity you can. Each presentation helps you build confidence, expand your network, and share your work with others in higher education. It’s okay to feel nervous—do it anyway. With time, presenting becomes just another skill in your toolkit.
Describe the impact of your ASCEND cohort and mentor on your personal and/or professional journey.
One of the best parts of the ASCEND experience was the people. Our cohort became a close-knit group of professionals who truly support each other. We still check in regularly—celebrating wins, sharing challenges, and offering advice. It’s reassuring to know I have a network of colleagues across all areas of enrollment management that I can reach out to, both personally and professionally.
My ASCEND coach, Michelle, was also an incredible source of guidance. Our check-ins were a safe space to talk through different scenarios and challenges without feeling pressured to stick to just the program. We discussed everything from my capstone project and career goals to the day-to-day realities of working in higher education. I know I can reach out to Michelle anytime with a question or idea, and she’ll be there to help.
Looking back on your time in the ASCEND Program, what experience or lesson stands out?
The experience that stands out most from my time in the ASCEND program was attending the SEM 2024 Conference in Boston. It was an incredible moment to share the stage with my cohort and reflect on how much we had all grown throughout the program. Together, we were able to share our journeys, insights, and the knowledge we gained in Strategic Enrollment Management—a truly rewarding and memorable experience.
What advice would you offer to other mid-career enrollment professionals considering a leadership path like yours?
I never imagined I’d be where I am today—helping lead the Enrollment Services team, which includes the Office of the Registrar, Financial Aid & Scholarships, Advising, and our Enrollment Specialists. It’s incredibly rewarding to work alongside such a dedicated team to enhance the student experience and support our students in reaching their educational goals.
My advice to others is to keep learning and stay curious. Read, ask questions, shadow colleagues, and seek out new opportunities whenever you can. And most importantly, advocate for yourself to participate in leadership development programs like ASCEND—they can truly shape your career in meaningful ways.
What or who is inspiring you now?
Lately, I’ve found inspiration in a few different places. First and foremost, our students—especially first-generation students, adult learners, and those balancing work and family—constantly remind me of the power of persistence and determination. I’m also inspired by the creativity and dedication of our Enrollment Services team, particularly when we’re navigating change or tackling complex projects together.
And finally, I’ve been energized by the next generation of higher education professionals who are bringing fresh ideas and challenging us to think differently about how we serve students. Their curiosity and enthusiasm are truly contagious.