Weekly Digest #35: From Cute Campaigns to Big Wins: Strategies for Higher Ed Growth
Stay in the know with these essential updates every higher education marketing and admissions professional should have on their radar! ??
1. Building Brand Identity: Hutch the Squirrel Shows How ????
How do you create a strong brand identity while driving meaningful action?
The 美国芝加哥大学 ’s Hutch Thinks Big campaign sets a brilliant example. This 50-second animated video, featuring an endearing squirrel named Hutch, was created to promote the university’s “24 Hour Impact Giving Day” fundraiser—and it does so with charm and purpose.
By leveraging the universal appeal of animals, the video strengthens the university’s brand identity, evoking emotional connections that inspire viewers to act. Hutch’s journey not only highlights the importance of supporting impactful causes, but also demonstrates how relatable characters can turn simple messages into unforgettable campaigns.
Could brand storytelling with heart help your institution leave a lasting impression? ??
2. Why Email Marketing is a Must-Have for Universities ??
Did you know email is still the preferred communication channel for prospective students?
Despite the rise of Gen Z’s social media habits, email remains a cornerstone for reaching students, alumni, and staff effectively. With an email marketing software such as Hubspot, universities can streamline their outreach, segment their audiences, and personalize messages to drive engagement.
From nurturing leads and boosting enrollments to engaging alumni and enhancing student experiences, email marketing offers unmatched ROI.
Is your university leveraging email marketing to its fullest potential? ??
3. Crafting the Perfect Marketing RFP: Set the Stage for Success ??
Ever feel like your marketing RFP process could be smoother? ??
A well-structured Request for Proposal (RFP) is key to finding the right marketing partner and achieving your institution’s goals. It’s not just about listing requirements—it’s about setting expectations, defining outcomes, and fostering collaboration from the start.
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A great RFP should outline your goals, challenges, and expectations while leaving room for creativity. Be specific about timelines, budgets, and desired metrics, but don’t stifle innovation. This approach ensures you attract agencies that not only meet your needs but also bring fresh ideas to the table.
Could a smarter RFP land you the perfect agency to meet your goals? ??
4. Climbing the Rankings: Insights for MENA Universities ????
Global university rankings are increasingly influencing higher education strategies in the MENA region. Leading institutions like King Saud University in Saudi Arabia have embraced research excellence and international collaborations to rise in the rankings, showcasing the potential for regional impact. These efforts underscore the value of targeted strategies, such as improving citation metrics and fostering global partnerships, in enhancing academic reputation and visibility.
However, the report emphasizes a cautionary note: rankings should not overshadow local priorities like addressing youth unemployment, ensuring teaching quality, and improving accessibility. Striking a balance between global aspirations and regional needs is key for MENA universities to achieve sustainable growth and meaningful outcomes.
Can institutions align their global ambitions with their societal responsibilities? ??
5. Job Alerts ??
That’s a wrap for this week!
Wishing you an impactful start to the week — catch you in the next edition! ??
For feedback or suggestions, reach out to Sujeevan Subrayan.
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