In this episode of Hidden Gem, Maya Demishkevich sits down with Dr. Stephanie Erdmann, CEO and Dean of Great Falls College, to discuss the college's innovative journey to strengthen its brand identity. Dr. Erdmann shares the fascinating story behind the introduction of their new mascot, Mo the River Otter. Learn how a well-executed mascot can bring a community together, enhance school spirit, and create a cohesive brand identity even for colleges without athletic programs. Tune in to gain valuable insights on strategic branding, community engagement, and creative marketing tactics.

Key Takeaways:

1. Community Involvement: Discover how involving staff, students, and community members in the mascot creation process can foster a sense of ownership and pride.
2. Creative Outreach: See how unique marketing strategies, such as involving local celebrities and creating engaging social media content, can boost community awareness and excitement.
3. Sustained Engagement: Explore ongoing initiatives to keep the mascot relevant and integrated into various aspects of the college’s activities and communications.
4. Time and Patience: Realize the importance of taking time with the mascot development process to ensure thorough community engagement and thoughtful implementation.

The IMPACT Framework

Guest Name: Dr. Stephanie Erdmann / CEO and Dean / Great Falls College MSU

Guest Bio: Dr. Stephanie Erdmann is a higher education veteran with more than 20 years of experience in private, tribal, and public two-year and technical colleges in Wisconsin and Montana.
Stephanie is passionate about two-year education. She began her own educational journey at Spokane Falls Community College before transferring to the University of Montana to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication and later masters and doctoral degrees. Her career path started in advertising and marketing after college graduation, and she proudly applies this transferable skill to her role as the CEO/Dean at Great Falls College MSU since July 2021, and in previous higher ed positions at other institutions for the last several years.
With an impressive record of promoting leadership within two-year educational institutions, Stephanie constantly strives to remove barriers for students so they can improve their economic situations and civic responsibilities through education. While offering the appropriate programs of study, hiring suitable people, and providing adequate financial support, a big part of her work involves creating a brand and marketing it to a broader audience. Not only does a strong brand attract students to the campus and encourage them to attend, but a strong brand also builds a community, resulting in higher persistence leading to more graduates.

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Connect With Our Host:
Maya Demishkevich
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayademishkevich/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Hidden Gem: Marketing Community Colleges is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Visionary Voices: The College President’s Playbook and Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO.
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