AISAP52

A typical June is filled with graduations, farewells, and the hustle and bustle of the last few things we need to complete before the school year turns the page. Sharing summer plans and goals are the central topics of end-of-the-year faculty meetings and luncheons. It’s also a time for ironing out details like host families and new student buddies for the next academic year. But June 2020 is not a typical June to say the least. As I reflect on the conversations I’ve had this month and what was said and asked, I also ponder what was really said and asked. There is a difference. And it brings me to some thoughts on defining our new rules of engagement.

I have yet to meet an Admission and Enrollment professional who got into this work because they wanted to “win” or "beat" the neighboring school or cross-application institution. I also have yet to meet someone in this profession who has sought personal and professional pleasure in bottom-line success at the expense of mission promise and student alignment and success. Are these aspects of the push-pull of our work? Yes, as we all know, the most extensive line item in a school's operating budget depends on revenue, and revenue represented by student enrollment in particular. But you can achieve these goals in the short run and maintain your professionalism if you remain authentically you.

No one needs to be reminded that this year is drastically different than anything anyone has ever seen or experienced. Everything and everyone is different. Everyone is uncertain, a bit scared, and scrambling to find a set of to-dos and actions that will enable our communities to come back and "open" (and even that word has variations in meaning these days). Families are searching for answers to problems that they need to solve, and so are you. So I say this as a lesson for schools. During this time of crisis and pain – ask yourself – is this me and is this us? And if the answer is no, then pause, regroup, and return to your core values.

I believe in the power of a simple thank you. I believe in the power of human kindness. I also believe we will be remembered by how we acted and led in this most challenging of times. And just as importantly, I believe Admission and Enrollment Professionals are essential workers. We are the facilitators of change. That’s why I believe this time in our world is our time as a profession. Our schools and our communities will benefit from the power of our art and science. Now is the time to instill trust and drive vision and that can only be done by adhering to our sensibilities and best practices. No matter where you are in your journey, always be curious so you learn and grow. No matter the challenges and obstacles, remain hopeful and visionary. No matter the uncertainty of the future, know you make a difference and remember we all are at our best when we come to understand our intentions and stay true to ourselves. Put your personal stamp on your work and professional brand. Authenticity counts.

ETHICAL BEHAVIOR AND BEST PRACTICES    LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK