ByStaff
What are the primary goals you aim to achieve in your role as a recruiter for Stillman College?
In my role as a recruiter for Stillman College, my primary goals center around building a diverse, engaged, and successful student body that aligns with the values and mission of the institution. I aim to empower Black students by showcasing the unique opportunities and community that Stillman College offers, seeing Stillman as a space where they can celebrate their heritage while preparing for a successful future. This means connecting with students who are eager to embrace the nurturing and transformative experience of an HBCU.
First and foremost, my goal is to increase awareness of Stillman College and its unique offerings, particularly to students who may not initially consider an HBCU. I aim to educate prospective students about the academic excellence, community, and opportunities available at Stillman so they can make informed decisions about their college journey. Through targeted outreach and engagement, I want to ensure that every student I connect with understands the full potential of what Stillman has to offer.
Another key goal is to attract students who will not only succeed academically but also thrive within the Stillman community. I strive to recruit individuals who are passionate about their education, committed to personal growth, and eager to contribute to the campus culture. I also focus on building a diverse pipeline of talent from underserved communities, ensuring that every student has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Ultimately, my goal is to help students and their families feel proud of their decision to join the Stillman family while creating pathways to success that uplift the Black community as a whole. It’s important to me that the students I bring in are aligned with Stillman’s values of empowerment, leadership, and social responsibility. By identifying students who will thrive in this supportive, close-knit environment, I can help ensure that both their academic and personal needs are met.
Lastly, I aim to create lasting relationships with students, their families, and the broader Stillman community. Recruitment is not just about bringing in students for one semester; it’s about building long-term connections that will benefit the institution and its students for years to come. My goal is to make every student feel like a valued part of the Stillman family and to foster relationships with alumni, community leaders, and other stakeholders who can contribute to the success and growth of our college. By achieving these goals, I can help continue to build Stillman College as a premier destination for higher education with a strong, diverse, and engaged student body.
How do you measure success in recruiting students to Stillman College?
Success in recruiting isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making a meaningful impact on the lives of Black students and their families. I measure success by how well I can inspire students to see themselves thriving at Stillman, academically and socially. I can also measure success by the level of engagement and interest students have in Stillman. When prospective students attend events, reach out with questions, or engage on social media, it shows that they’re considering Stillman as a viable option. The number of meaningful interactions—whether in-person, virtual, or through emails—helps me gauge how well I’m connecting with potential students and addressing their needs.
Another important measure of success is the diversity and fit of the students I recruit. It’s not just about bringing in a large number of students but ensuring that those who are admitted truly align with Stillman’s values and culture. I pay close attention to the academic achievements, backgrounds, and personal goals of the students I recruit, ensuring that they will thrive within the Stillman community. I also track how many of the recruited students continue their journey at Stillman, looking at retention rates as an indicator of the quality of students we’re bringing in and their satisfaction with the college.
Lastly, I consider the impact of my recruitment efforts on building the Stillman College brand and community. This includes how effectively I’m spreading awareness of Stillman’s offerings and cultivating a positive, lasting impression of the institution. Success can also be measured by the number of referrals I receive from alumni, current students, and other recruits who are passionate about recommending Stillman to others. When students not only enroll but also become advocates for the college, it shows that my recruitment efforts are contributing to the long-term success and growth of the Stillman family.
What resources have been most critical for your success as a recruiter?
One of the most critical resources is the college’s dedicated admissions and financial aid teams. These departments are invaluable in providing up-to-date information about scholarships, financial aid options, and the application process, which helps me guide students more effectively. By working closely with these teams, I can ensure that I’m equipped with the most accurate and detailed information to address students’ concerns and answer their questions on the spot. This seamless collaboration has allowed me to provide personalized and responsive support, which builds trust with prospective families.
Relationships have also been a resource in recruiting for Stillman College, particularly with alumni, Black community leaders, and high school educators. Alumni networks provide powerful testimonials that resonate deeply with prospective students and their families. Social media has been invaluable for amplifying Stillman’s message and reaching students in innovative and relatable ways. I leverage these tools to reach a broader audience, especially students from outside Alabama or those who may not be aware of Stillman College. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn are essential for sharing engaging content, student success stories, and virtual campus tours, allowing prospective students to connect with the college in a way that feels personal and accessible. Social media has become a powerful tool for building relationships and keeping prospective students engaged throughout the recruitment process. Finally, one of the most valuable resources has been the Stillman alumni network. As an alum myself, I understand the power of alumni connections, and I use this network to offer prospective students real-life examples of how Stillman College has impacted careers and personal growth. Alumni are always eager to give back and share their experiences, which helps provide students with a fuller understanding of the potential Stillman holds for them. Whether through formal events, informal conversations, or mentorship opportunities, the alumni network has been a key asset in helping to build credibility and attract students to Stillman.
What specific tools, technologies, or community partnerships do you believe would enhance recruiting efforts?
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have become critical tools for reaching prospective students and have allowed me to showcase the authentic Stillman experience through student takeovers, campus highlights, and real-time Q&A sessions, engaging with younger audiences in a relatable way. To add to that, I believe a combination of innovative technologies and intentional community partnerships is key to enhancing recruiting efforts. On the technology side, tools like personalized CRM systems can streamline communication with prospective students, while virtual reality tours can bring Stillman’s vibrant campus to life for those who may not be able to visit in person and extend our reach beyond local regions.
Community partnerships are equally critical. Programs like STARZ and B.E.T.H.E.L Alternative School provide direct pathways to students who might otherwise fall through the cracks, creating pathways for students who may not have taken traditional routes to higher education. I’m also interested in working with Cornerstone Christian Correspondence School, which helps students earn accredited high school diplomas and transcripts, making college enrollment at Stillman a realistic goal. These partnerships not only widen access to higher education but also reinforce Stillman’s commitment to serving the Black community and fostering upward mobility. This ensures that students see Stillman not only as an option but also as the option that believes in their potential. By combining technology with community-driven initiatives, we can amplify our recruitment efforts and make a more significant impact. Together, these tools and collaborations ensure that we meet students where they are and guide them toward a brighter future at Stillman.
How do you leverage alumni or community involvement to support your recruiting efforts?
Leverage of alumni and community involvement is one of the most powerful tools in my recruiting strategy. As a 2022 graduate of Stillman College, I understand firsthand the value of staying connected to the institution and the community that shaped my experience. I actively engage with alumni networks, both in-person and virtually, to promote the benefits of Stillman to prospective students and share their journeys for inspiration. One way I do this is by organizing events where alumni share their success stories with current high school students or prospective applicants. These alumni testimonials often resonate deeply with students, as they can see real-life examples of how Stillman shaped our careers and personal growth.
In addition to alumni engagement, partnerships with churches, civic organizations, and Black community leaders allow me to build trust and visibility in key areas.
I work closely with local community organizations to extend the reach of my recruiting efforts. For example, I partner with local high schools, churches, and youth programs to host informational sessions or workshops that explain the opportunities available at Stillman. Community members are often the first to encourage students to pursue higher education, and having a connection to someone in the Stillman family can make all the difference. I leverage these relationships to build trust with both students and their families, making the recruiting process feel more personal and accessible.
Alumni involvement also extends to creating scholarship opportunities or mentorship programs for prospective students. By tapping into the alumni network, I can offer students insights and guidance on what to expect at Stillman and how to navigate the challenges of college life. This involvement not only supports the recruiting process but also reinforces the idea that Stillman College is a lifelong community. It’s a powerful tool that strengthens the bond between current and prospective students, alumni, and the surrounding community, all of whom contribute to the success of the college’s recruiting efforts.
Stillman alumni have achieved remarkable success and serve as living proof of the transformative power of an HBCU education.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face while recruiting students for Stillman College?
One of the biggest challenges I face while recruiting students for Stillman College is navigating systemic barriers that disproportionately impact Black students, such as limited access to college counseling or financial resources. For many, the cost of higher education can be a significant barrier, especially when they are unsure of how financial aid, scholarships, and grants work. As someone who has been through the financial aid process myself, I understand these concerns deeply. To address this challenge, I make sure to provide clear, personalized guidance about financial aid options, and I collaborate closely with the financial aid office to ensure students and families are equipped with the knowledge they need. I also highlight the various scholarships and support services available to help students manage the cost of education, ensuring that they see Stillman as a feasible and worthwhile investment.
Another challenge is addressing the misconceptions about what life at an HBCU can offer, particularly for students who may not be familiar with the unique experience at Stillman College. Some students may not initially understand how an HBCU environment fosters personal and academic growth, and it’s my job to highlight the value of our community, diversity, and academic programs. I find that a key part of overcoming this challenge is showing them the tight-knit, supportive family that Stillman truly is. Once students and their families experience the campus, engage with current students, and hear from alumni, it becomes clear how transformative the environment is, and this often changes their perspective on what it means to attend an HBCU.
Lastly, one challenge I face is connecting with students from more distant regions who may not initially consider Stillman because of its location. While our college has a strong national reputation, reaching students from states far outside Alabama can be tough, as they may not have the same awareness or connection to the school. To overcome this, I use a mix of virtual recruitment events, social media outreach, and alumni connections to broaden our reach. By showcasing success stories and offering virtual campus tours or informational sessions, I can help prospective students from different parts of the country feel more connected to Stillman and excited about the opportunities we provide. Emphasizing the collective achievements and support systems of the Stillman network, I show students that they’re joining a legacy of excellence and empowerment.
How do you address misconceptions or lack of awareness about Stillman College as an HBCU?
Addressing misconceptions or lack of awareness about Stillman College as an HBCU is an important part of my recruiting process. Many students and families, especially those who are unfamiliar with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, may not fully understand what makes Stillman unique or why attending an HBCU can be such a transformative experience. One of the most common misconceptions I encounter is the belief that an HBCU experience is limited or isolated in some way. To counter this, I emphasize that Stillman College offers a rich, diverse, and inclusive environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive. I highlight the various academic programs, the diversity of our student body, and the vibrant campus life that welcomes individuals from different walks of life.
A key aspect of addressing these misconceptions is showing prospective students the strong sense of community and support that HBCUs provide. I share my own personal experiences as a graduate of Stillman, explaining how the college’s values of empowerment, leadership, and academic excellence have shaped me into the professional I am today. I also highlight the career support, alumni network, and mentorship opportunities that are unique to the HBCU experience. This connection to a larger, supportive network is something that many students don’t realize they gain by attending an HBCU, and it’s something I make sure to stress during recruitment.
Additionally, I leverage the experiences of our current students and alumni. I often organize events where prospective students can hear directly from those who have been through the Stillman experience. Whether it’s a panel discussion with alumni or a current student sharing their journey, these personal stories help dispel myths and give prospective students a clearer picture of what life at an HBCU is really like. Through these conversations, students gain a better understanding of the unique advantages of attending an HBCU, from the strong cultural heritage to the personalized academic attention. Once they see the full picture, many students realize that attending an HBCU like Stillman College is not just an option—it’s a powerful opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Have you encountered resistance or difficulty in connecting with certain demographics or regions? If so, how do you overcome it?
Yes, I’ve encountered challenges connecting with students from rural or economically disadvantaged areas, where resources and awareness about college options may be limited. To overcome this, I partner with local leaders and organizations who have established trust in these communities. I also focus on culturally relevant outreach that speaks directly to Black students and their families’ aspirations and needs. By being present at local events, hosting accessible virtual sessions, and ensuring my approach is both empathetic and empowering, I’ve been able to break down barriers and foster excitement about the possibilities at Stillman College.
This is also true when recruiting students from outside the Southeastern U.S. or those who are unfamiliar with HBCUs. For some students, especially from areas where HBCUs aren’t as well known, there can be a sense of uncertainty or hesitation about choosing a school far from home. Additionally, some students from more urban areas may have preconceived notions about attending a smaller, rural college or may not be aware of the benefits of an HBCU education.
To overcome these challenges, I focus on creating more personalized and accessible recruitment experiences. I regularly use virtual platforms for information sessions, webinars, and virtual tours to reach students who may be unable to visit campus in person. By showcasing the strengths of Stillman College—such as our academic programs, faculty, and unique campus culture—I can break down barriers and give students a better sense of what it means to be part of the Stillman family. Virtual events also allow me to address questions and concerns in real time, building trust and rapport even from a distance.
Another strategy I use is connecting prospective students with alumni or current students from similar backgrounds or regions. I’ve found that when students hear directly from someone who shares their experiences, they can better envision themselves at Stillman College. For example, I make sure to highlight alumni success stories from regions where we don’t have a large presence. Additionally, I often use social media platforms to share student experiences, campus life, and academic opportunities in ways that resonate with different demographics. This helps to reach students who may not have otherwise considered Stillman College, showing them that it’s a place where they can thrive, no matter where they come from.
Can you share your most memorable success story from your time recruiting for Stillman College?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my recruitment journey has been bringing family and friends into the Stillman fold. Recruiting my niece, nephew, and cousin from Paterson, New Jersey, was a deeply personal milestone for me. As a 2022 graduate with a degree in Business Administration, seeing them walk the same paths I once did and embrace the core values of Stillman College made my work even more meaningful. It gave me the chance to share the transformative experiences I had and show them the tight-knit community that shaped my own journey.
Additionally, recruiting two talented students from California stands out as a key moment in my work. Their decision to attend Stillman highlights our institution’s national appeal and emphasizes how our mission resonates beyond regional borders. It was a great example of how Stillman’s values connect with students from diverse backgrounds and how our college offers opportunities that go beyond the local community.
These experiences reaffirmed my belief that Stillman isn’t just a college; it’s a family that only gets stronger with each new member. Whether I’m recruiting my own family or students from across the country, the sense of community, support, and shared values makes this work so rewarding. I’m proud to help build that family and to witness how it continues to grow.
Social Media
