Talking Tactics4 Feb 2025

Ep. 44: Using Short GIFs To Win Back Students

Sean Whitten, Senior Director of Enrollment Services at Southern Methodist University, is redefining how admission counselors handle one of the toughest parts of their job: letting go of students who choose another path. With empathy at the forefront, Sean created a clever, heartfelt tactic to celebrate the relationships built with students and families—a simple yet impactful goodbye video. Not only does this video leave a positive impression, but it’s also driving surprising results, with about 10% of students who initially withdraw deciding to come back!

Guest Name: Sean Whitten, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Southern Methodist University

Guest Social: www.linkedin.com/in/seanewhitten

Guest Bio: Sean Whitten works as the inaugural Director of Strategic Partnerships for Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, TX. Known for his imaginative learning approach and curiosity, Sean fosters inclusive environments that elevate and empower families, staff, and students in the college admission process and on campus. His 14 years of work span college admissions, enrollment management, and communications and marketing.

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Connect With Our Host:
Safaniya Stevenson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/

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