Shows
Higher Education, Higher PurposeA New Model for Christian Higher Ed: The Hope Forward StoryWhat if students could attend college without paying a cent upfront, and instead, give back after they graduate?In this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, we sit down with Nicole Dunteman, Director of the Hope Forward program at Hope College, to explore a bold new approach to college funding. Hope Forward flips the traditional tuition model on its head by offering students a fully funded education rooted in the values of generosity and community. In return, graduates commit to supporting the next generation of students, creating a sustainable cycle of giving.Nicole...2025-06-3023 min
The Higher Ed MarketerThe Calling to Recruit: Why Faith Still Matters in Higher Ed MarketingFaith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 207 (2 of 4)In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer and Pastor) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week they engage in meaningful conversations with Christian higher ed leaders from across the country.This week they’re joined by Dr. Phil Cook, President of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP). With over 30 years of experience in enrollment and leadership, Phil shares how Christian colleges can balance performance with purpose—navigating enrollment pressures while stay...2025-06-1039 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeMission First: Montreat College’s Bold Vision for Christ-Centered EducationIn this episode, Dr. Paul Maurer shares the extraordinary transformation of Montreat College during his tenure as president. Once on the brink of closure, the college experienced a dramatic turnaround sparked by a timely and unexpected financial pledge—what Dr. Maurer describes as nothing short of divine intervention. At the heart of Montreat’s revival has been a renewed, Christ-centered identity that brought clarity, unity, and purpose to its mission. Under Dr. Maurer’s leadership, the college has not only rebounded but flourished, achieving record enrollment and earning national recognition, especially in the field of cybersecurity. Listen...2025-05-1226 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeRelentless Forward Progress at Malone UniversityIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast host Phil Cook speaks with Dr. Greg Miller, President of Malone University. Dr. Miller shares how a Christian college offers not merely academic instruction but also a spiritual framework that significantly influences students' lives during formative years. He emphasizes the necessity for institutions like Malone to integrate faith into every aspect of their curriculum, fostering an environment where students can thrive both academically and spiritually. Throughout our conversation, we reflect on the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges within the realm of higher education, underscoring t...2025-03-2426 min
KC360's Navigating College Search and Admission PodcastPhil Cook with Resources for Students Deciding Where to Go to College!Phil Cook from NACCAP discusses great resources for YOU! Search Site: https://www.findyourchristiancollege.com/schoolsearchTHE Guide: https://www.findyourchristiancollege.com/the-guideSend us a textUnlock the secrets to scholarships for college!Do you want to know how to find funding to offset your financial position for college? I'm here to help you make it happen!Support the show2025-03-0317 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight, Dr. James Steen, Houston Christian UniversityIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Dr. James Steen, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing at Houston Christian University. With over 19 years of experience at HCU, Dr. Steen discusses his journey from being a tour guide at Baylor University to leading significant enrollment growth and navigating a recent rebranding initiative. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by Christian institutions in a competitive market and emphasizes the need for collaboration among schools to foster student engagement and spiritual growth. Dr. Steen reflects on the value of community...2024-12-1627 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Meghan Taylor, Redeemer UniversityIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Meghan Taylor, the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at Redeemer University. Meghan shares her inspiring journey toward a career in Christian higher education and discusses her personal experience of making a significant college choice that shaped her professional path. Meghan highlights the unique challenges faced by Canadian universities, such as differences in financial aid processes compared to the U.S., and how Redeemer has thrived despite these obstacles. With a focus on building genuine relationships with prospective students, she underscores...2024-12-0926 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Dr. Dee McDonald, Crown CollegeIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Dr. Dee McDonald, Vice President of Enrollment and Marketing at Crown College. With over 15 years of experience, Dee highlights how a deep commitment to Christian values can lead to institutional growth and student transformation. He reflects on his personal story of initially resisting attending his alma mater, Olivet Nazarene University, only to find it was exactly where he needed to be, and how that experience shaped his career path. Dee emphasizes the significance of mentorship and community in his life and...2024-12-0226 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Joan Vos, Chattanooga Christian School (TN)In this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Joan Vos, the Director of Academic and College Counseling at Chattanooga Christian School. With over 35 years in education, Joan emphasizes the need for educators to "shoot at the heart," focusing on the unique gifts and callings of each student rather than simply adhering to rules and guidelines. She discusses her journey from teaching to counseling, highlighting how her faith has shaped her approach to supporting students in their academic and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the challenges presented by...2024-11-2529 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Dr. Scott Van Loo, Cedarville UniversityIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Dr. Scott Van Loo, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Cedarville University. Dr. Van Loo shares his insights on the unique qualities that have contributed to Cedarville's recent success in Christian higher education. With a steadfast commitment to its mission and a vibrant campus community, Cedarville attracts students nationwide who seek a Christ-centered education. Phil, Heidi, and Dr. Van Loo discuss the significance of fostering a supportive environment for students to grow in their faith. What You Will Learn:2024-11-1826 min
Students IncorporatedCollege Admissions 101: Insider Tips from the Experts | Episode 75What do college admissions reps really look for? In this episode, we sit down with a panel from NACCAP to break down the admissions process, debunk common myths, and share expert tips on finding the right college for you. Don’t miss this practical and insightful conversation!2024-11-1337 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Amanda Slaughter, Bethel University (IN)In this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Amanda Slaughter, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Bethel University. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from dropping out of high school to pursuing higher education and building a successful career in Christian education. Phil, Heidi, and Amanda discuss the challenges faced in the current higher education landscape, the need for agility in enrollment strategies to adapt to shifting demographics and student needs, and the significance of integrating faith with work.What You Will Learn:Amanda's journey from dropping o...2024-11-1123 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Willem de Ruijter, Geneva CollegeIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm speak with Willem de Ruijter, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing at Geneva College. Willem shares his unique journey and how attending a Christian college offers an environment for personal and spiritual formation during a pivotal time in young adults' lives. Willem reflects on his cross-cultural experiences growing up between the Netherlands and Canada, which inform his approach to enrollment management and the importance of diverse perspectives in education. Listen as Phil, Heidi, and Willem discuss the vital role that c...2024-10-2819 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Mike Harper, Trinity Academy (KS)In this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm sit down with Mike Harper, Director of Vocational Guidance at Trinity Academy. Mike shares his insights on guiding high school students in discovering their vocations and the value of Christian higher education. With nearly a decade of experience at Trinity, Mike emphasizes the importance of helping students understand themselves and their place in God's kingdom, viewing them as "wet cement" that needs shaping during their formative years. Listen as Phil, Heidi, and Mike discuss the challenges of serving in a college-going c...2024-10-2121 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Dr. Mildred Similton, Hickory Grove Christian SchoolIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm sit down with Dr. Mildred Similton, the Administrator for Student Services at Hickory Grove Christian School. Dr. Similton shares her unique faith journey and how a transformative experience in her young adult life led her to a profound commitment to Christian education. She outlines her engagement with NACCAP, the enriching professional development opportunities, and the powerful sense of community she found in the organization. Join us this week as Phil, Heidi, and Dr. Similton discuss how to best support students, prepare them f...2024-10-0320 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Board Spotlight: Dr. Anthony Turner, Charleston Southern UniversityIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm sit down with Dr. Anthony Turner, a prominent figure in the field of enrollment management. Dr. Turner shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading voice in Christian higher education. Phil, Heidi, and Dr. Turner discuss the vital importance of networking, data-driven decision-making, and maintaining a work-life balance. Join us this week to gain insights into the enrollment industry's current landscape, the importance of building a supportive team culture, and the profound impact of Christian higher education. Qu...2024-09-2623 min
The Higher Ed MarketerThe Enrollment Cliff: Tim Fuller's PerspectiveIn early 2023, Bart’s mentor and a dear friend of the show, Tim Fuller, joined us for an insightful conversation about the demographic enrollment cliff.Tim unexpectedly passed away a few short months after this episode originally aired. As a lifelong advocate for higher education, Tim’s passion for helping academic institutions and the students they serve was evident to anyone who had the privilege of knowing him.His observations from our original discussion around the upcoming enrollment cliff are still incredibly relevant, and we encourage all of our listeners to revisit them. From proper data...2024-08-1342 min
Biblical Higher Ed TalkNavigating the Enrollment Cliff: People-First AdmissionsThe dreaded two words we hear time and time again: “enrollment cliff.”Although the enrollment cliff is inevitable, it may be an opportunity for your institution to prove what truly makes it unique.Even amidst the FAFSA challenges, admissions offices can remain people-focused and show what differentiates your university from the next.Your institution will not only change a student's life but can change them eternally.Phil Cook, President of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP), shares his perspective on the privilege of working unde...2024-05-2133 min
Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO — with Jaime HuntEp. 50: The Art of Attraction: Balance Brand and Lead GenerationAttracting the “right” kind of student is one way that institutions can position themselves to thrive amid the approaching enrollment cliff. In this episode, Jaime talks with Bart Caylor, president of Caylor Solutions and author of “Chasing Mission Fit” about just that – and how schools can effectively market and brand themselves to reach those students.Takeaways for this episode include:What it means to find a "mission fit student" and how institutions can effectively identify themTips to make your marketing and branding dollars stretch to the maxGuidance on how schools with limited dollars can prioritize their spending t...2024-04-1259 min
College and Career ClarityHelping Your Teen Pick the Right Major and Career with Deborah AllenIn this episode Lisa and Deborah discuss:How to guide your teen through college and career discernment. The crucial role self-awareness through ongoing reflection and family conversations.Types of real-world experiences that allow teens to explore interests and develop skills. Supporting, not leading, your teen through their journey of building professional connections and independence. Key Takeaways: No matter how many resources your student’s school has, work still needs to be done at the family level, especially around self-awareness. “Knowing thyself” is the purpose of education. It is about more than just a final destination; it is rathe...2024-04-0227 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Conference 2024 Preview: Part 2In this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm talk with Dean Wilson, a multifaceted professional with a rich history across various sectors, including finance, real estate, ministry, and media. Dean reflects on his past, including his tenure at Westmont College and his triumphant battle with addiction. He shares powerful lessons on resilience, hope, and the divine grace that guided his path to recovery and self-discovery. Phil, Heidi, and Dean discuss the transformative power of suffering when it is met with faith and perseverance. Join us this week from the N...2024-03-1926 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP Conference 2024 PreviewIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm talk with Dr. Marcus "Goodie" Goodloe, the keynote speaker for the upcoming NACCAP annual conference at Westmont College. From his roots in South Central Los Angeles to his esteemed academic and advisory roles, Dr. Goodloe brings a message of excellence and influence shaped by the teachings of Jesus. Phil, Heidi, and Dr. Goodloe explore the inspirational themes set to be unraveled at the conference, aiming to rekindle a passion for admissions professionals and educators.Listen this week as Dr. Goodloe shares...2024-03-0525 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeHow 2 Win ScholarshipsIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast hosts Phil Cook and Heidi Sturm delve into the critical world of college scholarships with scholarship strategist Monica Matthews. Revered as the "Scholarship Mom", Monica comes with a wealth of experience in helping parents and students secure college scholarships. She discusses her smart method for standing out in scholarship applications, which includes sharing personal details, marketing yourself, answering essay questions, reviewing guidelines, and getting trusted eyes to proofread your application. Monica emphasizes the importance of partnering with your student and offers advice on when to start applying for scholarships. 2024-01-1921 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP: 2023 in ReviewIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, we reflect on the NACCAP organization's achievements in 2023 and outline our plans for 2024. We discuss successful events, the launch of Wednesday webinars, and the amazing addition of Janet Pargeter to our team. We talk about the importance of research in Christian education and the continuation of NACCAP's primary research projects. We also announce our upcoming conference at Westmont College and the launch of ChristianGradSchools.com. Listen as we speak with Dr. Molly Smith and discuss the valuable contributions of retiring members.“We're looking because there is a hi...2024-01-0524 min
Meet The Difference Makers009 Shaping Lives Through Faith and Education with Phil Cook►► From generic testimonials to compelling narratives that inspire action. Download my FREE Testimonial Capture Checklist and start transforming your university's stories today → enrollfilms.com/checklist
In this episode of "Meet the Difference Makers," host Ryan Koral engages with Phil Cook, President and CEO of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals. They discuss the transformative impact of Christian higher education, the importance of personal and faith-based growth, and the power of storytelling in shaping students' lives.
Takeaways:
The significant role of faith and personal growth in higher education.
The importance of resilience and persev...2024-01-0133 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeVocational DiscipleshipNACCAP: 2023 in ReviewIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, we speak with Tami Peterson, former teacher, counselor, administrator, and director of college advising. With decades of experience in the field of education, Tami is the founder and CEO of Life Architects Coaching, where she provides coaching services to Christian secondary schools, universities, and working professionals. She shares her passion for vocational discipleship, helping young people discover their calling, and equipping them for their God-given purpose. Listen as we explore college admissions, career paths, and vocational discipleship.“An area that has surprised me...2023-12-1530 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeFAFSA Changes with Ed ReckerIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Ed Recker, Director of High School Relationship Management with Sallie Mae. Ed discusses the changes happening with the FAFSA and why it is undergoing significant changes to simplify the application process and integrate it with the IRS to automatically retrieve tax information. Ed shares why it is important to apply for an FSA ID, which acts as an electronic signature for federal financial aid documents. He encourages families to extend grace and patience to colleges and universities as they navigate the new FAFSA process...2023-09-0428 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeNACCAP K-12 Membership Benefits: Janet PargeterIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Janet Pargeter, a retired guidance counselor with 22 years of experience. Janet shares her insights on the importance of networking and building relationships with other counselors to share knowledge and experiences, as well as to provide support and encouragement. She also discusses the benefits of being a NAACAP member, including access to the counselor certification program, fly and drive-ins, Christian college fairs, and the counselor boot camp. Janet offers advice to admissions representatives on building strong relationships with students and parents.“Having relationships wi...2023-08-2835 min
College and Career ClarityWho Should Consider Christian Colleges with Jeremiah GoniaIn this episode, Lisa and Jeremiah discuss:The nuances of the student experience at Christian colleges and universities. The evolution of Christian colleges. Majors that are commonly found at Christian universities and combined programs to meet your career goals. The student experience for students of all faiths when attending a Christian college. Key Takeaways: Not all Christian universities are part of the CCCU. There are other options for finding additional Christian colleges and universities around the country. No two schools are alike, especially in Christian Universities. Do your research to find what works for your studen...2023-06-2726 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeThe 2023 NACCAP Conference: The Power of Your Story with Chris SingletonIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Chris Singleton, a former professional athlete, an inspirational speaker, and a best-selling author. Chris has been sharing his story and a message of unity and racial reconciliation since the loss of his mother in a racially motivated mass shooting in 2017. Chris shares his journey of choosing forgiveness in response to the tragedy and how his faith has been strengthened. He also talks about the importance of sharing our personal stories, the power of activism, and how we can choose how we respond to what...2023-03-1738 min
Navigating Your Child's Education: A Podcast for ParentsIs faith-based education still relevant today?Faith-based K-12 school enrollment is rising, while faith-based colleges across the country have declined in recent years. Educational choices at both the K-12 and college levels are critical in the overall development of children. What is the best environment for a child? What priorities make it to the top of a family's list? What is the true cost of faith-based education in comparison to its returns? Dr. Phil Cook, Executive Director of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP), lends nearly 30 years of experience in the realm of faith-based education admissions to us in discussing these questions...2023-02-0123 min
Real Life With Pamela LauWhat is Christian Leadership? A Conversation with Lindsay Knox, Vice President, Enrollment and MarketingI am honored to connect with Lindsay Knox on my show today! She is currently serving as the Vice President for Enrollment at Marketing at George Fox University. In what has become a unique professional story, Lindsay has spent all of her 17 year career in higher education at George Fox. She started in an entry level position and worked her way up to joining the President's Executive Leadership Team in the summer of 2020. Her expertise is primarily in student recruitment tactics & financial aid leveraging. Her enrollment teams are industry leaders known for their innovative strategies and high achieving results.
By f...2023-01-1054 min
Anchored by the Classic Learning TestPhil Cook on Nurturing Faith in Higher EducationOn this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Phil Cook, Executive Director of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP). Phil discusses his time serving as Vice President of Enrollment at Lee University, where he and the college administration sought to foster Christ-centered and academically excellent education. Phil shares the importance of nurturing faith in higher education and why parents should make the investment in private Christian colleges for their children. He discusses NACCAP's work to advance enrollment in Christian higher education through Christian University & College Fairs.2022-09-1529 min
Enrollment Edge by enrollmentFUELEpisode 41—The State of the Enrollment Profession: Research ReviewOn this Episode of the Enrollment Edge, Jay welcomes Tim Fuller back to talk about the big picture of the profession of enrollment management. For most of Tim’s 40-year career in higher ed, he’s conducted research on every imaginable topic related to enrollment management. In his most recent survey, The State of the Enrollment Profession at NACCAP Institutions, 2022 Edition – Tim uncovers some realities of enrollment professionals career development, organizational structure, reporting lines, longevity, and decision-making authority. After digging into the research, we come away with some hopeful news and some rough news. Enrollment leaders will want to catch...2022-09-1451 min
Enrollment Edge by enrollmentFUELEpisode 39—Paying Attention to the Gender GapOn this episode of the Enrollment Edge I talk to Dr. Scott Shoemaker, Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Retention at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. During Scott’s 30+ years in enrollment, he’s seen high and lows of recruitment that are often tied to the ebb and flow of demographics. However, the current environment of shrinking college going populations has his attention. For years, PLNU has focused attention on gender balance in their student body - called shaping the class. Yet, each year, recruiting male students is getting more and more challenging. In this...2022-08-1753 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeACT or SAT? Prepping for Standardized TestsIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Jen Hensen, aka The Goal Digger and a nationally sought after test prep expert specializing in the ACT test. Jen talks about the recent changes in testing and what it means to prospective college students. She also discusses the difference between the ACT and SAT and if a student should take both. “I think it’s really important for families to hear that it is based on what math the student is in.” - Jen Hensen [26:55]2022-03-1532 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeCoaching Your Athletic Student Through the Recruiting ProcessIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Renee Lopez, author, speaker, trainer, and coach. As a seventeen-year coaching veteran, Renee is an expert in the college recruiting process, leadership training and team culture development. She shares why it’s important for the prospective student athlete to communicate with the college coaches and why Christian universities might be the right fit. She also discusses why parents and students should choose a college that passes the broken leg test. “You want to choose a college that, first...2022-03-1531 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeCommunication With Your Teen During the College Search ProcessIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Dr. Les Parrott and Dr. Leslie Parrott, New York Times best-selling authors focused on building healthy relationships. They discuss the importance of empathy and mutual understanding when it comes to listening to your kids. They share their own experiences as parents, and tips on how to speak into your children’s lives and connect them with resources as they decide what college they want to attend. “Mutual understanding. There has to be a sense your son, your daughter feels understood in wh...2022-03-1530 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeIs It Worth It? Making The Case For Higher Ed. Making The Case For Christian Higher Ed.In this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Dr. Gene Habecker, the President Emeritus of Taylor University and author of “The Softer Side of Leadership”, essential soft skills that transform leaders and the people they lead. As a parent and leader, Dr. Habecker talks about the misconceptions about Christian schools and the importance of seeking help and support when choosing a school with your child. He shares many of the factors that are important to consider when deciding between higher education and Christian higher education. “The audience of one that...2022-03-1546 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeChristian Grad SchoolsIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Dr. Denise Cunningham, Director of Initiatives for NACCAP. Cunningham has over 20 years of experience in higher education and shares how students and families can make an informed decision when pursuing graduate schools. Cunningham founded Christiangradschools.com as a resource to give prospective students a chance to see what Christian grad schools and seminary schools are available to them.“While education is really important, it is also important to realize we ar...2022-03-1519 minHigher Education, Higher PurposeAdmission Trends: Looking Back, Looking Ahead, and the Impact Of COVIDIn this episode of the Higher Education, Higher Purpose podcast, host Phil Cook speaks with Chant Thompson, Executive Director at the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals. Thompson shares his experiences at NACCAP and the changes he has witnessed during his 28 years working in higher education. He discusses his desire to build bridges between universities and families that create enriched outcomes for students and better college experiences.“There is no reason to rush through your education. There is no reason to short circuit it in any way sh...2022-03-1535 minThe Higher Ed MarketerBreathing Life into Higher Education w/ Experiential StorytellingWith the shift to online schooling and a decrease in enthusiasm for liberal arts, it’s more important than ever to emphasize how the story told by in-person higher ed impacts a student’s life more than any other learning experience: critical thinking skills that can be used in any profession; a community of students eager to help each other; and a call to storytelling—creating leaders that others can see themselves in.
Phil Cook, VP for Enrollment at Lee University, joins the show to discuss the importance of higher education and its impact for the future...2021-07-1332 min