In this episode of In Your Element, Cherron R. Hoppes, EdD, Chief Experience Officer at Notre Dame de Namur University, shares her extensive experience in higher education leadership, focusing on change management and technology adoption. With a background spanning student affairs, enrollment management, and academic program development, Cherron discusses the importance of empathy, strategic thinking, and clear communication in successfully leading change initiatives, particularly when introducing new technology in higher ed. She also highlights the value of understanding the "why" behind decisions and the dangers of over-customization.

Key Takeaways:

• The significance of starting with a clear "why" when implementing change.
• Strategies for maintaining focus on what truly matters during change management.
• The importance of empathy and realistic expectations in tech implementation.
• The risk of over-customization and its impact on technology effectiveness.
• The evolving role of the Chief Experience Officer in creating student-centric environments.
• How cross-departmental experience provides a strategic advantage in higher ed leadership.

Calls to Action:

• Consider how your institution approaches change—are you prioritizing the right "why"?
• Evaluate your current use of technology; is it optimized, or are you over-customizing?
• Reflect on your team’s empathy and communication strategies during transitions.
• Explore the role of a Chief Experience Officer and its potential impact on your campus.
• Stay connected with In Your Element for more insights from higher ed leaders like Cherron.

Guest Name: Cherron R Hoppes, EdD, Chief Experience Officer, Notre Dame de Namur

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherronhoppes/

Guest Bio: Cherron Hoppes is a seasoned higher education professional specializing in academic administration, enrollment management, and technology to support student services. She has diverse experience in mid-sized public and small private institutions, working with traditional undergraduates and adult learners. Cherron offers thought leadership through conferences, webinars, and collaborations, helping over 35 universities enhance student engagement and retention. Her expertise spans enrollment management consulting, operations assessment, instructional design, and learning outcomes assessment. She contributes part-time to Notre Dame de Namur University, focusing on strategic turnaround, and Texas A&M Kingsville, facilitating change management.
Previously, Cherron was the Chief Academic Officer at Ruffalo Noel Levitz and Helix Education, and Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University’s Ageno School of Business. Her responsibilities included managing outreach, admissions, academic advising, international student services, career services, counseling, disability services, student life, graduation certification, and commencement. She also taught business management, American government, and student success courses as an adjunct faculty member.
Cherron holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice and an M.P.A. from New Mexico State University, and an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from The University of Alabama.

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Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Daniella Nordin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellanordin/
Brendan Henkel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bkhenkel/

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
In Your Element 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 Higher Ed Pulse.

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