As someone who deeply appreciates the magic of storytelling—a passion ignited by my mother, an elementary reading teacher in my hometown of Waterville, Maine—I’ve always aimed to instill this love in my own daughters, now aged 1 and 3. It’s heartwarming when my three-year-old, ever the bedtime negotiator, pleads, “Daddy, can we read another book?” She knows it’s a tactic I’m happy to indulge.
Balancing the demands of fatherhood, managing a growing firm, and life’s myriad commitments has made carving out personal reading time a deliberate effort. In my younger years, books were something I’d often rely on to help me wind down after a long day. Nowadays, after tucking in the little ones—often following a marathon of bedtime stories—I’m tempted to join them in slumber, leaving my own reading list untouched and ever-growing.
That’s why I deeply appreciate initiatives like the Education Marketing Leader’s Book Club, spearheaded by Chris Rapozo of Hannon Hill. This collaborative endeavor brings together higher ed marketing leaders to explore contemporary works, many penned by our own peers. Writing a book is a monumental feat, and over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of delving into several authored by colleagues in our field. Here are some standout reads I believe every higher ed decision-maker will find invaluable:
Dr. Brinker’s work is a clarion call for dynamic leadership in the evolving landscape of higher education. She masterfully intertwines personal narratives with case studies from diverse institutions—liberal arts colleges, large private universities, and public research entities. A standout aspect is her emphasis on integrating academic strategy, branding, enrollment, philanthropy, and culture to drive innovation and change. The book underscores that the future success of institutions hinges on leaders who can break down silos and foster entrepreneurial initiatives.
Bart Caylor offers a comprehensive guide to identifying and attracting students who align with an institution’s mission. He provides actionable strategies to pinpoint your institution’s niche, leverage evergreen marketing techniques, and minimize obstacles, all aimed at connecting with your ideal students. Bart’s extensive experience and insights make this a must-read for institutions aiming to thrive in a competitive educational landscape.
Brian Piper’s book is a treasure trove of wisdom on enhancing institutional storytelling. Packed with thoughtful strategies and real-world scenarios, it guides readers on connecting authentically with various stakeholders. Having seen Brian speak multiple times, I admire his ability to distill complex concepts into actionable insights, making this book an essential tool for elevating your content marketing efforts.
This engaging read offers practical tips on approaching email writing with thoughtfulness and impact. It’s a must-read for anyone tasked with building an audience, advocating for an organization, or simply navigating a busy inbox. Implementing the strategies from this book has notably enhanced my email communications, leading to more meaningful interactions and results.
T.J. Winick delves into the intricacies of managing an institution’s reputation, especially during challenging times. The book is filled with useful insights and fascinating case studies that highlight effective and ineffective crisis communication strategies. It’s an invaluable resource for any professional involved in marketing, communications, or public relations, offering guidance on protecting and enhancing your institution’s most valuable asset—its reputation. Also, I’m proud to say that I’ve got a signed copy from TJ himself.
On My Nightstand: Upcoming Reads
I’m eagerly anticipating diving into the following titles, both recommended by the Education Marketing Leader Book Club:
- “Organic Social Media: How to Build Flourishing Online Communities” by Jenny Li Fowler
- “The Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows You How To Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness” by by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
- “Heart Over Hype” by Jaime Hunt
Stay tuned for insights and takeaways from these reads in future posts!
In the fast-evolving realm of higher education, continuous learning is paramount. These books offer a blend of strategic guidance, practical tips, and thought-provoking perspectives to navigate the challenges and opportunities we face. Happy reading!
Join the Education Marketing Leader’s Book Club
For those interested in engaging with a community of like-minded professionals and exploring insightful reads together, consider joining the Education Marketing Leader’s Book Club. This collaborative group, initiated and organized by Chris Rapozo of Hannon Hill, brings together higher ed marketing leaders to discuss contemporary works and share perspectives. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside peers in the field.
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