Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment at Gannon University

Gannon is a Catholic, Diocesan university dedicated to excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. Our faculty and staff prepare students to be global citizens through programs grounded in the liberal arts and sciences and professional specializations. Inspired by the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, we offer a comprehensive, values-centered learning experience that emphasizes faith, leadership, inclusiveness and social responsibility.

-Mission Statement

Gannon University invites applications and nominations for an innovative, visionary, and energetic Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment. It is an exciting time at the university as Gannon approaches a number of significant milestones. The Erie campus celebrates its 100-year anniversary in 2025; the Ruskin, Florida campus recognizes its 10-year anniversary in 2025; and a new strategic partnership with Ursuline College in Ohio has been announced. The move, which is contingent on the successful completion of due diligence, will create an institution with about 6,000 students, 1,300 employees, and campuses in three states – Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Once complete, it will be the largest Catholic university system in the region.

THE POSITION
The Vice President will lead in the development and implementation of comprehensive enrollment and marketing and communication strategies for the university. They will oversee and coordinate the efforts of an overall division of 60+ professionals within Undergraduate Admissions, Graduate Admissions, Global Student Admissions, Financial Aid, and Marketing and Communications. Direct reports include the Director of Undergraduate Admission, Director of Graduate Admissions, Director of Financial Aid, Executive Director of Global Enrollment, Director of Global Support & Student Engagement, Director of the Office of English Language and Global Training, Director of Enrollment Technology, and the Associate Director of Marketing. The Creative Director of Marketing and Communications and the Manager of Press and Distribution are also direct reports.

Reporting to President Walter Iwanenko, and serving as a key member of the President’s Leadership Team (PLT), the Vice President will collaborate with the PLT to achieve strategic enrollment goals and establish an annual budget for the university and the division. In addition, as a member of the President’s Staff, the Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment will work closely with other Vice Presidents, Deans, and the heads of departments across the university.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties
The essential responsibilities and duties for the Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment are as follows:

Leadership

  • Create a collegial, team-oriented work environment; motivate and inspire a professional staff by demonstrating a strong work ethic and a commitment to professional development; facilitate a culture that is inclusive and committed to Gannon’s values; and weave together the division’s teams in their shared work through effective communication and collaboration.
  • Educate the campus community on changing demographics, the highly competitive landscape, and the evolving needs and perceptions of students and families; lead the campus community in understanding challenges and guide the campus community and community partners in building effective activities in response.
  • Serve as an advocate for retention and persistence efforts; support the work of other campus partners in the retention of students, collection of data, sharing of information, and development of programs and enhancement of the student experience and outcomes.
  • Ensure the fiscally sound operation of the marketing and enrollment division; identify and track key performance indicators ensuring effective use of resources, including the division’s budget and personnel.
  • Lead in the formulation of annual and long-term goals and objectives to accomplish optimum enrollment levels of appropriate size, quality, and diversity.
  • Work closely with other media, businesses, non-profit, government, and community groups to build understanding and support for Gannon University’s Mission.
  • Ensure proper adherence to policies and procedures as documented in the Institutional Policy Manual (IPM).
  • Travel nationally and internationally to build relationships and raise the visibility of the university.
  • Serve as the resource person for the Enrollment Committee to the Board of Trustees.

Strategic Enrollment Management

  • Serve as the chief enrollment officer overseeing recruitment and enrollment across all student populations, directing the institutional enrollment strategy, and managing all recruitment and enrollment activities and the strategic allocation of financial aid and scholarship resources amongst all campuses.
  • In collaboration with other members of the President’s Leadership Team, develop and implement a comprehensive vision and strategic enrollment plan to support undergraduate and graduate enrollment growth across traditional, domestic, international, transfer, and online populations; demonstrate creativity in the development of innovative tactics and plans to build enrollments and enhance market visibility and institutional reputation.
  • Partner with Academic Affairs and Deans to identify market demand for new program development and program feasibility; lead the division in successfully targeting and fostering new markets; develop and support enrollment and marketing plans to successfully launch new programs which align with the university’s mission.
  • Lead the financial aid office in developing and executing merit and need-based aid leveraging strategies which reflect institutional enrollment goals, decrease discount rates, and increase revenue.
  • Deploy merit and need-based funding to attract an academically talented and diverse student body that includes undergraduate, graduate, transfer, international, and online students.
  • Direct the development and implementation of recruitment and admissions strategies including the strategic use of financial assistance and support related to retention strategies. Establish methods for measuring the effectiveness of strategies and conduct periodic reviews.
  • Assure accurate and prompt federal, state, and other external reporting; ensure that monitoring systems are in place to track compliance with all federal and state laws and regulations, and that all staff are trained in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
  • Effectively utilize donor-supported scholarships and institutional aid to spur and increase giving of stewardship and future fundraising.
  • Lead the enrollment and marketing division in evaluating, implementing, and leveraging technology to innovate, increase operational efficiency, and meet the expectations of students, families, and the campus community.
  • Foster a culture of excellence in the utilization of data and the transparent sharing of information including best practices in data collection, analysis, and reporting; provide expert knowledge in the use and analysis of marketing and enrollment data.
  • Direct the review and update of technology to maintain a student information system that encompasses the necessary infrastructure and data to support comprehensive enrollment management strategies.

Marketing and Communications

  • Provide leadership and strategic direction to the Marketing and Communications team in the development of a marketing plan for the university.
  • Coordinate an integrated marketing plan throughout the university, including the university’s websites; oversee the university’s print operations and publications as well as online and social media publications.
  • Organize and direct the gathering, analyses, and dissemination of market intelligence regarding potential target markets, segmentation opportunities, demographic, economic, competitive, and higher education trends, and behavioral dynamics of target markets.
  • Work with university leaders in the successful positioning of new academic programs and the repositioning of existing academic programs in the university’s recruitment markets to maximize enrollments.
  • Coordinate and direct market research activities to assess the needs, perceptions, expectations and satisfaction of students, employees, employers, and other stakeholders of the university.
  • Develop relationships, marketing strategies, and programs to increase and coordinate networking opportunities with the media, community leaders, employers, and other key constituencies.

Qualifications, Skills, and Characteristics
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and a minimum of ten years of experience in the field of enrollment management, admissions, and marketing with increasing responsibility and significant experience in managerial and leadership roles is required; an advanced degree is strongly preferred. In addition, the Vice President should demonstrate the following qualifications, skills, and abilities:

  • Demonstrated ability to be a strategic leader with a clear vision of current best practices and future trends in enrollment services and marketing;
  • Notable track record of success in recruitment and enrollment growth among undergraduate, graduate, and online enrollments, including expanding geographic reach, launching new programs, and building student interest in programs with capacity;
  • Skilled in the development, communication, and execution of effective enrollment and marketing plans;
  • Successful change leader with the ability to build credibility, success, and a positive environment through transparency, collaboration, and servant leadership;
  • Knowledgeable about relevant prospecting, admission, and yield strategies for the US domestic and international markets, evolving trends, and the needs and perceptions of students and families in variety of diverging markets and populations;
  • A history of success in developing effective pricing, merit, and financial aid models;
  • Skilled in the research and identification of new markets, programs, partnerships, and opportunities to support enrollment growth;
  • A commitment to working with multicultural populations, an awareness of issues affecting diverse populations and the ability to respect and engage with those from a variety of cultures and backgrounds;
  • Excellent interpersonal and relational skills with the ability to be an empathetic listener, persuasive communicator who leads with humility;
  • Engaging storyteller with the ability to articulate the value proposition, vision, mission, brand, and goals of Gannon across various media platforms;
  • Experienced in the development of marketing initiatives reflecting the needs, interest, and behaviors of individual populations;
  • An understanding of institutional challenges, opportunities and resources, evidence of creative and collaborative problem solving skills, and a history of successfully managing complex budgets;
  • Creative, innovative, and collaborative campus and community partner. Willing to educate stakeholders on best practices and evolving trends within enrollment management, marketing and communications.

Gannon University
A private, Catholic, comprehensive co-educational institution, Gannon University is comprised of two vibrant campuses in Erie, Pennsylvania. and Ruskin, Florida. Having emerged as Western Pennsylvania’s premier Catholic university, Gannon is a valuable community and regional resource. The campus is at the center of a rapidly expanding healthcare sector with opportunities to engage in educational outreach activities. In September 2024, a strategic partnership with Ursuline College (OH) was announced, that once completed, would create the largest Catholic university system in the region.

Today, Gannon University is committed to building on its successful history of preparing leaders by focusing on a dynamic future of change and new opportunities. Gannon is focused on a total commitment to academic excellence, to its Catholic identity, its future financial growth from external sources, its strengthened development of the faculty’s teaching and scholarship, its involvement in and service to the local and regional community, its undergraduate and graduate enrollment, and its enhancement of technology.

Strategic Plan
Gannon’s Strategic Plan was created at a unique time in the institution’s history and in the world. As Gannon approaches its 100-year anniversary and its Ruskin campus soon recognizes its 10-year anniversary in 2025, the university reflects on their evolution from where they began to who they are today. They look to how they will fulfill their Mission and purpose of transforming lives into the future. The theme of this plan, “Advancing our bold tradition,” recognizes Gannon’s foundation of providing access to education for students of all backgrounds and advances that bold tradition into the future through the goals set forth in the plan.

This strategic plan was developed with Gannon’s Mission and purpose as its guiding light toward achieving success in the current and future climate for higher education. It builds on the success of the last plan and achieves goals that focus on inspiring transformational experiences for students and employees, stewarding diversified financial resources, and advancing enrollment and student success. These goals will answer the call of the Mission and advance the fulfillment of Gannon’s purpose to transform lives by creating environments for extraordinary moments and everyday connections that inspire others to become their best selves. This plan will serve as a roadmap for the bold strategies needed to achieve Gannon’s goals and best position the university for the next 100 years and beyond as they create meaningful impact on its campuses, in their communities and around the world.

Academics
Known for its commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning, Gannon offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs designed to prepare 4,600+ students for leadership and success in their respective fields.

Over 100 programs, including online and traditional Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degree options, are offered in Gannon’s three academic Colleges:  College of Engineering and Business; College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences; and the Morosky College of Health Professions and Sciences. These academic programs emphasize a blend of theory and practical experience, often incorporating internships, research opportunities, and service-learning projects.

Research is a significant component of academics at Gannon University. Both undergraduate and graduate students engage in research projects across various disciplines, contributing to innovation in science, technology, business, and healthcare.

The university is also home to a range of global education programs, helping students develop a global perspective. This includes opportunities for international study, research collaborations, and partnerships with universities worldwide.

Gannon has a long tradition of welcoming global students who bring a wealth of cultural experiences and perspectives to Gannon’s classrooms. These experiences and insights are, in turn, a great opportunity for all students to develop friendships across cultures and gain cultural competence through meaningful interactions.

Finally, Gannon is dedicated to student success, offering resources like academic advising, tutoring, and career services. The university’s faculty are experts in their fields and are known for being accessible and committed to student mentoring.

Gannon University’s academics are built on a foundation of rigorous coursework, experiential learning, and a commitment to personal and professional development. The university’s diverse academic offerings are supported by a dedicated faculty and a strong focus on community, service, and global engagement.

Student Life
Gannon University is a tight-knit community with many events and opportunities to get engaged on campus. Gannon University requires all students who are within their first four semesters to live in university-owned housing in order to encourage engagement with the Gannon community and provide support to students transitioning to college life. Encouraging students to be actively engaged in their college experience is the primary focus of the Student Development and Engagement division (SDE). Leadership programs, volunteering and service-learning opportunities, traveling abroad, intramural sports and wellness programs are just a few examples of interactive, educational and fun programs offered at Gannon. As a Catholic university, Gannon emphasizes a commitment to service and community engagement. Many programs integrate service-learning components, where students work on community-based projects.

Good for U is the university’s initiative to promote well-being in their campus community. Gannon believes in nurturing all eight dimensions of wellness, including physical, social, psychological, intellectual, spiritual, financial, occupational, and environmental well-being. Opportunities to nurture each of these dimensions of wellness are available to students, faculty, and staff through campus wide programming, wellness challenges, and innovative informational campaigns to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors.

University Leadership
Walter Iwanenko, Jr., Gannon University’s eighth president, took office in July, 2023. Iwanenko served as Gannon’s Vice President of Academic Affairs and then as the Provost and Vice President for Student Experience for nearly seven years before being appointed President. Prior to his time at Gannon, Iwanenko was on the faculty and served as the chair of the Health Services Administration and Business departments at D’Youville College, and the founding dean of Adult and Graduate Studies at Hilbert College.

Since his arrival, Iwanenko has led numerous initiatives. These include the formation of Our West Bayfront, a 501c3 focused on community redevelopment, assisting with the establishment of Gannon’s Ruskin, Florida campus, as well as the establishment of the Alstadt Environmental Center. He launched the formation of the Graduate Student Association, and established the Institute of Health and Cyber Knowledge (I-HACK).

Iwanenko leads a talented, committed, and highly collaborative cabinet (PLT) who manages the day-to-day of the university. Engaged and active, the PLT culture is defined by open communication, active listening, respect for differing viewpoints, and constructive debate. The new Vice President will join a cabinet that values true teamwork, flexibility, and humility.

Next Century Campaign
Believe. Inspire. Transform. Gannon’s Next Century, a bold $100 million comprehensive fundraising campaign that celebrates Gannon’s centennial anniversary in 2025 and charts an ambitious course into the next century, encompasses visionary goals that will lead to incredible outcomes.

Building on their long-standing tradition of providing affordable, accessible education, Gannon University launched this ambitious comprehensive fundraising campaign to invite the Gannon family to invest in and advance the university’s mission. Gannon’s Next Century campaign is composed of four overarching goals in the areas of academic excellence, student experience, campus enhancements, and the Gannon Fund that will drive forward its mission of transforming students’ lives through high-quality, affordable educational experiences that make a difference for students and the communities they serve.

LOCATION

 Erie campus
Gannon’s Erie campus is in the heart of downtown Erie, Pennsylvania, and is within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Lake Erie beaches are close by, and the city is just within a two-hour drive of Cleveland, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh.

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Erie, Erie is a vibrant place known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. As Pennsylvania’s fifth-largest city, Erie serves as an important hub for commerce and tourism in the region. Founded in the late 18th century, with its growth spurred by its strategic location near the Great Lakes, Erie played a significant role during the War of 1812 and later became a crucial port for shipping goods. Its industrial development in the 19th and 20th centuries transformed it into a center for manufacturing and shipping.

Today, Erie boasts a diverse economy with strengths in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism. The presence of major employers, including UPMC Hamot and the Erie Insurance Group, supports a stable job market. With more than 20,000 college students across campuses within 20 miles, Gannon students enjoy the social, educational, and professional benefits of being in the heart of Erie’s dynamic urban landscape. Gannon’s prime location offers walking accessibility to downtown amenities and becoming a part of the Gannon family provides free access to Erie’s public transportation.

Ruskin Campus
In 2014, Gannon University established a second campus in Ruskin, Fla., as an innovative response to the increasing demand for high-quality graduate education in disciplines that serve the rapidly expanding health care sector of the local economy. Located in a dynamic and beautiful area between Tampa and Bradenton, which rates highly on measures of livability and attractiveness, this location places students and employees at the center of a booming healthcare industry with abundant opportunities to engage in educational, clinical, and outreach activities. The site was also chosen for its alignment with Gannon University’s Mission and Catholic Identity. With a current enrollment of approximately 300 students, the Ruskin campus primarily offers graduate and doctoral-level programs in the health professions and is actively expanding those offerings in collaboration with healthcare partners.

The 80,000-square-foot Ruskin Academic Building added in 2020 is the focal point of the Ruskin Campus, providing students with exceptional multi-purpose spaces designed for hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. In addition to classrooms and study areas, the campus features enhanced lab spaces, a Patient Simulation Center, and a mobility garden. The campus is further equipped with facilities focused on student health and wellness, including a student-run fitness center, an interfaith and meditation space, and KnightBites, an on-campus café offering healthy meal options.

Through strong partnerships with regional healthcare providers, academic institutions, and the Diocese of St. Petersburg, the Ruskin campus plays a pivotal role in addressing local healthcare needs while offering students invaluable real-world experience. These collaborations provide a pathway for graduates to meet the demands of the healthcare workforce in the Tampa Bay area and beyond, reinforcing Gannon’s commitment to community engagement and impact.

Compensation
Compensation for the position is expected to be competitive and is based on the skills and experience of the selected candidate; consult with the NES search team for insights. Additionally, Gannon University offers a comprehensive package of benefits. The selected candidate will reside in or near Erie, Pennsylvania, in this visible campus and community-based leadership position.

TO APPLY
NES, a higher education search firm specializing in enrollment management searches, is assisting Gannon in identifying the university’s next Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment. For more information, or to nominate someone for this position, contact Suzi Nam (suzi.nam@nessearches.com), Laura Robinson (laura.robinson@nessearches.com) or Mary Napier (mary.napier@nessearches.com). All conversations will remain confidential unless otherwise stated and agreed. Interested candidates should submit a résumé and a letter of interest describing their unique qualifications for the Vice President of Marketing and Enrollment position at Gannon University. Candidates should also provide the names and contact information of at least five professional references. For confidentiality, references will not be contacted without permission. For best consideration, all application materials should be submitted electronically to gannon@nessearches.com no later than November 30, 2024. The position is campus-based and the preferred start date is Spring or Summer 2025.

It is the policy of Gannon University to affirmatively implement equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and existing students and employees. In administering its affairs, the university shall not discriminate against any person on any basis prohibited by law. All aspects of employment including recruitment, selection, hiring, training, transfer, promotion, termination, compensation and benefits shall conform to this policy. All aspects of student affairs and education of students including recruitment, admissions, financial aid, placement, access to facilities, student discipline, student life and student employment conform to this policy. Furthermore, Gannon University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its education programs and activities. Gannon University will protect the rights of all students and employees to work and study free from harassment, including sexual harassment and/or sexual violence.