TACRAO 2017 ANNUAL MEETING

MARRIOTT - COOL SPRINGS

1
 TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Page 3 Board of Directors

Page 4, 5 Standing Committees

Page 6 Annual Meeting Sponsors - List

Page 7, 8 Guidebook, Social Media, & Website Info

Pages 9-12 Schedule-at-a-Glance

Page 13 Speaker Bios

Pages 14-24 Session Descriptions

Page 25 “Best of the Best” and “I Will Volunteer” Info

Page 26 SACRAO 2018

Page 27, 28 Sponsor Ads

2
 2016-17 TACRAO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President
Avery Swinson, Walters State Community College

President-Elect
Kerry Hines, the University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Past-President
Michele Watson, South College

Vice President for Communications

Jessica Swiney, King University

Treasurer
Tracy Comer, Austin Peay State University

Vice President for Admissions

Sammy Stevens, the University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Vice President for Recruitment Services

Adam Johnson, University of Memphis – Lambuth

Vice President for Records and Registration

Veda Taylor, University of Memphis

Vice President for Information Technology

Dr. Tom Donohoe, East Tennessee State University

Vice President for Administrative Support Services and Outreach

OPEN

3
2016-17 TACRAO STANDING COMMITTEES

Annual Meeting Local Arrangements Committee

Joey Clark – Middle Tennessee State University
Bethaney Holt – Columbia State Community College
Kelly Pietkiewicz – University of Alabama, Birmingham
Laura Stansell – the University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Sammy Stevens – the University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Ronda Williams – Columbia State Community College

Auditing Committee
Amy Corlew – Austin Peay State University
Sheryl Gray – Carson-Newman University

Bylaw Review Committee

Tim Amyx – Volunteer State Community College
Sheryl Burnette – East Tennessee State University
Sheryl Gray – Carson Newman University

Calendar Committee
Sarah Davis – Pellissippi State Community College
Jamie Ensley – Ed South
Eric Farmer – TN Student Assistance Corporation
Priscilla Gitschlag – Roane State Community College
Maria Gonzales – Roane State Community College
Jessie Greene – Tennessee Technological University
Katherine Hamilton – Birmingham Southern College
Matthew Harper – Tennessee Wesleyan University
Kayci Henline – University of Memphis
Nicole Martin – East Tennessee State University
Jim McDaniel – Roane State Community College
Kelly Pietkiewicz – University of Alabama, Birmingham
Melissa Ripley – Tusculum College
Emily Anne Sparks – University of Tennessee, Martin
Avery Swinson – Walters State Community College

4
 Conference for Counselors Committee
Kate Amburn, chair – Carson Newman University
Joey Clark – Middle Tennessee State University

Membership Committee
Destin Tucker, chair – University of Tennessee, Martin

Newsletter Committee
Maggie Darden – East Tennessee State University

Nominations Committee
Dusty Duncan – East Tennessee State University
Maria Gonzales – Roane State Community College
Carol Laney – University of Memphis

Roundtable Committee
Carol Laney – University of Memphis

TAMS Committee
Destin Tucker, chair – University of Tennessee, Martin
Darren Echols – Lee University
Amber Wilson – Cumberland University

Time and Site Committee

Amy Corlew – Austin Peay State University

AACRAO Representative
Tina Falkner – University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

SACRAO Representative
Megan Mitchell – Austin Peay State University

*And a special thank you to Rob Clifton with Conference Direct,

Tanya Wilson & team with the Cool Springs Marriott, and Laurie
Gregory Dashper with Music City Roots for all the help making
this conference happen!

5
 2017 TACRAO ANNUAL MEETING SPONSORS

Civitas Learning Crown Elite Level

Ellucian Diamond Level

Credentials Solutions Platinum Level

Digital Architecture Platinum Level

College Board Gold Level

National Student Clearing House Gold Level
Oracle Gold Level
Paradigm Gold Level
Workday Gold Level

ACT Silver Level

Andrews Business Service Bronze Level

Atlas Flags Bronze Level
Campus Management Bronze Level
Custom Viewbook Bronze Level
NRCCUA Bronze Level
Scrip-Safe Bronze Level
Smart Catalog Bronze Level

6
 TACRAO is going green!
We will not print this program, so make sure to download the
Guidebook app for session locations, times, and descriptions.

Also, all session evaluations will be completed on the Guidebook

app, so make sure to download because we want your feedback!

7
8
 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH, 2017

1:00 – 4:30PM Registration Open – Carothers Corner

1:00 – 4:45PM Exhibits Open – Prefunction Hallway

3:00 – 3:30PM First-Time Attendees Meeting – M/Q/P

3:30 – 4:30PM Opening Session & Service Project Presentation –

Salon 1-4
Opening Session Speaker: Susan Rhodes, Director -
The Ayers Foundation
Service Project Presentation: “Swag for a Cause”
with The Ayers Foundation and the Oasis Center

4:45 PM Busses Depart for the Big Event – Meet in Lobby

1st Group – 4:45PM, 2nd Group – 5:15PM
*Wristbands will be required to get on the bus

5:00 PM Dinner & the Big Event

(Sponsored by Civitas Learning)
Dinner is provided by Puckett’s & the Big Event will
be a show called “Music City Roots”

7:00 PM Music City Roots Show Begins

The Factory Franklin – Liberty Hall
230 Franklin Road
Franklin, TN 37064

9
 2017 TACRAO ANNUAL MEETING – “BIG EVENT”

Music City Roots, Live From The Factory is a weekly, radio show and webcast that revives the
historic legacy of live musical radio production in Nashville. Broadcast on Wednesday nights from
7pm to about 9:30 pm, CST, Music City Roots showcases Nashville’s astonishing music scene, from
country and Americana to more progressive interpreters of tradition — a “roots and branches”
format that brings together fans of different tastes and generations. The show is broadcast live
over WMOT/Roots Radio 89.5 FM from Middle Tennessee State University and webcast in
Livestream. A weekly syndicated show is distributed to a network of affiliates around the country
as well as the major podcasting platforms.

Music fans worldwide know Nashville as the epicenter of country music, and Music City Roots, Live
From The Factory embraces and builds on that foundation. MCR is broadcast to a global audience,
not just as the keeper of the traditional flame, but as a trusted tastemaker that looks to the future
of music in all its forms and sub-genres: bluegrass, folk, alternative, western, rockabilly and
crossovers into rock, jazz and world music. There has never been a time of greater variety,
abundance and quality in Nashville’s creative community, and Music City Roots looks to put that
talent on a worldwide stage.

Each broadcast features four artists in 25 minute segments and short interviews, plus a show-
closing Nashville Jam where all musical guests embrace the spirit of Music City as the collaborative
epicenter of tradition and innovation. Nashville’s legendary Keith Bilbrey is the announcer; Jim
Lauderdale and other leaders of the music community host the festivities.

Our vision for Music City Roots, as a live radio show steeped in rich Nashville tradition, is to provide
a global platform to showcase the deep well of amazing and diverse talent that exists here in
Tennessee. Beyond Nashville, the roots and branches of Americana music are firmly entwined in
Memphis, Knoxville, and across Tennessee and the entire Southeast region. Over the last several
years, pockets of very gifted artists have bubbled up from New York to California and around the
world, all sharing the same love for the integrity and honesty of the various forms of roots music
that were birthed from American culture.

Music City Roots endeavors to offer artists a way to share their gift with the world – to connect
with music lovers everywhere, through creative distribution platforms that were never before
possible. Our only standard is one of excellence and integrity. We look to connect and nurture a
true community of artists – young and old; famous and obscure; all sharing a desire to enrich and
preserve our music, and our planet. As we help one another, the as the music grows, the world
becomes a better place. Through the power of music, walls come down and cultures unite.

10
 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH, 2017

7:30 – 10:00AM Registration Open – Carothers Corner

7:30AM – 5:15PM Exhibits Open – Prefunction Hallway

7:30AM Continental Breakfast Opens – Salon 5

8:00 – 8:45AM Breakfast & “Morning Motivational” Speaker –

Salon 5
Morning Motivational Speaker: Tyler Peterson, The
University of Alabama at Birmingham
“Influence Matters, Titles Don’t: Be a Leader Worth
Following!”

9:00 – 9:45AM Session One

10:00 – 10:45AM Session Two

11:00AM – 1:00PM Luncheon & Business Meeting – Salon 1-4

1:15 – 2:00PM Session Three

2:15 – 3:00PM Session Four

3:00 – 3:30PM Break (Light Snack Provided) – Prefunction Hallway

3:30 – 4:15PM Session Five

4:30 – 5:15PM Session Six

5:15 PM Enjoy an Evening on Your Own in Franklin, TN!

6:00PM TACRAO Board & Past Presidents Depart for Past

President’s Dinner (Meet in Hotel Lobby)

6:30 PM Past President’s Dinner

(Sponsored by Ellucian)
The Red Pony
Downtown Franklin, TN

11
 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH, 2017

7:30AM Breakfast Buffet Opens – Salon 1-4

8:15 – 9:15AM Keynote Speaker – Salon 1-4

Tina Falkner, Director – Office of Student Finance
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
AACRAO Rep & AACRAO President-Elect
“Saying Yes, Even When You Think You Aren’t Ready”

9:30 – 10:00AM Session Seven

10:15 – 10:45AM Session Eight

11:00 – 11:30AM Closing Session & Door Prizes – Salon 1-4

SACRAO Update: Meghan Mitchell
AACRAO Update: Tina Falkner
2018 Annual Meeting Reveal: Amy Corlew

11:30AM Board of Directors Meeting –

Thoroughbred Board Room
(Both New and Old Members)

TACRAO is excited to partner with The Ayers Foundation and the Oasis Center
for this year’s Service Project. Donations and #swagforacause items will help
provide early college awareness and highlight the importance of a
postsecondary education to rural and metro high school students in the
Middle TN area.

12
 SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES:
Opening Session Speaker: Susan Rhodes

Susan served as the College Access Counselor at Perry County High School
from 2009 to 2015, and continues to be located inside Perry County High
School. She became the director of The Ayers Foundation in 2012. Susan
has five schools that report to her, four of which are located in southern
middle TN. Susan graduated from the University of North Alabama in 2006
with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology, and earned her Masters of
Science in Continuing Education with a concentration in Guidance and
Counseling from the University of West Alabama in 2009. Susan currently
serves on the Advise TN Advisory Committee, FAFSA Frenzy Committee, TN
Promise Planning Committee, Drive to 55 Advisory Committee, and the
University of Tennessee at Martin-Parsons Center Higher Education Committee.

Morning Motivational Speaker: Tyler Peterson

Tyler has a passion for creating high-performing, effective leadership teams

that create positive results. As a leadership consultant for SummaSource at
Auburn Montgomery, he is recognized for his work with organizations
focused on leadership development, navigating conflict, creating cultures of
trust, and increasing effective communication. Tyler’s success with leaders
is due to his ability to connect quickly with clients, demonstrate the
application of best-practices in the workplace, and his desire for continuous
improvement. As the Executive Director of Admissions, Financial Aid, and
Scholarships for the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Tyler leads by
example and has created a culture of trust and innovation with employees
who are effective communicators. With a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Auburn University
and an M.B.A from Troy University, he also serves as an adjunct professor of Business Foundations
for UAB’s Collat School of Business. Tyler is a past Board Member for Southern Association for
College and Admission Counseling. He and is family make their home in Birmingham, Alabama.

Keynote Speaker: Tina Falkner

Tina Falkner describes her entrance into higher education as serendipitous.

After receiving her undergraduate degree from Northwestern, Tina became
the special events coordinator in the student activities office at the
University of Minnesota, where she coordinated a series of luncheons for
students at the start of the school year. From there she moved to the
University Registrar’s office, and served in a number of roles before
eventually moving to her current position as financial aid director. Tina has
been active in numerous national associations, but the most prominent of
her involvement has been in AACRAO. Tina first dipped her toes into AACRAO
during the 2002 AACRAO Meeting in Minneapolis, where she took on
hospitality and marketing duties for the conference. Tina is the Current AACRAO President-Elect,
and looks forward to her role on the AACRAO Board, where she will have the opportunity to
provide more meaningful professional development to AACRAO members and further AACRAO’s
involvement in the national conversation on higher education.

13
SESSION ONE OPTIONS 11.16.17 | 9:00-9:45AM
1.1 The View From the Other Side
Salon 1-4
Do you wonder what college counselors or guidance professionals think about college visits or the
admissions process in general? Come to this session with a seasoned high school counselor to hear
what elements are essential to a good high school visit and ask the questions you have always
wanted to ask a counselor.
Ginny Maddux, Montgomery Bell Academy
Chair/Recorder: Kelly Pietkiewicz, University of Alabama-Birmingham

1.2 Transcript Solutions Done Right

Palomino
Learn how registrars of leading universities use business process automation to improve staff
productivity and job satisfaction, avoid the tedium of transcript ordering and fulfillment, and make
serving students, alumni and other constituents faster, easier, more efficient and secure. See how
you can achieve better control of your office operations and be prepared for the digital revolution
in student records. Sponsored by Credentials Solutions.
Mike Ayers, Senior Sales Consultant – Credentials Solutions
Chair/Recorder: Lisa Vitale, Maryville College

1.3 Next Generation Student Experience with Oracle

Student Cloud
Quarter Horse
Oracle will present the latest information about the Student Cloud being developed using new
designs and advanced artificial intelligence. The session will feature a presentation on Oracle’s
plans and direction for engaging students, anticipating needs, and helping students realize their
goals.
Dan Stockwell, Oracle
Chair/Recorder: Carol Laney, University of Memphis

1.4 Transfer – An Enhanced Era of Collegiate Recruitment

Williamson
This session is a discussion of the increased importance of transfer students and the ever-shifting
landscape of university initiatives.
Matt Borden & Mary Wiggins, University of Tennessee, Martin
Chair/Recorder: Destin Tucker, University of Tennessee, Martin

1.5 Using Degree Works and other Data-Based Tools to Facilitate

Veteran Certification, Retention, and Graduation
Mustang
This interactive session will provide information on how the University of Memphis Veteran’s
Educational Benefits and Certification (VEBC) office uses tools such as Degree Works, Argos, and a
Banner-driven homegrown database to expedite veteran certification and address retention and
graduation of veteran students. Many of these types of tools can be modified to use with other
student populations
Geraldine Taylor, University of Memphis
Chair/Recorder: Kathi Wilson, Maryville College

14
SESSION TWO OPTIONS 11.16.17 | 10:00-10:45AM
2.1 Registrar’s Round Table
Salon 1-4
This roundtable will be an open forum to discuss any issues and share best practices for registrars.
Facilitator: Sheryl Burnette, East Tennessee State University
Chair/Recorder: Brandi Hill, Tennessee Technological University

2.2 Safe Zone: Creating an Inclusive Campus

Palomino
This session will discuss the development and implementation of a college-wide Safe Zone
program. Safe Zone is designed to promote understanding of specific concerns facing LGBT+
students in a college setting and to create a visible network of support designed to enhance the
college climate. Topics will include developing a proposal, resources, materials, and special
considerations.
Lacey Benns, Columbia State Community College
Chair/Recorder: Ronda Williams, Columbia State Community College

2.3 Updates on the new SAT and Advanced Placement in TN

Quarter Horse
The first cohort of students who took the new SAT enrolled in college in August. This session will
look at state and national data regarding the SAT. Attendees will learn how to use their free SAT
Dashboard, which provides weekly updates on SAT score sends. We will also look at the positive
outcomes students are having using Khan Academy to practice for the SAT. Students in Tennessee
can benefit from this free tool. Lastly, we will look at AP data in Tennessee, including the new AP
Computer Science Exam and AP Capstone.
Elizabeth McKenzie, College Board
Chair/Recorder: Emily Anne Sparks, University of Tennessee, Martin

2.4 The Eager and the Experienced

Williamson
This will be a discussion session between "rookie" admissions professionals and "veteran"
admissions professionals. Some topics that will be discussed are building relationships with high
school counselors, professional development opportunities, tricks of the trade, and how to keep a
positive mindset in a challenging/ demanding job. Come hear about these topics from two different
perspectives!
Kelly Pietkiewicz, University of Alabama - Birmingham
Kate Amburn, Carson-Newman University
Sarah Strong, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Chair/Recorder: Ricardo Tapia, East Tennessee State University

2.5 Engaging Parents in the Orientation Process

Mustang
This session will discuss the different types of parents we experience during the Orientation
Process. Participants will learn about Columbia State's strategy to engage parents in the
orientation process.
Dr. Shanna Jackson, Columbia State Community College
Chair/Recorder: Tim Amyx, Volunteer State Community College

15
SESSION THREE OPTIONS 11.16.17 | 1:15-2:00PM
3.1 The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Group Campus Visits
Salon 1-4
Come learn from The Ayers Foundation Scholars Program counselors about what makes a campus
tour really POP. Hear the good ideas, bad ideas, and downright ugly experiences on a group
campus visit. This session is geared towards those college admission counselors that want to create
the ULTIMATE campus visit experience.
Director and Counselors, The Ayers Foundation
Chair/Recorder: Bethaney Holt, Columbia State Community College

3.2 Optimizing Student Progression: Why Personalization is the

Key for Completion
Palomino
Completing a credential can be daunting for students without the ability to personalize their
academic journey. See how students can effectively plan to achieve their goals with full context for
essential academic decisions and then confidently register with conflict-free schedules that
maximize credit hours while balancing life’s obligations. Institutions can improve persistence and
completion rates with enhanced registration services, increased advising bandwidth, and visibility
into demand, fill rates, and degree progression.
Dan Curtis, Civitas Learning
Chair/Recorder: Sheryl Burnette, East Tennessee State University

3.3 Adding to the Family

Quarter Horse
We don't hire. We adopt. Whether you're the hiring supervisor or just serving on a search
committee, how can you contribute to the decision process when bringing in a new staff member?
Everything is important from the structure of the search process to the questions asked in the final
face-to-face interview. No matter what, all of it has to meet the rules set by your Human
Resources office. Participants in this session will receive suggestions for working with HR, designing
meaningful questions, scoring applications, and finding a person who is a good fit for their work
family. We often spend more time with our coworkers than we do in our actual home. Let's do our
best to adopt (or at least hire) the best people possible programs, faculty, and like-minded students
throughout the recruitment process.
Tim Amyx, Volunteer State Community College
Chair/Recorder: Tracy Comer, Austin Peay State University

3.4 TICUA Round Table

Williamson
In this session, TICUA member institution representatives will have the opportunity to come
together to discuss issues specific to the private, nonprofit sector which affect the many various
aspects of enrollment management.
Facilitator: Dr. Patrick Meldrim, Vice- President, TICUA
Chair/Recorder: Michele Watson, South College

16
3.5 Change is Not a Four-Letter Word… But Almost
Mustang
Change is one constant on a college campus, and admissions and records offices are usually heavily
involved. We change enrollment strategies, admissions policies, academic calendars, daily class
schedules, and curricula. New programs and new administrative structures are implemented. In
each instance, the way the change is made is crucial. This session discusses the management of the
change process as it relates to basic organization and services on campus and how to avoid the
stumbling blocks that can derail the best laid plans.
Glenn Munson, Retired Registrar
Chair/Recorder: Elise Swift, Austin Peay State University

SESSION FOUR OPTIONS 11.16.17 | 2:15-3:00PM

4.1 What's Love Got to Do with It? Using Love Languages to
Change Your Office Culture
Salon 1-4
An office culture cannot function at its optimum efficiency if the emphasis is simply on reaching
professional goals. Often times our office culture forces us to choose between relationships and
results when in reality both are within our grasp. Any office culture must be personalized and
customized so that the members of its team are edified and encouraged. This presentation strives
to revitalize our passion for people. Whether you use quality time, gifts, words of affirmation, acts
of service or an epic high five, it is YOUR JOB to promote the office culture you want to thrive in.
Don’t believe me? Just check your job description – “Other duties as assigned”.
This presentation is multifaceted. Our primary objective is emphasizing that leading laterally is just
as important as the leadership we see from our directors, supervisors, or senior counselors.
Looking at realistic expectations and examples, this presentation will remind us all what love has
got to do with it and our role when changing our office culture.
Joey Clark, Middle Tennessee State University
Jessie Green, Tennessee Tech University
Chair/Recorder: Tyler Lewelling, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

4.2 FERPA Jeopardy

Palomino
Join us for this fun FERPA Refresher! As a group we will look at different FERPA scenarios and talk
about what we would do if put in that situation. We will also leave time at the end for any FERPA-
related questions for the group.
Tina Faulkner, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities; AACRAO President-Elect
Chair/Recorder: Avery Swinson, Walters State Community College

4.3 Certified Electronic Diplomas, Paper Diplomas, e-diplomas: What are the
Differences and why is Digitally Signing a Document Simply Not Enough?
Quarter Horse
As the pioneer and creator of the Certified Electronic Diploma (CeDiploma®), Paradigm, Inc is the
only company to offer a secure, portable and trusted electronic solution for diplomas and
credentials. Accepted by both State and International Governments, Certifying Boards and
Employers the CeDiploma® is a transactional document that provides the student with a secure
alternative to the transcript. Paradigm offers the only solution allowing independent validation of
the CeDiploma®: an indisputable response from you, the Credentialer, that the diploma is

17
authentic and valid. The differences in ediplomas, paper diplomas and CeDiplomas are vast and
varied. Come and learn more about these products as well as, our 10-day turnaround time, 24-hour
rush service and direct mailing services that can help you find the extra space and time that you
crave all while giving your students what they NEED!
Presenter: Michael Delaney, Client Relations Specialist – Paradigm
Chair/Recorder: Brandi Hill, Tennessee Tech University

4.4 Combatting the “It Costs Too Much” Conversation

Williamson
As recruiters, we serve as the “face” of the institution – even parts of the institution that we don’t
necessarily control. One of the biggest challenges for an Admissions Recruiter is navigating the
financial aid conversation, particularly when a student or parent says your institution “costs too
much.” With the cost of higher education sometimes serving as an easy exit strategy for
prospective students, how do you know when it truly costs too much for a family or when they just
aren’t buying into your institution’s value? This session aims to help your team identify if cost or
value are the barrier, then figure out how to assist that student and their unique situation while
still promoting your institution.
Kate Amburn, Carson-Newman University
Chair/Recorder: Victoria Franklin, Martin Methodist

4.5 Breaking Down the Silos: Sharing Data to Enhance the College
Student Lifecycle Journey
Mustang
A major hindrance to student recruitment, persistence, completion, and loyalty is the silo mentality
by administrative and academic departments around data and information. As a department
collects data, there is often a tendency to focus on the narrow application and use of data for that
department alone. This interactive session will share strategies of successful institutions in
reviewing and using their data to engage prospects, students, and alumni; launch data-informed
initiatives; foster broad-based commitment to student success; and remove obstacles, especially
for low-income, first-generation students.
Jenny Jones, Management Consultant, Principal - Ellucian®
Chair/Recorder: Sheryl Gray, Carson Newman University

4.6 TN's ‘Drive to 55’: Online Tools to Get Us There

Arabian

In support of the governor's "Drive to 55," the Tennessee Higher Education Commission has
revamped two existing programs to better serve Tennessee students and educators. THEC has
partnered with the National Student Clearinghouse to offer a free Electronic Transcript Exchange
for high schools and postsecondary institutions. Collegefortn.org has a new look and new
functionality for users. Learn more about how these two free initiatives can benefit you.

Suzette Telli, Tennessee Higher Education Commission

Kevin Edwards, Tennessee Higher Education Commission
Chair/Recorder: Heather Gann, Dyersburg State Community College

18
SESSION FIVE OPTIONS 11.16.17 | 3:30-4:15PM
5.1 The New Landscape in Tennessee for Transcript Exchange
Salon 1-4
As Governor Haslam’s ‘Drive to 55’ and ‘Project Reconnect’ gain even more momentum to send
Tennessee to the top of the higher education discussion at the national level, come to this session
to learn how the National Student Clearinghouse is partnering with Admissions Officers and
Registrars across Tennessee to make this transition even more simple for your students. We will
discuss the Tennessee Transcript Center and the Clearinghouse’s ETX registry, where high school
and college transcripts can move electronically and without any cost to current Tennessee high
school or college students. Learn how your institution can become more involved in this
worthwhile effort and how beneficial it can be to you and your staff and hear from one of your
colleagues about the work going on with the Tennessee public institutions.
Paul Taylor, Southeast Regional Director – National Student Clearinghouse
Chair/Recorder: Sarah Strong, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

5.2 Optimizing Student Progression: Why Personalization is the Key for Completion
Palomino
Completing a credential can be daunting for students without the ability to personalize their
academic journey. See how students can effectively plan to achieve their goals with full context for
essential academic decisions and then confidently register with conflict-free schedules that
maximize credit hours while balancing life’s obligations. Institutions can improve persistence and
completion rates with enhanced registration services, increased advising bandwidth, and visibility
into demand, fill rates, and degree progression.
Dan Curtis, Civitas Learning
Chair/Recorder: Susan Hopper, Union University

5.3 Talking Careers with Students: Addressing Career & Major Exploration,
Reality Checks, and Indecisiveness at the Admissions Table
Quarter Horse
'I want to be a doctor. I have an 18 on the ACT.' 'I want to be an engineer so I can work with my
hands.' 'Y'all got hair?' Students' ideas for their futures are at best naive, and at worst, down right
crazy. As admissions counselors, it can be tough balancing reality checks, optimism, and our
school's best interest. This session looks is an admissions rep discussion of talking to students about
career exploration, major selection, and the many, many myths and misconceptions that students
and parents have on those topics."
Christian Montgomery, My Game Plan Coaching
Chair/Recorder: Cassie Johnson, Tennessee Tech University

5.4 Tennessee Promise Program Update

Williamson
As we enter year four the Tennessee Promise scholarship program is at full maturity, students are
completing credentials across the state, and others are preparing to enroll. We will discuss program
updates as we move into a new academic year.
James Snider, TN Promise Director - TSAC
Chair/Recorder: Julia Stewart, Cumberland University

19
5.5 Automating Communication with Argos Bursts
Mustang
Come learn how CampusESP’s parent and family engagement platform enables institutions to
strengthen their enrollment strategy and increase student success. You’ll see a demo of the parent
platform and learn specifics about:

• The results of a national survey of over 600 Registrars & Admissions Officers; as well as 9,000
parents and what their expectations are from modern institutions today.
• How CampusESP can help decrease the 33% of parents calling into the Registrar’s office by
providing a FERPA-compliant system to keep parents informed through a centralized, online
platform.
• Helping 94% of Admissions officers who say engaging parents helps with recruiting efforts and
decrease ‘summer melt’ by providing parents with a pre-admissions portal where they can
communicate 1-on-1 with admissions; and providing a custom pre-admission checklist.
• Prescriptive Alerts and automated emails being sent to parents about new grades, bills, financial
documents due, and appropriate times for parents to step in and help out.
• News portal with targeted messages for parents of prospective and enrolled students.
Darla Keel, Holliday Jones, and Carol Laney, University of Memphis
Chair/Recorder: Natalie Medling, University of Tennessee, Martin

SESSION SIX OPTIONS 11.16.17 | 4:30-5:15PM

6.1 Admissions Round Table
Salon 1-4
All admissions professionals are invited to attend this round table discussion to share thoughts and
ideas with the Board of Directors for improving the TACRAO experience. In this session we will have
the opportunity to talk about hot topics and trends in college admissions and processing, as well as
discuss TACRAO-specific programming (such as the TACRAO college fair calendar and Conference
for Counselors events). We will also learn about a new opportunity to start a high school relations
committee.
Facilitator: Kerry Hines, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Chair/Recorder: Adam Johnson, University of Memphis - Lambuth

6.2 It’s Time to Replace Your Legacy SIS: The Workday

Student Experience
Palomino
It’s no secret that early and active engagement with students directly impacts retention and
completion rates. But how can you be sure you’re meeting your students’ expectations throughout
their entire academic journey in ways that are meaningful and effective? Does your current
Student Information System provide a modern, mobile, and intuitive user experience that keeps
your students on track for success? Come hear how higher education institutions can meet those
challenges head-on with Workday Student, a cloud-based system with an entirely new take on
student engagement and the management of student records.
Evan Baum, Workday
Chair/Recorder: Melanie Redding, Walters State Community College

20
6.3 Catalog & Curriculum Management: Bring Consistency and Accuracy from
Curriculum to Catalog to Web
Quarter Horse
In this fast-paced session, learn how over 500 colleges and universities use the Acalog Academic
Catalog Management System to create, organize, and publish electronic catalogs for the web and
mobile devices. See how they maintain consistency and accuracy with a data-driven, relational
system that provides greater ease of use, eliminates errors, and enables faster catalog production
cycles. Then get a sneak peek at how Curriculog transforms a cumbersome and complex curriculum
path into an intuitive, automated process, with the most flexible curriculum development and
approval system on the market. Save your staff some time, your institution money, and yourself
aggravation – discover a better way!
Jake Morrow, DigArc
Chair/Recorder: Felicia Roddy Jackson, University of Memphis

6.4 The Transfer Student Love/Hate Relationship

Williamson
Do you love transfer students or dread seeing their application cross your desk?! Transfer students
are arguably more complicated than first-year students and often experience difficulty
transitioning. One college describes a successful initiative to change the campus culture and move
from transfer negativity to a more positive experience for all. In addition, learn how TN Transfer
Pathways were customized and enhanced to facilitate advising at both the community college and
college level and ultimately, ensure more efficient transfer of credit.
Kathi Wilson & Lisa Vitale, Maryville College
Chair/Recorder: Dr. Steve Mcleod, Harding School of Theology

6.5 Using Windows PowerShell for Communication, Data Processing,

and Report Generation
Mustang
All current versions of Microsoft Windows include a powerful and robust tool called
PowerShell. For users of Windows, they can use this tool to parse data, process CSV files, create
custom Excel spreadsheets with robust formatting, check and compose email using Outlook, scrape
data from websites, and more. In this session, we'll explore some examples of what PowerShell
can do and how it may help automate tasks and processes.
Ryan Seale, East Tennessee State University
Chair/Recorder: Carol Laney, University of Memphis

SESSION SEVEN OPTIONS 11.17.17 | 9:30-10:00AM

7.1 Graduation Gala- The Final Check
Salon 1-4
Graduation Gala is an event the Office of the Registrar holds every semester. This event is not only
a celebration for our graduates, but it also provides the student an opportunity to ensure
everything is taken care of prior to graduation. We will share the strategies behind this event that
has made it so successful; not just in attendance, but in resolving student issues while celebrating
their successes.
Telaina Wrigley & Catherine Winn, Austin Peay State University
Chair/Recorder: Connie Earls, Walters State Community college

21
7.2 Dual Enrollment Options: "One Size Does Not Fit All"
Palomino
Attendees will gain knowledge of diversity in Dual Enrollment college options. Southwest
Tennessee Community College partners with a number of high schools. Attendees will learn how to
strategically partner with high schools based on student needs, school staff, student eligibility,
college fees and school culture through interactive role playing.
Kenderek Harris, Southwest Community College
Chair/Recorder: Toni Stanford, Jackson State Community

7.3 Get Involved in TACRAO!

Quarter Horse
This session will provide an overview of all TACRAO positions and how you can get involved. Join
members of the Board of Directors to learn more.
Tracy Comer, Austin Peay State University
Chair/Recorder: Veda Taylor, University of Memphis

7.4 May the Force Be with You: Implementing a Mandatory Orientation for
First-Time Freshmen
Arabian
This session will explore the steps to implementing a mandatory orientation program for first time
freshman. The following topics will be discussed during this interactive session:
1. What are the goals of your orientation?
2. How long should your event last?
3. What sessions should be included to make your orientation meaningful?
4. What key campus staff should be included in the process?
5. How to energize faculty and academic advisors?
6. How to utilize technology?
Ronda Williams, Columbia State Community College
Chair/Recorder: Joey Clark, Middle Tennessee State University

7.5 Creating a Tour Guide Team: Cohesion, Recognition,

Training, and Development
Mustang
A successful campus visit program is one whose Tour Guide team works together flawlessly. At The
University of Tennessee, we like to think of our Tour Guide team as a family, and we put in a lot of
work to make sure our Tour Guides know how much they are appreciated. Come hear about the
many ways that we ensure cohesion for our team using a fun and engaging workplace, employ
methods of appreciation and recognition, and provide leadership development opportunities.

Laura Stansell, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Chair/Recorder: Chelsea Middleton-Morgan, Nashville State Community College

22
SESSION EIGHT OPTIONS 11.17.17 | 10:15-10:45AM
8.1 DACAMented/Undocumented in College: Increasing the number of
DACA and Undocumented Students in College
Salon 1-4
The session will focus on what it means to be a DACAMented or an Undocumented Student in the
State of Tennessee. As a result of the presentation, colleges can work to partner with organizations
such as Equal Chance for Education or Dream.us and/or create similar programs that establish
guidelines for the recruitment of DACAMented and Undocumented students as well as scholarships
that make the cost of attendance, an affordable one. Participants will be informed about current
Tennessee and Federal laws and regulations in regards to DACAMented and Undocumented
Students. Administrations will be able to see some of the challenges and success stories that go
along with working with DACAMented and Undocumented Students.
Alex Ortiz, Southwest Community College
Chair/Recorder: Ronda Williams, Columbia State Community College

8.2 Higher Education is the Goal, No Matter the Mascot

Palomino
We would like to discuss how to collaborate with other Admissions personnel from other campuses
to better serve prospective students. We will discuss how to put students first and look out for
their best interests in deciding on a future college. As Admissions Counselors from different
institutions, we have built a relationship where we can call each other for advice, have a contact for
students who may be interested in a different institution, and have become more knowledgeable
about each other’s institutions so we can better serve our students!
Emily Anne Sparks, University of Tennessee, Martin
Kayci Henline, University of Memphis
Chair/Recorder: Destin Tucker, University of Tennessee, Martin

8.3 Personalizing the Campus Visit

Quarter Horse
Prospective students live in a world where many of their surroundings are personalized. To catch
the attention of millennials, the on-campus experience should be nothing short of that. As a former
School Counselor, I've seen firsthand many practices from college reps that both help and hurt the
student's college decision. During this session, we will discuss why it is important to personalize
visits and we will share examples of how we personalize our private tours and preview days.
Micaleah Parker & Diana Stevenson, Lee University
Chair/Recorder: Laura Stansell, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

8.4 ETSU Curriculog Implementation

Arabian
Documentation of the implementation process and overview of Curriculog with the challenges of
new forms and reporting functions. What we wished we have done different, lessons learned and
an update of where we are post-implementation.
Evelyn Roach, East Tennessee State University
Chair/Recorder: Tom Donahoe, East Tennessee State University

23
8.5 Flipping the Script: Preparing for Your Education as a Higher
Education Professional
Mustang
As professionals within enrollment management we are constantly focused on helping students
pursue their higher education goals; however, it is important we remember the importance of
continual professional growth. This session will address the obstacles and importance of pursuing a
graduate degree. Some of the topics covered will be time management, approaching your
supervisor, and how to find the right program for you. Attendants will also receive
recommendations and data from a survey completed by higher education professionals who have
completed a graduate degree.
Ashley Nelson, Austin Peay State University
Chair/Recorder: Kirbi Tucker, University of Memphis

24
25
26
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

27
28
29