Best Nacac Podcasts (2025)

1
How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation 29:30

3d ago29:30

29:30

Wondering how to ask for a letter of recommendation — and actually get a strong one? In this episode, we break down everything students need to know about recommendation letters: when to ask, how to ask, and what to share with your teacher or counselor to help them write a compelling letter. 🎙️ Our guests, Julie Kampschroeder (former college counse…

1
Higher Education Advocacy in Uncertain Times: Navigating Policy Changes in College Admission 33:16

15d ago33:16

33:16

NACAC's David Hawkins and Sean Robins discuss the administration's changes to education policy, including efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and anti-DEI initiatives, and how these policies impact students, institutions, and the college admission landscape. They also share opportunities and strategies for advocacy. (Recorded on M…

1
Course Selection: Strategies for Choosing your High School Courses 14:19

26d ago14:19

14:19

In this episode, Peter Van Buskirk, Strategic Advisor for Scoir and former Dean of Admission, shares pro tips for selecting your high school courses. We dive into what colleges are looking for and how to plan your classes strategically throughout your years in high school. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

1
EP151: Catching up with Toni Morrison scholar and DEI expert, Dr. Marilyn Sanders Mobley 45:20

1M ago45:20

45:20

In today’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Marilyn Sanders Mobley, a distinguished scholar, author, and academic leader. As founder of the African American Studies program at George Mason University and former Vice President for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equal Opportunity at Case Western Reserve University, Mobley has spent decades shaping conversati…

1
EP150: Creating Culturally Responsive Classrooms, with Dr. Marlee Bunch 32:52

2M ago32:52

32:52

In this episode we feature author and creator of the un/HUSH Framework, Dr. Marlee Bunch, to discuss the development of her framework for dealing with the challenges of implementing diverse narratives in today’s educational settings. Bunch shares how her experiences as an educator in diverse, low-income schools led her to pursue a doctorate focused…

1
EP149: From Protest to President: A Social Justice Journey with Dr. George A. Pruitt 56:22

2M ago56:22

56:22

In this episode, we welcome Dr. George A. Pruitt, Thomas Edison State University president emeritus, for a thought-provoking discussion highlighting the past, present, and future of the civil rights movement, the importance of celebrating diverse histories, and the ongoing struggle for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in higher education and …

1
Celebrating School Counselors 47:57

3M ago47:57

47:57

In honor of National School Counseling Week, we are shining a spotlight on the work of school counselors and the vital role they play in students’ lives. Every day, school counselors make a lasting impact by offering academic advising, providing college counseling, supporting the well-being of their students, and much more. Host Eddie Pickett is jo…

1
EP148: Embracing Diversity, Fostering Belonging: How Affordable Access Transforms Lives at the University of Mount Saint Vincent 48:54

3M ago48:54

48:54

Meet Dr. Susan R. Burns, president of the University of Mount Saint Vincent in the Bronx, New York City. A first-generation college graduate herself, Burns is leading the university into the future of what higher ed should look like — an authentic, high-quality education for students of all backgrounds. Under Burns' leadership since 2021, the Mount…

1
AI in College Admission: How is artificial intelligence impacting students and professionals? 47:02

3M ago47:02

47:02

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett is joined by NACAC members Emily Pacheco and Sebastian Brown to explore the impact of AI in higher education: from students using AI tools for essays and test prep, to admission offices using AI for student outreach and data analysis. Our guests provide insights on the opportunities …

1
Episode 60: Don't Cut the School Counselors 2:01

4M ago2:01

2:01

“Don’t Cut the School Counselors” Song Produced by: Shammy Dee and Ruben Escobar Vocals: Shammy Dee A few laws conducted by school counselors: AB 469 - state mandate for financial aid; provide financial aid information to 11th graders; monitor lists and reports for 12th grader financial aid completion rates - all 12th graders must submit a financia…

1
EP147: Bridging the Gap for Latino Student Success, with Sarita E. Brown and Deborah A. Santiago 1:07:20

4M ago1:07:20

1:07:20

In this episode, we sit down for an insightful conversation with Sarita E. Brown (president) and Deborah A. Santiago (CEO) of Excelencia in Education. Together, they discuss the organization’s mission and its transformative journey over the past two decades. As co-founders, Brown and Santiago reflect on their decision to create Excelencia with a vi…

1
Bridging Generations: Navigating Workplace Dynamics in Higher Education 39:54

4M ago39:54

39:54

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett and NACAC members Kimberly Rutland West and Brooklyn Duong unpack how Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers approach work, communication, and collaboration. We dive into the historical events and cultural shifts that have shaped each generation, explore strategies for fos…

1
EP146: Equity, access, and student success post-2024 election, with Dr. Angel B. Pérez, NACAC CEO 45:33

5M ago45:33

45:33

In this episode we welcome Dr. Angel Pérez, CEO of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). Listen in as Pérez and Diverse host Ralph Newell delve into the potential implications of the 2024 election on federal education policies, focusing on the challenges faced by underrepresented students. Pérez emphasizes the critical …

1
EP145: REPLAY: A Roundtable on Justice for Marcus Garvey 55:59

5M ago55:59

55:59

In this episode, we share a replay of the October 8th roundtable discussion "Justice for Marcus Garvey." Presented by Broadleaf Books, in partnership with the African American Literary Book Club, The Harlem Writers Guild, and Diverse, this discussion is a tribute to and a rallying cry for one of the preeminent champions of Black pride and self-dete…

1
Why Counselors Give Us Hugs at NACAC [Event Replay] 1:08:29

5M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

In this webinar-turned-podcast, hear the experts talk about how Scoir's foundational work with high school counselors benefits the work of colleges, too. Liz McGonigle, Managed Subscriptions Engagement Strategist at Scoir, Chris White from High Tech High, and Sebastian Brown from the University of Oregon share how Visits, Matches, and Parent/Guardi…

1
EP144: Project upGRADS, Leading the Charge for Disadvantaged Students in Graduate Education at CSU Fullerton – A 2024 Example of Excelencia 38:40

5M ago38:40

38:40

Created in 2005 by Excelencia in Education, Examples of Excelencia is a national initiative that identifies and promotes evidence-based practices improving Latinx student success in higher education. This year, Project upGRADS at California State University (CSU) Fullerton was chosen as the Example of Excelencia at the graduate level. In this episo…

1
EP143: CAMP at Washington State: Improving Student Outcomes for Migrant and Seasonal Farm Working Families — A 2024 Example of Excelencia 53:31

6M ago53:31

53:31

In this episode we sit down with Michael Heim, the Director of Migrant Education Student Access & Support (MESAS) at Washington State University Pullman (WSU). Heim has overseen both the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) and the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) at WSU for seven years. Under his leadership, WSU CAMP has been selected as…

1
The Power of Advocacy: How School Counselors Can Drive Change in Education 41:39

6M ago41:39

41:39

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett sits down with three NACAC members—Priscilla Grijalva, Candice Mackey, and Stephanie Brazinsky—to explore the critical role of advocacy in education. They discuss how counselors can use data-driven strategies to make their impact visible, build meaningful collaborations with administ…

1
Pro Tips for Effective Writing and Communication 40:28

6M ago40:28

40:28

In this episode, Chief Growth Officer at Scoir, Ashley Smith, and former Dean of Admission, Peter Van Buskirk chat all things effective communication! Whether you're a college-bound student writing your college essay or heading into the workforce and want to sharpen your skills, we're sharing our tips for breaking out of the 5 paragraph essay and s…

1
EP142: Breaking down the Latino electorate with Clarissa Martínez De Castro, Vice President of the Latino Vote Initiative at UnidosUS — Election 2024 series, part two of two 49:58

6M ago49:58

49:58

Tune in as Clarissa Martínez De Castro, Vice President of the Latino Vote Initiative at UnidosUS, discusses the need for accurate information and education to ensure full election participation and encourage eligible Latino voters to register to vote. Committed to strengthening civil society, De Castro spearheads initiatives that emphasize the sign…

1
EP141: Voter Suppression and the Importance of Minoritized Youth Voting in the United States with Dr. Carol Anderson — Election 2024 series, part one of two 59:35

6M ago59:35

59:35

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Carol Anderson, a renowned professor of African American Studies at Emory University and the author of five books, including her bestseller White Rage which won the 2016 National Book Critics Circle Award for Criticism. Anderson discusses the challenges and strategies for engaging youth voters, particularly in A…

1
EP140: Getting to Know the EAP program at Reading Area Community College — A 2024 Example of Excelencia 49:19

7M ago49:19

49:19

Created in 2005 by Excelencia in Education, Examples of Excelencia is a national initiative that identifies and promotes evidence-based practices improving Latinx student success in higher education. This year, the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at Reading Area Community College (RACC) was chosen as the Example of Excelencia at the ass…

1
EP139: Meet Noemi Y. Perez, President & CEO of The Immokalee Foundation — A 2024 Example of Excelencia 49:39

7M ago49:39

49:39

Created in 2005 by Excelencia in Education, Examples of Excelencia is a national initiative that identifies and promotes evidence-based practices improving Latinx student success in higher education. This year, The Immokalee Foundation was chosen as the Example of Excelencia at the community-based organization level, for its Career Pathways: Empowe…

1
EP138: The Critical Need for Global Learning Initiatives, with Dr. LaNitra M. Berger 48:07

7M ago48:07

48:07

In this episode we welcome Dr. LaNitra M. Berger, associate professor of History and Art History and director of African and African American Studies at George Mason University. Berger is also the current president of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, a non-profit association dedicated to international education and exchange. Berger an…

1
What Students Really Want to Hear from Colleges 1:00:26

8M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

Join Ciara and Erika, Senior Engagement Strategists at Scoir and college admissions marketing professionals, plus Abby deSilva, Inbound Marketing Strategist at Scoir and member of Gen Z, as they share strategies to authentically connect with Gen Z and thrive through today’s admissions challenges. They evaluate what students think about college admi…

1
EP137: GateWay’s Hybrid Approach — Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Community College Education, with Dr. Amy Diaz 56:21

8M ago56:21

56:21

In this episode of In The Margins, host Ralph Newell welcomes Dr. Amy Diaz, president of GateWay Community College in Phoenix, Arizona. Diaz is an equity-minded leader with over 30 years of experience advocating for student access and success in higher education and emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) ideals. Diaz focuses on student …

1
A Temperature Check on Admissions: Summer 2024 37:53

9M ago37:53

37:53

Our Chief Growth Officer, Ashley Smith, is joined by Peter Van Buskirk as he shares a recap of key takeaways and hot topics from this year's No Name Conference sessions. Take a listen as we discuss the FAFSA delays, how students can cope with the "achievement culture", and more. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

1
Episode 59: Ep. 59 The Last Episode 48:31

11M ago48:31

48:31

Priscilla Grijalva and Dan Reyes reminisce about their favorite memories and share a few updates. We have a special guest audio from, Merone Hailemeskel, Digital and Communications for President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama. Audio Edits: Dan Reyes; "Reaching Higher" Song Lyrics and Music by Jessica and Jackie Parry, Vocals by Emily Patterson (20…

1
EP136: PANEL | Leaders Call for Active Resistance Against Anti-DEI Measures at National Action Network (NAN) Annual Convention 55:28

12M ago55:28

55:28

In this episode, we revisit a thought-provoking panel discussion from the National Action Network’s 2024 Convention held April 10-13 in New York City. Led by moderator Dr. Jamal E. Watson, esteemed panelists Kimberlé Crenshaw, Stephanie Ruhle, Dr. Alvin Tillery, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, and Dedrick Asante-Muhammad delve into the profound impact of a…

1
Navigating College Choices: Counselor Tips for Student and Parent/Guardian Harmony 43:51

12M ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, host Kaila Brown, former high school counselor, and guest Aaron Fulk, Director of College Counseling at the University School of Nashville, offer insightful strategies for counselors in supporting students and families through the college decision-making process. They emphasize the importance of asking the right questions to encour…

1
EP135: DOUBLE PLAY | Meet 2024 Arthur Ashe Jr. Male and Female Sports Scholar of the Year — Darius Robinson & Olivia Womack 36:52

12M ago36:52

36:52

Meet defensive lineman Darius Robinson, a first-round selection in the 2024 National Football League (NFL) Draft, and sprinter Olivia Womack. As exceptional college student-athletes, Robinson of Mizzou and Womack of Ole Miss were named 2024’s Arthur Ashe Jr. Male and Female Sports Scholar of the Year. The Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar program is p…

1
EP134: Meet Retired Lt. Gen. Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr., President, Angelo State University — an award-winning Texas Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) 35:25

1y ago35:25

35:25

Meet retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr., president of Angelo State University (ASU), which continues to evolve and thrive as a leading institution in higher education in part by leveraging its opportunities. The university is dedicated to serving its diverse student population and preparing students for success in an ever-changin…

1
Empowering Perspectives: Women Leaders in College Admission Counseling 28:46

1y ago28:46

28:46

In this episode, NACAC Board Director Tahirah Jordan Crawford leads an engaging discussion with two accomplished women leaders in the world of college admission counseling, covering topics such as finding joy in the work, leadership, work-life balance, and overcoming challenges. Gain valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives of women …

1
EP133: Improving Student Success and Reducing Equity Gaps with Dr. Monica Parrish Trent 56:49

1y ago56:49

56:49

Meet Dr. Monica Parrish Trent, chief program and network officer at Achieving the Dream (ATD). Trent's career spans over 25 years, during which she has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving student success and reducing equity gaps, particularly for BIPOC and low-income students. Her extensive experience in community colleges has equipped…

1
EP132: Resistance From the Right: Conservatives and The Campus Wars in Modern America with Dr. Lauren Lassabe Shepherd 25:37

1y ago25:37

25:37

Meet Dr. Lauren Lassabe Shepherd, an instructor in the College of Liberal Arts, Education, and Human Development at the University of New Orleans and an IUPUI-Society for U.S. Intellectual History Community Scholar, who was recognized as a leading woman by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education for her outstanding contributions in 2024. In this episod…

1
EP131: Black Women Ivory Tower: Revealing the Lies of White Supremacy in American Education with Dr. Jasmine L. Harris 43:02

1y ago43:02

43:02

In this episode, Diverse host David Pluviose engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Jasmine L. Harris, author of Black Women Ivory Tower: Revealing the Lies of White Supremacy in American Education. Harris is an associate professor of African American Studies and coordinator of the African American Studies Program in the Department of…

1
Uniquely Powerful: Insights Into the Women’s College Experience 33:28

1y ago33:28

33:28

Women's colleges offer transformative experiences for students that are more important than ever. These institutions provide access to inclusive campus communities and academic excellence with a focus on developing women leaders. In this episode, we will counter common myths, highlight unique opportunities from STEM programs to powerful professiona…

1
Navigating Higher Education Budgeting Amid the Changing Admissions Landscape 37:08

1y ago37:08

37:08

By 2027, the number of names nationally available for search will drop by 38%, according to Forbes. A shifting public perception of college and post-high school plans along with a drop in the young adult population has shrunk the pool of college applicants. With these enrollment and search cliffs, colleges are faced with the challenge (and opportun…

1
EP130: Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Can Heal with Dr. Bettina L. Love 26:34

1y ago26:34

26:34

Meet Dr. Bettina L. Love, the William F. Russell Professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, who delves into the complex dynamics of education reform and highlights its detrimental effects on Black children and communities. In this episode, Diverse host Dr. Jamal Watson engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Love, author of The Ne…

1
EP129: HBCU: The Power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities 28:25

1y ago28:25

28:25

Meet Dr. Marybeth Gasman, the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair and a Distinguished University Professor at Rutgers University, and Dr. Levon T. Esters, dean of the graduate school and vice provost for graduate education at Penn State University. They co-authored HBCU: The Power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, published by Johns …

1
EP128: Meet The Emerging Scholars of the Year, 2024 57:38

1+ y ago57:38

57:38

Each year, Diverse’s editorial staff chooses Emerging Scholars from nominations that pour in from all over the country. The selections are based on several factors including uniqueness of scholarship, commitment to teaching, community service, scholarly awards, honors, and academic accomplishments. In this episode, we replay the Jan. 18 Diverse Tal…

1
The True Benefits of Studying Abroad 33:46

1+ y ago33:46

33:46

Studying abroad is so much more than enrolling in college courses in a different country—the experience can fundamentally change the course of your future. But who is this experience for, and what is the return on investment? In this informative discussion, leading experts break down everything students and parents need to know about studying abroa…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Nacac Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen