Best Nacac Podcasts (2025)

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How to Have a Productive (and Fun!) Summer 15:45

Play Pause

16d ago15:45

15:45

Summer is for relaxing and recharging, but it’s also a great opportunity to set yourself up for success! In this episode, former college counselor and former dean of admission share their pro-tips for college-bound high schoolers on how to make the most of summer break. From working and volunteering, to exploring and getting creative, we've got you…

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EP155: MEET JAYO ADEGBOYO | 2025 Arthur Ashe, Jr. Male Sports Scholar of the Year 36:21

27d ago36:21

36:21

In this honest and intimate episode, we celebrate 2025 Arthur Ashe Jr. Male Sports Scholar of the Year Jayo Adegboyo from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). His story highlights the power of networking, persistence, and interdisciplinary learning. As a first-generation pre-med student, Jayo shares enthusiastically about the Meyerh…

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Setting Your College-Bound Student Up for Success in 2025 33:06

1M ago33:06

33:06

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, we’re focusing on one of the most important, but often overlooked, parts of the college journey: the transition from high school to higher education. Getting into college is just the beginning. Helping students find their footing, their people, and their purpose once they reach campus is key to their s…

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EP154: MEET JAIDA ROSS | 2025 Arthur Ashe, Jr. Female Sports Scholar of the Year 29:13

1M ago29:13

29:13

In this inspiring episode, we celebrate 2025 Arthur Ashe Jr. Female Sports Scholar of the Year Jaida Ross from the University of Oregon. This conversation explores her journey from a small Oregon town to the Olympic stage, highlighting her excellence in academics, athletics, and community service. Jaida shares her path from discovering shot put in …

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EP153: Tech Talent Starts Here: How the Last Mile Fund Supports Student Success 50:03

2M ago50:03

50:03

In today’s episode, we sit down with Ruthe Farmer, founder and CEO of the Last Mile Education Fund, for a powerful conversation about unlocking opportunity in STEM education. This discussion focuses on the Last Mile’s mission to support students in the final stretch of their degrees—especially those in high-demand fields like cybersecurity. Farmer …

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Campus Visits: What to Look for on Your Tour 21:00

2M ago21:00

21:00

Thinking about visiting colleges this summer? In this podcast episode, we’re breaking down the importance of campus visits, what to look for on the tour, and more! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about ScoirBy Scoir, Inc.

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[For Counselors & Teachers] Tips for Writing Letters of Recommendation 25:50

2M ago25:50

25:50

We shared an episode for students about requesting letters of recommendation, now we're sharing our pro tips for counselors and teachers as they write letters of recommendation on behalf of their students! In this episode, you'll hear from Julie Kampschroeder, a former college counselor with 31+ years of experience, and Peter Van Buskirk, a former …

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EP152: A Remarkable Journey in Community College Leadership, with Dr. Walter G. Bumphus 45:20

2M ago45:20

45:20

In this inspiring episode we engage with Dr. Walter G. Bumphus, the outgoing president and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), as he prepares to conclude his transformative 15-year tenure at the end of 2025. This candid conversation highlights his remarkable journey in higher education, from his early days at Murray State …

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[For Students] How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation 29:30

3M 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…

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

3M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

5M 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…

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

5M 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 …

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Celebrating School Counselors 47:57

5M 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…

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

6M 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…

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

6M 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 …

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Peak Perspectives: Assumptions and Decisions 9:30

6M ago9:30

9:30

Have you ever caught yourself making an assumption about someone's capacity for success based on where they come from or the challenges they've faced? At this time of year, when many admissions offices are deep in application review, it seems fitting to pause and reflect on how assumptions can shape decisions. In this Peak Perspective, we hear a vi…

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

7M 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…

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Peak Perspectives: A Purposeful No 8:48

7M ago8:48

8:48

Have you ever paused to consider the path you were on? Maybe that reflection led to affirmation, a definitive “Yes, this is the right direction.” Then again, maybe you sensed a quiet voice asking the question, “Are you sure this is the right direction?” In this Peak Perspective, we hear a story from Thom Golden, founder and CEO of Golden Educationa…

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

7M 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…

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Peak Perspectives: Living with the Imposter 6:46

7M ago6:46

6:46

Have you ever faced an opportunity that made you question your readiness, your abilities—even your worth? In this Peak Perspective, I share a story from Marie Bigham, founder of ACCEPT and IQID, who wrestled with self-doubt when she was invited to make a leap. What gave her the confidence to jump? (Original audio clip from Season 1, Episode 4 of th…

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

7M 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…

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Peak Perspectives: Embrace the Unexpected 3:57

7M ago3:57

3:57

Have you ever made a decision so unexpected that it completely changed the course of your life? Welcome to Peak Perspectives, a short-form spinoff of the ALP, where I share insights and stories from my new book, Climbing the Admissions Leadership Peak. Chapter 10, "Embrace the Unexpected," shares the stories of six admissions leaders who did just t…

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

7M 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 …

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

8M 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…

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

8M 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…

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

8M 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…

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

9M 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…

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

9M 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…

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Pro Tips for Effective Writing and Communication 40:28

9M 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…

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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

9M 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…

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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

9M 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…

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

9M 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…

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

10M 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…

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

10M 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…

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Season 10 Premiere 19:56

10M ago19:56

19:56

Season 10 kicks off with exciting news and an audible sneak preview. (And that, dear listener, is what folks in the business call a teaser.) The ALP is supported by RHB. Music arranged by Ryan AnselmentBy Ken Anselment

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

10M 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…

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

11M 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 …

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A Temperature Check on Admissions: Summer 2024 37:53

12M 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…

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

1y 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…

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

1y 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…

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

1y 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…

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

1y 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…