From Mission to Momentum: Ben Boivin on Student Success, AI Readiness, and the Future of Higher Education

What if the future of higher education isn’t about bigger campuses or larger enrollments, but about personalization, adaptability, and mission-driven leadership?In this episode of The Outcomes Podcast, host James Dressing sits down with Ben Boivin, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Manhattan University, to explore how one small New York institution is achieving outsized results.With over 13 years of experience in admissions, enrollment lifecycle marketing, brand messaging, and student engagement, Ben shares how Manhattan University is blending tradition, technology, and mentorship to drive exceptional student outcomes.Ben opens up about his journey from communications major to admissions leader, the challenges of navigating an enrollment downturn, and how his team turned crisis into clarity by reimagining how they connect with students. He also reveals how Manhattan University is preparing students for the future of work, embedding AI certification into every degree and cultivating critical thinking in the age of automation.This conversation goes beyond recruitment strategy; it’s about staying true to your mission while adapting to the seismic shifts reshaping higher education, technology, and student expectations.🔍 What You’ll LearnHow Manhattan University turned an enrollment challenge into a strategic advantageWhy personalized admissions is the new key to student successHow alumni networks amplify career outcomes and lifelong engagementThe role of AI certification and digital literacy in building future-ready graduatesWhy mission alignment and adaptability matter more than ever in higher edThe power of critical thinking and the human touch in an AI-driven worldHow to meet Gen Z where they are on TikTok, text, and beyondBen’s advice for higher ed leaders: Know your mission. Stay authentic. Adapt boldly.💡 Golden Nugget“AI may not replace your job, but someone who knows how to use AI better than you will. That’s why adaptability and critical thinking must go hand in hand.”Connect with Ben Boivin & Manhattan University 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ben-boivin-04833616 🌐 Manhattan University Website: manhattan.edu 🎥 TikTok: @ManhattanUAdmissions — A creative peek into campus life and student engagementConnect with The Outcomes PodcastSpotify LinkAmazon Music LinkApplePodcastMotimaticLinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with an educator, admissions professional, or higher ed leader passionate about innovation and student success.New episodes drop weekly!