Category: Collegis Stories

  • Regis University Partners with Collegis Education to Modernize IT Infrastructure and Strengthen Denver’s Higher Ed Innovation Footprint

    Regis University Partners with Collegis Education to Modernize IT Infrastructure and Strengthen Denver’s Higher Ed Innovation Footprint

    Multi-year collaboration to strengthen cybersecurity, streamline systems, and drive operational innovation across campus.

    DENVER, Colo. — [November 11, 2025] — Regis University today announced a new five-year partnership with Collegis Education, a nationally recognized provider of higher education technology and data solutions, to modernize and strengthen the university’s IT infrastructure. The collaboration marks a major step in Regis’ ongoing digital transformation strategy, designed to enhance cybersecurity, improve data integration, and deliver more efficient, 24/7 technology services across campus.

    In the fall of 2023, Regis launched a comprehensive assessment of its IT infrastructure. The results made clear that gaps in existing systems limited the university’s ability to serve students, faculty, and staff efficiently. Addressing these challenges required reimagining how technology services are delivered to ensure systems are reliable, responsive, and aligned with the needs of a modern learning environment.

    “Technology is foundational to how we teach, learn, and work, and this partnership represents a major investment in Regis University’s future,” said Stephanie Morris, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Regis University. “Partnering with Collegis allows us to modernize our IT operations, strengthen security, and provide a more unified and responsive experience for our community, all while maintaining our commitment to operational excellence and fiscal responsibility.”

    Regis selected Collegis through a competitive RFP process, following staff recommendations based on prior positive experiences with the company at other institutions. Throughout the evaluation, Collegis distinguished itself by demonstrating a deep understanding of universities’ operational complexities and by recognizing the central role technology plays in supporting teaching, learning, and student success. 

    As part of the partnership, Collegis will help Regis integrate core systems, including Colleague, Salesforce, and Workday, to create a more seamless experience for students, faculty, and staff.  This will allow Regis to improve efficiencies, access diverse levels of expertise, provide 24/7 service availability, and improve system integrations. 

    The collaboration will provide Regis with access to a broad range of higher education IT expertise and scalable resources. Collegis’ team will collaborate closely with Regis leadership to deliver high-performing systems, improved uptime and reliability, and integrated data systems that strengthen university operations and inform decision-making.

    “We are proud to partner with Regis University, an institution with a deep commitment to innovation and service,” said Kim Fahey, CEO of Collegis Education. “Our role is to help Regis leverage technology to empower its mission to support a secure, connected, and efficient digital ecosystem that enhances the student experience and strengthens institutional resilience.”

    Under the agreement, Collegis will assume management of day-to-day IT infrastructure operations, while Regis will continue to oversee technology strategy and governance. Faculty, staff, and students will continue to access support through familiar channels—including the online self-service portal and ITS help desk—with the added benefit of 24/7 availability and expanded system monitoring.

    The transition will take place over the coming year, with listening sessions and open forums held throughout the process to ensure transparency, collaboration, and feedback from the Regis community.

    “Partnership success is realized when operational excellence, trust, and shared purpose combine to deliver reliable technology services; improved faculty, staff, and student experiences; and measurable value to the university’s mission,” said Morris. “With Collegis as a strategic partner, we will be able to evolve to meet changing institutional needs and empower our faculty to teach, our students to learn, and our community to thrive.”

    About Regis University

    Established in 1877, Regis University is a premier, globally engaged institution of higher learning in the Jesuit tradition that prepares leaders to live productive lives of faith, meaning and service. Regis University, one of 27 Jesuit universities in the nation, has two campus locations in the Denver metro area and extensive online program offerings with more than 6,000 enrolled students. It is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. For more information, visit www.regis.edu.

    About Collegis Education

    As a mission-oriented, tech-enabled services provider, Collegis Education partners with higher education institutions to help align operations to drive transformative impact across the entire student lifecycle. With over 25 years as an industry pioneer, Collegis has proven how to leverage data, technology, and talent to optimize institutions’ business processes that enhance the student experience. With strategic expertise that rivals the leading consultancies, a full suite of proven service lines —including marketing, enrollment, retention, IT —and its world-class Connected Core® data platform, Collegis helps its partners drive impact and generate revenue, growth, and innovation. Learn more at CollegisEducation.com or via LinkedIn.

    Media Contacts:

    Collegis Education

    Alyssa Miller

    [email protected]

    973-615-1292

    Regis University

    Sheryl Tirol

    [email protected]

    Our mission is to enable impact in higher education. We help our partners achieve more, deliver superior experiences, and drive impact across the entire student lifecycle by leveraging and aligning data, technology, and talent.

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  • Leading Through Change: The Core Values That Guide Collegis and Higher Ed

    Leading Through Change: The Core Values That Guide Collegis and Higher Ed

    Higher education is undergoing rapid transformation — from shifting student demographics to the urgent need for digital agility. At Collegis Education, we’ve navigated a similar journey. What began as a services organization has evolved into a technology-enabled partner, helping institutions thrive amid disruption. And while the journey hasn’t always been easy, one thing has kept us steady through it all: our culture. 

    When we talk about culture, we’re really talking about who we are when things get hard — how we make decisions, how we treat one another, and how we stay focused on our shared mission even when the future feels uncertain. 

    At Collegis, our culture is built on four core values that have guided every step of our transformation: authenticity, innovation, commitment, and collaboration. These aren’t just words. They’re the foundation that enables us to stay grounded and keep moving forward — together. 

    Shared transformation with our partners 

    Institutions across higher education are also undergoing profound transformation — navigating demographic shifts, evolving technology expectations, and increasing pressure to deliver on access and affordability. 

    These pressures have tested the resilience of colleges and universities nationwide. Yet just like Collegis, many institutions have found strength by doubling down on their missions and values. 

    That’s why our relationships with our partners are so strong. We understand that mission-driven organizations operate with purpose, and so do we. Higher education is about service, learning, and impact. At Collegis, our purpose is to help institutions live that mission more effectively through innovation, data, and technology — while never losing sight of the human side of education. 

    Authenticity in action: How trust drives transformation 

    Transformation requires honesty. Honesty about what’s working, what isn’t, and what comes next. Like many institutions, we’ve made difficult decisions in recent years. We’ve rethought how we serve our partners, restructured internally, and evolved how we operate. 

    Throughout these moments, authenticity has been our anchor. We communicate openly, acknowledge challenges, and lead with transparency to build trust. 

    It also means bringing our true selves to work. The people who thrive at Collegis are those who lead with integrity, admit mistakes, and approach challenges with humility and purpose. That creates space for bold ideas and genuine growth. 

    Authenticity connects us to our partners as well. Institutions strive to build cultures of empathy, honesty, and integrity — just like we do. It’s a value that runs deep across the higher ed ecosystem. 

    Innovation that moves us forward 

    Change is accelerating. The ability to innovate isn’t just a differentiator — it’s a requirement. 

    At Collegis, innovation is about more than technology. It’s how we think. It’s how we tackle complex challenges, experiment with new ideas, and find better ways to deliver value. 

    We’ve seen innovation in action across our organization — in the development of Connected Core®, in our use of AI to personalize student experiences, and in our operations teams that continuously improve how we work. 

    Our partners are innovating too. From program design to data strategy to student engagement, institutions are finding new ways to serve their communities. Together, we’re helping higher ed adapt and thrive. 

    Commitment that never wavers 

    Change tests commitment. It’s easy to be dedicated when things are smooth. It’s much harder when goals shift, markets move, or resources tighten. 

    What’s impressed me most about our Collegis team is the depth of commitment I see every day. Our people lean in. They solve problems, meet deadlines, and show up for one another and for our partners. 

    That same spirit exists across the institutions we serve — a relentless focus on students, on mission, and on progress. It’s what fuels our shared success. 

    Collaboration that scales 

    No transformation succeeds in isolation. Every major milestone we’ve achieved at Collegis has happened because of collaboration across disciplines, departments, and partner campuses. 

    Our strength comes from diverse perspectives — technologists, strategists, enrollment experts, marketers, and more — working together to deliver real outcomes. 

    Higher education is built on collaboration, too. Shared governance, interdisciplinary research, cross-campus teamwork — it’s all about connection. And that’s where we thrive. 

    Culture is our constant 

    We’re living in an era of rapid change. The pace of advancement, the evolving needs of students, and the challenges facing institutions demand agility and resilience. 

    In that context, culture is our constant. It’s what grounds us. It defines how we show up for one another and for our partners. 

    Culture doesn’t eliminate uncertainty. But it gives us confidence in how we face it — with respect, dignity, and shared purpose. 

    Staying grounded in what matters most 

    We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re even more excited about where we’re headed. Our transformation didn’t happen by chance. It happened because our people chose to lead with authenticity, innovate boldly, stay committed, and collaborate with purpose. 

    Those values mirror the best of what higher education stands for. We’re honored to work alongside mission-based institutions shaping lives and strengthening communities. 

    As we continue to evolve, one thing won’t change: our shared belief in dignity, respect, and building organizations that reflect the best of who we are. 

    If we stay grounded in those values — as a company and as a community of partners — there’s nothing we can’t achieve together. 

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  • Embracing Disruption: Reflections from DisruptED 2025 

    Embracing Disruption: Reflections from DisruptED 2025 

    Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of gathering with higher ed leaders from across the country for our annual Collegis conference, designed to spark candid dialogue about the future of higher education. We were fortunate to bring together leaders from institutions of all types and sizes, recognizing that while their contexts differ, the profound disruption reshaping higher education is affecting them all.  As we heard from industry experts and schools “winning” during these unprecedented times, it was so rewarding to see excitement build around how to not just navigating this disruption but embrace and drive it.   

    We’ve hosted several conferences over the years, but this one felt different. Maybe it was the collective honesty in the room or the mix of optimism and unease we all carried about the future of higher education. Whatever it was, the conversations reminded me how critical it is for our industry to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for progress. 

    In higher education, disruption is often seen as something that happens to us, driven by external forces we have to react to. But our focus this year was on flipping that script. Instead of responding to disruption, we talked about creating it by becoming the catalysts who challenge long-held models and reimagine how to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s students. 

    These conversations also reinforced the value of stepping out of the day-to-day to connect with peers and have the kind of honest, intentional conversations that spark real change.  I felt honored to be amongst a group of leaders so passionate about the need to evolve for one main reason — the student. 

    Rethinking what “ready” really means 

    One thought-provoking statement that stood out to me came from presenter Casey Evans, Chief Operating Officer at ASU EdPlus. She posed: Institutions focus too much on students being college-ready. We need to flip that and ask ourselves, are WE, the college, ready for the students? 

    It’s a simple reframing, but it changes everything. Too often, we measure readiness as a student’s ability to fit into the systems we’ve built. But what if readiness meant our ability to adapt those systems to meet students where they are? 

    I spoke with leaders who are looking to do exactly that — using data, technology, and empathy to design experiences that are more flexible, inclusive, and human. These institutions aren’t lowering standards, they’re reimagining them. They’re asking what it means to be student-ready, not system-bound. 

    The power of deconstruction 

    Another theme that emerged was around innovation. Fixing broken processes isn’t innovation. Reimagining them is. 

    I heard from presidents, provosts, and enrollment leaders who are bravely seeking to dismantle long-standing workflows and rebuild them one step at a time. Not because it’s easy or efficient, but because it’s necessary. 

    That kind of deconstruction takes courage. It means letting go of what feels comfortable and, at times, rebuilding from the ground up with the student experience leading the way. It’s a daunting idea, but real innovation happens when we move past fixing what’s broken and start imagining what’s possible. 

    Leading through ambiguity 

    We also explored what it means to lead in an era that’s unpredictable and accelerating. Technology, policy shifts, and political forces are reshaping higher ed faster than ever, often in ways we can’t control. 

    Change once seemed to follow a pattern. Now it’s fluid — much like unstructured data: constant, complex, and always evolving. Uncertainty isn’t the exception anymore; it’s the environment we operate in. 

    That’s why intuition alone isn’t enough. Leaders need data to anticipate, adapt, and make confident decisions in real time. True leadership today means creating space for curiosity and collaboration, moving forward even when the path isn’t clear, and trusting that progress is built on motion, not perfection. 

    Creating space for humanity 

    Throughout the event, we discussed how technology could better support human connection across the student experience. There’s a real desire to reduce friction in the journey, make data work harder, and give faculty and staff more time to focus on what they do best: connecting, mentoring, and inspiring. 

    That vision resonates deeply with me because it’s exactly what I believe is possible. Technology isn’t a replacement for  human interaction, but it can absolutely enhance it. When designed intentionally and used strategically, it creates space for humanity. It creates space for students to feel seen, for advisors to act sooner, and for institutions to operate with both empathy and precision. 

    This is the kind of transformation higher ed leaders are striving toward, and it’s one we’re excited to help bring to life. 

    Looking ahead 

    As I left DisruptED, I felt both challenged and inspired. Change in higher ed isn’t slowing down. Technology, regulation, and politics are reshaping our world in ways we can’t always control — but how we respond is up to us. 

    There is no new normal. Continuous, unpredictable change is the norm, and with it comes opportunity. With the right data, strategy, and partners, institutions can move from reacting to leading — anticipating what’s next instead of catching up. 

    Change isn’t optional, but progress is. And as this community of leaders continues to show, disruption doesn’t divide us. It pushes us forward when we’re bold enough to lead together. 

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

    Kim Fahey is President and CEO of Collegis Education, where she leads strategy, operations, and growth to help higher education institutions leverage data, technology, and talent to achieve measurable outcomes. Since joining Collegis in 2014, Kim has played a pivotal role in scaling the company and evolving it into a premier higher ed solutions provider. A transformative leader with deep experience in technology and operations, she is passionate about driving innovation, building high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional results for Collegis partners.

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  • Why Data Is Higher Education’s Most Overlooked Competitive Advantage

    Why Data Is Higher Education’s Most Overlooked Competitive Advantage

    Every conversation I have with higher ed leaders seems to start in the same place: competition is tougher than ever. Enrollment pressures, shifting demographics, rising expectations from students — it’s a lot. And in the middle of it all, I see so many institutions sitting on a resource that could help them compete more effectively: their own data.

    The truth is, higher ed doesn’t have a data shortage. Colleges and universities already collect enormous amounts of information across their systems. The challenge is knowing how to put it to work in ways that actually move the needle. Too often, that data stays trapped in silos, reduced to static reports, or only pulled out for compliance.

    The difference isn’t the data itself — it’s how you use it.

    Students expect personalization

    Think about how personalized the world around us has become. From the playlists that show up in your music app to the recommendations in your shopping cart, people expect experiences that feel unique and relevant. Students are no different.

    A high schooler exploring a summer program and a mid-career professional considering a certificate have very different motivations. Yet both expect a journey that recognizes their goals and helps them take the next right step.

    That’s where higher ed data becomes a real advantage. When institutions use it strategically, they can anticipate student needs, personalize outreach, and build relationships that feel relevant, timely, and supportive rather than transactional.

    How scattered data becomes a living, actionable picture

    Here’s the challenge: most colleges are juggling a patchwork of CRMs, SIS, LMS, and marketing platforms that don’t really talk to each other. Each contains valuable data, but without a way to connect them, the view of the student is incomplete.

    This is where the concept of a digital twin comes in. Imagine having a single, dynamic model that reflects each student’s real journey — from first click to graduation. A digital twin takes fragmented data from across systems and turns it into a living, actionable picture.

    During a recent conversation with a prospective partner, our team walked through this idea in action. We demonstrated how a digital twin could anticipate critical student moments, unify siloed systems, and make engagement more intentional. The “aha” moment came when leaders realized it wasn’t about another dashboard, but about creating a foundation that turns information into action.

    With that kind of visibility, institutions can do things like:

    • Spot at-risk students before they disengage.
    • Give advisors and faculty the insights to offer timely support.
    • See what’s really driving enrollment outcomes.
    • Run “what if” scenarios to guide strategy and resources.

    That kind of transformation doesn’t just look good on paper — it delivers measurable outcomes.

    Real results from using data differently

    I’ve seen what happens when institutions make this shift.

    I recall one university partner that had been struggling with years of declining graduate enrollment. By unifying their data and creating a clear view across the funnel, they grew spring enrollment by 20% in a single term while re-engaging 120 stop-out students.

    Another school was questioning the ROI of their marketing spend. Once they integrated campaign data with enrollment outcomes and student sentiment, they were able to adjust quickly. The result? A 30% increase in online applications and a 46% reduction in cost-per-deposit.

    These stories aren’t about magic formulas. They’re about what’s possible when institutions stop letting data sit unused and instead create a digital twin that brings the student journey to life.

    Rethinking the role of data

    Too often, data is seen and treated as a back-office function.  That approach is a liability. I believe higher ed data must be treated as a core part of strategy, student engagement, and institutional health.

    If you’re wondering where to start, ask yourself:

    • Do we have a clear view of the entire student journey, or are we piecing it together manually?
    • Are our engagement efforts personalized, or are they one-size-fits-all?
    • Can we make real-time decisions, or are we relying on outdated reports?
    • Do our teams have the insights they need to act at the right moment?

    If the answer to any of these is “No,” it’s time to rethink your approach to data.

    Looking ahead

    I’ve spent more than a decade working alongside higher ed leaders, and one thing I know is this: data alone isn’t the advantage. What matters is how you use it to serve students and strengthen your institution.

    The colleges and universities that will lead the next era of higher education won’t be the ones with the biggest datasets. They’ll be the ones that create a connected, holistic view of each student — able to anticipate needs, personalize engagement, and act with precision. They’ll be the ones treating data as the engine of innovation, not just a byproduct of operations.

    Are you ready to take advantage of your data?

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

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  • Higher Education Needs to Prioritize for Impact

    Higher Education Needs to Prioritize for Impact

    Last month, a few of our Collegis leaders attended the Google Public Sector Leaders Connect summit in Chicago. This event brought together technology, education, and government leaders to address one major question: How can public institutions unlock the true value of AI?

    Institutions are grappling with a fast-changing AI landscape

    The summit served up plenty of insight, data, and dialogue about the promises and pitfalls of artificial intelligence in higher ed. One stat that hit home: 80% of students think universities are falling short when it comes to integrating AI.

    That’s not just a tech gap, it’s a relevance gap. Today’s students are living in an AI-powered world, and if institutions can’t keep pace, they risk losing credibility and connection.

    They are also failing to prepare students for a new job market, where AI is “attacking” entry-level jobs that their graduates would previously fill. With many entry-level jobs being fulfilled by AI, what are schools doing to help their graduates get the skills they need to thrive in this new world?

    Fragmented priorities are holding higher ed back

    As we listened to leaders at the summit and reflected on our partner conversations, it became clear that the challenges institutions face go beyond AI adoption.

    Other concerns surfaced as well:

    • 71% of institutions say their top priority is attracting and retaining students.
    • 56% are worried about data security threats like phishing, ransomware, and breaches.
    • 42% cite operational pressures as a major barrier, from business model constraints to process inefficiencies.

    On their own, these numbers signal urgency. But together, they reveal something deeper:

    Institutions aren’t just overwhelmed by change, they’re unsure where to focus and where to invest.

    Competing priorities and limited resources make it hard to know what matters most. These three statistics may look unrelated, but they are all very much related and impact each other. Operational pressure can heighten data security risks, which can trigger breaches that erode student trust and enrollment. Those same pressures often stem from — and lead to — inefficient processes that hurt the student experience and, ultimately, retention.

    Throughout the day, multiple speakers kept reinforcing the importance of “prioritizing for impact.” Because while AI offers enormous potential, the technology itself won’t drive transformation — leadership will.

    It’s not about adopting more tech — it’s about focusing on impact

    Now this struck a chord with me, especially given how we approach partner onboarding at Collegis. Even during early conversations with potential partners, our first question is always the same: “What are you trying to impact?”

    It’s a simple question, but the answers we hear are very telling, and can drastically vary depending on who at the institution is answering. What I like about this question is that it helps focus the conversation on a desired end result, providing an immediate opportunity to pressure test strategies, tactics, and competing priorities.

    Is this getting you closer to, or further away from, your desired impact? If the latter, perhaps it’s time to consider reallocating resources and budget to what gets you toward the finish line faster.

    How to prioritize for impact in higher ed

    Take the AI example. Instead of asking, “What AI tools should we adopt?” instead ask, “Where can AI meaningfully move the needle for our institution AND our students?” That shift from solution-first to strategy-first is everything.

    Here are a few guideposts we recommend:

    1. Start with your outcomes. Whether it’s student success, operational efficiency, or enrollment growth, define what success looks like before introducing any new technology.
    2. Connect C-suite ambition with frontline reality. Consider forgoing a top-down approach that prioritizes selling to leadership. To enable real change, your strategies must reflect on-the-ground needs. Build from the bottom up and bring the insight and intel back to your cabinet leaders to help inform prioritization conversations.
    3. Break down the silos. So many institutions are decentralized and highly matrixed, which means that critical data, digital infrastructure, and internal departments are often disconnected. Aligning them is essential to enable AI to operate at scale. Consider cloud platforms like Connected Core®, which extract, clean, and connect data across systems, applications, and third-party tools. This enables actionable institutional intelligence across the student lifecycle.
    4. Build AI literacy, institution-wide. Google shared that only 14% of campuses have adopted AI literacy as a learning outcome. That’s a missed opportunity to empower both staff and students to engage with AI responsibly and effectively.
    5. Don’t go it alone. With 62% of institutions lacking the internal expertise to fully leverage AI, choosing the right partner matters. Not someone just trying to sell you tech, but to help you translate it into impact. This is the talent component of Collegis Education’s data, tech, and talent approach. It does you no good to own a plane if you don’t have a pilot, crew, and maintenance team. When you align your data, tech, and talent, you’ve enabled impact, and sustainable impact at that.

    The Google event confirmed what we see every day: Higher ed has a prioritization problem. Leaders have been sold more tech tools than they can use; what they truly need is help implementing them for impact.

    A smarter path forward for institutional leaders

    Institutional leaders know their schools better than anyone and have a clear vision of where they need to go to thrive.  Building a strategic plan focused on the areas that will drive the greatest impact to that vision is the next critical step.  A great way to start is by finding a partner who understands that progress isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what matters.

    Prioritize for impact. We’ll help you make it happen.

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

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  • Change Management in Higher Ed Isn’t a One-Off, It’s a Leadership Discipline

    Change Management in Higher Ed Isn’t a One-Off, It’s a Leadership Discipline

    Heraclitus once said, “The only certainty in life is change.”  I don’t often quote ancient philosophers, but that line feels especially true in the context of higher education.”

    We hear a lot about change and change management in higher ed, but we don’t hear enough about how to successfully navigate it and use it as a springboard to propel institutions forward. But change in our industry is no longer episodic; it’s constant. From evolving student expectations to emerging technologies and shifting funding models, institutions are facing wave after wave of disruption. The sheer volume of change within higher education makes effective change management not just important, but essential to success.

    Too often, change management in higher education is treated like a checklist: a one-and-done plan that lives and dies with the project at hand. A new technology platform. A revised advising model. A restructured academic department. Each initiative gets a task force, a timeline, maybe a town hall or two. Then it ends.

    This reactive, fragmented approach may get things over the finish line, but it can also lead to burnout, resistance, and a lack of long-term adoption. Change fatigue is real, and without a strategic change management plan, it can lead to staff turnover and a revolving door of changes that fail to realize their full potential. Institutions get stuck in a perpetual loop of short-term fixes and long-term frustration.

    We can’t continue to treat change management in higher education as a one-time initiative but need to start thinking of it as a core leadership discipline.

    Higher ed change management deserves a seat at the table

    Higher ed leaders are navigating an environment where agility is essential. Budgets are tighter. Competition is fiercer. Student needs are more complex. And digital transformation is an ongoing reality that will drive constant change.

    But too often, higher education views change management as a reactive function, kicking in when something is already in motion, such as implementing a new CRM, redesigning an advising model, or centralizing key functions and departments. The focus is often on damage control: How do we minimize pushback, smooth over disruptions, and reach the finish line without too much friction?

    Start by elevating change management to the strategic level, not only giving it a seat at the leadership table, but also providing it with the same structure, dedicated resources, and strategic oversight as any other core function. Schools that do this are better equipped to:

    • Improve cross-campus alignment
    • Reduce resistance and increase buy-in
    • Accelerate the adoption of new systems or models
    • Minimize disruption to students and staff
    • Deliver better outcomes, faster

    The bottom line? In this climate, the ability to manage change effectively is a competitive advantage. If you want your institution to be resilient, you need to be deliberate about how you manage change.

    Build the muscle: 3 strategies for better change management in higher ed

    To help get you started, here are three practical ways you can help your institution build confidence, strengthen its change management muscle, and create a culture that’s ready to adapt.

    1. Create a change management playbook and use it

    Successful change management cannot be ad hoc or reactive.  A change management playbook brings clarity and consistency. It outlines the steps, tools, and best practices for managing change from start to finish. When creating your playbook, consider:

    • Stakeholder mapping: Who are the executive sponsors? Who is affected? Who are the influencers? Who needs to be consulted early and often?
    • Communication protocols: What do different audiences need to know and when? How will you keep them informed and engaged? How will the messages be delivered? How will we gather feedback?
    • Training and support: What tools, resources, or guidance will people need to succeed in the new environment?

    Having a playbook doesn’t mean every change looks the same. It means every change follows a thoughtful, proactive approach, building institutional memory and contributing to a proven, repeatable model. It also sends a clear signal to your campus community: We take change seriously, and we’re investing in doing it well.

    Don’t silo your playbook. Make it a shared resource across IT, academic affairs, student services, and marketing. The more aligned your teams are, the more cohesive your change efforts will be.

    2. Appoint change champions across the institution

    Change doesn’t stick because a VP says so. It sticks because people at every level understand it, own it, and advocate for it.

    That’s why identifying change champions is essential. Change champions are individuals with influence in their peer groups who understand the value of the change and are willing to help others navigate the transition. They can be faculty, staff, or student leaders. When building your network, identify advocates across departments and at all levels.

    Empower these individuals with context, talking points, and direct lines of communication to leadership. Let them surface concerns early and share success stories along the way. Peer advocacy goes a long way in building trust, momentum, and reinforcing key messages.

    The result? Change doesn’t feel imposed. It feels supported, even co-owned.

    3. Make Communication your top priority

    Communication is the lifeblood of effective change management in higher education. But too often, it’s treated as an afterthought. You can’t lead change in silence, and exceptional leaders should communicate early and often

    Your institution should approach communication with intention and discipline:

    • Start with the “why” behind the change. People are more likely to support change when they understand its purpose.
    • Tailor messages to each audience. Faculty care about different things than students or staff. Don’t send one-size-fits-all emails and expect engagement.
    • Use multiple channels. Email, intranet, in-person forums, social media, video — different people absorb information in different ways.
    • Be transparent, even when things aren’t going according to plan. Share what you know, when you know it. When things change, explain why.

    Clear, frequent communication is one of the most powerful tools you for building trust and reducing resistance. And remember: Communication is a two-way street. Build feedback channels into your plan. Listen actively. Adapt as needed.

    Change management as a strategic function

    So, what does it look like when an institution treats change management as a true leadership discipline? It looks like this:

    • A standing change management office or role, reporting into strategy or operations.
    • A centralized playbook that guides every major initiative.
    • Regular training and coaching for leaders on how to lead through change.
    • KPIs and feedback loops that track engagement, adoption, and outcomes.
    • An inclusive culture where stakeholders are part of the process, not just recipients of it.

    In this model, change is no longer a disruption. It’s a capability. Something your institution can do reliably, thoughtfully, and at scale.

    Lead like change is the constant

    If you take one thing away from this, let it be that change management isn’t a project, it’s a leadership discipline. It deserves the same strategic attention as budgeting, enrollment planning, or accreditation. Because, when done right, it unlocks the potential of your people, your technology, and your mission.

    Change will keep coming, and by making change management a core part of how your institution operates every day, you can take control of it and effectively drive your desired outcomes.

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

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  • Words of Wisdom to the Class of 2025

    Words of Wisdom to the Class of 2025

    Congratulations on your recent graduation!  All those years of hard work have paid off and have prepared you for the journey ahead. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve accomplished, and I hope you are excited for what lies ahead.  

    I remember the mix of emotions: the excitement of stepping into something new, the fear of the unknown, and the deep hope that I’d somehow make an impact. Decades later, those same emotions are still relevant. And if I could go back in time and say a few words to the Kim who stood in her graduation robe, here’s what I’d say: 

    1. Reject the myth of instant gratification 

    The highlight reels you see on social media and the stories of overnight successes will undoubtedly tempt you to look for shortcuts. Don’t take the bait. 

    What appears to be instantaneous success is often built on years of hidden struggle. Success isn’t viral. It’s cumulative. It’s built on tenacity, late nights, and years of quiet persistence. One of the most critical lessons I learned, and one that consistently sets individuals apart, is the unwavering commitment to hard work — especially when no one is watching.  

    Your degree is a fantastic achievement, but it’s just the start. To truly excel, you must show up every day, both mentally and physically. Take on the unglamorous tasks, master the fundamentals, and keep doing the work, even if you are not getting immediate recognition.    

    Don’t misunderstand; this isn’t about being a workaholic. It’s about understanding that competence, professional and personal growth, and lasting success are forged through consistent, dedicated effort over time. If you chase shortcuts or expect quick wins, you will ultimately be disappointed. Instead, always strive to deliver more than what’s expected. 

    2. Don’t just seek opportunities, create them 

    There are very few golden tickets in this world, and if you’re waiting for a great opportunity to land in your lap, you might find yourself waiting for a long time.  

    Your education has provided you with a foundation — now it’s your responsibility to build upon it.  

    The most significant leaps in my career often came from identifying a gap or a need and then raising my hand to fill it, even if it meant stepping outside my job description. If you uncover a problem, bring forward a solution. Take the initiative and volunteer for projects in addition to your day-to-day responsibilities. You might just discover new areas of interest or open the door to work with different teams that can ultimately propel your career forward. 

    3. Embrace the ‘failure as fuel’ philosophy 

    Coming off an academic career, the term “failure” can be triggering. As students, we often fear failure more than anything. But the truth is that you will fail, and that’s OK. In fact, it’s a given. But failure, when used as a learning opportunity, is a jumping off point — not the end point.  

    Every misstep, every “no,” every project that does go as planned is not a sign of your inadequacy, but a data point. Think of it as your best instructor. An experiment that reveals what doesn’t work brings you closer to the solution that does. The only real failure in life is giving up, or worse, not trying at all. 

    When faced with a major setback, you have a choice: Get stuck or grow stronger. Take accountability but choose growth. If you can figure out how to convert setbacks into stepping stones, it can be your most potent superpower. 

    4. Never stop learning 

    You’re just getting started, and that’s exciting! Your degree is a testament to your ability to learn. But your degree represents only a starting point. In fact, many of you won’t end or even start your careers in the exact area you studied. 

    The pace of change in every industry is accelerating, and skills that are valuable today might be obsolete tomorrow, so you must constantly learn and stay current with advancements.  AI is a powerful example. Those who spend the time to learn how to leverage AI to work smarter will thrive.  Those who do not will be passed up. This is a fact for those starting their career as well as those decades in. 

    One of the most powerful sources of learning in my career has come from the many informal mentors I’ve had throughout my life. Build a network of good, smart people at all stages in their careers and invest in those relationships. You can learn just as much from someone only a few steps ahead of you as from someone with decades more experience. 

    5. Take risks 

    Comfort zones are cozy, but they are also dangerously limiting. Some of the best moves I’ve ever made started as risks that scared but also exhilarated me. But they were calculated risks, well thought through, and aligned with where I knew I could make a positive impact. 

    Don’t leap without a plan, but don’t freeze in fear either. The magic often lives on the other side of uncertainty. For what it’s worth, the biggest regrets usually come from the risks not taken. Opportunities rarely present themselves without an element of uncertainty. Your job is to discern which uncertainties are worth embracing. 

    Own your future, one bold move at a time 

    The recent college graduates I am blessed to know are some of the brightest, hardest working, most curious, ambitious, and wonderful people (yes, Emma, I am talking about you and all your amazing friends!) You all control your destiny. Your path will not be linear, but it will be yours. Own it. Shape it. And never stop evolving. 

    And most importantly, remember the wise words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it!” 

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

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  • Trocaire Partners With Collegis Education to Advance Enrollment Strategy

    Trocaire Partners With Collegis Education to Advance Enrollment Strategy

    Collegis empowers data-driven admissions and streamlines prospective student support.

    Buffalo, NY (May 20, 2025) — Trocaire College, a private, career-oriented Catholic college, today announced a multi-year partnership with Collegis Education to advance its enrollment strategy and elevate the student experience. Through this collaboration, Trocaire will leverage Collegis’ Enrollment Support Services and its Connected Core® platform to guide prospective students from inquiry to enrollment.

    The partnership comes as Trocaire begins implementing its new three-year strategic plan, with a sharpened focus on increasing enrollment and creating a seamless, student-centered admissions process. 

    “Trocaire College is looking forward to working with Collegis to help grow our enrollment in alignment with our mission.  Collegis has a proven track record of achieving results in higher education including revenue-growth, enrollment expertise and optimization of student experiences while having an ‘edu-preneurial’ mindset,” stated Jason Konesco, executive vice president at Trocaire. “We chose Collegis for their ability to be a true partner working collaboratively with our team to create a tailored solution that will best reflect the needs of our institution.”

    Collegis will serve as an extension of the Trocaire admissions team, providing personalized support and helping prospective students navigate their journey from initial inquiry to first contact to the first day of class. With just over 1,000 students across its South Buffalo location and Transit Achievement Center in Lancaster, Trocaire empowers students to achieve personal enrichment, dignity, and self-worth through education in various career-focused degree programs including healthcare, business, technology, veterinary sciences and the liberal arts. 

    Earlier this year, Trocaire first connected with Collegis at the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU) Annual Meeting. Additional follow-up meetings, including a site visit from the Collegis team, solidified a shared vision for a collaborative, student-first approach.

    At the core of this partnership is Connected Core, Collegis’ integrated technology and analytics platform that empowers institutions to make data-informed decisions while extending operational capacity. Recently named a “cool tool” by EdTech Digest, with Connected Core, Trocaire College will gain actionable insights into prospective student behavior, streamlined admissions workflows, and access to enrollment specialists trained to deliver high-quality student engagement.

    “This partnership reflects what we do best: supporting institutions like Trocaire to help them grow in ways that honor their mission,” said Pat Green, vice president of enrollment solutions at Collegis Education. “We’re proud to bring data, tech, and talent to Trocaire’s team and we are passionate about supporting the next generation of students preparing for careers of purpose and lives of service.”

    About Trocaire College

    Founded in 1958 in Buffalo, NY by the Sisters of Mercy, Trocaire College is a private, career-oriented Catholic college that empowers students with the resources and supportive environment needed to achieve their academic goals. The core mission is to allow each person to be a valuable contributor to the workforce needs of the community. Trocaire offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates and workforce development programs in healthcare, veterinary sciences, business, and technology. Trocaire ranks in the top one-quarter of colleges and universities for return on investment by Georgetown University and is designated as an Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Classifications with a Higher Access, Higher Earnings classification. Visit trocaire.edu for more information and follow Trocaire on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

    About Collegis Education

    As a mission-oriented, tech-enabled services provider, Collegis Education partners with higher education institutions to help align operations to drive transformative impact across the entire student lifecycle. With over 25 years as an industry pioneer, Collegis has proven how to leverage data, technology, and talent to optimize institutions’ business processes that enhance the student experience. With the strategic expertise that rivals the leading consultancies, a full suite of proven service lines, including marketing, enrollment, retention, IT, and its world-class Connected Core® data platform, Collegis helps its partners enable impact and drive revenue, growth, and innovation. Learn more at CollegisEducation.com or via LinkedIn.

    Media Contacts:

    Collegis Education

    Alyssa Miller

    [email protected]

    973-615-1292

    Trocaire College

    Laura Jacobs

    [email protected]

    716-807-5922



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  • St. Catherine University Partners with Collegis Education to Advance Technology Strategy and Student Experience

    St. Catherine University Partners with Collegis Education to Advance Technology Strategy and Student Experience

    The strategic partnership will strengthen the University’s student-centered mission through agile technology, operational innovation, and a shared commitment to community.

    St. Paul, Minn. – (May 5, 2025) — St. Catherine University (St. Kate’s) and Collegis Education announced today that they have entered into a strategic partnership to enhance the University’s delivery of IT services.

    The decision to seek external IT support was driven by the University’s growing need to accelerate progress on strategic technology initiatives that had slowed within the existing tech infrastructure. The University recognized the need for a partner with the expertise, agility, and shared mission to help build a more responsive, future-ready infrastructure.

    “We realized that the pace of change in technology—and the expectations of our students—were outpacing what our internal systems and structures could support,” said Latisha Dawson, Vice President of Human Resources and Project Lead. “Our institution is centered around student connection and academic excellence. But to uphold that mission, we needed a partner with the technical expertise and scalability to move faster, innovate more nimbly, and help us deliver a modern student experience. Collegis allows us to do just that, so we can spend less time managing systems and more time serving our students.”

    In this partnership, Collegis will provide day-to-day IT operational support, a dedicated Chief Information Officer (CIO), and technological infrastructure that supports the university’s forward progress on strategic projects, while upholding strong data governance and enabling real-time responsiveness.

    As part of the deal, St. Kate will gain access to Collegis Education’s Connected Core®, a secure, composable data platform powered by Google Cloud. As a tech-agnostic solution, Connected Core unifies siloed systems and data sets, enables real-time and actionable institutional intelligence, produces AI-powered data strategies, and delivers proven solutions that enhance recruitment, retention, operations, and student experiences — driving measurable impact across the entire student lifecycle.

    St. Kate’s selected Collegis following a thorough evaluation of potential partners. “A lot of vendors can fill a gap, but that’s not what we were looking for,” said Dawson. “We were looking for someone to meet us where we are, grow with us, and truly enable us to excel. The real differentiator with Collegis was the spirit of partnership, and beyond that, community. From the beginning, they didn’t feel like an outsider. The team has become part of our community, and  a part of helping us advance our mission.”

    “Collegis is honored to join the St. Kate’s community in a shared commitment to the future of higher education,” said Kim Fahey, President and CEO of Collegis Education. “We see technology not as an end but as an enabler, an extension of the institution’s mission to educate women to lead and influence. This partnership is about building agile systems that empower faculty, enrich the student experience, and keep the University ahead of what’s next.”

    The partnership also reflects St. Kate’s strategic priority to build a more nimble technology foundation that shortens the timeline between priority-setting and implementation. The transition enables the university to move away from legacy systems and toward a model that supports real-time innovation, strategic flexibility, and long-term sustainability.

    “Our partnership with Collegis is rooted in our values,” said Marcheta Evans, PhD, President of St. Catherine University. “It allows us to remain focused on our mission while bringing in trusted expertise to support the evolving needs of our students, faculty, and staff.”

    Dawson concludes, “We’ve always been guided by the principle of meeting the needs of the time. Embracing this next level of technology ensures we can continue nurturing the powerful, personal connection between our faculty and students, which is what makes us uniquely St. Kate’s.”

    About Collegis Education

    As a mission-oriented, tech-enabled services provider, Collegis Education partners with higher education institutions to help align operations to drive transformative impact across the entire student lifecycle. With over 25 years as an industry pioneer, Collegis has proven how to leverage data, technology, and talent to optimize institutions’ business processes that enhance the student experience. With the strategic expertise that rivals the leading consultancies, a full suite of proven service lines, including marketing, enrollment, retention, IT, and its world-class Connected Core® data platform, Collegis helps its partners enable impact and drive revenue, growth, and innovation. Learn more at CollegisEducation.com or via LinkedIn.

    About St. Catherine University

    Sustained by a legacy of visionary women, St. Catherine University educates women to lead and influence. We are a diverse community of learners dedicated to academic rigor, core Catholic values, and a heartfelt commitment to social justice. St. Kate’s offers degrees at all levels in the humanities, arts, sciences, healthcare, and business fields that engage women in uncovering positive ways of transforming the world. St. Kate’s students learn and discern wisely, and live and lead justly — all to power lives of meaning. Discover more at stkate.edu. 

    Media Contacts:

    Collegis Education

    Alyssa Miller

    [email protected]

    973-615-1292

    St. Catherine University

    Sarah Voigt

    [email protected]

    651-690-8756

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