Education Experts Release New Enrollment Strategy Guide
The American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers publishes a new data-informed guide.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in College Applications
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Higher education leaders have co-authored a new book, Beyond the Admissions Funnel: A Practical Guide to Data-Informed Enrollment Management, to assist colleges in optimizing their admissions processes. The guide is designed to help institutions navigate enrollment strategy despite limited resources.
Why it matters
As enrollment professionals face increasing pressure to manage resources, this guide provides actionable data strategies for institutions lacking dedicated statistical departments.
The new guide reflects the combined expertise of authors with over 20 years of experience in higher education leadership. It serves as a resource for institutions like St. Ambrose University, which offers 50 academic programs.
The players
Nicole J. Sakraida
She serves as the vice president for strategic growth, marketing and communications for St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University.
American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers
This professional organization supports the higher education community by publishing research and best practices.
Kate Ralston
She is a co-author of the new enrollment guide and a contributor to the field of data-informed higher education management.
Brent A. Gage
He co-authored the book and brings experience in enrollment research to the publication.
Greg Forbes
He is one of the four co-authors providing guidance on enrollment strategy and data utilization.
The details
The book combines the research and data analytics expertise of enrollment leaders from the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, St. Ambrose University, and Mount Mercy University. It offers a framework for institutions that must handle recruitment and financial aid with fewer resources and limited internal analytics staff.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The guide is formally reported.
3:30PM, November 2, 2026: A book signing is scheduled at the AACRAO SEM Conference.
4:00PM, November 2, 2026: The authors will host a presentation at the AACRAO SEM Conference.
Culture Shift
The publication reflects a growing push toward data-driven decision-making in higher education administration. It aligns with the professional standards established by the 2026 AACRAO SEM Conference to improve institutional efficiency.
The release of this guide changes how smaller institutions may manage their enrollment and financial aid communication. Readers involved in higher education may see a shift toward more analytical approaches in their local campus recruitment efforts.
The takeaway
Smaller institutions can significantly improve their recruitment outcomes by applying rigorous data analytics to their existing operations. Adopting these research-backed strategies helps universities allocate limited resources more effectively during the admissions cycle.
Further reading
For more information on current trends in student recruitment, visit the College Applications section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by River Cities Reader.
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