Private colleges and universities face unprecedented challenges, but they also represent something irreplaceable in American higher education. These institutions foster intellectual curiosity, develop character, build lasting communities, and prepare students for lives of purpose and leadership.
CVET Enrollment Strategies exists to ensure these vital institutions not only survive but thrive. We understand both the enrollment complexities and the mission-driven passion that defines private higher education. Our work helps institutions balance competing demands while staying true to their founding principles.
Attracting enrollment is the institutional strategy. Too many colleges treat enrollment as a technical function—something delegated to admissions staff while leadership focuses elsewhere. This is a mistake. Enrollment shortfalls are rarely the fault of the Admission staff. Enrollment health reflects institutional health. Presidents and boards who understand this lead institutions that thrive.
Silos are the enemy. The institutions that succeed integrate enrollment strategy across admissions, financial aid, communications, academic affairs, student success, athletics and special programs, and advancement. When these functions operate independently, they undermine each other. When they work in concert, they amplify results. My career has been defined by breaking down these walls.
Data informs, but judgment decides. I’ve championed predictive analytics and data-informed decision-making throughout my career. But data alone doesn’t make strategy. The institutions I’ve led have succeeded because we combined rigorous analysis with strategic judgment, institutional knowledge, and courage to act.
Mission matters. Every private college has a mission. The enrollment strategies that work are those aligned with who you are—not imitations of what works elsewhere. I help institutions find their competitive advantage within their authentic identity.
Net revenue is the key. Application or headcount growth doesn’t count as success if it erodes net revenue—it’s a warning sign. Sustainable enrollment strategy must protect and grow the revenue your institution needs to fulfill its mission. Every recommendation I make is grounded in institutional, financial, and market reality.
The landscape has changed—permanently. The demographic cliff is real and has been affecting enrollments well before 2025. Public skepticism of higher education is also real. The competition for students is fiercer than ever. Institutions that succeed will be those that adapt, not those waiting for conditions to improve. I help colleges face reality and build strategies accordingly.
How We Work
Data-Informed Decision Making: Every strategy we develop is grounded in comprehensive data analysis, enrollment research, and evidence-based best practices proven effective in private higher education settings.
Collaborative Partnership: We work alongside institutional leaders as trusted partners, understanding the delicate balance between enrollment goals and institutional mission.
Sustainable Growth: Our approach emphasizes long-term institutional sustainability while honoring the distinctive qualities that make private higher education valuable.
Professional Network & Resources: Through extensive professional relationships built over decades in enrollment management, we provide clients with deep knowledge of industry best practices, connections to technology vendors and implementation specialists, a network of enrollment professionals for benchmarking, and strategic partnerships with complementary service providers.
Does this philosophy resonate with your institution’s needs? Let’s explore whether CVET Enrollment Strategies can help. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation at jcthompson@cvetconsulting.com