Why SEM?

In the fall of 2020, Kent State faced several challenges: declining enrollment, demographic shifts, reduced state aid per student, rising costs and a lack of a comprehensive financial aid strategy that utilized all institutional resources.

Within Ohio and the Midwest, there was heightened competition for students due to a decline in the number of high school graduates. Among these students, a significant percentage identified as underrepresented, first-generation and Pell-eligible.

These challenges had a direct impact on recruitment, retention and graduation rates.

The Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) plan was designed to enhance Kent State’s ability to both enroll and retain the desired number of students. It aimed to achieve an optimal mix of students across all academic programs while also integrating student success initiatives into all university activities. 

This endeavor necessitated close collaboration among the divisions of Strategic Enrollment Management, Academic Affairs and Student Affairs.

SEM is a technology-intensive process, increasingly reliant on information systems and technologies. The development and management of student data systems play a crucial role in the university’s enrollment efforts. 

The Division of Strategic Enrollment Management worked closely with the Division of Information Technology to create, implement and manage integrated data systems and web-based strategies.

The ongoing efforts of the SEM plan lead to annual improvements in overseeing the entire student life cycle. 

As a result of this sustained, strategic enrollment approach, Kent State embraces comprehensive strategic planning to identify, recruit, enroll, retain and graduate students in alignment with our mission, all while ensuring fiscal sustainability.