Q&A with Brennan Howard
Where did you go to college and what did you major in?
Coastal Alabama Community College and University of South Alabama
Why did you select these schools?
As I analyzed over my top choices, feeling unsure of what I should do, a vivid memory stands out: the moment I committed to attending Coastal Alabama Community College. It was during high school when I stumbled upon a commercial from them one afternoon, and it resonated with me so deeply that I immediately made my decision. Witnessing the profound impact of digital efforts during my own college selection process, I now find myself in a full-circle moment, assisting institutions in achieving the same level of influence on others.
Upon finishing my time a CACC, I attended the University of South Alabama and am a proud alum. Go jags!
What is the favorite part of your job and the impact you make?
My absolute favorite part of working at Advance Education is the thrill of connecting schools and students in innovative ways. It’s like being a matchmaker for academics!
Every day, I get to dive into the stories of institutions and help them showcase what makes them unique to students in search of a place to start their higher education journey. Whether it’s guiding students towards a prestigious university or a specialized program that ignites their passion, knowing that I’ve played a part in shaping someone’s future is incredibly fulfilling.
But what really gets me excited is the impact our work has on the institutions we partner with. By helping them reach out to the next generation of bright minds and boosting their enrollment numbers, we’re not just helping students find their place—we’re also helping colleges grow, thrive, and advocate for education.
In essence, my job isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to make a real difference, one student and one institution at a time.
Which of the challenges higher education faces do you hear most during conversations w/ clients?
Whenever we begin digging into the real-world challenges that our higher education institutions face, one common concern that emerges is the struggle to keep pace with the ever-changing digital world. Our clients often struggle to stay on top of shifting trends and algorithms while juggling other important tasks like meeting stakeholder needs, conducting research, and supporting students.
What used to work for them online doesn’t always do the trick anymore, leading to a frustrating cycle of trial and error in their digital efforts. This not only eats into their time and budget but also leaves them feeling challenged to stay ahead of the curve and compete effectively.
Many leaders in higher education recognize that overcoming this obstacle effectively can significantly impact a school’s reputation and enrollment numbers.
Why are clients going to love working with you?
Clients will love working with me because I prioritize open communication and personal relationships. I don’t just see myself as a service provider; I become a part of their team, deeply invested in their success. I enjoy listening to their needs, concerns, and aspirations while getting creative to address them.
I’m their biggest cheerleader and advocate, dedicated to championing their goals and providing unwavering support every step of the way. Together, we’re not just partners; we’re a united force, working towards shared victories and celebrating each milestone together.
Share one of your favorite ad campaigns
An ad that recently earned a spot on my list of “innovative and impactful marketing campaigns” is Airbnb’s video titled, “Bedtime.” Through compelling storytelling, it captures the universal experience of bedtime routines while traveling, evoking emotional warmth and nostalgia. However, it cleverly highlights a common problem within these routines: they often fail to cater to everyone in the family, causing the comforting familiarity to vanish.
This is where Airbnb steps in, presenting a solution that both kids and parents can enjoy, offering the luxury of space and layout that a typical hotel room cannot provide. The ad effectively presents a simple yet obvious choice to a situation that many of us have encountered or will encounter. With its captivating aesthetics and skillful presentation of the brand’s value, the commercial held my attention throughout.
In fact, I was so impressed that I verbally expressed to my friend, who was also watching, that this was brilliant marketing. The ad’s visual appeal, excellent storytelling, and ability to address a common problem for its audience truly set it apart.
Favorite Podcast
While at opposite ends of the spectrum, my favorite podcasts are “For the Girl” and “Impact of Influence.” I adore the encouragement I receive from the hosts of “For the Girl”; they brighten my day and offer valuable advice on navigating life’s challenges. “Impact of Influence” earns its spot on my list because the hosts skillfully deliver testimonies and stories, raising awareness and advocating for justice in the criminal cases they cover. They never fail to capture my attention.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you adapt to the evolving education marketing landscape and ramp up your efforts, please contact us today.
OUR LATEST WHITEPAPER
The 2nd Annual
Parent & Student Survey
As we approach 2025, the landscape of higher education is undergoing seismic changes. Amidst these challenges, we conducted our 2nd Annual Post-Secondary Education Survey to better understand the perspectives of students and their parents. Now these insights are available for download.
