Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

D'Awana Lasha Bledsoe

Ridgeland

Summary

Experienced in higher education management, specializing in admissions processes and database integrity. Skilled in leading teams to enhance operational efficiency and applicant engagement through innovative strategies such as virtual open days and advanced technology tools. Committed to leveraging extensive clerical and database management skills to drive future success in college admissions. Proficient in strategic planning and project management, utilizing leadership skills to boost team performance and achieve operational excellence. Demonstrated track record of delivering high-impact results through innovative problem-solving and effective communication. Strategic-thinking individual with a proven ability to transform low-performing organizations into top revenue producers. Offering expertise in improving customer relationships, with a personable and engaging personality. Passionate about driving organizational success and fostering collaborative team environments. Possesses a deep understanding of leadership principles, financial management, project oversight, and strategic planning. Prepared to deliver impactful results through innovative solutions and effective team leadership.

Overview

5
5
years of professional experience

Work History

Director Student Connections & Community Outreach

Tougaloo College
09.2024 - Current
  • Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
  • Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
  • Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
  • Development of materials and documents as needed
  • Development and distribution of marketing and promotional pieces through various outlets, including print and social media.
  • Create and implement a Communication Plan, including short and long-term strategies.
  • Implemented CRM system for tracking interactions with prospective students, improving follow-up and engagement.
  • Assist in developing informational documents that address the common concerns of families.
  • Communicate with the community, representing the college to current and prospective students and the public.
  • Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
  • Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.

Director of Admissions

Tougaloo College
01.2021 - 09.2024
  • Conducted regular evaluation of admission policies and procedures, making necessary adjustments to maintain alignment with institutional objectives.
  • Served as primary contact for coordination of application screening and tracking, visit and interview arrangement and marketing communications.
  • Increased enrollment rates by developing and implementing strategic recruitment initiatives.
  • Served as a liaison between prospective students, families, faculty, and administration throughout the admissions process, facilitating seamless communication among all parties involved.
  • Led training sessions for staff on best practices in admissions processes, enhancing consistency among team members.
  • Implemented CRM system for tracking interactions with prospective students, improving follow-up and engagement.
  • Mentored and provided professional development opportunities for admission staff, leading to enhanced performance and personal growth within the team.
  • Organized successful campus events such as Admitted Student Days and information sessions to showcase what the institution has to offer its students academically and socially.
  • Managed a diverse team of admissions professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment focused on achieving departmental goals.
  • Coordinated efforts with financial aid office to provide comprehensive assistance and guidance for applicants seeking funding opportunities.
  • Worked with marketing team to develop recruitment strategies in accordance with organizational goals and within budgetary guidelines.
  • Implemented data-driven decision-making strategies to optimize recruitment tactics and improve overall results.
  • Implemented strategies to increase student recruiting, engagement and retention.
  • Collaborated with faculty, staff and students to identify and address institutional challenges.
  • Spearheaded technology initiatives to support student learning and academic excellence.

Admissions Counselor

Tougaloo College
01.2020 - 01.2021
  • Coordinated campus visits for prospective students and their families, showcasing the institution''s facilities, programs, and resources.
  • Increased enrollment rates by organizing and participating in college fairs, open houses, and information sessions.
  • Enhanced applicant experience by providing personalized guidance and support throughout the admissions process.
  • Delivered engaging presentations about the college/university at various off-campus events such as high school visits or conferences.
  • Explained institution's fee structure, amenities, courses offered and facilities to prospective students and parents.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by responding promptly to inquiries from prospective students via phone, email, or social media channels.
  • Developed strong relationships with high schools and community organizations to promote the institution''s programs and offerings.
  • Implemented data-driven strategies to continuously improve recruitment efforts based on enrollment trends and goals.
  • Assisted in developing marketing materials to effectively communicate the value of the institution''s educational offerings.
  • Streamlined application review process, resulting in faster decision-making and improved communication with applicants.
  • Reviewed admissions applications and evaluated student credentials.
  • Contributed to a positive campus culture by assisting with orientation events for new students.
  • Improved decision-making time on applications by optimizing review process, ensuring timely responses to applicants.
  • Implemented CRM system for tracking interactions with prospective students, improving follow-up and engagement.
  • Participated in national college fairs, effectively promoting institution and attracting wider pool of applicants.
  • Streamlined processing of admission applications, reducing wait times for decisions.

Education

Doctorate - Business Administration And Management

Belhaven University
Jackson, MS
12-2027

Master of Science - Child Development

Tougaloo College
Tougaloo, MS
05-2024

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

Belhaven University
Jackson, MS
05-2013

Skills

  • Relationship building
  • Strategic planning
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Decision-making
  • People management
  • Team management
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Strategies and goals
  • Project coordination
  • Employee development
  • Staff management
  • Change management
  • Business planning
  • Contract and vendor management
  • Partnerships and alliances
  • Business administration
  • Information technology management
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Team leadership
  • Staff training/development
  • Customer service
  • Performance evaluation and monitoring

Timeline

Director Student Connections & Community Outreach

Tougaloo College
09.2024 - Current

Director of Admissions

Tougaloo College
01.2021 - 09.2024

Admissions Counselor

Tougaloo College
01.2020 - 01.2021

Doctorate - Business Administration And Management

Belhaven University

Master of Science - Child Development

Tougaloo College

Bachelor of Science - Business Management

Belhaven University

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D'Awana Lasha Bledsoe