New WMU enrollment management leader aims to drive student recruitment growth, success
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—With a strategic approach and an extensive track record in enrollment management, Dr. Kristen E. Salomonson is prepared to lead Western Michigan University’s enrollment efforts as the new associate vice president for enrollment management, which was effective Jan. 21. Salomonson brings 17 years of experience in higher education, having most recently served as the dean of enrollment services at Ferris State University.
Her journey in higher education has been marked by a commitment to student success and a data-driven approach to enrollment growth. Salomonson’s expertise spans a range of critical areas, including financial aid optimization, strategic planning and leadership of large, diverse teams. At Ferris, she successfully managed a team of more than 70 staff across admissions, financial aid, veteran services and orientation, all while spearheading initiatives that enhanced both recruitment and retention.
A Michigan native, Salomonson’s academic background includes a Ph.D., master’s and bachelor’s degrees in communication from Michigan State University, a field that bridges her analytical skills with her ability to build meaningful relationships with students, families and colleagues. This combination of expertise makes her suited to WMU’s mission of supporting students throughout their academic journey.
Holistic approach to enrollment
Salomonson’s approach to enrollment management reflects an understanding of the holistic needs of students and the importance of connecting them with the right resources.
“What excites me about Western is the opportunity to help students find the best fit for them, both academically and personally,” she explained. “It’s clear that the University is deeply committed to making sure that students are not only recruited but are also supported throughout their time here.”
For Salomonson, the alignment between her values and the University’s commitment to student success was a key factor in her decision to join WMU.
“Western sets students up for success. The investment in infrastructure, the support for students and the vision for the future all align with my own philosophy,” she said. “I’m thrilled to be joining an institution that truly believes in providing students with the tools they need to thrive.”
Salomonson also sees Kalamazoo as an ideal location for fostering this growth. “There’s a sense of promise and opportunity in Kalamazoo. I can feel the excitement from the community. That’s something you can’t replicate.”
Emphasizing connection and community
Having spent much of her career focused on student recruitment and retention, Salomonson recognizes the unique challenges facing higher education in today’s climate, particularly in Michigan and the Midwest.
“It’s a tough environment, and we have to be thoughtful in how we connect with students and their families,” she said. “The institutions that will thrive are those that make it clear to students that we are here to support them and provide a path to a meaningful future.”
Salomonson believes that WMU’s collaborative culture and commitment to continuous improvement will help build on its recent success, including its first enrollment increase in a decade in the second most competitive market in the nation, and record student retention and six-year graduation rates.
“Western has had a strong fall semester, and I think that momentum will carry forward. There’s such a talented group of people here, and we are all committed to ensuring that students are set up for success,” she said.
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