Higher Ed Pulse

Live at NAGAP: Who Gets In? Haslam Shakes Up MBA Admissions

Episode Summary

Recorded at the NAGAP GEM Summit, Mallory chats with Spenser Smith, Director of Admissions for Graduate Business Programs at Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Spenser shares his insights on navigating the complexities of admissions in a post-affirmative action world, and introduces us to the innovative, holistic admissions process designed to foster diversity and inclusion at Haslam.

Episode Notes

Recorded at the NAGAP GEM Summit, Mallory chats with Spenser Smith, Director of Admissions for Graduate Business Programs at Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Spenser shares his insights on navigating the complexities of admissions in a post-affirmative action world, and introduces us to the innovative, holistic admissions process designed to foster diversity and inclusion at Haslam.

Key Takeaways:

• Impact of Supreme Court Decisions: The team at Haslam quickly adapted their admissions strategies following the Supreme Court's 2023 ruling on affirmative action, reinforcing their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all students.
• Holistic Admissions Process: Haslam College has introduced a revamped holistic admissions process that assesses applicants on more than just their academic and professional achievements, aiming for a more inclusive and diverse student body.
• Collaborative Decision Making: The admissions committee at Haslam includes representatives from various departments, ensuring multiple perspectives are considered during the admissions process.

Guest Name: Spenser Smith, Director of Graduate Admissions, Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Guest Bio: Currently the Director of Graduate Admissions at the Haslam College of Business, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Spenser Smith draws on a diverse background, including years in Admissions at both graduate and undergraduate levels in both the public and private sectors. With nearly a decade's immersion in enrollment management, he focuses on intentional communication to foster a sense of belonging for all, interweaving insights into personal growth and connections, which all began by guiding at-risk youth during high-ropes experiences.