William Mullen, EdD, has been appointed vice president for enrollment management at Willamette University, where he will provide leadership for and oversee institutional admissions, financial aid and marketing. Mullen will assume his role on Sept. 1.
Mullen brings a wealth of strategic leadership experience in enrollment management. He served most recently as the vice provost of enrollment and communications at St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California. He previously served as vice president of enrollment and marketing at Franklin University in Lugano, Switzerland, vice president of enrollment management at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, Minnesota and vice president for enrollment management and student affairs at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.
“Throughout the interview process, we were impressed by William’s enthusiasm and the strategic enrollment management plans he implemented at several universities, which led to increased access, diversity and graduation rates,” said Willamette president Steve Thorsett. “His data-informed approach, relevant experience and depth of understanding of the kind of innovative interdisciplinary education offered at Willamette are what is needed to guide us through the important work we have ahead of us. We look forward to welcoming William to the Willamette community.”
Among his accomplishments, Mullen has redesigned financial aid strategies, implemented new technologies and created partnerships to improve yield and student diversity. He created new methods to increase enrollment to record levels and new pathways with college-bound organizations, community colleges, businesses and community organizations to provide multiple enrollment channels and ensure stability in highly competitive markets.
“I consider it a privilege to join Willamette University and to be a part of such a forward-thinking institution,” Mullen said. “In today’s global market, universities need to offer programs that prepare students for successful lives and careers. With Willamette’s recent programmatic additions and the merger with Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, they are well positioned to do so. I’m looking forward to working with the faculty, enrollment and marketing teams to bring a data-driven, enrollment management approach and strategy to the university.”
Mullen earned his bachelor’s degree from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, his MBA from Capella University in Minneapolis and his doctor of education from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. In 2013, he served as a Fulbright Fellow and focused on contemporary educational issues in Japan.
