Creating a Digital Community for Students in the Social Media Era

It’s undeniable that social media has transformed into an essential platform for both cultivating a presence and nurturing community connections. With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook becoming key spaces for interaction and staying informed, colleges and universities must have a strong and consistent social presence to stay relevant. In this episode, GradComm CEO Cheryl Broom discusses the evolving role of social media in higher education with Megan Ellisor, Director of Social Media at North Carolina State University.

This conversation explores how Ellisor leads an 11-member social media team to create authentic, student-centered content while maintaining the university’s voice and tone across multiple accounts. She shares how NC State fosters connection through gamified fundraising efforts, branded hashtags, and story-driven content that captures student life. Throughout this discussion, she also offers practical tips for empowering social media teams and ensuring content resonates with students, alumni, and the broader community.

What You’ll Learn:

• How NC State structures and empowers a centralized social media team
• Strategies for building genuine online relationships with students
• The role of storytelling in effective social media content
• How to use hashtags, fundraising campaigns, and student voices to drive engagement
• Tips for balancing institutional branding with authentic student-centered content

Thanks for listening!

Connect with GradComm:
Instagram: @gradcommunications
Facebook: @GradCommunications
LinkedIn: @gradcomm
Send us a message: GradComm.com