In this episode of Beyond Coaching, we sit down with Dr. Steve Dittmore, a seasoned educator and researcher with extensive experience in athletics and higher education. Dr. Dittmore shares insights from his unique journey, moving from the University of Arkansas to leadership roles at Baldwin Wallace University and the University of North Florida. Together, we discuss how athletics influence enrollment strategies at tuition-driven institutions, the cultural and financial implications of high athlete percentages on campuses, and the challenges small colleges face in a competitive higher education market.
Dr. Dittmore also reflects on his personal experiences navigating the college recruiting process as a parent and provides practical advice for families and student-athletes considering their collegiate options. Additionally, we explore generational shifts in learning and how educators can adapt to better engage Generation Z students.
Key Topics Covered:
Dr. Dittmore’s research on athletics and enrollment in small, tuition-driven colleges.
The delicate balance between athletics-driven enrollment and institutional sustainability.
The financial and cultural impacts of high athlete percentages at colleges.
Key advice for student-athletes and families navigating the recruiting process.
Generational differences in learning and teaching strategies for Gen Z students.
Rapid-fire insights, including book recommendations, podcast favorites, and life lessons.
Resources Mentioned:
Dr. Dittmore’s Substack: https://stevedittmore.substack.com/
NAIA Return on Athletics data: https://www.naia.org/return-on-athletics/
Connect with Us:
This podcast is produced by the Impactful Coaching Project, the thought leader in coaching the 21st-century athlete. Learn more about our work and subscribe to our content at impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com.
Check out Dr. Dittmore on Substack at https://stevedittmore.substack.com/.
Beyond Coaching is the official podcast of the Impactful Coaching Project (ICP), an initiative dedicated to developing coaches who coach the whole person. As the thought leader in coaching the 21st-century athlete, ICP provides innovative training, insightful information, and original research to help coaches grow and succeed. This work is proudly conducted in partnership with Friends University in Wichita, KS.
For more insights, resources, and updates, visit Impactful Coaching Project on Substack. You can also find all our podcast episodes at beyondcoaching.alitu.com.
Don't miss our book, Coaching and Leading the 21st Century Athlete, available now on Amazon. This essential resource dives deep into strategies for effectively coaching today’s athletes, offering practical tools and fresh perspectives to help you elevate your impact.
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