When students decide where to go to college, they’re really asking a bigger question: Will this place help me become who I want to be? That question is at the heart of Fred A. Pierce III’s work, and why The University of Olivet is pleased to welcome him as Vice President of Recruitment, Marketing and Enrollment.
“College can feel overwhelming at first, especially for students who may not see themselves reflected in higher education right away,” Pierce said. “My goal has always been to help students find their footing, understand their options and feel confident that they belong. When students feel supported, they’re more likely to thrive.”
For more than 25 years, Fred has focused on helping colleges remove barriers and create clearer, more supportive pathways for students, from first inquiry through graduation. Whether working with first-generation students, transfer students, international students or those still exploring their direction, his approach centers on access, clarity and personal connection.
Most recently, Fred served as Dean of Enrollment Management and Communication at Lake Superior State University, where he helped redesign recruitment and communication strategies to better reflect today’s students’ needs and experiences. His leadership has also included senior roles at University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, University of Mary Washington, University of Iowa and University of Tennessee.
As Fred begins his work on campus, his focus, and that of his Olivet team, is ensuring students and families feel supported, informed and confident at every step of the college journey.