Communications Consulting

Strategic communications, issues management and change leadership for higher education

Solve Higher Ed Marketing helps colleges and universities strengthen communications strategy, prepare for high-stakes situations, and lead through change with clarity and confidence.

From proactive planning to crisis readiness, this work ensures institutions are not just reacting, but communicating with intention, consistency, and credibility.


Where we focus

Crisis communications planning and training

The most important decisions in a crisis are made before it happens.

Solve works with institutions to develop crisis communications plans, response frameworks and leadership protocols. Training sessions and tabletop exercises prepare teams to respond quickly, consistently, and with confidence when high-stakes situations arise.

Issues and reputation management

Not every challenge is a crisis, but every issue shapes perception.

Solve helps institutions identify, assess, and respond to emerging issues before they escalate. This includes developing issues management frameworks, strengthening message discipline and aligning leadership around a clear, consistent approach to protecting institutional reputation.

Content strategy and planning

Solve develops content strategies that align storytelling with institutional priorities, audience needs, and strategic goals. This work ensures that communications, marketing and digital content are coordinated, intentional and reinforcing a consistent narrative.

Internal communications

Strong internal communications are essential for alignment and trust.

Solve helps institutions improve how they communicate with faculty, staff and internal stakeholders—ensuring messages are clear, timely, and connected to broader institutional priorities. This work supports transparency, reduces confusion and strengthens organizational cohesion.

Change management

Communication is central to how institutions navigate change.

Solve supports leadership teams in developing communication strategies for organizational change, including centralization efforts, restructuring, and strategic initiatives. The focus is on aligning stakeholders, managing expectations, and maintaining trust throughout the process.


Common challenges we solve

  • We’re reacting to issues instead of communicating strategically

  • We don’t have a clear crisis communications plan

  • Leadership messages aren’t always aligned or consistent

  • Internal communications feel fragmented or unclear

  • We need to better manage reputational risk

  • We’re navigating change and need stronger communication

  • Our content isn’t clearly tied to strategy or priorities


What this work enables

  • Greater readiness and confidence in high-stakes situations

  • Stronger alignment across leadership and communications teams

  • More consistent, strategic messaging

  • Improved internal clarity and trust

  • A proactive approach to managing issues and reputation


Why Solve?

Solve Higher Ed Marketing specializes exclusively in higher education marketing and enrollment strategy.

Led by a former university Chief Marketing Officer, this work reflects a deep understanding of enrollment pressures, institutional structure, and the realities of working across marketing and admissions teams.

Engagements are senior-led, practical, and designed to create lasting alignment—not just short-term improvements.

Ready to get started?

If your institution is navigating complexity, change, or increased scrutiny, a stronger communications strategy can make the difference.