Authenticity in this context refers to the honest, unfiltered portrayal of student experiences and stories. It means moving away from scripted narratives and turning towards the real experiences of students— their achievements, challenges, hopes, and dreams.

As we navigate the digital age, leveraging the power of authentic student voices is becoming increasingly vital. Student stories, replete with personal experiences and aspirations, can bridge the gap between the institution and potential donors, offering a genuine glimpse into the lives that their contributions can impact.

A study by Cohn & Wolfe showed that authenticity is one of the top qualities that attract modern consumers to a brand. In higher education, institutions are the brands, and students are the ambassadors. Harnessing authentic student voices can create a genuine brand image with which potential donors connect.

THE POWER OF AUTHENTIC STUDENT STORIES: A STONEHILL COLLEGE EXAMPLE

Stephen Cobbs, a senior at Stonehill College

Stephen Cobbs, a senior at Stonehill College, provides a compelling testament to the power of authentic student stories. A budding athlete since childhood, his dreams of playing Division I football seemed to shatter when he suffered a significant hip injury.

Despite doctors’ devastating news about his uncertain future in sports, Stephen didn’t lose hope. His journey of recovery, underpinned by unwavering support from his physical therapist Kayla and the Stonehill College coaches and faculty, showcased his resilience and determination.

His story goes beyond just his athletic journey. It paints a holistic picture of Stephen, showcasing him as a student-athlete striving to break the stereotype often attached to the label. He embodies the student body at Stonehill College - diverse in interests, engaged in their community, and striving for personal and academic growth. Stephen’s narrative conveys more than any scripted appeal could. His thoughts and words help us understand the heart of a student-athlete at Stonehill College, his challenges, his perseverance, and the college’s impact on his life.

THE IMPACT OF AUTHENTIC STUDENT STORIES

Real student stories like Stephen’s can profoundly impact potential donors. They provide a human face and a personal narrative of a cause, making the donation appeal more compelling. Authentic stories allow donors to see the direct impact of their contributions, making the experience much more rewarding and personal for them.

When donors hear authentic student stories, they’re not just being asked to donate; they’re invited to become a part of a student’s journey. This direct and personal appeal fosters a deeper connection between the donor and the institution, which, in turn, can lead to increased engagement.

AUTHENTICITY IN THE DIGITAL AGE

In the digital age, where we are exposed to countless marketing messages daily, authenticity stands out. Although many try, it’s not something somebody can manufacture; when done correctly, exploring real student experiences and stories will act as a beacon, drawing in those looking for something real, something they can trust. And in higher education marketing and development, this is more crucial than ever.

In essence, authenticity isn’t just a trend or a buzzword - it’s a powerful force that can shape the future of higher education marketing and development. As demonstrated by students like Stephen, authentic voices paint a more accurate and honest picture of student life and resonate more deeply with potential donors by giving a much more personal and rewarding experience.

Links

• Stonehill College

• Stonehill College YouTube

• Stonehill Twitter

• Devlo Media

Setting up interviews in the Kunama section of Shimelba Refugee Camp

On a recent trip to NYC, I happened to find myself in a conversation with a gentleman from Eritrea. I mentioned that although I hadn’t been to the Eritrea, I was very close in Ethiopia - about 30 miles from the border in the Shimelba Refugee Camp. As soon as I mentioned Shimelba, he immediately shut me down declaring “It’s fake.” I thought he misunderstood what I said so I politely replied, “What do you mean, fake? The Shimelba Refugee Camp?” He said, “Yes, yes. It’s fake.” I replied, “No, I was actually in the camp for several days on a project.” He again lectured me that it’s was a hoax - “…Shimelba is a lie perpetrated by Ethiopia to embarrass Eritrea.” Again, I tried to explain, “No, I actually followed a group of Kunama refugees from Shimelba to Rhode Island...” Again he dismissed, “Kunama are just traitors and work with Ethiopia, Shimelba is a lie...” 

I politely left the conversation and moved on, trying to wrap my head around what just happened. Unfortunately, I can understand where the gentleman’s misinformation tirade comes from. According to Human Rights Watch, the Eritrean government's human rights record is among the worst in the world.  Eritrea has had no national elections, no legislature, independent press, or independent civil society organizations since 2001. Religious freedom is severely curtailed. A United Nations Commission of Inquiry in 2016 found the government manifested “wholesale disregard for the liberty” of its citizens. In 2018, a United Nations Special Rapporteur reported that human rights violations “continue unabated. 

In 2006, I directed and produced the documentary “Home Across Lands,” which follows a family of Kunama refugees who had fled Eritrea and sought refuge in The Shimelba Refugee Camp in Northern Ethiopia and their subsequent resettlement to the US.  As a documentary filmmaker, we have the great privilege and honor to enter peoples lives and gather their stories.  To be able to tell their story is both humbling and horrifying at the same time.  There’s a huge amount of responsibility to be authentic, to be real, and to be objective.  Objectivity is the key - it’s that guiding principle that every decision I make has to abide by. 

This recent conversation (or angry lecture) brought my mind back to that story and I started searching for more information. I found that the governments of Ethiopia and Eritrea signed an agreement on July 9th, 2018, to restore diplomatic relations, as well as reopen embassies in Addis Ababa and Asmara, and resume flights between the two countries. But, what about the camp - is it still there?

My answers are unfortunately what I thought they would be. The camp is still there: https://data2.unhcr.org/en/documents/details/62695 The conditions and problems persist: https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/what-we-do/news-stories/story/healing-hidden-wounds-eritrean-refugees-ethiopia and the refugee story is still the same. It’s not fake, its real. Real people’s lives. It’s real people and it’s real families. 

Watch Film Here

Please take a moment to read and learn about these issues and support the organizations working to make a difference: 

UNHCR https://www.unhcr.org

USCRI https://refugees.org

IRC https://www.rescue.org