How to Build a Data Culture in Your Career Center (feat. Julia Vollrath and Marissa Altenburg)

In this episode, host Meredith Metsker sits down with Julia Vollrath (Director of Career Data, Technologies, and Engagement) and Marissa Altenburg (Integrative Career Solutions Manager) from the University of Florida.

Julia and Marissa share how UF’s career center has woven data into the fabric of its operations—transforming data from a scary, four-letter word into a common language that empowers staff, drives decisions, and builds credibility across campus. They discuss how to create a true data culture within career services teams, where every staff member feels confident using data for storytelling, decision-making, and cross-campus collaboration.

You’ll hear practical strategies for making data accessible, consistent, and action-oriented—plus some fun commentary about why Professor McGonagall would make an excellent university president.

Key takeaways

• Data is a common language: It builds credibility with provosts, presidents, and external partners, showing career services’ direct connection to student success and institutional goals.
• A true data culture is shared: Data shouldn’t sit with just one assessment lead. Every staff member should be confident using it in their daily work.
• Accessibility matters: Tools like Excel dashboards, user-friendly reporting, and regular training make data feel approachable and useful.
• Consistency builds trust: Quarterly trainings, monthly reporting, and standardized definitions ensure data becomes part of the culture rather than an occasional add-on.
• Context is key: Data without explanation is dangerous. Pairing numbers with stories makes the information actionable and compelling.

Resources from the episode:

• Julia’s LinkedIn profile
• Marissa’s LinkedIn profile
• Career Everywhere Community (free digital community for all higher ed career services leaders)
• University of Florida’s Career Hub (powered by uConnect)

Continue the conversation in the Career Everywhere Community! Join 2,000 other higher ed career services leaders today: careereverywhere.com/community