2025 District 3 Rising Star
Kailee Potgeter
Social Media Coordinator
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids, MI
What are some of Kailee’s biggest accomplishments during her time at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC)? Since joining GRCC in 2022 as the institution’s first-ever social media coordinator, Kailee has elevated the college’s digital presence to a nationally recognized level. Under her leadership, GRCC’s Instagram page has earned both a gold Paragon Award and a gold Medallion Award for its creativity and engagement, placing GRCC among the very best in the country. She has expanded the college’s presence across multiple platforms, including TikTok and YouTube shorts, and established a strategy rooted in data-driven engagement. Kailee has also strengthened internal communications by building a network of secondary social media managers. Through training, policy guidance, and monthly communications, she has ensured brand consistency while equipping departments to use social media more effectively to reach and support students.
What characteristics make Kailee stand out as a promising professional in higher ed marcom and PR? Kailee is a community college graduate herself, which grounds her work in a deep understanding of the student experience. She brings empathy, creativity, and a student-centered focus to every campaign, always considering how messages will connect with first-generation students, working parents, and others balancing complex lives.
What skills do Kailee bring to GRCC’s marcom and PR team? Kailee combines strategic thinking with technical expertise in social media management, analytics and content creation. She is skilled in areas including
- Platform strategy, tailoring content for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube shorts.
- Content performance optimization, analyzing engagement data to refine messaging and formats.
- Training and leadership, guiding campus partners in best practices and policy compliance.
- Storytelling, producing award-winning posts that highlight student success and institutional impact.