After operating on a legacy system for three decades, Carroll faced six years of implementation frustration while attempting to transition to a competitor ERP that did not meet institutional needs. Limited integration capabilities, manual processes, and unmet functionality made it clear the university needed a solution aligned with how Carroll actually operates.
Carroll selected Ellucian to deliver automation, out-of-the-box integrations with platforms such as Canvas, and built-in analytics through Ellucian Insights. With strong executive support and an approach based in true partnership, the university completed implementation in just six months — an accelerated timeline that restored momentum and confidence.
- Completed ERP implementation in six months
- Reduced manual validation and system workarounds
- Improved financial aid and operational turnaround times
- Expanded use of modules such as budgeting within Colleague
- Restored institutional confidence in core systems
There was a level of urgency from all sides. It was a true partnership — Ellucian was all in, and we were all in."
Building Connected Workflows for Better Reporting
Carroll University, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is the oldest higher education institution in the state, serving approximately 3,500 students. With strong liberal arts and health sciences programs, the university relies heavily on stable, integrated systems to support student and operational success.
After operating a 30-year legacy ERP system, Carroll transitioned to a new platform that ultimately did not meet institutional needs. The implementation created significant strain, with limited integration capabilities and functionality gaps that required ongoing manual work. For six years, the university worked to stabilize the environment before recognizing the need for a different path forward.
Carroll selected Ellucian Student powered by Colleague to deliver a more cohesive and automated solution. Built-in Canvas integration, improved analytics through Ellucian Insights, and expanded automation capabilities aligned more closely with how Carroll operates as a university.
Implementation was completed in just six months — an accelerated timeline made possible by strong executive sponsorship and a true partnership approach. Both Carroll and Ellucian teams operated with urgency, transparency, and shared accountability.
Since going live, staff have shifted focus from validating system data to refining processes and improving workflows. Financial aid processing and core business functions operate more smoothly, and the university has expanded functionality within modules such as budgeting inside Colleague.
For Carroll, modernization was not only about replacing technology. It was about restoring confidence, reducing operational friction, and creating a platform that simply works — allowing teams to focus on serving students rather than managing system limitations.
