Learn the Field before Playing the Game: Understanding your Audiences as you Build Alternative Credentials
Georgetown | Alternative Credentials | Applied | Policy
The panel will explore how alternative credentials and digital badges are built from a vetted curriculum, which helps retain rigor and demonstrate competency and skills. The panel will also explore aspects of building internal understanding – and even faculty champions – for micro-credentials. We will also address how research with regional employers and prospective students has informed badge development as both valuable, high-ROI education and as pathways to stackable credentials. Designing academic pathways with noncredit entry points is providing a low barrier to entry for students and also is illuminating the potential for future enrollment pipelines on our campuses.

• Beth Rhoades, Weber State University
• Shane Farver, Weber State University
• Jessica DuPont, Oregon State University Ecampus
• Stacy Snow, Kennedy & Company

Moderator: Gary Chinn, Penn State University

From the Ground Up: Digital Badging and Micro-Credentialing Program Development
Monroe | Alternative Credentials | Foundational |
This session will discuss digital badging from both a de-centralized and university-wide perspective. Topics will include the use of digital badges as a certificate of completion and attainment of a skill for competency; definitions; and building infrastructure to support the delivery of micro-credentials. Presenters will share lessons learned, practical applications and implementation strategies to take back to participants' home institutions.

• Melissa Kaufman, Drexel University
• Daria LaTorre, Duquesne University
• Mary Parish, Duquesne University

Moderator: Tom Harney, Credly

Global Learning and the Future of Work: Micro-credentialing in Global Education
Fairchild | International | Strategic | Faculty
Higher education is facing a growing demand for alternative pathways to careers and stackable training options that capture, recognize, and validate learning outcomes. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated these innovations and micro-credentials may define the trajectory of global education. This session will explore the intersections of global education, micro-credentials, and the future of work.

• Breeda McGrath, Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• Andrea Custodi, CAPA

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Federal Policy Update
Cabinet | Business and Operations | Strategic | Policy
Please join us for a session that will discuss the varied and busy education agenda in Washington. The Department of Education in the past few months have been crafting regulations regarding major issues of importance to the distance and adult education community. The recent election has changed up the landscape for congressional education legislation and actions. We’ll walk you through what to watch and what has been going on in DC. Hear from legal and policy experts on a host of issues in governance and regulation.

• Chris Murray, Thompson Coburn LLP
• Kelly Otter, Georgetown University
• Chris Davis, University of Maryland Global Campus

Moderator: Jordan DiMaggio, UPCEA

Capturing and Sharing the Voice of the Student in Changing Times
Jefferson West | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic | Policy
Every interaction with a student or prospective student is an opportunity to provide direct value to the learner AND also a chance to hear and capture the learner’s needs and perspective. This session will highlight key themes that we are currently hearing from students nationally, while providing a deeper dive at two adult serving institutions and how they have used student perspectives to become more supportive and “student ready.”

• Jenni Murphy, California State University, Sacramento
• Bill Fritz, The Pennsylvania State University
• Kai Drekmeier, InsideTrack

 Moderator: Karina Kogan, Education Dynamics

Development, Implementation, and Assessment of a College ‘Surround and Support’ Mentoring Model
Lincoln West | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
The primary objective of the college’s ‘Surround and Support’ mentoring model was to increase persistence by supporting the academic progress of first time in college (FTIC) students through the fostering of academic and personal success. Specifically, this initiative aimed to help FTIC students navigate the university successfully by achieving smooth social integration (Swail, 2004). Research suggests FTIC students significantly benefit when provided with networks that support them through their first year of college (Tinto 1997; Wells 2009; Zurita, 2005). The presenters will engage the audience with meaningful dialogue regarding the implementation process, and qualitative and quantitative findings.

• Eric Kollar, University of West Florida

Moderator: Jackson Boyar, Mentor Collective

Building a Digital Future for Higher Ed: How to Hire, Lead, and Innovate with a Diverse Team of Digital Learning Professionals Who Live All Across the Country.
International Ballroom West | Online Administration | Strategic | Diversity & Inclusion
The pandemic brought about substantial change across the entire higher education landscape. It also placed a microscope on the field of online learning and forced many across higher education to re-evaluate their thoughts on how the future of learning will take place. Our office was able to thrive through these uncertainties by scaling ID staffing through multiple on-ramps, embracing a remote-first mentality, building for multiple expertise, and developing new cultural norms.

• Luis Alvarado, American University
• Joseph Riquelme, American University

Moderator: Tamiko Cooper, Everspring



Does It Have to be 100% Online? – Explore How Hybrid Enhances Online Learning
International Ballroom East | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational | eDesign Collaborative
As you plan for the future hybrid learning experiences trend, you are invited to join the Baylor team to learn how they have successfully integrated hybrid learning experiences. The session will provide a framework based on recent research and insights into identifying programs that would benefit from a hybrid experience, how to scale hybrid programs, the long-term benefits of developing affinity and belonging within these programs, the ins and outs of study abroad and intracontinental travel experiences, and how to successfully communicate and differentiate these learning experiences to prospective students to achieve the ultimate goal of enrollment and retention.

• Lesa Lawson, Baylor University
• Kate Blom-Lowery, Baylor University
• Victor Lopez, Baylor University

Moderator: Meni Sarris, Spur

Building Learner Outcomes with Stackability: Stories from the Field
Lincoln East | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic |
Join an esteemed panel of visionaries from University of Colorado Boulder, University of Illinois, and University North Texas, who have built successful online degrees with stackable credentials and non-credit course ecosystems that expand the boundaries of a traditional degree. Hear the latest learner research from Coursera that quantitatively demonstrates the value of stackability in driving degree enrollments and providing value to learners. By the end of the session, audience members will have: A data-driven understanding of how stackability supports learners, Actionable insights on how to incorporate stackability and non-credit courses into degrees, Key learner insights to help inform program design

• Amanda Brantner, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
• Adam Fein, University of North Texas
• Robert McDonald, University of Colorado Boulder
• Quentin McAndrew, Coursera

 Moderator: Chris Edwards, MindEdge

Accessible and Equitable Learning in a Quasi-Post Pandemic World
Jefferson East | Online Administration | Applied | eDesign Collaborative
Wide differences in digital accessibility during the pandemic is partially responsible for the learning losses in K-12  that National Center for Education Statistics recently reported. Universal design can serve as an academic continuity strategy as well as addressing issues of access, equity, and inclusion. Based on input we gathered from over 250 higher education leaders during a 3-day summit, we will discuss how to propagate and institutionalize universal design to address access and equity in three areas of importance: Accessible course design and quality personalized learning; Education, awareness, and resources for faculty development; Broadband and digital device access for all.

• Yakut Gazi, Duke University
• Warren Goetzel, Georgia Institute of Technology

Moderator: Brett Frazier, Coursera

Implementation of Micro-Credentials Within Higher Education Today. What’s Holding Us Back?
Jefferson West | Alternative Credentials | Strategic | Faculty
Higher education is being challenged to stay relevant in a fast-paced, changing environment. Competencies are the new currency. How can higher education pivot to meet the changing needs of various learners? What role does professional, continuing, and online education offices play in meeting the challenges we face today? This interactive session brings together an expert panel for discussion on the importance of building a sustainable micro-credential initiative on campuses and across higher education systems.

• Rosa Redonnett, University of Maine System
• Paul Cochrane, University of Southern Maine
• Claire Sullivan, University of Maine System

Moderator: Jeff Angle, ISACA

Opportunity in the Alternative Credential Space: Lessons Learned From 5 Institutions
Monroe | Alternative Credentials | Applied |
In this session, you will hear firsthand how five institutions are approaching the alternative credential space and where they’re experiencing challenges (e.g., budget and personnel cuts) and growth opportunities (in-demand program expansion). The panel will share how they have overcome obstacles, worked behind the scenes to bring new high-impact programs to life, and supported their student's career ambitions when they needed it most.

• Clay Taylor, Texas Tech University
• Lesa Hanlin, University of Virginia
• Rebecca Cook, University of Arizona
• Sara Leoni, GreenFig
• Lisa Verma, Louisiana State University

Moderator: Melissa Peraino, UPCEA

Setting the Stage: Managing Change to Prepare for Growth
Lincoln West | Business and Operations | Strategic |
UNC-Chapel Hill Digital and Lifelong Learning (DLL) is developing several new large-scale programs – including several online degree programs and campus continuing/professional education partnerships. Until recently, however, our organizational structure still reflected our service model from a decade ago. DLL’s Leadership Team embarked on a major change management project to evolve the organization into a matrixed model that helps service groups and program areas collaborate more efficiently, effectively, and easily. Join us to learn about our planning process, rollout, continuing reorg and service alignment efforts, and lessons learned/assessment.

• Todd Nicolet, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
• Tyler Ritter, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
• Hilary Culbertson, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
• Austin Gold, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
• Jennifer Larson, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Moderator: Josh Steele, University of Tennessee, Knoxville



Onboarding New Employees in a ‘New Normal’: Strategies for Building Community From Day 1
Cabinet | Business and Operations | Foundational |
As the job market in higher education gets more competitive, remote and hybrid work environments are becoming increasingly common! But how do you make sure that everyone you bring on board has everything they need to get started...and want to stay? In this session we’ll summarize what we have learned about the components that go into a good onboarding process, and we will share the resources and processes that we have put into place within our administrative unit and our college. We look forward to engaging attendees in a discussion of what is, and is not, working for us all!

• Ann Taylor, The Pennsylvania State University
• Stevie Rocco, The Pennsylvania State University

Moderator: Colin Lumsden, Springboard



International 101: Establishing and Nurturing Partnerships
Jefferson East | International | Foundational | Diversity & Inclusion
International 101 - Establishing and Nurturing Partnerships is a conversation that will be held to support individuals and programs who are interested in establishing and nurturing partnerships with schools and organizations internationally. These professional learning networks will provide benefits to local schools and universities while providing experiences for your learners to establish connections and discover how much more similar that diverse we are across international borders.

• Tony Pellegrini, Southern Utah University

Moderator: Johanna Prado, William Patterson University

Feeding the Content Beast: What’s the Right Diet?
Georgetown | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
How are marketers in professional, continuing, and online education strategically driving content that brings awareness to their site through relevant and unique content and produces quality content consistently enough to help their site rank high? What are key opportunities, challenges, and strategies for attracting traditional and post-traditional students to online education?  The University of Arizona Online marketing team presents a thoughtful case study on best practices centered on producing student-focused, highly relevant content to engage prospective students in every step of the funnel while maintaining a balance of offerings that resonates with current students to encourage completion.

• Eva Marie Hube, University of Arizona
• Mike Southworth, University of Arizona

Moderator: Lee Maxey, MindMax

Building Effective Evaluation Toolkits: Perspectives on Partnerships
International Ballroom West | Online Administration | Foundational | Faculty
Higher education institutions are facing the challenge of evaluating external partnerships, such as OPMs, to ensure they are providing value, meeting security and privacy standards, and are able to evolve throughout the partnership lifecycle. Join experts from the University of Michigan, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Honorlock as they share their perspectives on how to approach developing an evaluation rubric and discuss best practices on how to vet external partners. Participants will have an opportunity to discuss their experiences and approaches to evaluation to consider how they might develop and apply an evaluative framework in their institutional context.

• Paul Morales, Honorlock
• Samba Diop, Georgia Institute of Technology
• David Lawrence-Lupton, University of Michigan
• Soukaina Lamrani, University of Michigan

Moderator: Jennifer Mortensen, University of California, Irvine

Social Justice in Online Course Design: Impacting the Student Experience of Inclusion
Lincoln East | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Diversity & Inclusion
Student experience of inclusion in online courses may be impacted through the targeted application of key principles of social justice through the design process. This session presents an overview of the use of social justice principles to guide course design, strategies for preparing subject matter experts to apply these principles in their work and an analysis of future directions for the revision of curricula as informed by best practices for social justice.

• Donna Dimatteo-Gibson, Adler University

Moderator: Javier Motta-Mena, University of Texas at Austin

Innovation through Supportive Relationships
International Ballroom East | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational |
Conferences are wonderful places to interact with professional colleagues to enhance skills and grow professional expertise. But while we learn much in conference sessions, we also gain much from less formal interaction with colleagues through hallway conversations, shared meals, and late-night conversations. Often we come home from a conference on a high, but slowly come down as the pressure of everyday life returns. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the U.S., a group of UPCEA's Professional and Continuing Education professionals from diverse institutions created a monthly virtual group to support each other through unprecedented times and change. Based on adult learning theory and design thinking concepts, this group, which still is going strong 2.5 years later, operates as a collaborative, non-hierarchical community of practice. Each member is able to identify pressing issues to discuss and brainstorm, including program design, program promotion, and program implementation. Since the group’s launch, many creative and innovative ideas and approaches have emerged from these informal meetings. This session helps participants explore ways to create and maintain supportive professional relationships to fuel and sustain innovation.

• Sandra von Doetinchem, University of Hawaii at Manoa
• Christopher Cellars, University of Washington
• Inez Bush, Otis College of Art & Design
• Vanessa Williams, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey

Moderator: Paul Huckett, Johns Hopkins University

Money Talks: Using Funding Models to Leverage Partnerships
Jefferson West | Business and Operations | Strategic | Policy
Strada Public Viewpoint reports 62 percent of Americans prefer skills training or another non-degree option if enrolling in the next six months. Knowing this demand, creating sustainable and profitable programs is imperative. To aid in the decision-making process, we developed funding models that are used to guide the program development process. Participants will explore the different models and engage in a process of sketching out funding models that may be used at their institutions.

• Melissa Mahan, University of Texas at San Antonio
• Edwin Blanton, University of Texas at San Antonio

Moderator: Lyla Garner, Mississippi State University

Engaging Beyond the University: Resources and Approaches for Extending Program Outreach
Gunston | Community and Economic Engagement | Applied |
As universities strive to meet the shifting demands of the evolving workforce, a key factor in connecting programs with employer and learner needs is effective external outreach. Join this Conversation with Colleagues to explore how the University of Michigan’s Center for Academic Innovation developed an outreach framework to support schools and colleges across the university. Collectively brainstorm with colleagues to consider opportunities and approaches for engaging with external organizations through the lens of an Employer Engagement Toolkit that can be utilized to support units’ own programs and initiatives.

• Janelle Simmonds, University of Michigan
• Ben Anderson, University of Michigan

 Moderator: Bobbie Godbey, InsideTrack

The NYU SPS Metaverse Collaborative: Accelerating School-Wide Innovation through Teaching, Technology, Research, and Partnership
Monroe | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic | Faculty
Several institutionalized features of higher education dampen its capacity for cross-disciplinary innovation and institutional transformation (Natriello, 2021; Pacansky-Brock, 2017; Pinheiro et al., 2015). In order to overcome these constraints, it is critical to create space for early adopters to experiment independently and opportunities for a broad coalition of community stakeholders to collaborate on a clearly defined activity that advances the school’s vision and applied mission. In this case study, the authors describe the New York University School of Professional Studies (NYU SPS) Metaverse Collaborative Initiative, and how it was designed and implemented to create a virtuous cycle to enhance teaching, technology adoption, research, and industry partnerships.

• Vanja Bogicevic, New York University
• Liz Haas, New York University
• Richie Karaburun, New York University

Moderator: Carmin Chan, University of Arizona

A Case for Decentralized Instructional Design Support
Jefferson East | Online Administration | Foundational | Faculty
Instructional design offices support student-centered missions by providing faculty with the instructional tools and knowledge they need to create meaningful, engaging learning experiences. Instructional design offices encourage faculty to individualize their instructional practices and avoid one-size-fits-all approaches, but how does that practice translate to supporting our faculty? Decentralized instructional design support offices facilitate individualized faculty support, aligned with the needs of their students, their learning outcomes, their skill sets, and their comfort levels.

• Audrey Eagle, University of West Florida

Moderator: Nicole Baldassarre, InSpace

Quick March! How to Expand Access, Increase Diversity and Support Students at Your PCO Unit
Lincoln East | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Diversity & Inclusion
This session compares the road maps followed by the University of Minnesota and the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Birmingham in the U.K. to increase their enrollments while improving their records on accessibility and diversity. Presenters will furnish statistics on participation by different groups of learners, such as minorities in general, underrepresented minorities in particular, women, students with a high school diploma as well students with non-traditional career paths in the boot camps that are offered in collaboration with 2U/edX. They will also provide data on employment outcomes of the graduates and the services students receive.

• Brian Torkkola, University of Minnesota
• Nicola Wilkin, University of Birmingham, U.K.
• Jason Zocks, 2U/edX

Moderator: Saira Cooper, Rice University

Multimedia Integration and its Pedagogical Benefits: Dedicated Spaces and VR Innovations
International Ballroom East | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational | eDesign Collaborative
This session will consist of two presentations that discuss the importance of multimedia in online learning environments. In the first presentation, Kate Durden (West Florida) will outline the benefits of providing faculty with access to multimedia resources and implementation specialists, share strategies for working with faculty to increase multimedia integration in online courses, and provide simple and scalable solutions for creating a multimedia support space. In the second presentation, Aviva Doery (UArizona) and Caleb Simmons (UArizona) will discuss the benefits of virtual reality (VR) in enhancing remote education and provide an overview of the tools necessary to invest in and utilize innovative VR technologies. Participants will leave this session with a broad understanding of best practices for developing dedicated multimedia spaces and for recording and utilizing 360-degrees content in the classroom. No previous knowledge of studio design, VR, or immersive learning tools is necessary.

• Aviva Doery, University of Arizona
• Caleb Simmons, University of Arizona
• Kate Durden, University of West Florida
• Robert Stephan, University of Arizona

Moderator: Kellie Artis, Virtual Veterans Communities

Leveraging Partnerships to Provide In-Demand Microcredentials to Meet the Needs of Emergent Industrys’ Workforce
Lincoln West | Alternative Credentials | Strategic |
With a competitive jobs landscape in emerging industries, certificate programs hold extra value for students and the universities that offer them. Recent data shows that there is a gap between the connected job outcomes that universities would like to provide for students and what has been achieved to date. Join us to learn how University of Akron and Syracuse University are partnering with Coursera and Green Flower to integrate multiple industry credentials (from engineering to cannabis) their degree pathways and continuing education offerings in fields - Overcoming implementation barriers, institutional roadblocks and new marketing opportunities to build successful programs and prepare students for exciting careers.

• Jim Gaffey, Syracuse University
• Daniel Kalef, Green Flower
• Nate Rowe, Green Flower
• Wendy Lampner, The University of Akron
• Scott Shireman, Coursera

Moderator: Kelly Newell, Washington State University

Prioritizing Academic Innovation at University of Arizona Global Campus
Cabinet | Online Administration | Applied |
This session walks attendees through a chronological journey of academic technology and innovation at University of Arizona Global Campus, including establishment of an innovation agenda, what data drives innovation and development, what organizational structures support it, and discussion and reflection of innovation practices at attendees’ institutions.

• Cole McFarren, University of Arizona Global Campus

Moderator: Tony Fell, Collegis Education

It's Not Student Services, It Is Serving Students
Georgetown | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
As we look to the future of online education, it becomes apparent that we must do more than provide services, we must serve students. From prospect to graduation, we must develop a fully integrated and collaborative culture, processes, and practices that both meet students where they are, and provide support and guidance to the whole student throughout their journey. Please join us to learn how IU Online is fostering this approach. We will share an adaptable plan, pitfalls to avoid, the success we have seen post-implementation of many new initiatives, and a glimpse into where we want to go next.

• Whitnie Powell, Indiana University
• Stephanie Tinkel, Indiana University
• Kayla Scroggins, Indiana University

Moderator: Jason Smith, Anthology

Employers’ Perspective and Lived Experiences
Georgetown | Alternative Credentials | Applied |
A recent survey of 500+ human resource professionals conducted by UPCEA and Collegis Education found over two-thirds of employers would like to collaborate with a higher education partner to develop and deliver microcredentials. This session will share results of the survey of hiring professionals’ perceptions of microcredentials, the lived experience of two institutions in their journey to implement microcredentials, and key factors for success for any institution considering adding microcredentials to their academic portfolio.

• Bruce Etter, UPCEA
• Tracy Chapman, Collegis Education
• Tricia McFadden, Saint Francis University
• John Buerck, Saint Louis University

Moderator: Bonnie Cordell, Texas Tech University

Micro-Credentials as a Bridge to Employment
Jefferson West | Alternative Credentials | Applied |
This session will showcase different approaches for integrating micro-credentials into undergraduate and graduate programs. Presenters will share their experience and lessons learned and will engage the audience in a dialogue to identify actionable steps to get started with and consolidate the use of micro-credentials as a bridge from classroom to career.

• Sasha Goldman, Boston University
• James Halpert, Lightcast
• Jude Okpala, University of Texas at San Antonio
• Claudia Arcolin, University of Texas at San Antonio

 Moderator: Wendy Boland, American University

Using the UN SDGs as a Pedagogical Framework from Faculty and Staff to Student Curriculum Development
Fairchild | International | Applied
The purpose of this session is to learn how Rollins College is using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) as framework for program development. In collaboration with faculty and staff, the SDGs have been used to reimagine how the college serves adult learners through a series of workshops and seminars. The SDG framework has been instrumental in furthering Rollins’ mission to develop global citizens and responsible leaders, especially in how it impacts the future workplace to better serve underrepresented communities.

• Robert Sanders, Rollins College
• Doragnes Bradshaw, Rollins College

Moderator: Erica Bova, Northwestern University

Ensuring that the Shoemaker’s Children Do Not Go Barefoot: Professional Development for PCO Staff
Cabinet | Business and Operations | Applied |
Those in Professional, Continuing, and Online Education create important programs – both credit and noncredit – for those seeking to expand their knowledge and skills at key junctures in their working lives. What are ways we encourage and support PCO staff seeking professional development to advance their current and future careers? What are the educational opportunities within our PCO colleges, universities, and professional associations (including UPCEA)? This panel will explore how continuing education has been encouraged for staff and integrated into a PCO enterprise – and the outcomes that followed.

• Jay Halfond, Boston University
• Nancy Coleman, Harvard University
• Jenni Murphy, California State University, Sacramento
• Saira Cooper, Rice University

Moderator: Aaron Lawrence, SmartBrief

Working with WIOA
Gunston | Community and Economic Engagement | Foundational | Diversity & Inclusion, Policy
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds are an underutilized source of funding for non-traditional learners. These federal funds are available for select programs, including non-credit courses, offered by approved EPTL training providers. Some CE units do not have access to financial aid or scholarships for their learners, nor are they able to assist their learners with job searches. The WIOA Adult program provides both the funds for learners to take re-skilling or up-skilling programs and job search assistance. WIOA funding allows CE units and local One Stop agencies to work together to provide a high-quality education.

• Patricia Cook, University of Arizona
• Laurel Hogue, University of Central Missouri
• Karen Haberfeld, University of Washington
• Ryan Torma, University of Minnesota

Moderator: Kristen Vanselow, Florida Golf Coast University

We Belong, Too- Cultivating and Holding Space in Belonging Initiatives for Distance Students
Lincoln East | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Diversity & Inclusion
Belonging initiatives are everywhere. In the wake of the pandemic, institutions are placing increased emphasis on this critical element of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts. The full integration of distance education students in belonging initiatives is often limited not only a lack of well-established best practices, but also old mindsets about the importance of and desire for a strong sense of belonging among post-traditional students. Join us to discussion about how belonging is experienced by distance students, how institutions can cultivate it, and how we can best advocate for the proactive inclusion of distance students in institutional belonging initiatives.

• Patricia Milner, University of Arkansas

Moderator: Chris Anderson, InsideTrack

How Do You Support Today’s Learners? Flexibility? Autonomy? Intentional Support?
Lincoln West | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Faculty, Policy
The session will focus on the importance of flexibility and autonomy in online degrees while identifying strategies to improve student experience and retention. Participants will understand how two institutions have focused on degree completion with strategies that have supported improving the student experience and retention.

• Jasmeial "Jazz" Jackson, Thomas Edison State University
• Cynthia Baum, Thomas Edison State University
• Donna DiMatteo-Gibson, Adler University

Moderator: Mackenize MacNeil, Modern Campus



Community-Based Approaches to Transform Online Learning at a Large Public University
Jefferson East | Online Administration | Applied | Faculty
What does it look like to re-engineer a university towards a new paradigm for digital learning? Recognizing the pandemic will forever change the way we teach and learn, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville has recognized online learning as an integral part of becoming a “21st century land-grant institution.” Creating a full-service central office for the first time, the new office is tasked with empowering the development of online programs and courses at a decentralized, public research institution. Presenters will discuss the development and value of multiple community-based networks, energizing “bottom-up” discussions across the university, leading transformative work at all levels.

• Josh Steele, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
• Jennifer Gramling, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Moderator: Stephanie Mullette, StraighterLine

AI Transforming Education: Artificial Intelligence has Begun Impacting Education, But the Best is Yet to Come!
International Ballroom East | Online Administration | Applied | eDesign Collaborative
With a focus on implications of GPT-3 and DALL-E2 in creating research articles, original award-winning art, coding of computer programs, and more without more than a short set of desired outcomes by a human.  We will explore what that means for changing course outcomes, learner assessments and preparation of learners for the changing workforce environment.

• Ray Schroeder, UPCEA

Moderator: Brittany Murchinson, Coursera

Using Market Data To Prioritize Programs
International Ballroom West | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational |
How can you use publicly available data to prioritize programs? In this session we will discuss how to 1) capture a landscape in which your programs will operate; 2) create a road map that will help you differentiate your programs in a crowded market; and 3) look in the (rear view) mirror to understand what your audience thinks of you. The secret to using publicly available data is to have multiple points of comparison. We will work through examples to see how this can be leveraged in a powerful way resulting in good program choices.

• Scott Jeffe, Ruffalo Noel Levitz
• Andrea Carrol-Glover, Ruffalo Noel Levitz
• Rachel Carlton, Lakeland University

 Moderator: Whitnie Powell, Indiana University

Research Roundtables
Monroe   

Moderator: Monica Fletcher, UPCEA

The Importance of Well Being
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational |
How do you offer well-being services and events to students, staff, and faculty in a non-traditional environment? This presentation will discuss the importance of well-being, discuss tangible ways to build sustainable programs, and how to implement them in our current environment.

• Nicole Winget, Campbell University

Using Rubrics to Advance Equity and Inclusion for Diverse Populations
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Diversity & Inclusion
In this proposed session, attendees will: learn how the data informs opportunities to increase student performance at the course level and how faculty within a department utilize this data to inform their instruction and practice. The presenter will demonstrate to participants how this data project is informing our D, E, & I strategies related to student success and persistence. Programmatic and institutional outcomes are stronger when we work to build an inclusive culture, promoting value for all students while simultaneously removing barriers to success. Participants will be provided with relevant examples they can bring back to their institutions.

• Maggie Morgan, Purdue University Global
• Jessica Budzinski, Purdue University Global

Alternative Credentials Network
Award Presentation | UPCEA Innovation in Alternative Credentials Award

Spotlight Session | Charting the Path Ahead on Issues and Initiatives Impacting Our Work
Jefferson West | Alternative Credentials | 

• Gary Chinn, Penn State University
• Kelly Newell, Washington State University
• Javier Motta-Mena, University of Texas at Austin
• Tyler Ritter, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Moderator: Chris Edwards, MindEdge

Business & Operations Network
Award Presentation | Business & Operations Award for Operational Excellence

Spotlight Session | Guiding the Future-Ready University
Jefferson East | Business and Operations | Policy |
The future of higher education is definitively “non-traditional”, but figuring out what that means requires further exploration. In this session, presenters will reflect on the characteristics of a truly “future-ready” university—juxtaposing those that have situated themselves firmly in the PCO space against those who are trying to expand their mission to serve learners from K-Grey. We will also reflect on the key metrics we could use to measure our progress, and discuss impactful innovations in both business and academic processes that can position an institution as future-ready.

• Amrit Ahluwalia, The EvoLLLution: A Modern Campus Illumination
• Shawn Miller, Duke University

Moderator: Lyla Garner, Mississippi State University


Community and Economic Engagement Network
Award Presentation | UPCEA Engagement Award

Spotlight Session | Prison Education Programming: UPCEA Member Initiatives and Outcomes
Lincoln East | Community and Economic Engagement |
With Second Chance Pell Grant opportunities well underway and with over 200 colleges and universities ready to serve incarcerated or recently released students, UPCEA has an opportunity to assist and support, as well as lead, many of its member institutions. Over sixty UPCEA members have expressed interest in serving this population. The community is diverse in its experiences, with some institutions much farther ahead than others and many institutions just starting. The challenges that exist tend to center around access and engaging these students.  Institutions struggle with being able to implement technology into the classroom, as well as creating and maintaining interactions between the student with faculty and staff. This session will spotlight three institutions that have tackled some of the challenges that others are currently facing.

• Jim Fong, UPCEA
• Jesse Crosson, Second Chancer Foundation

Moderator: George Calderaro, Columbia University

International Network
Award Presentation | UPCEA International Program of Excellence Award Presentation

Spotlight Session | Emerging International Markets: Access, Admissions and Retention Frameworks
Lincoln West | International | 

• Steve Mulligan, Study Portals
• Elizabeth Valencia-Borgert, St. Cloud State University
• Patty Milner, University of Arkansas

Moderator: Isaac Garcia-Sitton, Toronto Metropolitan University



Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success Network
Awards Presentation | UPCEA Award for Excellence in Advancing Student Success;
Dorothy Durkin Award for Strategic Innovation in Marketing and Enrollment Management

Spotlight Session | Creating a Student-Centered Experience Across the Student Journey – Building a Comprehensive Digital Ecosystem for Maximum Impact
Georgetown | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | 
According to a recent survey of current and soon-to-enroll students enrolled in online programs, 70 percent of students begin their research into schools via a school’s website. Your digital ecosystem is by far the most important source of information for prospective and current students – and your website is the hub of that ecosystem. And yet, only one third of those same survey respondents indicated that it is very easy to find the information they most seek out on school websites. Join the MESS community for an engaging conversation about what it means to build a student-centered digital ecosystem across the student journey. We’ll discuss both why and how you can better help prospective and current students by providing the relevant data they most seek on the channels they access most. Starting from the consideration and RFI submission stage and transitioning into the student retention process, we’ll discuss strategies for sharing a truly customized and unique web experience through marketing automation and website UX best practices by looking at success stories from Excelsior University and other student-centered colleges and universities across the country.

• Jack Rodenfels, Elon University
• Marty Gustafson, Purdue Online
• Stacy Snow, Kennedy & Company
• Becky McCafferty, EducationDynamics

Moderator: Marleigh Perez, Oregon State University

Online Administration Network and eDesign Collaborative Network
Award Presentation | UPCEA Award for Strategic Innovation in Online Education

Spotlight Session | Invigorating Avenues for Meaningful Faculty Online Course Development
International Ballroom West | Online Administration + eDesign Collaborative | Faculty |
Multimodal Learning is a multifaceted faculty development unit that supports best practices in online, distance and on campus instruction. Participants attending the presentation will gain knowledge of the how and why the Master Online Mentor Program at Central Washington University was created. Then join a discussion with other participants to gain a list of invigorating ideas surrounding new avenues for the course and program development. The presenters will create a master list of ideas and make them available following the presentation.

• Joy Fuqua, Central Washington University
• Delayna Breckon, Central Washington University

Moderator: Annie Taylor, Penn State University

Program Planning and Implementation Network
Awards Presentation | Outstanding Program: Noncredit Award; Outstanding Program: Credit Award

Spotlight Session | The New Normal and How to Get There!
International Ballroom East | Program Planning and Implementation | Policy |
At NYU's School of Professional Studies we are in the process of redesigning our school for the future. Our courses and services are being aggressively reviewed and updated. We will discuss the scale and how and why this is needed for online and onsite programs. We are implementing PLA plans across the board to make degrees far more accessible. It means a new role in online and on site programming and services. The session will discuss in detail what is working and what has not.

• Ann Clarkson, New York University

Moderator: Vanessa Williams, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey

Development of a Talent Pipeline: Education and Industry Partnerships
Jefferson East | Alternative Credentials | Foundational | Faculty
Micro-credentialing and Digital Badging is a growing movement, attractive for its flexibility and efficiency in connecting students with careers and jobs.  The FGCU badge model begins with development, in which university and industry partners collaborate to identify micro-credential needs, identify the associated competencies/skill(s), and determine the acceptable mastery levels for each skill. FGCU developed the Fundamentals of Medical Device Industry badge (micro-credential) in response to specific regional workforce need in partnership with a major area employer. Concept, design, course integration, and initial results will be detailed, along with next steps and best practices for institutions implementing similar badges.

• Aysegul Timur, Florida Gulf Coast University
• Kristen Vanselow, Florida Gulf Coast University

Moderator: Beth Rubin, Campbell University

Incentivizing Faculty Development with Certificates and Badges
Lincoln East | Alternative Credentials | Applied | Faculty
This multi-institutional session will share how two universities are leveraging campus partnerships and increasing access to faculty development. We will consider how one institution’s Center for Teaching and Learning implemented an expanded Teaching Certificate program that is administered via its new School of Professional Studies. We will also hear how one institution designed and implemented a Summer Online Course Grant program to incentivize faculty development in alignment with its faculty review standards. In both cases, the programs have expanded access to faculty development and occurred in partnership with other campus departments.

• Heather McCullough, University of North Carolina System
• Pamela Wimbush, California State University, Sacramento

Leveraging Academic and Employer Partnership: Collaborative Approaches to Developing an Interdisciplinary Curriculum
Lincoln West | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic | eDesign Collaborative
Employers need skilled ethical leaders who can communicate and collaborate beyond their professional and organizational boundaries. Excelsior University collaborated with academic and industry partners to develop a graduate interdisciplinary suite of courses that equip students with these essential skills. This workshop will share our unique curriculum and course development model and strategies for developing an interdisciplinary curriculum from concept through development, implementation, and assessment.

• Anna Zendell, Excelsior University

Moderator: Laurel Hogue, University of Central Missouri

Relationships Matter, No Matter What’s Going on in the World: The “Glue” to Establishing, Reigniting and Solidifying Partnerships
Cabinet | Business and Operations | Foundational | Diversity & Inclusion
Whatever’s happening in the world can impact what we do in program planning, establishing, reigniting and solidifying partnerships, etc. In fact, knowing what the “glue” is to do the former is key. By attending this presentation, audience members will learn 3 best practices or “glue” to insure partnerships work no matter the calamity. The presenters will teach you how to use this “glue” to help you either establish partnerships, reignite dormant ones and solidify current ones.

• Cynthia Kimball Davis, Southern Utah University
• Shelbie Jones-Alm, Southern Utah University
• Cole-Makena Hamblin, Southern Utah University

Moderator: Nichole Henry, Syracuse University

Differentiating Your Program in Sea of Sameness
Jefferson West | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic |
It’s a question we hear from institutions all the time. As online learning becomes an increasingly crowded space, how can we differentiate and stand out from the market? For online graduate programs this is a particularly pressing concern. According to NCES IPEDS data, as of 2020 there were nearly 40,000 master’s programs available in the United States, a staggering 24% increase versus 2012. With program growth outpacing student interest, it is inevitable that competition for students will be fierce. In this case study presentation with Glasgow Caledonian New York College, we will discuss a four-part framework that can be leveraged to grow and differentiate in the graduate space, while also ensuring that you’re meeting the needs of the modern student. We will then review Glasgow Caledonian New York College’s portfolio as an in-depth case study as they specifically reach those prospective students who desire career advancement with purpose.

• John F Albanese, Glasgow Caledonian New York College
• Kara Eldersveld, Anthology

Moderator: Kate Blom-Lowery, Baylor University

Launching Online Short Courses: Lessons Learned on Program Strategy, Market Readiness, and Enrollment Trends
Fairchild | International | Strategic | Faculty
In early 2021, the University of Cambridge launched a new portfolio of online short courses under the brand Cambridge Advance Online, enabling global professionals to earn a certificate from one of the world’s leading universities in only 6-8 weeks. This presentation will cover lessons learned since launch, including approaches for refining program strategy, collaborating with faculty, assessing markets for media campaigns, refining the organizational chart, and meeting ambitious enrollment goals.

• Derrick Mabbott, The University of Cambridge
• Suzan Brinker, Viv Higher Education
• Daniel Bean, The University of Cambridge

Moderator: Marla Mazer, Toronto Metropolitan University

The Devil’s in the Details: Using Technical SEO to Solve Your Website Woes
Monroe | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
You put your institution’s search visibility and website traffic at risk when big—and even sometimes nominal—changes are made to your website. The more people that touch and edit your site, the greater at risk you are. To avoid costly mistakes that unknowingly impact search rankings and traffic, marketing teams need to understand technical SEO implications. Join Search Influence and the Tulane School of Professional Advancement to learn how your website structure can hurt or help your rankings, the impact of subdomains and microsites, and how to pull off a seamless website migration.

• Paula French, Search Influence
• Alicia Jasmin, Tulane University

Moderator: Mike Southworth, University of Arizona



Creating Learner-Centered Micro-credential Programs With Design Thinking
International Ballroom East | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational | eDesign Collaborative
A learner-centered micro-credential program begins with engaging with your learners to better understand their motivations, needs, and experiences. Today’s learners are increasingly career-oriented, and we want to make ensure skills and achievements are validated and recognized, especially by employers. In this session, we use design thinking methods to develop empathy for our learners, iterate new solutions to help our learners thrive, and review the Design Thinking process. With this mindset, we'll lead you through an exercise to identify critical internal practices for executing a micro-credentialing program that sticks.

• Todd Foley, University of Cincinnati
• Luke Dowden, Alamo Colleges
• Kelly Hoyland, 1EdTech

Moderator: Daniel Kalef, Green Flower

Can We (Should We?) Give Them What They Think They Want?
Georgetown | Online Administration | Applied | Policy
As our campuses emerge from the many challenges COVID presents, the increasing demand for online and hybrid course options by traditional on-campus students and faculty raises unique challenges. Are these courses the responsibility of the PCOE unit? Do Zoom veteran faculty require new development supports? How do the PCOE business and revenue models translate to an allocation budget model?  And why does everyone think we are “stealing” their students? Join the leaders of two large, public university PCOE units as we share the challenges faced as we return our campuses to the new normal, where suddenly online is mainstream and everyone wants a piece of the online action.

• Steven Tello, University of Massachusetts Lowell
• Nancy Ludwig, University of Massachusetts Lowell
• John Wells, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
• Kathleen Ives, UPCEA

Moderator: Jay Hatcher, Wiley Education Services

Improving Faculty Performance Deficits With Performance-Based Review Cadence
International Ballroom West | Online Administration | Applied | Faculty
Observing, measuring, and coaching faculty performance is essential for delivering feedback to faculty, keeping them accountable, and helping them develop. While a set performance review cadence, usually annual, to observe faculty teaching is the norm, one size does not always fit all within the faculty performance management space. We will consider and discuss how we can promote positive faculty performance outcomes by modifying the cadence of annual performance reviews, based on faculty performance, resulting in a more intentional approach regarding when and how we review faculty teaching.

• Anna Garner, University of Phoenix
• Rheanna Reed, University of Phoenix
• Peter Conrad, University of Phoenix

Moderator: Steve Ernst, LearningMate

Strategic Planning 101
Fairchild | Business and Operations | Foundational |
Have you been asked to create a strategic plan but don’t know where to start?  Does the notion of strategic planning scare you? This session is for you if you answered yes to either of these questions.  This basic Strategic Planning 101 activity will be helpful to those new to strategic planning or to those looking for a refresher course on point.

• Kurt Snyder, Stanford University

Moderator: Lisa Barr, California Institute of the Arts

Leveraging AI to Build Workforce Relevant Programs
Jefferson West | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic | eDesign Collaborative
Building relevant and responsive professional, continuing, and online programs requires understanding local industry needs and how course and program offerings align with them. This session discusses and demonstrates how AI can be leveraged to support this process. AI-based tools can help identify the skills required by local industry, analyze course offerings to determine which are most relevant, and make skills and competency based course and program design possible and productive. Attendees in this session will gain a deeper understanding of how AI can accelerate and provide insights into the development of new courses and programs.

• Myk Garn, Georgia Tech
• Robby Robson, Eduworks

Moderator: Julie Uranis, UPCEA

Reimagining Student Engagement: Cultivating Student Success through Podcasts & Surveys
Lincoln East | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational | Diversity & Inclusion
Opening the channels of communication with adult learners requires close collaboration between academic, marketing, data, and student success teams. In this session, participants will learn how surveys and podcasts can serve as those collaborative vehicles. Participants will walk away with tangible takeaways they can start to implement immediately to help create community connection and engagement on levels that inspire and enlighten students through their educational experience.

• Dennise Cardona, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
• Elliot Talbert-Goldstein, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
• Haley Dolosic, Washington University in St. Louis
• Sean Armstrong, Washington University in St. Louis

Moderator: Melissa Rekos, Carnegie

A Student-Centric Framework for Measuring Credential Value
Cabinet | Alternative Credentials | Strategic |
Join Western Governors University as we discuss our journey for implementing a unified framework for creating and valuing learner-centric credentials. During this session we will explore the implementation of a Unified Credential Framework and Credential Value Index to make better decisions about our credentials and degrees on behalf of every learner.

• Kacey Thorne, Western Governors University
• Tyson Heath, Western Governors University

Moderator: Chris Edwards, MindEdge

Emerging Realities for International Continuing Education: Balancing Global Missions and Local Responsibilities
Monroe | International | Strategic | Policy
This panel draws upon case studies from leading institutions working on global programs while, at the same time, endeavoring to serve local communities. How is that balance struck and what are ways to assess the costs versus benefits?

• James Ketterer, American University in Cairo
• Carola Weil, McGill University
• William Lee, Hong Kong University
• Nancy Coleman, Harvard University
• James Gazzard, Cambridge University
• Simon Bell Melbourne, School of Professional and Continuing Education (MSPACE)

Moderator: Desiree Young, ThriveDX

Playing the Strategic Game of Student Re-entry: What Would You Do?
International Ballroom West | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Policy
Representatives from four campuses that form the University of California Reengagement Consortium (UCRC) utilize various stop-out student personas, role-playing, and gamification to engage session participants in brainstorming strategies and reflection on what policies and practices need to be addressed to implement a re-entry/reengagement program at participants' institutions.

• Jen Schwedler, University of California, Davis
• Marie Martin, University of California, Riverside
• Michael Pierick, University of California, Merced
• Sheetal Gavankar, University of California, Santa Barbara

From Catching up to Leading the Way: Increasing Enrollment and Quality Across Modalities in a Language Program
Georgetown | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Faculty
In a time when most institutions are suffering from decreasing majors/enrollment and budgetary restrictions, this presentation offers a detailed example of how the innovative use of technology can transform a language program to revolutionize both online and face-to-face course offerings. By adopting the Three Pillar Model (Marull and Kumar, 2020), this institution has been able to increase course enrollment, student engagement, course quality, and provide increased revenue and reduced instructional loads across modalities.

• Crystal Marull, University of Florida
• Katherine Brooke, Texas Tech University

Moderator: Paula French, Search Influence



Extending Our Reach: Supporting the Skills Agenda with Organizational Training
Gunston | Community and Economic Engagement | Applied |
The University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS) has developed innovative, effective training programs for over 30 external organizations. This presentation shares lessons learned from our successful collaborations with local, national and international clients. By being proactive and client-centric in business development; collaborating on flexible, multimodal, learner-centric programming; and recognizing the achievement of working professionals, Continuing Education units can diversify their revenue streams and reach new audiences of learners.

• Juan Mavo-Navarro, University of Toronto
• John Lewis, University of Toronto

Marketing Across Institutional Boundaries
Jefferson East | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic |
Decentralized marketing and limited resources present challenges at higher education institutions across the nation, and marketers often seek out external support in an effort to carry out larger initiatives. While consulting services have become a way of life, some institutions are creating models to leverage resources and expertise within.
The University of Arizona and UMBC have both implemented unique strategies to bring cross-institutional MarCom colleagues together to create synergy between decentralized teams through a new role overseeing the Arizona Campus Marketing Council and through the UMBC Marketing Commons. Learn through these case studies how both institutions assessed needs and organizational structures, created new models for information sharing and collaboration, and learned and adjusted along the way.

• Maya Patterson, University of Arizona
• Mike Southworth, University of Arizona
• Julie Gilless, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
• Elizabeth Regan-Butts, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Moderator: David Baylee, EducationDynamics

But What if It IS a Shoe? Mass Customization and Online Learning
International Ballroom East | Online Administration | Applied | Faculty
It’s time for mass customization to come to learning design. We can easily and quickly order a completely custom product and have it show up to our door quickly; why isn’t learning design like that? Faculty members are acclimated to “just-in-time” planning; traditional learning design requires more up-front time and effort. Mass customization offers faculty members a more familiar process, offering a faster turnaround time for all. Starting from the essential question, “What is a course?” we will explore how mass customization can be brought to learning design, enabling designers to work more quickly with faculty members without sacrificing quality.

• Stevie Rocco, The Pennsylvania State University
• Ann Taylor, The Pennsylvania State University

Moderator: Asim Ali, Auburn University

Program Showcase
Lincoln West | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |

What’s the Buzz? Training for the Cannabis and Alcohol Industries
Non-credit programs can be uniquely positioned to support adult learners in new and growing industries. But what about when those industries haven’t historically been aligned with your institution’s mission and values, or until recently weren’t even legal? In this session, we’ll discuss programs we’ve developed–or tried to develop–that relate to the alcohol and legal cannabis industries. We’ll highlight opportunities and potential barriers, and discuss areas including community impact, workforce development, and DEI issues. We’ll also think about the models for third-party program partnerships versus developing new programs in-house. Join us as we share success and failure stories and lessons learned.

• Vanessa Williams, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey
• Eric Latham, University of California, Riverside
• Lynda Wilson, California State University, Dominguez Hills
• Daniel Kalef, Green Flower
• Christopher Cellars, University of Washington Continuum College
• Sandra von Doetinchem, University of Hawai'i at Manoa

Cybersecurity Education: Immersion - En Route to the Metaverse
This session will provide best practices & sound methodology around teaching a robust cybersecurity curriculum to make participants workforce - ready.

• Lalitha Subramanian, University of Washington
• Randy Hinrichs, University of Washington
• Barbara Endicott-Popovsky, Portland State University
  

Lowering Online Course Accessibly Costs Using a Supplier Partnership
This presentation brings to light the successful partnership and established program created to ensure online course accessibility meets federal guidelines within institutional budgetary constraints and in a timely manner.

• Alan Openshaw, Brigham Young University

Central
Lincoln West   

United States: CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, MI, MN, MO, NE, ND, OK, OH, SD, WI ; Canada: SK, MB, NU

Mid-Atlantic
Jefferson West   

United States: DC, DE, MD, NJ, NY, PA, WV; Canada: ON

New England
Jefferson East   

United States: CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT; Canada: QC, LB, NF, PE, NS, NB

South
Georgetown   

United States: AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, PR, SC, TN, TX, VA

West
Lincoln East   

United States: AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, NV, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY; Canada: AB, BC, NT, YT

Join this lively, informal conversation featuring recipients from leadership-centered award categories of the 2023 UPCEA Association Awards program. Recipients will be invited to share their ideas and experiences around career trajectories, leadership journeys, role challenges and insights, and thoughts about the future of our field.

• Annette Webb, University of California, Riverside
• Therese Grohman, Northwestern University
• Karen Gebhardt, University of Colorado Boulder
• Nancy Makale, University of Pennsylvania
• Kimberly Underwood, University of Phoenix
• Jayzona Alberto, Stanford University
  

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

New Models of Higher Education: A Showcase in Innovation
Lincoln East | Alternative Credentials | Applied |
This session will showcase lessons learned in alternative credentialing, digital badging, prior learning assessment, skills-based taxonomy development, comprehensive learning records, and more, from the recently published book New Models of Higher Education: Unbundled, Rebundled, Customized, & DIY. This session will present the work of more than 50 leaders in the field; a discussion will be led on practical and strategic decisions facing institutions, and on high-level policies, processes, and resource needs.

• Aaron Brower, University of Wisconsin Extended Campus
• Ryan Specht-Boardman, University of Wisconsin Extended Campus

Moderator: Jen Schwedler, University of California, Davis

Approaches of Design and Innovation with Skill-Based Stackable Certificates
Cabinet | Alternative Credentials | Strategic | eDesign Collaborative
For the online CMU Master of Integrated Innovation for Products and Services program, we created a collection of stackable certificates that culminate in a master’s degree. Learners can pursue the certificates as stand-alone options, or they can stack certificates as they complete the masters. Programmatic success rests on leveraging both faculty and instructional design expertise, combining their efforts in working relationships. This collaboration allows for quality course development that addresses the complexities associated with innovating a traditional on-campus program in the online space. During this presentation, we will expand upon how the program design partnership solved challenges to deliver meaningful real-world learning experiences.

• Peter Boatwright, Carnegie Mellon University
• Leah Chuchran-Davis, iDesign
• Kate Marshall, iDesign

Moderator: Ursula Bechert, University of Pennsylvania

Operationalizing the Pursuit of Inclusive Excellence: A Candid Conversation around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Cabinet | Business and Operations | Applied | Diversity & Inclusion
Welcome to an introductory conversation around operationalizing the pursuit of Inclusive Excellence from UPCEA’s 2022 Inclusive Excellence Association Award recipient, Rutgers University, Division of Continuing Studies. This session will discuss the actual costs and engage in a candid conversation about navigating institutional policy move to the needle forward of representation. The session will discuss aligning financial, human resource and operational teams and strategies to advance “move the needle” of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access  initiatives in PCO units. This session is about sharing best practices, solutions, and approaches for business and operations teams to operationalize efforts around DEIA. We will discuss lessons learned and mistakes made and introduce of best partners.

• Rich Novak, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey
• Shino John, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey

Moderator: Andrea Carroll-Glover, RNL

Implementing an Interest-Based Partnership Model for Collaborative Success
Fairchild | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic |
In an era of elevated accountability for providers coupled with a legislative drive towards enhanced workforce outcomes, establishing effective partnerships is an essential element of every successful program. Learn how an interest-based partnership model can frame impactful strategies to address complex challenges and deliver measurable outcomes. This session will showcase examples of the model in action that range from local collaboration to national-level solutions.

• Joseph Huston, Seminole State College of Florida
• Elaine Caggiano, Seminole State College of Florida

Moderator: Benjamin Anderson, University of Michigan

Cultural Competence, First Gen Students, and Study Abroad for Changing Times in Higher Education
Monroe | International | Foundational |
This presentation will examine the changing field of study abroad to center the focus on developing intercultural competencies, increasing access to non-traditional students, and broadening the scope of study abroad learning to include global market needs. We will discuss current issues facing the field by highlighting the increased range of Study Abroad/International Education options now on offer. As higher education strives to address the experiences, expectations, and needs of First Generation students, diverse, online, and international students, study abroad programming is also pivoting to maintain its significance and demonstrate its relevance.

• Breeda McGrath, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• Crystal Marull, University of Florida

Moderator: Natalie del Sol, Florida International University

Students’ Lived Experiences in Transferring Credits: New Empirical Research
Lincoln West | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic |
New empirical research, conducted by UPCEA and StraighterLine, identifies students’ lived experiences and perceptions regarding transferring institutions. As schools work with students to achieve their educational goals, policies should be evaluated to implement transfer friendliness. The study focuses on students’ transfer behavior, motivations, decision-making factors, and challenges. Two authors of the study will present key findings, insights, and the implications on students and colleges.

• Rhonda Capron, StraighterLine
• Bruce Etter, UPCEA

Moderator: Jennifer Myers, University of Virginia

Rapidly Upskilling Faculty to Support Student Learning & Engagement: Cases from the Field
Georgetown | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Faculty
Developing a systematic approach to the development of teaching and learning materials is especially valuable in schools with continuing education and/or professionally-focused degrees where many instructors are industry experts but lack formal training as educators.  This presentation reviews two complementary approaches to support faculty and accelerate student learning through online resources and a framework for course planning.  We showcase Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (SMUMN) reIMAGINE online course and NYU’s PDER framework.  This session will touch on best practices, observations about communication and training as well as the implementation experience and lessons learned.

• Matt Isaia, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
• Spencer Wanlass, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
• Michael Diamond, New York University

Moderator: Reba-Anna Lee, Northwestern University

Developing Learner-Centered Online Courses through Innovative and Flexible Approaches to Faculty Development
International Ballroom East | Online Administration | Applied | eDesign Collaborative
In this interactive session, FAES Academic Programs at the National Institutes of Health will briefly present their award-winning approach to faculty development, including an overview of their asynchronous online course for new faculty and examples of how faculty support one another in adopting and implementing effective teaching strategies. Following the presentation, participants will work in groups to 1) articulate faculty development goals for your organization; 2) discuss your vision for positive change in faculty engagement; and 3) identify a new approach to faculty development to serve the needs of your organization.

• Mindy Maris, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences
• Jennifer Kagan, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences
• Hazuki Miwa, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences
• Morgan Merriman, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences
• Laleh Omaraie-Hamedani, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences

Improving Access and Student Success By Rethinking Student Billing and Tuition Payment Processes for Adult, Online, and Continuing Education Students
Jefferson East | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational | Diversity & Inclusion
Many colleges and universities built student billing structures to serve an audience of what has been considered “traditional” 4-year students. This interactive session will explore how student billing processes can serve as a barrier to student success, by presenting data on student perceptions of the billing process and reviewing research findings on billing processes across over 50 different institutions.  The session will encourage participants to reflect on processes at their own institutions that might serve as barriers to student success and will provide strategies to assist in changing processes and service models to be more inclusive of all student types.

• Becky Copper Glenz, Fitchburg State University
• Brian Schremser, Fitchburg State University

Moderator: Tomea Knight, University of Pennsylvania

Meeting Post-Pandemic Labour Market Shortages with Competency-Based, Employer-Leveraged Programming
International Ballroom West | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Our GEN Z learners’ face barriers to financial equity and workforce inclusion in skilled, in-demand careers. Our CE university-credentialed online, non-credit, skill-based offerings need to be “just-in-time, up-to-the-minute” and employer co-designed, with “in-real time” expert practitioner-educator-mentors providing individualized competency-based learning and career supports. This session is a role-play between the presenter in the role of Program Director, and attendees in the employer and learner roles, all coming away with: 1) strategies on how to co-design innovative non-credit short programming with employers; and 2) the HOW TO’s in skilling up workers with personalized learner and career supports so workers, on their own merit, have within reach financially equitable salaries and careers.

• Anne-Marie Brinsmead, Toronto Metropolitan University
• Alexander Ferworn, Toronto Metropolitan University

Moderator: Matt Jong, Modern Campus