The Business and Operations Network track provides sessionss that show the impact of business and operations in online and professional continuing units. Business and Operations teams are behind the scenes ensuring that the people, finances, budgets, technology, and facilities are supported and maintained. Institutional leaders are increasingly relying on these units to lead creative and entrepreneurial efforts towards high quality support and service for students, faculty, and staff.
| 2:45 PM |
Concurrent Sessions I |
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The New Workplace: Embracing the Shift to Hybrid and Remote Success
Marina III | Business and Operations | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion, Policy
Join us for an insightful and collaborative panel discussion about transitioning to hybrid and remote teams while cultivating a culture of employee satisfaction and engagement. Leaders from multiple institutions will share experiences, both successes and challenges, that led to rethinking strategies, leveraging technology, redesigning office spaces, and shifting leadership approaches to foster dynamic, flexible work cultures in traditional university settings. Bring your questions!
- Mitchell Farmer, Purdue University Online
- Carlea White, Oregon State University Ecampus
- Nico Rose, University of Florida
Roundtable Sessions
Harbor 1
Roundtables are table-based, small-group, guided discussion about a specific and timely topic, question, or issue. During one, 60-minute concurrent session, multiple Roundtable presenters concurrently share their ideas at one round table each, and promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective table attendees. Roundtables are designed to provide space and time to important but particularly nuanced topics which deserve attention, and as such, attendees are free to move between tables. The Roundtable session will have a moderator who will welcome attendees, invite them to find a topic/table of their choice, and watch the time, inviting presenters to host their discussions twice during the hour, to allow attendees to engage with up to two different topics.
Building Increased Equitability into Adjunct Compensation through Continuous Improvement
Business and Operations | Applied | Tag: Faculty
This presentation will provide an overview of the last 2.5 years as we have strategically approached the launch and continuous improvement of our Adjunct Compensation model. This includes a multi-phased approach and will provide a proposed timeline for implementation of changes over the next few years.
- Bryan Aylward, University of Arizona Global Campus
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| 4:00 PM |
Concurrent Sessions II |
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Charting Success: Navigating Processes with Process Mapping
Marina III | Business and Operations | Applied |
In this session we explore the critical importance of defining clear objectives and goals before embarking on the mapping journey. Setting the right course from the start ensures that your efforts remain focused and aligned with your institution’s priorities. We will discuss five strategies to better support and navigate the intricacies of process mapping and harness its full potential for driving positive change and achieving operational excellence at your institution. Join us to explore these key principles and unlock the pathway to seamless, effective process mapping that yields actionable insights. This session will include work examples of process mapping an established process, academic governance, and an unestablished process for designing prior learning assessment operations. Whether you are creating a new financial model, employee onboarding, restructuring roles, this process will help you and your team structure and complete necessary steps to identify procedures.
- Alicia Jenner, Michigan State Universtiy
- Jerry Rhead, Michigan State University
Crafting an Adult Learner Ecosystem
Harbor 2 | Business and Operations | Strategic | Tag: Policy
Crafting an effective educational ecosystem for adult learners requires creating an effective value proposition and assuring integration of non-credit and for-credit units to serve our students across their learning lifetime needs. This session begins with an analysis of how PCO units can evolve in response to changing learner needs and industry dynamics. Western Carolina University will share how they reorganized for the future, built systems that can scale, and aligned their operations to reflect a value proposition for the regional and global needs of students, industries and stakeholders. William Paterson University will share how they developed a unique ecosystem that specifically addresses the needs of adult learners in an integrated three-pillar model: WP Online Student Success Center, supporting online degree completion students; the Center for Degree Completion & Adult Learning, providing learner supports and Credit for Prior Learning services; and the Center for Professional Certifications & Alternate Credentials, offering industry-aligned non-credit certification and training programs. The two institutions will share how they have restructured their Continuing Education units and built systems that can scale.
- Carolyn Callaghan, Western Carolina University
- Kara Rabbitt, William Paterson University
- Amanda Vasquez, William Paterson University
- Johanna Prado, William Paterson University
- Quayshaela Davis, William Paterson University
- Jen Phillips, Western Carolina University
Stop & Share Sessions
Harbor 1
Attendees are invited to stop in, mill about, and engage in these dynamic, demonstration-type conversations hosted by presenters ready to share ideas on a hot topic, best practice, or technological innovation.
Adventures in Crafting and Executing an Innovation Agenda
Business and Operations | Applied | Tag: Faculty
This Stop & Share presentation will highlight a few of the main areas of this year’s UAGC Innovation Agenda: 1) Various ways the university is responding to recent advances in Artificial Intelligence, 2) Supporting new methods of synchronous learning, 3) Partnering with our IT teams in creating roadmaps to improve proprietary classroom products, 4) Exploring low-cost or no-cost enhancements to the student and faculty experience, and 5) Annually surveying our faculty pool on their experience to inform innovation work.
- Cole McFarren, University of Arizona Global Campus
Onboarding in the Age of the Adjunct Model
Business and Operations | Foundational | Tag: Faculty
In this session we will look at the role the of Educational Technology in the process of onboarding new faculty. This will include tips and tricks that can ease the faculty's transition from professional to educator as well as key examples of onboarding materials to ensure success.
- Joseph Gargaro, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
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| 8:15 AM |
Concurrent Sessions III |
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The Benefits and Challenges of a Central Marketing, Enrollment Services, and Operational Support Unit
Marina II | Business and Operations | Applied | Tag: Policy
This presentation seeks to provide concrete examples of how a central marketing, enrollment services, and operational support unit can enhance the development of self-supporting online programs in a large public land-grant institution. This presentation will describe the services provided, look at internal processes from program ideation to program maturation, and describe the benefits and challenges of operating a central marketing, enrollment services, and operational support unit. This presentation will use data, storytelling, and authentic sharing of past experience to provide higher education administrators with a potential roadmap for designing similar units at their own institutions.
- Jonathan Orsini, University of Florida
- Nico Rose, University of Florida
- Litza Echeverria Rubio, University of Florida
"Partners Present" Session
Harbor 3 | Business & Operations | Foundational
Partners Present is a new session format showcasing up to six of UPCEA’s highest level corporate partners who will each offer, in succession, a quickfire introduction of an idea, challenge, solution, or product around a topic of critical import.
Driving Successful Student Outcomes in the New Learner Ecosystem
In this ecosystem, learners demand workplace-aligned curriculum and ROI; and institutions endeavor to meet learner needs amongst AI-disruptions and fluctuating enrollments. Creating sustainable learning models is challenging. LearningMate helps partners design online programs at scale, including evidence-based learning design, automation, data solutions and business model transformation. How do we drive student outcomes? First, by clearly articulating competencies; second, by emphasizing skills-based learning; third by minimizing content silos and providing learner insights. In this session, we spotlight partnerships, including University of Arizona Global Campus, Southern New Hampshire University, and University of Phoenix, showcasing how we help institutions thrive and students succeed.
- Joana Jebsen, LearningMate
How to Win: Five Keys to Competing for Graduate and Online Students
Fewer students. More competition. Flat enrollment trends. How can online and graduate programs meet enrollment goals in this environment? The most recent “generational shift” is nearly complete and both Millennials and Gen Z have clear expectations and preferences that you must meet. In this session we will review findings from 2023 and 2024 surveys of online and graduate students to identify five critical data-driven strategies that will help you align you marketing, outreach, cultivation, and admissions practices with these demanding students’ expectations.
- Scott Jeffe, Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL)
Unveiling the Employer's View: An Employer-Centric Approach to Higher Education Partnerships
A significant majority of institutions view alternative programming and non-degree programs as crucial for their future growth. Forging strategic partnerships with employers is key to generating substantial revenue from these programs. While most institutions have formalized employer partnerships, only a few result in tangible enrollment or revenue growth. Building on 2022 survey findings, UPCEA and Collegis Education’s 2023 survey of employers uncovers employer perceptions of partnering with higher education institutions. Findings from the 2023 survey are presented, offering practical insights into effective strategies for establishing successful employer partnerships and positioning non-degree offerings for long-term success.
Fostering Belonging for Online Learners
Two-thirds of colleges and universities are adding more online programs, yet only 9% have fully developed online community building services to foster belonging and drive retention (CHLOE 8, 2023). Designing interventions and programs that cater to the diverse experiences, needs, and expectations of online students can be quite challenging. However, a well-designed virtual mentorship program can offer students genuine peer connections and offer institutions valuable insights into student challenges. In the last year, colleges have supported 5,000+ online students in partnership with Mentor Collective. This session will share best practices about scaling mentorship and fostering belonging among online students.
- Robert Montgomery, Mentor Collective
- Eric Schueller, Mentor Collective
Student-reported Platforms and Preferences Unveiled: Navigating the Latest Trends
Embark on a detailed exploration of student-reported engagement platform trends affecting enrollment decisions, drawing insights from the Online College Students 2024 Report. Tailor programs that resonate, craft marketing campaigns that reach the right audience, and ultimately grow enrollment figures. Explore the platforms students trust and utilize the most, dissect the pivotal role of websites in shaping engagement, and unravel the dynamics of student interaction with streaming platforms, Free Advertising Supported Streaming Television (FAST), and other emerging technologies. Gain invaluable insights into how students are consuming content, making choices, and forging connections in the digital age.
- Eric McGee, EducationDynamics
New Marketing Research to Improve Your Paid Media Success
The latest UPCEA research shows that many PCOs aren’t satisfied with the performance of their paid digital marketing campaigns. Search Influences wants higher education institutions to have the data they need to make better decisions about marketing, so we partnered with UPCEA to create the industry’s first-ever CPI benchmark for higher education. Join us to hear our research findings to compare your results to nationwide measurements. This will empower you with confidence in your campaign performance or give you the information you need to advocate for improvements.
- Paula French, Search Influence
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| 9:30 AM |
Concurrent Sessions IV |
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Pay Your Own Way: Financial Models and Practices for Self-Supporting Non-Credit Programs
Burroughs | Business and Operations | Applied |
In this presentation, explore the practice of constructing financial models tailored to the unique demands of non-credit program development. Learn key principles, methodologies, and best practices that empower leaders to make informed decisions. Discover how to incorporate several principles such as activity-based costing, workload assessment, and project-based accounting to drive program sustainability and innovation.
- Stacy Cordell, University of Kansas
- Emily Zentner, University of Kansas
Higher Education Policy Update: Insights from DC
Lewis | Business and Operations | Applied |
Please join us for a session that will discuss the recent higher education policy developments from Washington DC. The Department of Education has released and is proposing important changes to regulations on major issues of importance to the online and professional continuing education field. Congressional leaders are also putting forward new changes to higher education legislation. Our panel will provide insights into how these policies can impact institutions, students, and the broader educational ecosystem. Attendees can expect a overview of recent changes and a discussion on the implications for higher education stakeholders. Attend to stay informed and engaged in the evolving federal educational policy landscape. Join us to gain valuable insights into the policy changes that will shape the future of education in the United States.
- Ricky LaFosse, University of Michigan
- Chris Murray, Thompson Coburn LLP
- Marianne Boeke, NC-SARA
- Jordan DiMaggio, UPCEA
Roundtable Sessions
Harbor 1
Roundtables are table-based, small-group, guided discussion about a specific and timely topic, question, or issue. During one, 60-minute concurrent session, multiple Roundtable presenters concurrently share their ideas at one round table each, and promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective table attendees. Roundtables are designed to provide space and time to important but particularly nuanced topics which deserve attention, and as such, attendees are free to move between tables. The Roundtable session will have a moderator who will welcome attendees, invite them to find a topic/table of their choice, and watch the time, inviting presenters to host their discussions twice during the hour, to allow attendees to engage with up to two different topics.
A New Registration and Student Information System: Discovery Project Made All the Difference
Business and Operations | Strategic |
While we knew for almost a decade that we needed to replace our mainframe-based registration and student information system, we were stymied by the options. Off-the-shelf products did not meet our requirements and custom development seemed daunting. Through a four months discovery project with CGI, we found a path forward using a low-code solution. We documented our current and future states, identified guiding principles, developed a project plan, and built stakeholder trust. The project kicked off in July 2023 and is on track for summer 2024. With this progress, our unit is becoming a leader in the university with IT modernization.
- Karen Smid, The University of Texas at Austin
- Kevin Roberts, CGI
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| 12:15 PM |
Boxed Lunch Pickup for Network Meetings |
| 12:30 PM |
Network Lunch Meetings and Awards Presentations |
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- Business & Operations (Marina I)
Award Presentation | Business & Operations Award for Operational Excellence
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| 2:00 PM |
Concurrent Sessions V |
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The Only Constant in Online and Professional Ed is Change! How Do We Lead through Change with Positive Results?
Burroughs | Business & Operations | Applied |
Online and professional continuing education units have long been the innovative and agile arms of our institutions. But with the shifting demographics of our students, regulatory pressure impacting our partners (such as OPMs), organizational structures post-pandemic, and the rapidly evolving world of microcredentials, navigating change is truly all we can count on these days. This session will explore ways to lead your organization through periods of significant and rapid change based on our collective experience.
- Stacy Chiaramonte, UPCEA
- Vickie Cook, University of Illinois, Springfield
- Rich Novak, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- Barbara Kopp Miller, University of Toledo
Building a High-Impact Internal OPM: An Entrepreneurial Journey of Vision, Design and Innovation
Lewis | Business and Operations | Strategic | Tag: Policy
Join us for a journey through Vanderbilt University's innovative path towards establishing an in-house OPM department. This session serves as a compelling case study on launching an internal OPM department. Our presentation delves into goal setting, design thinking principles, phased development and practical applications, culminating in an actionable roadmap. Ideal for those exploring their ties with external OPMs, this strategic discussion will guide you through the potential merits in building an in-house OPM department, envisioning, implementing, proof of concept and charting a clear roadmap. Don't miss this chance to revolutionize your institutions approach to online education.
- Amanda Harding, Vanderbilt University
- Jeanine Romine, Vanderbilt University
Stop & Share Sessions
Harbor 1
Attendees are invited to stop in, mill about, and engage in these dynamic, demonstration-type conversations hosted by presenters ready to share ideas on a hot topic, best practice, or technological innovation.
Navigating the Onboarding Odyssey: Setting Sail for Success
Business and Operations | Applied | Tag: Policy
Instructional designers are the compass guiding the course of educational content and experiences. To harness their full potential, it's vital to chart a course where their onboarding and training processes sail smoothly in harmony with the organization's objectives. This session will embark on an exploration of the vital elements of onboarding and training tailored for instructional designers, unveiling practical insights and navigational strategies for a successful voyage. Not to worry fellow captains of learning, we're here to provide life jackets and gold doubloons for your journey.
- Honor Parks, UNTHSC
- Reagan Laborde, UNTHSC
Demystifying the Documentation Process: Keeping Track of a Complex Online Continuing Education Platform
Business and Operations | Foundational |
When a small team is charged with managing an intricate online learning platform, it can be daunting to figure out how to sort through all information and compliance recommendations, let alone continue to provide stellar service to end users and learners. Join us as Indiana University staff walk you through their Instructure catalog-based online continuing education and professional development portal, branded as IU Expand.
- Leah Mullins, Indiana University
- Ilona Marie Hajdu, Indiana University
- Erin Edwards, Indiana University
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| 3:00 PM |
Networking Break: Visit Exhibit Hall |
| 3:30 PM |
Concurrent Sessions VI - Workshops |
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Workshops utlize extended time (70 min) to provide deep dives for participants to be actively, tangibly engaged in their own learning via collaboration and hands-on interaction.
Advancement, Development, and Fundraising in Continuing Education: Case Studies, Strategies, and Resources for Success
Marina III | Business and Operations | Strategic |
The purpose of this presentation is to share case studies of two continuing education schools that have focused on advancement, discuss with attendees how their institutions might invest in this work, and provide resources so that they can determine how they might go about fundraising at their institutions.
- Stephen Levine, University of Virginia
- Melissa Lubin, University of Virginia
- Jeffry Comanici, Syracuse University
- Michael Frasciello, Syracuse University
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| 4:45 PM |
Ask Me Anything Lounges |
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Harbor 1
In these optional, small-group conversations, leaders will host informal, table-based, come-and-go discussions around some of the most pressing topics (and conundra!) facing UPCEAns today, such as "Change Management;" "Leading in the Age of AI;” “Launching Micro-credentials;” and more. Come and chat, find your peoples, make plans for dinner, or simply meet new friends. |
