2024 UPCEA Annual Conference
Program

• Award Presentations | Adelle F. Robertson Continuing Professional Educator Award; Julius M. Nolte Award for Extraordinary Leadership

Networking Break: Visit Exhibit Hall (Galleria)

Sponsored by:


Visit the corner of the exhibit hall, across from booths 55 and 56 (by the main entrance), for a special mini presentation at 2:15 PM.
AI in Education: Previewing Tomorrow's Transformations
Join Ray Schroeder, UPCEA Senior Fellow, for a compelling 15-minute preview which sets the stage for Wednesday's "Generative AI: Policies, Practices, Perspectives" session. Discover how AI is revolutionizing education, from personalized learning to operational efficiency, and think about the AI applications most relevant to your institution. This teaser will offer a sneak peek into the transformative potential of AI and practical tips to maximize your session experience. Engage with fellow attendees, sparking conversations on AI's impact in higher education. Get ready to be inspired and fully prepared for an in-depth exploration into Generative AI's role in shaping the future of education. 

Empowering Learners and Institutions in the AI Era
Commonwealth AB | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: AI
Amid the swift rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in all aspects of our lives, including the workplace, adult learners are actively seeking to augment their skill sets. Concurrently, higher education institutions are grappling with the transformative potential and challenges of AI, particularly its ramifications for pedagogical experiences. This session explores strategies employed by educational leaders and faculty to bolster both students and institutions, leveraging AI’s capabilities for enhanced learning, teaching, and overall student success.

• Constance St. Germain, Capella University
• Vistasp Karbhari, University of Texas at Arlington
• Julie Delich, Mainstay

Moderator: Lauren Coffey, Inside Higher Ed

Powering Microcredential Value and Trust
Lewis | Alternative Credentials | Applied  
As microcredentials in higher education gain momentum, we must ensure they consistently and continually provide value to learners, issuers, and reviewing organizations. One way to do this is by creating tangible value and transparency in the digital credentials ecosystem. Learn about a new unified coalition of stakeholders working together to establish standardized expectations for common use cases in earning, issuing, and reviewing microcredentials. We will present and discuss the outcomes of their leadership in defining and validating parameters of microcredential quality and trust that supports learner mobility.

• Ed Clark, California State University, Office of the Chancellor
• Kim Moore, Wichita State University
• Kelly Hoyland, 1EdTech

Moderator: Jeff Angle, ISACA

Crisis and Change: The Value of the COLO Skillset in Today’s Postsecondary Environment
Commonwealth C | Online Administration
Integrated planning efforts (budget, digital, academic planning, SEM, etc.) require postsecondary professionals to advocate for learners and lead campus-level innovation. The skill sets of COLOs are well aligned to support new initiatives that will help move institutions to a sustainable digital future. Join your colleagues and friends as we consider the role of COLOs and their impact on institutions.

• Jocelyn Widmer, Los Alamos National Laboratory
• Tom Cavanagh, University of Central Florida
• Pam Wimbush, California State Sacramento
• Craig Wilson, University of Arizona

Moderator: Julie Uranis, UPCEA

The New Workplace: Embracing the Shift to Hybrid and Remote Success
Marina III | Business and Operations | Applied | Tags: 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

Moderator: Teri Markle, University of Denver

Launching Global Online Programs and Certificates
Marina I | International | Applied
This session will provide data-driven insights into the global market for certificate programs, after the pandemic. Presenters will offer an analysis of countries with the highest interest for online certificates, as well as the subject areas presenting the most opportunity. Also, the session will discuss Georgetown's development of online certificate programs in a way that matches the University's mission while bringing in additional revenue. The presenters will provide lessons learned and plans for further development.

• Kelly Otter, Georgetown University
• Margaret Cook, Studyportals
• Marcel Bolintiam, Georgetown University

Moderator: Lisa Miller, University of California, Riverside

Harnessing Industry Pathways and Partnerships to Drive Student Success on Campus and in Degrees
Harbor 2 | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic | Tags: Faculty, Policy
Join university innovators and Google in an interactive discussion about delivering on-campus value with innovative industry partnerships and unlocking pathways into degrees with A.C.E. recommended industry certificates. Case studies from Google and New York University showcase different approaches to effective industry-university partnerships. Leaders from Ball State University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and University of North Texas will deliver concrete approaches to faculty governance and implementing degree pathways, and to pairing certificates with curriculum. Panelists will share how industry partnerships have impacted educational access, diversity, affordability, and educational outcomes; powered recruitment; and delivered real value to students.

• Quentin McAndrew, Coursera
• Adam Fein, University of North Texas
• Norma Scagnoli, Illinois Institute of Technology
• John Nicholas, Ball State University
• Rob Magliaro, Grow with Google
• Richie Karaburun, New York University

Moderator: Ricardo Lorenzana, UMASS Global

The Foundation Has Been Built: What Happens Next?
Carlton | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied
See how one university has reenvisioned student services and built a foundation for students' success. The session will provide a quick overview of the improvements made at one university and highlight the impact of retention strategies such as retention alerts, onboarding support, peer support programs, curriculum improvement, career development, and faculty accountability and technology enhancements. The session will focus specifically on developing strategies to improve student success, impact data of the success strategies, and lessons learned in strategizing for future initiatives. While the session will highlight the best practices of one institution's journey for continuous improvement, attendees will have opportunities to provide their insight to enhance collaborative learning.

• Jasmeial "Jazz" Jackson, Thomas Edison State University
• Cynthia Baum, Thomas Edison State University

Moderator: Lee Maxey, MindMax

Professional Skills and the Creative/Performing Arts: Innovating and Scaling Adult Learning in Higher Education and Beyond
Harbor 3 | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic
Integrating creativity with the development of professional skills is an impactful way to enhance professional learning and foster personal growth. For artists, business skills are critical for sustainable careers; we’ll discuss how scalable blended learning practices create equitable access to career development while also offering a consistent learning experience, mentoring opportunities, and personalized learning pathways for higher education arts students. For leadership development, the increasing popularity of arts-based leadership development reflects a belief among a growing number of business leaders and practitioners that the arts are a powerful source for unleashing creativity and innovation by tapping into the right-brain thinking; we’ll explore opportunities for incorporating art into professional development and the exploration of art as a way to combine creativity and innovation.

• Melissa Mahan, The University of Texas at San Antonio
• Joe Montcalmo, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
• Zane Forshee, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
• Christina Manceor, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University

Moderator: Wakashan West, InsideTrack

Reimagining Partnership: Cultivating Innovative Degree, Professional, and Executive Programs for the Modern Learner
Marina IV | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational
Modern learners need innovative programs tailored to meet their needs and experiences. Washington University in St. Louis and Bentley University take a human-connection approach to design, build, scale, and market learning opportunities in professional, executive, continuing, and online education, breaking silos by creating strategic partnerships on campus, in community, and abroad. Leaders will share their ongoing community-centric approach and tangible advice, fostering case-based, small-group conversations to ideate and apply to various contexts of the participants.

• Laura Aiken, Bentley University
• Liz Paushter, Bentley University
• Sean Armstrong, Washington University in St. Louis
• Haley Dolosic, Washington University in St. Louis

Moderator: Ryan Lufkin, Instructure

Bridge Over the Pond: The Future-Ready Potential of American & British Universities
Marina II | International | Strategic
Universities in the United States and United Kingdom share similar challenges and opportunities. Both markets face significant enrollment and revenue headwinds. Universities on both sides of the pond are also working to extend access to critical programming that supports socioeconomic mobility and employability—locally and globally. In this session, panelists will reflect on the transforming conditions of the British and American higher ed space. Panelists will then reflect on innovative restructuring and launch processes they’ve participated in to serve new audiences, innovate program and credential models, build more engaging learner relationships, and establish long-term financial sustainability.

• Shauna Cox, The EvoLLLution: A Modern Campus Illumination
• Yakut Gazi, Duke University
• James Gazzard, Cambridge University

Moderator: Aaron Ahonen, Modern Campus

The Importance of Narrative in Change Management
Burroughs | Online Administration | Strategic
Think you’re not a change manager? Think again. Every effort to create something new or attempt to change the status quo requires managing change. Although most major change model incorporate communication as an essential step, communication is more than a step; it is an essential element of each step. The change management narrative must recognize and address the different perspectives and goals of various stakeholder groups to achieve continuing buy-in throughout the process. In this interactive session, presenters and participants will discuss ways to shape the change management narrative for effective communication to various stakeholders throughout the process.

• Kim Siegenthaler, The City University of New York
• Susan Elkins, University of South Carolina

Moderator: Kara Eldersveld, Anthology

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. 

Moderator: Ashley Law, Johns Hopkins University

Creating a Pathway to Credit via Alternative Digital Credentials
Alternative Credentials | Applied | Tag: Policy
The diminishing “traditional” student or “first-time freshman” population requires new approaches to higher education, specifically in the form of alternative digital credentials (ADCs). How can universities create and scale ADCs that will lead not only to upskilling and workforce development for their local communities, but which will also lead to enrollments via a pathway to credit? What are the key opportunities, challenges, and strategies to bring these credit-bearing alternative digital credentials to fruition? This discussion will bring together a panel whose work includes all parts of the ADC growth cycle: from conception, to execution, to enrollment and/or employment.

• Maggie Ervin, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
• Natalie Whitman, Southern Illinois University
• Mary Ettling, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Navigating the Partnership Maze: Pitfalls and Pathways to Success with Other Departments
Alternative Credentials | Applied |
Join this session to explore collaboration strategies for alternative credentials and empower your institution for success. Discover the intricacies of partnering with your institution to offer non-credit programs, micro-credentials, badges, and certificates. Join the discussion and shape strategies for success.

• Kristy Anthony, Lousiana State University
• Lesa Hanlin, University of Virginia
• Sara Leoni, Ziplines Education

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

A Transformative Micro-Credential for Civic Engagement Beyond the Ballot
Community and Economic Engagement | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about teaching tools from The Citizens Campaign, including a self-paced asynchronous online course with an automatically generated certificate of completion.  This micro-credential is being offered as a non-credit community resource through Continuing Education at institutions like Rutgers University, Miami Dade College, and North Carolina A&T University, where Assistant Provost Tonya Amankwatia (the roundtable facilitator) has championed it across campus. Topics of discussion will include the logistics of offering the course, what campus and community stakeholders can benefit, and the power of supporting civic skills through continuing education platforms to benefit the community in harmony with the mission of land-grant and anchor institutions.

• Tonya Amankwatia, North Carolina A&T State University

Academic Integrity in the Age of Generative AI
Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Policy
The Covid lockdown created new expectations about online learning that were only beginning to stabilize when the advent of ChatGPT threw everything into disarray. Our graders evaluate more than 7,000 assignments a week and have encountered many odd scenarios and developed a variety of techniques to maintain academic integrity. Our efforts include experimenting with a generative AI detection tool, using AI-plagiarism detection, creating a student affairs review board, and publishing a tutorial for students on appropriate use of generative AI. We would love to share what we’ve learned, share what questions we still have, and hear insights from others.

• Nick White, Sophia Learning
• Mike Webb, Capella University

Home Sweet Home! Baylor’s Shift to Inhouse Online Program Management
Online Administration | Applied |
Baylor University’s small but mighty Professional Education team will share their learnings and provide key takeaways to help you as you consider, or manage decision points, to bring online program management inhouse. Learn from their recent experience, as Baylor leadership share decision points strategies and insights on everything from CRM implementation, marketing support and funnel health to student success and beyond.

• Kate Blom-Lowery, Baylor University
• Cece Lively, Baylor University
• Dina Florian, Baylor University
• Lesa Lawson, Baylor University

Leveraging Data to Inform Assessment Design and Academic Integrity Strategies
Online Administration | Strategic |
Academic leaders are asking themselves: how can we efficiently and effectively leverage data to impact student success and inspire meaningful change? Join experts as they discuss meaningful and real-world advice on navigating and utilizing the wealth of data found in higher education to help build an environment of academic integrity and student success. Learn how to use analytics to address gaps in the teaching and learning experience, deliver a healthier academic environment, and save faculty valuable time.

• Jordan Adair, Honorlock
• Lee Conerly, Coastal Alabama Community College

Supporting Faculty from Start to Finish: Aligning the Feedback Loop for Course Improvement and Faculty Development
Online Administration | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
The Academic Programs team at FAES will discuss the processes they have developed for creating an aligned sequence of course support from course development to evaluation. Presenters will share artifacts of that process, including the Course Readiness Rubric and the Learner Feedback Survey developed by FAES. In addition, they will lead discussion with attendees to identify areas where their course development and evaluation criteria align with each other, and brainstorm strategies to strengthen alignment.

• Morgan Merriman, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES)
• Jennifer Kagan, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES)
• Hazuki Miwa, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES)
• Melinda Maris, Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES)

Online Offerings: Differentiate and Thrive
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
In a world of growing online higher education programs, students are looking for programs that not only resonate with them, but that will allow them to stand out amongst their peers. Universities are faced with the challenge of differentiating their programs to attract prospective students or risk getting lost in the online sea of programs.

• Ed Borbely, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Peter Pinckney, Apollidon

Student Retention and Engagement in Part-time, Online Programs: Internal Tensions Surrounding Advising Models
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Professional and online credential enrollment is rapidly growing, and as this student population continues to expand, more institutions are faced with supporting a growing population of non-traditional learners in their programs. This roundtable will delve into the complexity of creating faculty and administrative buy-in for specialized student advising. Advising in this context includes academic, belonging as part of a community, and career support. Through the roundtable format, participants will be prompted to share-out their own lessons learned, in both successful and failed cases. Facilitators will provide one school’s approach as a springboard for a broader group discussion and sharing.

• Sarah Herchel, Tufts University
• Rebecca Petersen, Tufts University

Mobilizing Your Website Personalization Strategy
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic |
Website personalization is a powerful tool we can use to upgrade our onsite experiences, drive conversions, and collect rich data to better understand our student journey How much content is needed to drive personalization? What technology is required? How does marketing collaborate with admissions, IT, and other stakeholders to deliver personalization? What is meaningful personalization for higher education anyway? Join us for a presentation that answers these questions with best practices for mobilizing this powerful strategy. Gain valuable takeaways such as: what technologies to use; how to prioritize your content needs; and who to get involved with the implementation.

• Jaime Oleksik, Carnegie
• Brett DiMarzo, Boston College

Faculty Fellowship Models for Peer Learning
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
In this interactive workshop, we will share how you can adapt our faculty fellowship models developed through the Harvard Inclusive Teaching Institute. This is a learning community for faculty and teaching staff across Harvard University to connect about inclusive teaching. First, we will share an instructor-led professional learning model, where you can train instructors to lead professional learning workshops for other instructors. Second, we will share an instructor peer learning group model, where you can have instructors share inclusive teaching demos and scenarios and gain feedback from each other towards developing their teaching practice and making their classrooms more inclusive.

• Zahra Ahmed, Harvard University
• Karina Lin-Murphy, Harvard University

When the Product Is the Challenge: Shaping Academic Programs to Meet Students’ Preferences
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Aggressive enrollment goals are today’s default. Often, continuing and professional education leaders achieve these goals through savvy and creative marketing and recruitment efforts. In other cases, even the best tactics do not result in enrollments. Why? Today’s students have almost infinite choices, and as such, programs that do not align with their expectations will struggle. What are those expectations? We will explore what RNL’s latest surveys of graduate and online students tell us about formats, schedules, structures, costs, and timeliness and then discuss how seasoned CPE leaders have tackled these challenges to advance their programs and build buy-in for change.

• Daria LaTorre, Duquesne University
• Scott Jeffe, RNL
• Lisa Braverman, CUNY

Revolutionizing Professional Education: Harnessing AI for Workforce-Relevant Programs
Carlton | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic | Tag: AI
Skills-based hiring and education have become urgent imperatives in a post-pandemic world characterized by automation, emerging disciplines, changes in the nature of work, and a retiring Boomer generation. This session addresses how AI can effectively and responsibly address this need. It demonstrates how AI can be used to identify skills in demand by local industries, to develop relevant workforce programs, to inform curricula, and to provide insights when designing courses and programs. Participants will see real-world examples and gain a richer understanding of the possibilities and pitfalls of using AI to align professional and continuing education with workforce requirements.

• Kristen Fox, Business Higher Education Forum
• Robby Robson, Eduworks Corporation
• Stephen Harmon, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Sandra von Doetinchem, Eduworks Corporation

Moderator: Sandra von Doetinchem, Eduworks Corporation

An Alternative, Affordable Pathway to Workforce Development: Coupling Micro-credentials with Partnerships to Create Scalable, Job Readiness Programs
Burroughs | Alternative Credentials | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Across the country, federal and state investment in workforce development and apprenticeships is on the rise. Online and professional continuing education units are in a unique position to leverage their expertise in alternative credentials to create programming that leads to career pathways in the communities they serve. This session will present an emergent program model at the University of California, Davis that coupled an alternative credential on the Coursera platform with a paid work placement, offering underserved residents of Sacramento a pathway into the IT profession. Learn how online and professional continuing education leaders plan to scale this program to other industries, creating affordable pathways that address workforce needs, encourage new economic opportunity within the community, and diversify various professional industries.

• Alex Lowrie, University of California, Davis

Moderator: David Marshall, George Washington University

Alternative Credentials: Upskilling for a New Workforce
Marina I | Alternative Credentials | Strategic | Tag: Policy
New empirical research conducted by UPCEA and StraighterLine investigates some college, no credential learners’ interest in pursuing degree completion programs, and the impact alternative credentials have on that interest. The study illustrates students’ reasons for choosing postsecondary education, their goals for expanding workforce skills, career stagnation, and the impact of alternative credentials and credit for prior learning. The findings can inform institutional leaders decision-making for alternative credential and degree completion programs, trends among non-credit seeking adult learners, and the stackability of credit and non-credit offerings.

• Amy Smith, StraighterLine
• Bruce Etter, UPCEA

Moderator: Stephanie Mullette, StraighterLine

Online Administration: Overcoming a Culture of Individualism
Marina IV | Online Administration | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Each of the panel members works in various environments and will discuss how they have developed collaborative and inclusive elements to overcome individualism through a community-based process that seeks to meet student demand and their institutions' goals while supporting faculty and academic units.

• Veronica Donahue, Johns Hopkins University
• La Tonya Dyer, Johns Hopkins University
• Karen Gebhardt, University of Colorado, Boulder
• Amy Gaimaro, Molloy University

Moderator: Kathleen Carr, D2L

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

Moderator: Brendan Woo, Yale 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

Moderator: Mili Maldonado, Universidad del Sagrado Corazón

Navigating Start-Ups and Turn-Around Internationalization Strategies
Marina II | International | Strategic
International education has undergone a metamorphosis. The pandemic led to uncertainty, downsizing, and stalled initiatives. This presentation focuses on strategies to build and turn around international teams, strategies, and positionality in ways that match current realities. This session offers examples on how to envision and achieve the change necessary for your unit to thrive and will address ways to make a case for internationalization and galvanize teams around new realities. We will address generational differences in the changing workforce and review motivation strategies. Participants will reflect on personal leadership values to guide them in creating impactful and purposeful organizational change.

• Debra Leahy, California State University, Fullerton
• Jenn Christ, Northeastern University

Moderator: Malgorzata Hedderick, MIT

A Tale of Two Ventures: Navigating the Landscape of Belonging for Online Students
Commonwealth AB | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Building community and fostering engagement are critical for retaining and graduating online students. This session will explore strategies used by two flagship universities to build community and connections for their online learners. Presenters will discuss initiatives undertaken at the University of Oklahoma and Oregon State University to establish affinity groups, form Online Student Associations and Advisory Boards, launch quarterly newsletters and a podcast, and discuss many other examples of community building strategies. Additional resources to support online student success and belonging will also be highlighted, such as success coaching, mental health counseling, career development, streamlined onboarding, and graduation celebrations. Presenters will also share lessons learned, data collected to measuring belonging, and highlight future plans for strengthening bonds and engagement among online learners. Attendees will gain insights and ideas to bring back to their institutions to enhance community and connectedness for online students.

• Marleigh Perez, Oregon State University Ecampus
• Eddie Rodriguez, Oregon State University Ecampus
• Hannah Rieger, The University of Oklahoma
• Sage Mauldin, The University of Oklahoma

Moderator: Alan Manly, Harmonize

Innovating Admission Pathways and Access for Adult Learners
Lewis | Online Administration | Strategic
Adult learners cite the application as one of the primary reasons they don’t return to college. How might universities innovate to remove application bias, serve adult learners, create gateways to opportunity, and drive enrollments? Our panelists have all innovated their applications in the name of access. The discussion will provide clear examples of different types of performance-based admissions models and stream-lined admissions processes that successfully serve adult learners. Our panelists will share how they developed policy and garnered faculty and administrative support for their innovation, and they will share their vision for delivering access to learners everywhere.

• Amanda Brantner, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Robert McDonald, University of Colorado Boulder
• Kelly Otter, Georgetown University
• Arshad Saiyed, Northeastern University

Moderator: Quentin McAndrew, Coursera

Neurodivergent Learners (and Earners!) in Postsecondary Education
Commonwealth C | Program Planning & Implementation | Applied
Neurodivergent diagnoses are increasingly common, due to our ability to diagnose these gifts earlier and better, which is great. But, what happens after K-12? How are we engaging with learners of all kinds, where they are, specifically in postsecondary education and the workforce? Are we prepared to consider neurodivergencies in our conceptualization of Today’s Learner? How are we pivoting to meet varied mental health needs? Does our inclusive posture include a wide understanding of the ways in which we all learn? What do colleges and universities need to know about recruiting and supporting this population?

• Lisa Klein Pearo, Harvard University
• Holly Tilbrook, Cambridge University
• Javier Motta-Mena, University of Texas at Austin

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Addressing the Learner of the Future: Online Skills-based and Stackable Frameworks in Credit and Noncredit Programs
Harbor 3 | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tags: Policy, Diversity & Inclusion
This collaborative presentation focuses on how our two institutions met the demand for stackable, online learning frameworks to address the needs of learners in both the credit and non-credit space. UW developed Specializations as a skills-based programming approach to complement professional certificates. Taking a more sequential approach, UMN developed a stackable professional Master’s degree, embedding graduate-level certificates with a curriculum aligned with national certification. In this session learn more about how these programs model innovative and scalable credential pathways for learners to enter, advance, or pivot their careers in a rapidly evolving job market.

• Brian Gutierrez, University of Washington
• Stacey Fontes, University of Washington
• Ritu Saksena, University of Minnesota
• Michelle Iwen, University of Minnesota

Moderator: Tony Fell, Collegis Education

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.

Moderator: Kristen Vanselow, Florida Gulf Coast University

Building Innovation Capacity to Launch New Programs
Alternative Credentials | Applied |
The University of Minnesota’s College of Continuing and Professional Studies sought to develop the ability to offer continuing education programs in an online multi-week course format with synchronous connection, asynchronous learning, and assessment-based credentialing. To accomplish this, the team had to build new capacities and know-how to support the new program format while continuing to support existing programs. Learn how the team blended aspects of design thinking, innovation theory, and operational practices to bring the innovation initiative to a successful outcome. Apply lessons learned from their experience to your innovation agenda.

• Ross Jahnke, University of Minnesota
• Ryan Torma, University of Minnesota
• Molly Hahne, University of Minnesota

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

Legislation, Taxation, Pandemic and AI: Recent changes altering the landscape for Transnational Education in Hong Kong
International | Applied | Tag: Policy; AI
Legislation, Taxation, the Pandemic and AI may be having a significant impact on the prospects for transnational education in Hong Kong. The presentation explains the background to these changes and the implications for the foreseeable future.

• John Cribbin, HKU School of Professional and Continuing Education

A Novel Student-facing Interactive Online Speaker Series
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
A novel student-facing speaker series was developed at Southern New Hampshire University to serve its vast population of Health Professions students. The initiative gives students a direct connection to the speaker, allowing for engagement outside of the classroom, exposure to career opportunities, and live interaction with fellow students. Students report that the speaker series has expanded their understanding of the healthcare field.

• Meredith OHara, Southern New Hampshire University
• Laurie Lewis, Southern New Hampshire University

We Built It, Why Won't They Come: Cultivating Help-Seeking Behaviors
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Have you fought the battles to create efficient and convenient online student success services only to struggle to get those same students to actively engage with the services you created? In this session, presenters will share early findings from research about what our new post-traditional online undergraduate learners tell us is keeping them on the sidelines in accessing support and share the institution’s successes and struggles to destigmatize help-seeking and empower students to engage more effectively with student support services.

• Patricia Milner, University of Arkansas

The Future of Learning: Adapting to the Changing Educational Landscape
Alternative Credentials | Foundational | Tag: Faculty
This session will highlight the importance of meeting the needs of today's learners in the context of workforce development. We will explore the institution's commitment to empowering learners and its role in shaping the future of education.  We will discuss the latest trends and best practices in skills development to equip participants with an understanding of the changing requirements in the workforce.  Also, the session will dive into the integration of alternative credentials within the educational ecosystem, emphasizing their role in providing flexible and accessible learning pathways. The session will also showcase real-life case studies from Tecnológico de Monterrey's initiatives in alternative credentialing, highlighting the impact on learners and organizations.

• Jorge Rodriguez Tort, Tecnologico de Monterrey

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

Leveraging Third Party Partnerships to Address the Needs of Emergent Industry’s Workforce Needs
Alternative Credentials | Strategic |
This session will provide a practical roadmap for institutions interested in the emerging cannabis education landscape. Learn from two Universities - Northwest Missouri State University and Northern Michigan University - each with 3 years of experience, offering non-credit credentials for the most in-demand disciplines in the industry. By attending this session, educators, administrators, and institutions seeking to establish alternative credential programs in cannabis education, or other emerging markets, will be equipped with a practical guide, drawn from three years of real-world experiences.

• Steve VandenAvond, Northern Michigan University
• Daniel Kalef, Green Flower
• Stephanie Zadroga-Langlois, Northern Michigan University

Building Collaborations to Move Initiatives Forward
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Initiatives come and go in education. There are strategies, though, that can support implementation of an initiative that can lead to it being sustained. These strategies include, but are not limited to, identifying and building strategic collaborations, applying systems thinking, ensuring relevancy of the initiative, and applying an asset-based lens to the work. These strategies provide a foundation for developing and implementing an initiative that can be sustained through on-going support. In this session, we’ll explore these strategies through examples of campus-wide projects for which these strategies were applied that include a virtual reality implementation and a classroom design project.

• Laura Ramp, Penn State Harrisburg
• Sarah Kettell, Penn State Harrisburg

Embracing the Future: Transitioning to Blackboard Ultra and the Rise of AI in Online Learning
Online Administration | Strategic | Tag: Policy; AI
In this presentation, we'll explore our campus's shift to Blackboard Ultra, emphasizing its advanced features and our strategic approach to ensure a smooth transition. We'll discuss the extensive training provided to faculty, staff, and students, ensuring everyone can proficiently use the new LMS. Additionally, we'll delve into the emerging role of Artificial Intelligence in online education, showcasing its potential to revolutionize digital learning experiences. Join us as we navigate the future of online pedagogy, merging innovative platforms with the promise of AI.

• Barbara Kopp Miller, The University of Toledo
• Justin Louder, Anthology

Innovation Unbound: The College of Professional and Continuing Studies Case Study
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Discover how innovation can turn visionary ideas into impactful change as we unveil the case study of Mississippi State University's College of Professional and Continuing Studies (CPCS). This presentation offers insights into the creation of CPCS, showcasing its dynamic role as an academic home for practical programs, tailored to adult learners' needs. Explore the process of ideation and implementation, equipping you with the tools to foster innovation in your institution. Join us to learn how innovative thinking can shape the future of online and professional continuing education, empowering you to drive meaningful change.

• Susan Seal, Mississippi State University
• Marian Chancellor, Mississippi State University

Welcome to the Team: Building a Strong Foundation for Employee Success to Foster a Positive Workplace Culture
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Get ready to discover the keys to a thriving team culture! In this session, we'll explore the vital importance of employee onboarding that builds a positive and productive work environment. Learn how to create a warm welcome for new team members and set them up for success from day one, so they can help students and themselves succeed! Plus, we'll uncover practical strategies for fostering a workplace that radiates positivity, collaboration, and growth. Prepare to bring new life to your team and transform your workplace into a community of happy, engaged, and motivated employees.

• Kaslynn Westerman, University of Arizona Online
• Alison Doran, University of Arizona Online
• Kristina Giovannucci, University of Arizona Online

The Battle of Email Marketing: Claim Victory Over Spam Filters and Your Busy Students
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational |
Our presentation will share relevant changes we implemented related timing of sending emails, the type of language used, how and why to segment communication and audiences, and high-impact design. Participants of this session will leave with a handout that includes the presenter's favorite and most used email marketing tools. Those tools include an email subject line grader, subject line viewer, deliverability checker, file resizer, and more. Participants will also leave with an email marketing checklist to make sure their emails are ready to be sent.

• Logan Kirkland, University of Mississippi

Birthing a Strategy for Competency-Based, Transdisciplinary Programming to Upskill Workers in our AI World: Design, Implement and Deliver
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Policy
A “call to action” to forge a proactive strategy where competency-based CE units and their practitioner-expert educators team up with employers to prepare workers to thrive over the next five years in our AI world. Employers are calling for workers to be simultaneously upskilled in AI technical competencies and power skills (a.k.a. soft skills) to better meet organizational needs. This highly interactive session takes the form of role-playing to start a dialogue centered on strategies to design innovative non-credit, competency-based, multidisciplinary programming to meet the needs of an employer searching for AI competent employees equipped with power skills.

• Anne-Marie Brinsmead, Toronto Metropolitan University

Innovating and Scaling Digital Learning: A Collaborative Approach between CUNY and Alchemy
Online Administration | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Explore with us the successful partnership between Alchemy, an education technology and services company, and City University of New York (CUNY), a 25-campus system that serves 275,000 students. Discover how collaboration can drive innovation, access, scalability, and sustainability in digital learning. Leaders from these institutions will share strategy, insights, best practices, and solutions, addressing faculty engagement, student success, and quality assurance. Join us for a candid discussion on the challenges and opportunities of collaborative partnerships in the evolving digital landscape of higher education.

• Carrie O'Donnell, Alchemy
• Evan Silberman, CUNY Online

UPCEA Lead + Learn Information Session: UPCEA Professional Development Certificates
Harbor 3
Join faculty and alums from UPCEA's online professional development courses for an information session and informal discussion about our programs and how they can help you and your team meet their professional and organizational development goals.

Moderator: Patrick Flanigan, UPCEA

UPCEA Lead + Learn Information Session: UPCEA Volunteer Leadership Opportunities and Your Career: Getting Involved
Harbor 2
Serve Yourself, the Profession, and Your UPCEA Colleagues. Join your peers and colleagues in discussion sessions focused on attending to your career in online and professional education. Need help navigating a personal professional development plan? Want to get more involved and expand your network of peers? Ever thought of giving back by serving as a mentor, or are you looking for a mentor? Be sure to stop by the Harbor Rooms before the Opening Reception to learn more!

Moderator: Julie Uranis, UPCEA

UPCEA Lead + Learn Information Session: UPCEA UPlift Mentor Program
Harbor 1
Serve Yourself, the Profession, and Your UPCEA Colleagues. Join your peers and colleagues in discussion sessions focused on attending to your career in online and professional education. Need help navigating a personal professional development plan? Want to get more involved and expand your network of peers? Ever thought of giving back by serving as a mentor, or are you looking for a mentor? Be sure to stop by the Harbor Rooms before the Opening Reception to learn more! Curious about UPCEA’s UPlift Mentorship program? Join current and past participants to learn more about member experiences in the program and connect with peers.

Moderator: Melissa Peraino, UPCEA

UPCEA will host a meeting of representatives from international peer organizations in the professional, continuing, and online space who are in attendance at the UPCEA Annual Conference, for purposes of camaraderie and networking.

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Open to all UPCEA Institutional Representatives (IRs), Chief Online Learning Officers (COLOs), and Council of Credential Innovation (CCI) representatives attending the UPCEA 2023 Annual Conference. The 2024 UPCEA Institutional Representatives Annual Briefing, hosted in conjunction with the Council for Chief Online Learning Officers and Council for Credential Innovation, provides an opportunity for senior leaders in online and professional education to connect with peers, to be briefed on the most pressing topics of our field today, and to discuss together ways we can be best positioned for the future. This year’s briefing will follow a “roundtable” format, featuring the sharing of a curated list of critical trends, predictions, and prognostications and intersected with ample time for table-based discussion and reporting-out.

• Ray Schroeder, UPCEA
• Julie Uranis, UPCEA
• Stacy Chiaramonte, UPCEA
• Bob Hansen, UPCEA

Making Data Work for Digital Instruction: How two different digital instructional support units use data to improve instructional programs
Marina I | Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Faculty
In this two-part discussion, two different units in higher education will explore how data can enhance student learning and faculty development. In the first part, we will discuss how Purdue University Global uses third-party assessments to strengthen the curriculum through improved student outcomes. In the second part, we will discuss how Digital Learning Innovations at Kennesaw State University uses the help of the ServiceNow platform to inform, plan, and sharpen our direction and services focused on instructional design, faculty development, and one-on-one service in digital education.

• Shane Kelley, Purdue University Global
• Milya Maxfield, Kennesaw State University
• Jason Rodenbeck, Kennesaw State University

Moderator: Brad Harrison, MindEdge

Faculty-Led Transformation: How Generative AI is Reshaping Educational Assessment
Harbor 1 | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: AI
This talk explores the ongoing research on generative AI's impact on higher education assessment practices. It aims to understand how generative AI influences faculty's assignment thinking and modifications. We discuss research methods and findings, showcasing how AI disrupts traditional course design.

• Brad Wheeler, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
• Sharon Kearney, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Moderator: Daniel Kalef, Green Flower

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

Moderator: Amy Gaimaro, Molloy University

The Value of Lifelong Learning to Universities and Communities
Burroughs | Community and Economic Engagement | Foundational
Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs) span 50 states with 116,000+ engaged member/learners, “50 and better.” Each is as unique as its host university and brings exceptional value to its members, university, and surrounding community. This session features three Institutes, their national association, and recent research on the 125 thriving outreach programs.

• Stacey Rivera, Northwestern University
• Donna Anderson, University of Southern Maine
• Toniann Leavitt, University of New Hampshire
• Jim Hermelbracht, University of Massachusetts Boston
• Kari Fagin, Northwestern University

Moderator: Aaron Lawrence, SmartBrief

International Authorization: Determining Internationally Located Student Eligibility for Online Programs
Marina III | International | Foundational
In this session, we will cover our research process, initial questions to ask, where to begin your research, best practices for verifying information, and how to determine if a country is high-risk or low-risk for admission. We will address challenges in determining eligibility. How can we track the number of students enrolled in a country? How do we ensure we do not cross any value-added-tax registration thresholds? Where do we draw the line between institutional responsibility and the students? All of these questions are necessary to ask when undertaking the complicated task of admitting internationally located students to online programs.

• Patty Milner, University of Arkansas Global Campus
• Sam Ownbey, University of Arkansas Global Campus

Moderator: Steven Mulligan, Studyportals

Supporting the Evolving Needs of Online Learners Through Holistic Success Coaching
Marina IV | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational
Challenging the accepted definition of what it means to be a traditional or non-traditional learner, more post-secondary students are taking at least a percentage of their courses online. Online programs across the country that have historically served primarily degree completers are now seeing a measurable increase in first-time college students. To meet the needs of these learners, holistic success coaching is becoming increasingly important in supporting retention and completion outcomes. Hear from a panel of coaching experts from the University of Maryland Global Campus, Western Kentucky University, and non-profit coaching organization InsideTrack as they discuss their similar, yet unique, methods of employing coaching.

• Susan Hawkins-Wilding, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Chris Anderson, InsideTrack
• Tammy Dorris, Western Kentucky University
• Tanya Vincent, Western Kentucky Unviversity

Moderator: Amanda Vasquez, William Paterson University

Moving at the Speed of Trust: Improving the Prospective Adult-Learner Experience through Intra-University Partnerships
Lewis | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Effective communication and intentional relationship-building were the backbone to building the trust needed to design and execute a high-touch adult-learner recruitment model in partnership with The Ohio State University’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs. In this session, you’ll learn from the Ohio State Online team’s experience navigating the importance of nurturing trust and fostering collaborative partnerships across colleges to reach a shared goal of improving experiences for prospective adult learners.

• Heather Kerr, The Ohio State University
• Victoria Zubovich, The Ohio State University

Moderator: Marcelo Parravicini, Rowan Education Partners

Training the Trainers: Practical Tools to Support SMEs
Harbor 2 | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Subject matter experts are critical to the success of online and alternative credential programs. But often, their experience with instruction is limited. This session will provide practical tools and time tested examples to identify, onboard, train, and support SMEs in instruction online and alternative credential programs. Topics covered will include identifying and evaluating subject matter experts for instruction, contracting, and onboarding, and supporting the expert through curriculum development and delivery. Examples of course outlines, course design checklists, contract language, and training modules will be provided.

• Kirsten Zoller, Kansas State University
• Lisa Shappee, Kansas State University

Moderator: Courtney Weisell, Accredible

"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.

Moderator: Charles McGinnis, Goodwin University

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.

• Tracy Chapman, Collegis Education

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

Learner Controlled Verifiable Credentials: Adopting Open Badges Version 3
Harbor 2 | Alternative Credentials | Applied  
This session will share the efforts underway at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the University of California Irvine to deploy, experiment with, and develop the policy, process, and infrastructure to enable units at these universities to issue Open Badges Version 3 / Verifiable Credentials. The session will demonstrate these standards and technologies using open source software to describe how these digital credentials may work in an ecosystem of institutions, learners, and employers. The session will also explore policy and process.

• Steve Harmon, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Kristine Collins, University of California, Irvine
• Henry Leitner, Harvard University
• Kerri Lemoie, Digital Credentials Consortium

Moderator: Sheryl Friedman, Ziplines Education

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

Moderator: Chris Hansen, Everspring

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

Moderator: Jordan DiMaggio, UPCEA

Think Globally, Act Locally: How Rice University Endeavors to Solve the World’s Most Challenging Problems by Starting in Houston, TX
Marina III | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic
Rice University, an R1 research university, has a big vision for the future which requires strong ties to their diverse community. This session explores how Rice’s online and professional continuing education unit, The Glasscock School, helps reshape perceptions of exclusivity to engage locals in solving Houston’s… and the world’s… most challenging problems.

• Robert Bruce, Rice University
• Lee Maxey, MindMax

Moderator: Meredith Dennis, MindMax

Navigating the Learning Landscape: TIAS' Flexible & Modular Approach
Marina I | International | Applied
TIAS (Dutch school of business and society), emphasizes lifelong learning, encompassing automated short courses and personalized, stackable Masters' and MBA degrees through their 'James' project. Key objectives include flexibility, modularity, personalization, and efficiency to enhance the student experience without raising administrative costs. TIAS adopted Eduframe by Drieam, designed for Canvas LMS, to overcome limitations in their previous SIS. This combination empowered them to achieve their James project goals. Join our session to explore TIAS's educational vision for Continuing Education, the blend of automation and personalization, their preference for a best-of-breed approach, and the vital synergy between their website, CRM, SIS, accounting system, and LMS.

• Marijn Veijgen, TIAS School for Business and Society
• Thomas Ohlenforst, Drieam

Moderator: Jorge Zumaeta, Florida International University

Designing Across Borders: A Collaborative Approach to International Partnership Program Design and Evaluation
Marina II | International | Applied
This presentation will share insights from the pilot year of an 8-year partnership initiative between Ashesi University in Ghana and the University of Toronto to build public policy capacity for Ashesi University students, sponsored by an international non-governmental organization. This presentation will engage participants in a discussion of the merits and challenges of collaboration and co-creation of programming with multiple partners. By exploring program outcome measurement and the use of evaluation tools to inform multi-year planning to meet long-term strategic goals, this presentation will seek to share insights on how to translate evaluation recommendations into learning design and program implementation.

• Samantha Stevens-Hall, University of Toronto
• Lisa Morgan, University of Toronto
• Angela Owusu Ansah, Ashesi University

Moderator: Debra Leahy, California State University, Fullerton

Not Ready for AI: Business Process Automation May Be the Next Step
Harbor 3 | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied
Increasing enrollments is a challenge for regional public institutions. As we consider the promise of AI, we find that we are not yet ready for what AI may deliver and perhaps AI is not yet ready to support the enrollment cycle needs. An exploration of Business Process Automation may provide a pathway for an institution to pave the way toward the future promise of AI in the process management of enrollment management while establishing a competitive edge in a crowded market.

• Vickie Cook, University of Illinois Springfield
• Robert Kerr, University of Illinois Springfield

Moderator: Jason Smith, Anthology

A Mission to Serve: Data and initiatives that support students and the bottom line.
Commonwealth AB | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic
Online and PCO units are often judged by enrollment growth and revenue generation but revenue alone cannot be our mission. In this session, learn what student lifecycle data to track and analyze to be student centered and get the full picture of your institution’s overall health in serving learners. We will share and compare data from four four-year public institutions, including data around application-to-enrollment, emerging enrollment trends, and a deeper dive around retention and completion for online learners. Each university will also share how data informed or recentered a specific initiative to better serve or retain students that have impacted the bottom line.

• Carmin Chan, Northern Arizona University
• Caleb Simmons, University of Arizona
• Jessica DuPont, Oregon State University Ecampus
• Stephanie Platteter, University of Minnesota

Moderator: Jim Kelly, Carnegie

Unlock the Potential: Utilizing a Program Engagement Team to Maximize Growth and Streamline Programs
Commonwealth C | Online Administration | Strategic
Discover how OU Online's program engagement team can inspire your institution's approach to program development, launch, and coordination. In under five years, OU Online at the University of Oklahoma grew exponentially from a few siloed online programs to a university-wide integration of 50 online programs, with enrollment of 3,700 students. The program engagement team’s role was critical to this success. We peek behind the curtain of how we collaborate with faculty, third parties, and the digital learning department to lead program engagement, linking services across all programs, providing a cohesive experience for OU Online students and faculty and maximizing growth.

• Holly Anderson, The University of Oklahoma
• Chloe Ferguson, The University of Okahoma
• Kate Murphy, The University of Oklahoma
• Madison Travis, The University of Oklahoma

Moderator: Steve Ast, InsideTrack

Post Secondary Inclusion Programs for Adults with Disabilities: Pathways to Success
Marina IV | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied
Penn State University and Temple University have developed and currently deliver specialized programs targeting recent high school graduates who have been identified with an intellectual disability. Explore how these programs were developed, the services offered and the challenges and benefits each institution has experienced. Penn State has three different programs resulting in a college experience, life skills training, job shadowing and dorm living. Temple University offers a 4 year program fully embedding the students into student life on campus in addition to preparing the students for life beyond the college years.

• Andrea Tessier, Penn State University
• Cheryl Torsney, Temple University
• Nicole Moschberger, Penn State University
• Linda Rhen, Penn State University

Moderator: Tania Heap, University of North Texas

The Abundant University: Recipient of UPCEA's 2024 Philip E. Frandson Award for Literature
Carlton | Applied | Tag: Faculty
In this dynamic presentation, discover the work "The Abundant University: Remaking Higher Education for a Digital World," by Michael D. Smith, recipient of the UPCEA 2024 Frandson Award for Literature. The Abundant University examines what has allowed higher education to resist the forces of digital transformation that have altered so many other industries; why current forces make higher education ripe for change; and how universities can embrace this opportunity to create a more inclusive, affordable, and accessible system of education for the hundreds of thousands of deserving students who today are excluded from our pricey residential degrees.

• Michael Smith, Carnegie Mellon University

Moderator: Dee Masiello, Suffolk University

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. 

Moderator: Alissa Oleck, University of Wisconsin, Madison

The Future of Credentials: Building and Innovating Marketable Experiences in Higher Ed
Alternative Credentials | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
In a market where student needs are evolving, the market is calling for skill building certificates and short courses. Join Suffolk University in a hands-on session that takes you from the initial concept to scaling a modern credential. We share key wins and lessons, including our "learn the learner" approach that informs a skills-focused curriculum. We’ll showcase how this strategy led to increased revenue and enrollments. The session also highlights the importance of strategic evaluations and partnerships—both academic and corporate—for ensuring relevance and scalability. Whether you're launching or refining credential programs, this session offers a proven roadmap for success.

• Allison Lakacha, Suffolk University
• Ashleigh Huseth, Archer Education
• Laurie Pulido, Ease Learning
  

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 McPherson, CGI

Automated Learning Analytics to Build Faculty Capacity as Learning Scientists
Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Kennesaw State has taken a new approach to faculty development, by leaning into faculty’s focus on research, providing them automated classroom analytics, and training that applies those skills and analytics to impact their classrooms in realtime. This year the institution built uHoo Analytics, an automated D2L analytics dashboard for faculty. The reports in this dashboard allow faculty to observe course data from a holistic perspective, or dive deep to diagnose a host of possible challenges and plan targeted actions. In this session, presenters will provide an overview of the “Faculty as Learning Scientist” professional development approach as well as a tour of the uHoo Analytics faculty dashboard and alerts.

• Anissa Lokey-Vega, Kennesaw State University
• Julia Fuller, Kennesaw State University
• Sanjoosh Akkineni, Kennesaw State University

Synergizing Marketing and Enrollment Management: Strategies for Successful Student Recruitment and Enrollment Growth
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
Join us for an interactive session to explore the steps IU Online has taken to align on marketing and enrollment goals and strategies that have allowed them to develop the synergy needed to achieve positive outcomes.

• Whitnie Powell, Indiana University
• Darren Klein, Indiana University

Building External Marketing Teams to Engage Freelancers
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Continuing and professional education programs often face the challenge of achieving their marketing goals with limited staff budgets. Our marketing team has developed an approach that builds external teams through the practice of long-term engagement with freelancers that have become partnerships. The benefits for the organization include easier access to specialized skills, diverse perspectives, increased motivation and dedication, and ease of accommodating variable demand. Freelancers benefit from belonging, ownership, and a steady source of work. We hope to share best practices for hiring, engaging, and retaining freelancers with others who can offer their own perspectives.

• Jan Orr, The University of Texas at Austin
• Sunshine Barber, The University of Texas at Austin

Scaling Student Support: WGU Academy's Innovative Approach to Student Support
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
How can institutions balance the need for scalable, cost effective systems with their students’ need for personalize, high touch support? In this session, we will explore how WGU Academy addressed this challenge by harnessing the power of digital communities. After integrating these virtual spaces into their curriculum and support procedures, WGU Academy reduced individual support conversations by 23% while maintaining the just-in-time, individualized support their students desired. Learn about their strategies, outcomes, and plans to scale their success across their growing population of non-traditional learners.

• Chelsea Barnett, Western Governors University
• Katy Kappler, InScribe

Welcoming and Supporting the Adult and Returning Online Learner
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational | Tag: Faculty
In this session, faculty, staff, and administrators from Carson-Newman University will trace the development of introductory course Liberal Arts 167 and discuss its impact as an essential student success tool for new and returning adult online learners. The benefits and challenges of online learning, especially for new and returning adult learners, the intersection of online education and the liberal arts, as well as the enduring relevance of liberal arts as an educational philosophy, practical tips and strategies for helping students develop online learning skills, and the ways Carson-Newman’s transcendental ideals help to shape our mission and values will be discussed.

• Nicole Drewitz-Crockett, Carson-Newman University
• Angie Shaffer, Carson-Newman University

Improving Access and Student Success by Rethinking Billing and Tuition Payment Processes for Adult, Online, and Continuing Education Students: A Follow-Up
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Many institutions built student billing structures to serve an audience of what has been considered “traditional” students which has created a barrier to student success for adult and online students. We will focus on the strategic process of removing this barrier which, for us, has included partnering with TouchNet, collaborating with our student-accounts director, and developing a survey that was sent to student-accounts staff across the country. Using the results from this survey, we will discuss the important role student-accounts offices play in student success, satisfaction, and retention.

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

Enhancing Online Certificate Programs: A Reflective Approach to Aquaculture Course Development
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Join our discussion about creating transformative online certificate programs! We’ll explore how we used course development and redesign through reflective methodology to enhance aquaculture education's effectiveness. Aquaculture, spanning biology, engineering, economics, and environmental science, is ideal for online learning, especially for remote regions lacking formal education access. Our online curriculum empowers aquaculturists worldwide to boost yields and income. We've thoroughly examined curriculum design, instructional strategies, and assessment methods to meet their unique needs. With engaging, interactive content and Spanish-language translation, we extended global access. Join our discussions on applying these principles for online certificate programs.

• Sydney Bassett, Auburn University

Fostering a Community of Experts in Professional Education
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Learn fun, engaging, and proven activities that support learners and make big impacts on their experience while simultaneously promoting connection and meaning with professional contributors in noncredit programming.

• Miriam Doyle, University of Washington
• Stacey Fontes, University of Washington

Adapting Residential Graduate Education in an Alternative Credential World
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Much of the focus on credential innovation and program delivery is centered within continuing and professional educational units. But what impact is the alternative credential market having on residential graduate program design? In this roundtable, the facilitators will discuss strategies for how traditional graduate education programs are “future proofing” and evolving their program portfolios. Discussion will include success stories and failed ventures alike- inviting conversation from participants on how to strategically build viable professional education programs (certificates, degrees) with campus and community stakeholders. In-person, hybrid, and online modality examples will be shared

• Rebecca Petersen, Tufts University
• Sarah Herchel, Tufts University

Soul Care for the Online and Professional Continuing Education Leader and Community: A Wellness Path
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Drawing from their theological backgrounds and extensive experience, Novak and John will share practical strategies that address leaders' unique challenges in online and professional continuing education. Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of self-care's significance for individual leaders and the broader educational community. By exploring methods to refresh and recharge, this session aims to equip higher education leaders with tools to cultivate resilience, foster creativity, and enhance overall well-being. This session offers a promising platform for attendees to explore innovative ways of nurturing the soul and fostering a healthier, values-driven academic environment.

• Richard Novak, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
• Shino John, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: A Collaborative Approach to Developing High Quality OER
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic |
As the demand for open educational resources (OER) intensifies, teaching-learning centers seek structured guidance to transform faculty enthusiasm into tangible results. This presentation unveils how instructional designers and librarians synergize to champion faculty-driven OER projects. We'll showcase our model, spotlighting a series of digital open-access textbooks tailored for the arts sector. Specifically, these resources aim to arm music graduates with pivotal career skills while catering to established artists. Recognizing varying institutional capacities, we'll equip participants with a tailored needs assessment toolkit to bridge knowledge and resource gaps. The session promises strategies for seamless collaboration, OER creation, and effective dissemination.

• Zane Forshee, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
• Valerie Hartman, Johns Hopkins University

 

Networking Break: Visit Exhibit Hall  (Galleria)

Sponsored by:

Visit the corner of the exhibit hall, across from booths 55 and 56 (by the main entrance), for a special mini presentation at 10:30 AM. 
Advancing with Evidence: What UPCEA Research Tells Us About the Business of Alternative Credentials and the Audiences that Value Them
Online and professional continuing education units are facing increased pressure to help institutions expand and diversify revenue streams. One natural avenue to achieve this objective is alternative credentials. However, many institutions are struggling to isolate successful and scalable business models for these credentials. Join the UPCEA Research and Consulting team for a brief discussion about business and program models for alternative credentials, as well as the audiences that might have interest in these programs.

• Award Presentations | Phillip E. Frandson Award For Literature; UPCEA Leadership in Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Award

Grab your lunch and make your way to a Network Lunch Meeting for lunch and conversation with colleagues in your area of professional practice, plus a special award recipient celebration. All conference attendees are welcome at Network Lunch Meetings.

Sponsored by:

• Alternative Credentials (Commonwealth AB)
  Award Presentation |  UPCEA Innovation in Alternative Credentials Award
  
  
• Business & Operations (Marina I)
  Award Presentation | Business & Operations Award for Operational Excellence
  
  
• Community and Economic Engagement (Marina II)
  Award Presentation | UPCEA Engagement Award
  
  
• International (Marina III)
  Awards Presentations | UPCEA International Program Of Excellence or Innovative Practice Award; UPCEA Global Program Award For International Partners
  
  
• Marketing, Enrollment, and Student Success (Harbor 2)
  Awards Presentation | Dorothy Durkin Award for Strategic Innovation in Marketing and Enrollment Management; UPCEA Award for Excellence in Advancing Student Success
  
  
• Online Administration/eDesign Collaborative (Harbor 1)
  Award Presentation | UPCEA Award for Strategic Innovation in Online Education
  
  
• Program Planning and Implementation (Harbor 3)
  Award Presentation |  Outstanding Program: Noncredit Award
  

From Learning to Impact: Harnessing Micro-Credentials for Social Change
Marina IV | Alternative Credentials | Applied
The "Leading Social Impact in Post-Secondary" micro-credential program, a dynamic collaboration between Ashoka Canada, Royal Roads University, and the University of the Fraser Valley, represents a pioneering approach to higher education. Designed to empower individuals and institutions, this program bridges the gap between social impact concepts and institutional values, driving the pursuit of Ashoka Changemaker Campus designation. Moreover, it offers a pathway to credits within the Royal Roads University Graduate Certificate in Corporate Social Innovation. This transformative initiative redefines higher education, inspiring a new generation of changemakers and fostering a culture of positive societal impact.

• Zoe MacLeod, Royal Roads University
• Charmaine Lyn, Ashoka Canada

Moderator: Anissa Lokey-Vega, Kennessaw State University

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

Moderator: Vanessa Ford, Mentor Collective

Leveraging University Research for Outreach: A Comprehensive GIS Training Program for Tribal Communities
Marina II | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic
This session invites collaboration and discussion among community and economic engagement leaders and practitioners interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the potential of university research as a catalyst for building transformative outreach programs. Together, we will explore how to identify outreach opportunities and capitalize upon existing research funding and partnerships to serve as hubs for building community-driven outreach. Learn first-hand from members of NOAA and the Bureau of Indian of Affairs (BIA) about how MSU is harnessing intellectual and continuing education resources to meet federal agency objectives while advancing the university’s outreach mission.

• Dixie Cartwright, Mississippi State University
• John Cartwright, Mississippi State University
• David Vogt, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Branch of Geospatial Services

Moderator: Kelly Newell, Washington State University

Charting New Paths in Higher Education: Balancing Tradition with Progressive Strategies for Student Body Diversification at Liberal Arts Colleges
Commonwealth C | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the University of Pennsylvania's College of Liberal and Professional Studies and Columbia College of Missouri, in collaboration with Anthology and Hanover Research, explore the intersection of tradition and innovation in higher education marketing. This session, led by experts Tomea Knight (University of Pennsylvania), Dixie Williams (Columbia College of Missouri), Jason Cohen (Hanover Research), and Kara Eldersveld (Anthology), delves into the transformative strategies employed by liberal arts institutions to diversify their student bodies, including military and adult learners, while maintaining their traditional values. Discover how these institutions have navigated the challenges of shifting from on-campus to online learning environments, particularly for non-traditional learners, and the research that informed these pivotal decisions. Learn about the unique marketing approaches, from the evolution of continuing education at liberal arts colleges to the operationalization of institutional research for effective enrollment coaching. Engage in an interactive discussion about the roles of leadership and third-party partnerships in leveraging external capacities for growth across different recruitment segments. This session will not only offer insights into the successful marketing and operational strategies of these institutions but also encourages an active dialogue with the audience. Participants will have the opportunity to explore various topics, such as enrollment coaching for adult learners, the use of AI in higher education marketing, and the complexities of financial support systems. Join us in this enlightening discussion that promises to provide actionable insights and foster a deeper understanding of the dynamic landscape of higher education today.

• Dixie Williams, Columbia College of Missouri
• Jason Cohen, Hanover Research
• Tomea Knight, University of Pennsylvania
• Robert Boone, Columbia College

Moderator: Kara Eldersveld, Anthology

International Student Support, Advising, and Programming under the New Normal
Carlton | International | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
This presentation will showcase current practices in international student support and engage participants in discussion about pressing challenges. We will discuss current issues facing the field by highlighting the impact of changing demographics in international enrollment, geopolitical factors, the rising importance of mental health, and lessons learned from the pandemic. As higher education strives to address the lived experiences, expectations, and needs of international students, multiple units are pivoting to address gaps in their support services.

• Juan Mavo Navarro, University of Toronto
• Lisa Miller, University of California, Riverside
• Breeda McGrath, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Moderator: Kevin Phang, Noodle

A Tale of Two Universities: Crafting a Roadmap for Non-Degree Credentialing
Harbor 2 | Alternative Credentials | Strategic | Tag: Policy
The University of Central Florida (UCF) and North Carolina State University (NC State) are forging paths for alternative credentialing by (1) developing comprehensive definitions related to non-degree credentialing, (2) recommending policies and procedures for creating and issuing credentials, (3) recommending ways to integrate credentials into existing processes, (4) recommending digital platforms for managing credentials, and (5) developing a plan for implementing non-degree credentials at scale.  In this lively discussion, we will share our processes, the frameworks we developed, and the opportunities and challenges we see in the non-degree space.

• Thomas Cavanagh, University of Central Florida
• Julie Shankle, University of Central Florida
• Mark Bernhard, North Carolina State University
• Jessica White, North Carolina State University
• Dan Gerger, North Carolina State University

Moderator: Jay Williams, Credly by Pearson

Secrets of Highly Successful Enrollment Marketing Teams: Proven Strategies to Set & Reach Goals and Maximize Budgets
Marina III | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied
Struggling to meet your institution’s graduate and adult learner enrollment goals? You’re not alone: in a recent EAB survey, 50% of graduate enrollment leaders reported missing their targets. To influence and manage to enrollment goals – and overcome key challenges like the rise of stealth shopping, staff shortages and soaring digital media costs – institutions need proven strategies to attract prospective students. Join our session to learn how to build an effective enrollment goal-setting practice with key stakeholders, meet your goals with a hands-on approach to enrollment funnel management, get a breakdown of the top strategies to reduce your cost per inquiry: the #1 KPI to improve your paid ad results, and learn how to maximize your marketing budget while maintaining (or even enhancing) your lead quality with tactics including keyword optimization and bidding strategies.

• Paula French, Search Influence
• Alicia Jasmin, Tulane University
• Val Fox, EAB
• Leo Rice, University of Massachusetts, Lowell

Moderator: Jeanne Lobman, Search Influence

We’re All in this Together: Forming AI-lliances to meet the challenges of ChatGPT
Harbor 3 | Online Administration | Applied | Tag: AI
Generative AI is a rapidly evolving technology with the potential to transform higher education–but also poses challenges for faculty and administrators committed to ensuring quality educational experiences. Join senior faculty from Oregon State University and administrators from Oregon State Ecampus for guidance on navigating this challenge: lessons learned about AI in the classroom (online and off); examples of how leaders can support AI response at every level; and openly licensed resources that attendees can use to help faculty at their home institutions navigate the challenging waters of generative AI in teaching and learning. We’re all in this together!

• Lisa L. Templeton, Oregon State University
• Karen Watte, Oregon State University
• Inara Scott, Oregon State University

Moderator: Joana Jebsen, LearningMate

Transforming Higher Education: Affordable Degrees at Scale
Marina I | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the pursuit of affordable higher education is more crucial than ever. Since 2016, Georgia Tech Professional Education has hosted the Affordable Degrees-at-Scale Symposium, the preeminent event for higher education leaders to engage in intensive conversations on the strategies, trends, and challenges associated with scaled online degree programs. This session is designed to bring together the growing community of institutions that are interested in, and offering such degrees, to discuss the outcomes and recommendations of the symposium and to provide an opportunity to exchange perspectives and share knowledge.

• Warren Goetzel, Georgia Institute of Technology
• David Joyner, Georgia Institute of Technology

Moderator: Courtney Weisell, Accredible

Today, Tomorrow, or the Future: Postsecondary Institutions' Response to Workforce Needs
Commonwealth AB | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Higher Education is seeing a student body shift (e.g., adult learners) caused by various demographic developments (e.g., aging of the population and decreasing fertility rates resulting in lower birth rates). At the same time, we see a rapidly changing labor market and an accelerating speed of changing job demands caused by innovation and automation technologies. Drawing on work at a few postsecondary institutions, the presentors will share strategies to develop and best prepare students for the current and future workforce. Additionally, the presenters will highlight how partnerships between post-secondary education and employers create earn-and-learn pathways that gives credit for on-the-job work, focused particularly on new college majority learners.

• Marjaneh Gilpatrick, Northern Arizona University
• Lynda Wilson, California State University, Dominguez Hills
• Michael Pierick, University of California, Merced
• Douglas Harrison, New York University
• Sandra von Doetinchem, Eduworks Corporation

Moderator: Sandra von Doetinchem, Eduworks Corporation

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

Moderator: Evan Silberman, CUNY

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.

Moderator: Annie Taylor, Penn State University

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

A 360-Approach to Marketing Higher Education Professional Development
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied |
This session will delve into the best practices for marketing higher education professional development programs by fostering collaboration between marketing and learning teams. Drawing on real-world examples and case studies, attendees will gain insights into how successful institutions leverage the combined expertise of these two teams to drive enrollment, engagement, and student success

• Lisa Kaminski, Harvard University
• Jennifer Cannon, Harvard University

Putting Noncredit Certificates to Work: Professional Internships for Noncredit Adult Learners
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
While internships are the norm for traditional-aged undergraduates, internships for professional learners in the noncredit space are rare, because of time demands and full-time work obligations. Yet, many adult learners pursuing noncredit certificates are career switchers and need practical work experience to augment the learning on their resume to make themselves more marketable to employers. In this interactive session, representatives from Riipen, an experiential learning platform for educators, learners, and employers, and Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies will present a pioneering Professional Internship Program geared towards non-traditional aged learners in data analytics and data science certificate programs.

• Lisa Andrews, Georgetown University
• Josh Mitchell, Riipen

Collaborating to Create New Opportunities for Increased Learner Engagement in Business Courses
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Faculty
The Learning Design team at the University of Illinois’ Gies College of Business and the Client Success team at Yellowdig have worked collaboratively designing vibrant learning communities, using a less-structured framework encouraging student agency and motivation that yields deeper, course-relevant conversations. Moving away from the tired “Post Once, Comment Twice” pedagogy of discussion boards, which tend to constrict student agency and lead to surface-level conversations, these communities add social and teaching presence to courses.

• Jean Starobin, University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign
• Bob Ertischek, Yellowdig

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

The Benefits of a Partnership Model vs. Creating your Own Alternative Credentials
Alternative Credentials | Strategic |
Alternative credentials have become integral for academic institutions seeking to keep pace with today’s rapidly changing educational landscape. This panel will feature insights from leaders at the University of Massachusetts Global and the University of South Florida and explore: - Considerations for building or partnering to launch alternative credentials - The benefits of working with a partnership to accelerate content development and go-to-market in an ever-evolving tech landscape - How strategic partners providers enable institutions to expand their reach, diversify offerings, and prepare students for the future of work

• Colin Lumsden, Springboard
• Mark Koulianos, University of South Florida
• Richardo Lorenzana, University of Massachusetts Global

One Community, Broadly Distributed: Using an In-person Week to Launch Projects and Build Community
Online Administration | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
This session will describe how Penn State's Dutton Institute for Teaching and Learning Excellence utilized a community in-person week to both build organizational community, and to launch a large project to upgrade our content management system for online courses. We will discuss how our context allowed for us to come together; what we put in place to allow for “down time” for those used to working at a distance; what planning was required prior to the week; a description of the project and community activities we engaged in; and plans for future in-person opportunities going forward.

• Stevie Rocco, Penn State University
• Jennifer Babb, Penn State University

Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen: Creating a Universal Recipe for Course Review Rubrics
Online Administration | Strategic | Tag: Policy
Do you ever wonder how many rubrics your institution needs? Do you wish you could ask an instructional designer exactly what a great course looks like? Asked and answered. In this interactive presentation, join us as we explore the concept of designing a versatile and adaptable rubric that could be applied across different disciplines and assessment scenarios. Discover how this approach in promoting consistency, fairness, and effective assessment practices can help shape quality online courses and foster sustainable course design.

• Kathryn Morgan, Kennesaw State University
• Milya Maxfield, Kennesaw State University

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FinishEd.D.: Selecting and Completing a Doctoral Program While Working Full-time… Without Losing Your Mind
Online Administration | Applied |
From two working online and professional continuing education leaders who completed doctorates while working full-time, a look at how to compare, evaluate, and select a program that suits your needs, and complete the program without losing what is left of your mind. With firsthand and recent experience, we will walk you through the process, the pitfalls, the challenges, and the opportunities that come from pursuing doctoral education. For those who are considering a doctoral program, come ask your questions about the process and programs. For those who are diving into a doctoral program this year, come talk fear, frustration, and the future!

• J. Nathan Bullock, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
• Chelsea McNeely, Southeast Missouri State University

Carrots, Sticks, and Innovation: Policymaking, Incentivization, and Implementation in Online Courses
Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Policy
Presenters will cover steps involved in identifying a problem associated with an online program (cheating on assessments in online courses), the process for creating a new policy to address the issue (require ID verification on 20% of course grade), encouraging instructors to comply with the policy by offering technological assistance and financial incentives, and some of the positive outcomes associated with successful implementation of the policy (improved pedagogical outcomes on courses, enhanced digital literacy skills for students, personalization of the online learning experience, and heightened collaboration between faculty, administration, and ed tech staff.)

• Anu Murphy, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Bianca Teixeira, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Kostas Yfantis, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Accessibility of Immersive Technologies: A Literature Review
Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Policy
Our presentation shares results from a literature review assessing the accessibility of immersive technologies in higher education, focusing on students with disabilities, as well preliminary results from an empirical study. We explore key features, accessibility barriers, and impact on disability categories. We conducted a review of up to 50 papers published from 2015 and employed quantitative and qualitative analysis. Findings aim to reveal strengths and areas needing improvement in immersive technology accessibility for all students, especially students with disabilities, with the aim to use these findings as recommendations for educators and policymakers.

• Tania Heap, University of North Texas
• Adam Fein, University of North Texas

Under the Hood: Tactical Advice for Program Development, from Initial Research to Implementation
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Let us walk you through every phase of a new program development, from ideation and market research, to viability assessments, to launch, design, marketing and measuring success. Come learn how to align on and execute each phase with experts who do it every day for repeatable program growth.

• Asim Ali, Auburn University
• Joe Brock, Northeastern University
• Meni Sarris, Spur Education Group

Preparing to Teach Online: From Learner to Teacher
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Learning and teaching online is a growing field. Faculty members are interested in participating but need more knowledge. Teaching and Learning with Technology at Rutgers has offered an Online Teaching Certificate (OTC) Program that attracts Rutgers and non-Rutgers instructors for a few years. In this presentation, we will provide an overview of the design of the OTC program, highlighting one course in detail, and share our experience and learned lessons.

• Natalia Kouraeva, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
• Dena Novak, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Graphic Design is My Passion: Tips and Tricks for the Semi-pro
Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational |
Attend this session to learn how to work faster and smarter within Adobe design software, for beginners and experienced users. Learn actionable tips and tricks to level up your graphic design skills.

• Anna Sayre, University of Mississippi

Change Is Great, But You Go First: Leverage the Power of Strategic Partnerships To Catalyze Change
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Change is great. Change is hard. Change is a constant in higher education, and it can be both challenging and rewarding. But you don't have to face it alone. Join us for an insightful session where we delve into the transformative journey of Chico State's PCE unit and Everspring, exploring how their strategic partnership is reshaping their campus.  Join our presenters as they delve into the strategic partnership that paved the way for advocating for and positioning the value and impact of innovative approaches.

• Ann Nikolai, California State University, Chico
• Sarah Smith, Everspring

Networking Break: Visit Exhibit Hall (Galleria)

Sponsored by:


Visit the corner of the exhibit hall, across from booths 55 and 56 (by the main entrance), for a special mini presentation at 3:00 PM.
Professional, Continuing, Online Enterprises: Leading through Change
Our units are constantly evolving as the demographics and needs of the learners we serve are changing. We are often educating university leadership, and exploring new programs, audiences, and partnerships. As a result, disruption and change management seem to be fundamental in our common experience. What are best ways to lead through change and identify new opportunities within our institutions? Chat with our experts about strategies to support your organization during times of change.

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.


Advancing Digital Credentials: Collaborative Strategies for Building University-Industry-Military Partnerships
Marina II | Alternative Credentials | Applied
This session examines how our universities successfully bridge the gap between academic programs and real-world employment needs. It highlights our approach to creating customized training, both for credit and non-credit, in collaboration with industry and military partners. One initiative presented in the session aligns with Department of Defense requirements, aiding veterans in their transition to civilian careers while underscoring the growing importance of digital credentials in higher education and professional development. How can GI and KOOL funds be utilized for these programs?

• Beth Rhoades, Weber State Univesrity
• James Hedges, Weber University
• Lisa Verma, Louisiana State University
• Patricia Cook, The Univeristy of Arizona, Continuing & Professional Education
• Susan Leighton, Villanova University, College of Professional Studies
• Kelli Harrison, Louisiana State University

Moderator: Jason Dempsey, Virtual Veterans Communities

Advancements in Prison Education:  Best Practices from Three UPCEA Institutions
Commonwealth C | Community and Economic Engagement | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Recent research proves that education reduces recidivism.  However, the ability for an incarcerated individual to access higher education differs state to state.  In addition, colleges and universities face many challenges in delivery programs, accessing learners and implementing new teaching and learning tools. Pell Grant availability has enabled more individuals to address one barrier … funding; and has also energized many colleges and universities to provide additional programs, as well as greater access to degrees.  California State Dominguez Hills, Northwestern University and Washington University in St. Louis have all had successes reaching different audiences and will share their stories so other institutions can address this societal opportunity.

• Kevin Windhauser, Washington University in St. Louis
• Jim Fong, UPCEA
• George Calderaro, Columbia University
• Lynda Wilson, California State University, Dominguez Hills
• Matthew Luckett, California State University, Dominguez Hills
• Seth Meisel, Northwestern University

Moderator: Laurel Hogue, University of Central Missouri

From Learning to Earning 101! Understanding and Creating Skills Frameworks
Harbor 1 | Alternative Credentials | Foundational | Tag: Faculty
During this workshop, we will walk participants through multiple exercises to help them understand skills research, skill statement creation, credentialing frameworks, and adherence to open standards. As we leverage work accomplished through the Open Skills Network (OSN), we realize many individuals are overwhelmed with the information and need help understanding how to leverage the published skills collections in multiple libraries. The workshop will equip participants with the knowledge to capitalize on this rich data. Then participants will put their skills to the test by creating their own Rich Skills Descriptors (RSDs) and tagging the appropriate metadata to meet Open Standards requirements. The second half will focus on packing those RSDs into meaningful micro-credentials. Participants will develop a set of criteria to place in their framework to ensure credential value, quality, and relevancy.

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

Moderator: Gary Chinn, Penn State University

UPCEA's Credential Innovation Consortium: Preliminary Outcomes, Building Capacity, Expanding Pathways
Harbor 2 | Alternative Credentials | Strategic
Join this multifaceted workshop featuring participants of UPCEA’s inaugural Credential Innovation Consortium, as we share results to date from a grant-funded project “Building Capacity, Expanding Pathways: Accelerating the Growth of Credential Innovation in Higher Education.” Through the project, UPCEA is using market research tied to employer needs and a peer learning approach to help universities and colleges develop scalable business and program models for delivery of noncredit, short-term credentials, developed in tandem with industry. In this dynamic session, highlights of the market research results and peer learning approach will be shared, and members of the pilot consortium will describe their experiences to date. The session will also offer facilitated, small-group conversation around challenges, opportunities, capacity-building, as well as ample time for questions.

• Aaron Brower, UPCEA
• Tonya Amankwatia, North Carolina A&T
• Benjamin Brand, University of North Texas
• Susan Zukowski, National University
• Stacy Chiaramonte, UPCEA
• Bruce Etter, UPCEA

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

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

Moderator: Kelley Brandt, Boise State University

The Work Continues but the Roles May Not: Embracing DEI Work in an Unstable Climate
Marina IV | Community and Economic Engagement | Applied
Many would argue the SCOTUS decision on Affirmative Action paired with state-level attacks on free speech and diversity and inclusion programs has created an inhospitable climate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives on postsecondary campuses. Join members of UPCEA’s D&I committee and other panelists as they discuss campus climates, internal and external political pressures, and the career paths for postsecondary leaders that have a passion for DEI work.

• Tiffany Townsend, Purdue Global
• Shino John, Rutgers University
• Del Ruff, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
• Pam Wimbush, California State Sacramento

Moderatosr: Mili Maldonado, Universidad  del Sagrado Corazón; Jasmeial "Jazz" Jackson, Thomas Edison State University

PowerUP: Reflections and Strategies for Intentional Mentoring and Sponsorship
Marina I | Community and Economic Engagement | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Are you ready to PowerUP your career? Are you prepared to help the next generation of higher education online and professional continuing education leaders advance? In today’s rapidly changing world, mentorship has emerged as a powerful and widely utilized tool for professional development. Additionally, the mentorship experience has become a crucial means to bridge the gap between knowledge acquisition and its practical application. This session focuses on key discussion points, hands-on activities, role play conversations, tools and strategies for mentoring and sponsorship. Participants will understand the benefits that these activities bring to rising professionals as well as how they can positively impact an organization.

• Marie Martin, University of California, Riverside
• Annette Roberts Webb, University of California, Merced
• Krissy Collins, University of California, Irvine
• Marjaneh Gilpatrick, Northern Arizona University Online & Innovative Ed
• Kimberly Love, Weber State University

Moderator: Melissa Peraino, UPCEA

Aligning International Strategy to Institutional Mission, Location, and Student Population
Carlton | International | Strategic
The role of internationalization varies across universities and can be central, complementary, or peripheral to mission and strategy. International leaders continually make cases for internationalization and seek fit. Panelists are from the same public university system, yet each will discuss how they lead strategies of alignment specific to their institutional mission, location, and student population to strengthen internationalization and raise institutional support and awareness. Topics will include leveraging your locality, internationalization at home, and programs for first-generation students. Panelists will open space for participants to share ways in which they are navigating alignment and institutional fit and strategic priority.

• Debra Leahy, California State University, Fullerton
• Harkmore Lee, California State University, Los Angeles
• Jill Leafstedt, California State University, Channel Islands
• Kari Knutson-Miller, California State University, Stanislaus

Moderator: Debra Leahy, California State University, Fullerton

Supporting the Magnificent Seven (Learning Conditions): The Student Experience Project
Lewis | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Workshop participants will learn about findings of the Student Experience Project, explore data related to key learning conditions in the online environment, and learn how to implement specific tools at the faculty and institutional level. Participants will gain hands-on experience in the area of evidence-based Equitable Academic and Social Supports as well at the instructional level through exploring Supportive Instructor and Course Interactions. In line with the notion of local customization and scalability, we will also access and explore freestanding, open-access interventions directed towards both learners and faculty ranging from 30-minute online modules to deeper changes such as syllabus revision.

• Sandra Watts, University of North Carolina, Charlotte

Moderator: Lakitia Avery, Kent State University

Generative AI: Policies, Practices, Perspectives, and Prompting
Harbor 3 | Online Administration | Strategic | Tag: AI
AI is rapidly enhancing the way we teach and learn, enabling new ways to better serve learners, creating efficiencies, and facilitating digital transformations as nothing has before. We will examine the key changes and discuss strategies to keep abreast of the important transitions ahead. The second half of this workshop session will be dedicated to each participant creating a personalized  prompt, creating a useful instrument for themselves and their institution. For example, participants may choose to develop a syllabus, professional development seminar outline, marketing plan, image(s) for illustrations, infographic about a degree or certificate, budget allocation for a grant project, grant proposal narrative, etc. In each case each attendee will have an AI-generated product to use and to build upon for later use.

• Ray Schroeder, UPCEA
• Vickie Cook, University of Illinois, Springfield

Moderator: Kathleen Ives, UPCEA

Leveraging AI to Enhance Online Program Development and the Student Learning Experience
Commonwealth AB | Online Administration | Applied | Tags: Diversity & Inclusion; AI
Through discussions and peer feedback, participants will leverage AI to develop an implementation plan for the design and development of online programs at higher education institutions. This implementation plan includes the use of AI for market research, program design, teaching and learning, student success, and evaluation. Additionally, participants will discuss how AI can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of online courses and the return on investment for online programs. Participants will leave with valuable insights and practical strategies that they can implement at their institutions to drive innovation and success in online programs.

• Abram Hedtke, St. Cloud State University
• Andrea Carroll-Glover, RNL
• Emily Wood, RNL
• Eric de Araujo, Purdue University
• Miko Nino, Rhode Island College

Moderator: Reba-Anna Lee, Northwestern University

If You Build It, Will They Come? Rethinking the Academic Portfolio in Times of Change
Burroughs | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic
Our session promises to explore the dynamic field of academic and digital portfolio management. Learn how to fuse traditional and innovative learning methods to offer enriched experiences to students and reach new learner segments. Uncover the power of data in making informed educational decisions, and grasp the importance of identifying new sectors that increase access and opportunity for learners. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and strategies that could reshape your educational approach and significantly enhance your portfolio of offerings.

• Wendy Colby, Boston University
• Bettyjo Bouchey, University of Vermont
• Sara Marcketti, Iowa State University

Moderator: John Wells, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

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.

Louge Topics:

Sponsored by:

Grab your breakfast and join peers from your UPCEA Region for informal learning, networking opportunities, and information about how to get the most from UPCEA.

• Central (Harbor 3)
  
  
• Mid-Atlantic (Harbor 2)
  
  
• New England (Harbor 1)
  
  
• South (Commonwealth AB)
  
  
• West (Marina I)
  

• Karen Sibley, Brown University
• Whitnie Powell, Indiana University
• Marc Booker, University of Phoenix
• Joshua Perez, Rutgers Law School
• Casey Rothenberger, San Diego State University Global Campus

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Networking Break: Visit Exhibit Hall (Galleria)

Sponsored by:



Visit the corner of the exhibit hall, across from booths 55 and 56 (by the main entrance), for a special mini presentation at 9:30 AM. 
Deep Dive Debrief: Navigating Generative AI's Educational Frontier
Reflect on the insights from Wednesday's "Generative AI: Policies, Practices, Perspectives" session with Ray Schroeder. This gathering is your opportunity to delve deeper into Generative AI's impact on education, posing unanswered questions and seeking further clarifications. Engage in discussions with peers and experts alike, exchanging ideas and exploring the practical applications of AI in your institution. Whether seeking additional resources or clarifying complex concepts, this session is designed to enhance your understanding and application of AI strategies. Join us to consolidate your learning, expand your network, and leverage AI's transformative potential in higher education.

STEM Ready Pathway Program: Empowering Tomorrow’s STEM Leaders with Alternative Credentials
Marina IV | Alternative Credentials | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Through a dynamic partnership between Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), Montgomery College (MC), the Universities at Shady Grove (USG), and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), the STEM Ready Pathway Program is revolutionizing the educational landscape and preparing K-16 students for successful degrees and careers in STEM, enabling learners to acquire microcredentials along their pathway. Learn collaborative methods used to create microcredentials with a focus on diversifying the future workforce and shaping the trajectory of underrepresented students. Students earn microcredentials that highlight career competencies and experiential learning experiences during high school, community college, or the undergraduate degree program.

• Sarah Gardenghi, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
• Collin Sullivan, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Moderator: Tyler Ritter, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Digital Credentials as Catalyst for Change and Innovation
Commonwealth C | Alternative Credentials | Foundational | Tag: Faculty
In this session, we share valuable insights and explore innovative strategies that leverage digital credentials to support learners and contribute to organizational development centered around digital credentialing. Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology and Southern New Hampshire University present their case studies, showcasing a journey towards greater innovation and the successful integration of digital credentialing. Drawing from their experiences and the effective incorporation of digital credentials into course design and institutional practices, we invite attendees to discuss challenges and opportunities in empowering organizational development and implementing academic credentials to explore ways to facilitate lifelong learners and advance workforce development.

• Matt DiPirro, Southern New Hampshire University
• Meryem Yilmaz Soylu, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Jeonghyun (Jonna) Lee, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Eric Sembrat, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Warren Goetzel, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Keegan Moss, Southern New Hampshire University
• Chris Matthews, Southern New Hampshire University

Moderator: Scott Jeffe, RNL

AI Innovation in Higher Ed Marketing
Harbor 2 | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Strategic | Tag: AI
From chatbots and generative AI to advanced audience targeting and ad bidding optimization, AI has permanently changed the way our prospective students interact with us. It has also redefined the role of the marketer. In this presentation, we’ll discuss how AI has fundamentally changed the role of the marketer and where we see AI-driven marketing going next.

• Morgan Gonzalez, EducationDynamics
• Casey Liddle, EducationDynamics
• Joshua McCarthy, Johnson & Wales University

Moderator: Tracy Kreikemeier, EducationDynamics

Ready to Work: Partnering with Local Government to Meet Local Employment Needs
Marina II | Community and Economic Engagement | Strategic | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
San Antonio’s “Ready to Work” (RTW) program allows qualifying individuals to receive tuition assistance for industry-recognized certifications aligned with targeted occupations in high demand well-paid careers. The University of Texas at San Antonio is partnering with the City of San Antonio on this initiative by providing training in industry-recognized certifications participants. This session will present (RTW) and how it was implemented city-wide with higher education institutions among others to provide training for individuals. This session explores partnerships between higher education and local governments and workforce boards; goals for similar programs, and lessons learned after the completion of the first year.

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

Moderator: Andrew Osheroff, University of Southern Maine

Leveraging Current and Emerging Online Testing Technologies for Program and Institutional Growth
Marina III | Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Join this engaging panel to hear online learning leaders discuss the transformative potential of emerging technologies, including remote proctoring solutions and AI, in higher education. Discover how the panelists adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic, implementing innovative solutions to meet diverse and evolving test-taker needs. Hear firsthand accounts of the lessons they learned and opportunities they uncovered, and gain valuable insights into the future of assessment technologies.

• Ashley Norris, Meazure Learning
• Asim Ali, Auburn University
• Michael Bellini, University of Illinois
• Amy Smith, Straighterline

Moderator: Darren Klein, Indiana University

Navigating the Regulatory Roadmap for Online Education
Burroughs | Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Policy
Compliance is a primary concern in online education, and the continuously evolving regulatory framework creates numerous challenges for online education providers. This session introduces regulators in online education, recent regulatory changes, and Title IV eligibility. Specifically, we will describe a comprehensive approach to addressing the regulations and policy gaps related to teaching and learning. We present a checklist that engages academic leaders and stakeholders that participants will be able to apply to their institutions.

• Amy Gaimaro, Molloy University
• Susan Watters, Molloy University
• Ilona Marie Hajdu, Office of Online Education, Indiana University
• Sharon Wavle, Office of Online Education, Indiana University

Moderator: Nancy Ludwig, University of Massachusetts, Lowell

The New Non-Traditional Opportunity: Integrating Non-Traditional and Traditional Student Experiences by Eliminating the Online/Professional Education Silo
Harbor 3 | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied
Online and professional education at most institutions of higher learning typically operates as a separate silo, with a clear distinction between the traditional on-campus experience and the non-traditional online/off-campus experience. Prior to the pandemic, the line between these two academic missions was starting to blur with traditional students increasingly seeking non-traditional opportunities for pursuing and completing their credentials/degrees. The pandemic accelerated this trend with students looking for more of an integrated experience that allows them to access flexible learning options at various points in their journey - the new non-traditional student. This panel will discuss both the opportunities and challenges that emerge by removing the online/professional education silo and providing students with an integrated academic offering that allows them to tailor their learning experience to meet their personal and professional goals.

• Jenni Murphy, California State University, Sacramento
• Stephanie Platteter, University of Minnesota
• Robin Poston, Southern Methodist University
• Liesl Riddle, George Washington University

Moderator: John Wells, UMASS Amherst

Content-First Enrollment Strategies
Lewis | Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Citing examples from their work at Tufts University College, the presenters will share winning strategies for creating content-first enrollment marketing campaigns that result in lower costs, higher engagement, and more enrollments than traditional paid media campaigns.

• Suzan Brinker, Viv Higher Education
• Tara Pope, Tufts University College

Moderator: Joshua McCarthy, Johnson & Wales University

Global Learning Designed for Today’s Learner: Contexts, Credentials, and Competencies
Carlton | International | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Higher education is facing a growing demand for alternative pathways to careers and stackable training options that capture, recognize, and validate learning outcomes, all to meet demands for graduates to be “career-ready.” Accelerated by the Covid pandemic, the rise in AI, shifts in the future of work, and amid a demographic “cliff” in the United States, the rise in micro-credentials may define the trajectory of global education, particularly a focus on career readiness. In other words, how is online and professional education leveraging or translating global education, study abroad, and internationalization into career readiness for its learners? This session will explore the intersections of global education, micro-credentials, and the future of work through panel discussion, followed by small group, facilitated conversation at tables.

• Marissa Lombardi, The Forum for Study Abroad
• Breeda McGrath, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• Jorge Limon, Tecnologico de Monterrey
• James Gazzard, Cambridge University

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Persistence Wins: Being an Innovation Catalyst
Commonwealth AB | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Online and professional education is central to how institutions can increase access and equity. However, not every institution that needs to pivot is culturally ready for it. So, how do you lead an institution through a time of change? This fast-paced, interactive session covers a formula for success to drive your campus colleagues to innovate when the tendency is to stay more traditional in processes, workflows and thinking about the “right” way to deliver high-quality education. Through the lens of two HBCUs who successfully built their online enterprises, engage in small group work that will have you developing your own plan to build a coalition to drive change on your campus.

• Tonya Amankwatia, North Carolina A&T University
• Tiffany Watson, Spelman College
• Stacy Snow, Kennedy & Company
• Kendra Grinnage, Kennedy & Company

Moderator: Hilary Culbertson, Duke University

There’s No “I” in “Team”(Unless the Team is Just You)
Marina I | Business and Operations | Applied
We often have conversations in higher education about “doing more with less.” But what happens when you’re not just doing more with less - you’re doing it all by yourself? This panel will bring together one- and two-person teams from institutions of different sizes and with different resources. We’ll discuss real-world challenges and strategies for building and implementing programs when you’re doing everything yourself. The session will include hands-on opportunities for participants to analyze case studies and discuss strategies for navigating them. Join us for a session that will deliver actionable insights, build your connections, and boost your confidence to thrive as a one-person department.

• Amy King, William and Mary Law School
• Karen Bellnier, Mitchell College
• Phyllis Watson, Florida A&M University

Moderator: Alex Cole, Bryant University

UPCEA Talks
Harbor 1 | Online Administration |
“UPCEA Talks” is a collection of quickfire idea introductions by a single presenter, curated into a sequenced set of short forays into critical topics, that work separately and collectively. Curated by UPCEA’s Online Administration Network, this set of Talks focuses on promising practices designed around today’s online learner, including program development, the role of adjunct faculty, building community online, and more.  

Moderator: Natalie del Sol-Nunez, Florida International University

A Journey Through a Program Refresh: Using a Data-Informed Approach
Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
As institutions strive to provide exceptional online learning experiences, our journey is particularly relevant. Our session aligns with the principles of student-centered design and the agile adaptation of programs to meet evolving online learner needs. This session aims to inspire ongoing conversations of data-informed program redesign and student-centered learning. We'll highlight a real-world example of how using data can inform the process of refreshing a program online. We'll then discuss the opportunities and challenges we've encountered, including data limitations, biases, and process reflections. Finally, we invite participants to reflect on similar processes that have driven their own program improvements.

• Tiffany Charbonier, New York University

Innovation Snapshot: XR in Online Education
Online Administration | Foundational |
In January 2023, the University of Michigan embarked on a groundbreaking journey by launching the first of 10 XR-enhanced courses on Coursera. These courses represented a pioneering step toward democratizing access to knowledge and preparing learners for the rapidly evolving future of work and society. Leveraging immersive technologies such as interactive 360 videos and mobile phone augmented reality (AR), this initiative opened up new frontiers in online education for global learners. Explore the future of online learning as we delve into the lessons learned during the integration of XR (Extended Reality) technologies into online learning platforms.

• Jessi Kittel, University of Michigan

Engaging Online Adjunct Practitioner Faculty: A How-To
Online Administration | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Online, adjunct practitioner faculty are essential in higher education as they can marry theory and work experience for students. Engaging these working adjunct practitioners can, however, be a challenge. In this UPCEA Talks session, we will discuss the various engagement methods (eg., self-paced trainings, facilitated workshops, monthly webinars and podcasts, a resource website, social community platform, emails, surveys, microcredentials, etc.) and their success or failure.

• Tahnja Wilson, University of Phoenix

Are you Ready for Them? Rubrics to Assess Universities's Ability to Serve Adult and Online Learners
Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
This presentation will focus on a rubric for adult learners and one for online learners that academic institutions can adopt to assess and audit their preparedness to serve these populations. In this session, participants will discuss their adult and online learner readiness and will articulate how these rubrics can be implemented for their online and adult programs. In addition, this session will present an implementation plan that works together with the rubrics and that participants can take to their institutions and execute.

• Miguel (Miko) Nino, Rhode Island College

Are We in a Loneliness Epidemic? How It Matters for Building Online Community in Higher Education
Online Administration | Foundational | Tag: Faculty
In spring of 2023 the U.S. Surgeon General declared that loneliness is now an epidemic, yet not everyone agrees. Hear a brief overview of the topic and how higher education can embrace evidence-informed online community connection opportunities to meet the needs of all online students students.

• Julie Moser, University of New Hampshire

• Awards Presentations | Outstanding Continuing Education Student: Credit Award; Excellence in Teaching Award