Program | 2024 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education

Monday
September 30

Tuesday
October 1

Wednesday
October 2

Advancing Workforce Development through Employer-Focused Sector Partnerships: A Case Study from Nevada State University
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
Learn how Nevada State University's workforce development programs, informed by the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, address talent needs in seven key industries. Discover the success of employer-focused sector partnerships, facilitated by collaborative efforts with stakeholders such as the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance and educational institutions. Through the Next Generation Sector Partnerships model, these initiatives convene employers and community partners to identify workforce challenges and opportunities for collective action. Gain insights into the process of establishing industry-led partnerships and refining priorities for effective workforce development aligned with regional economic goals.

• Tom Nicholas, Nevada State University
• Adrina Ramos-King, Workforce Connections

Moderator: Karina Kogan, EducationDynamics

Creating One Microcredential Policy to Rule them All
Room: La Salle | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Digital Technology
What does a policy that governs the proposal, review and approval of noncredit and credit bearing microcredentials for students, staff and community members look like? And how does it work in real life? Join senior leaders in sharing lessons learned during the policy development process and the procedure implementation phase. We’ll learn together about what’s working at our institutions and where we have opportunities to improve our microcredential initiatives.

• Elizabeth Barrie, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• Jacob Thompson, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Moderator: Joana Jebsen, LearningMate

Credential Pathways at UTEP: Broadly Educated and Specifically Skilled
Room: Carollton | Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Professional
UTEP has a robust ecosystem for student professional development and career readiness. However, the University of Texas System Chancellor has encouraged us to develop a microcredential infrastructure, or what we call “Credential Pathways.” In this presentation, representatives from the Provost’s Office, Extended University, deans’ offices, and faculty will discuss UTEP’s process for creating and establishing this infrastructure that includes clarifying definitions, developing a proposal process, partnering with Coursera, creating a governance structure, holding focus groups, building a platform, and communicating the message. All this with the aim of preparing learners who are broadly educated and specifically skilled.

• Beth Brunk, University of Texas at El Paso
• Rolando Nunez, University of Texas at El Paso
• Selfa Chew-Melendez, University of Texas at El Paso

Moderator: Beth Brunk, University of Texas at El Paso

Pathways to Credential Innovation: Talking Adoption, Tech and Access
Room: Audubon | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; External Advocacy
Digital Credential Consortium (DCC) and Trusted Learner Network (TLN) have been engaged in digital credentialing innovation in higher ed for over five years, and both share a common value: making credential systems accessible is key to bringing value to students everywhere. Join the directors of the DCC and TLN to learn about how our organizations are working to develop accessible credentialing tech and governance within reach as well as delve into some practical strategies for student-centered credentialing system implementation. The session will also explore how and why trusted networks enliven credential exchange and how institutions like ASU and TEC de Monterrey have brought credentialing into their ecosystems.

• Kerri Lemoie, MIT
• Kate Giovacchini, Arizona State University
• Brooke Lipsitz, Arizona State University

Moderator: Shefali Dhar, University of Georgia

Prior Learning Portability Powered by Transparent CTDL Data Connections
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; External Advocacy
The American Council on Education (ACE) and Credential Engine are bringing data transparency to credit for prior learning to help people advance their progress toward traditional and alternative credentials. ACE has published over 10,000 credit recommendations using the Credential Transparency Description Language (CTDL) open standard data structure. These data are now being connected across the course and assessment providers and the institutions that accept these credit recommendations. This powers new ways for organizations to signal acceptance of ACE credit recommendations and for learners to understand how their prior learning connects with particular courses or programs, streamlining clearer pathways to opportunities.

• Sarah Cunningham, American Council on Education
• Jeffrey Harmon, Thomas Edison State University
• Pete Rogan, Sophia Learning

Moderator: Sarah Cunningham, American Council on Education

Recognition Systems to Strengthen Community Partnerships
Room: Algiers | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Diversity/Inclusion
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
The panel will focus on the collaboration, development and implementation of student and community-led (with support from key faculty) of learning and credential pathways to support relevant and authentic workforce development. Specifically the panelists will address how participants in each initiative created a recognition system to strengthen university, employer and community partnerships focused on workforce development and digital inclusion.

• Krystal Rawls, California State University, Dominguez Hils
• Julie Keane, Participate, Inc

Moderator: Julie Keane, Participate, inc

Three Years of Research on Some College, No Credential Population: What Have We Learned?
Room: Acadia | Track: Administration | Level: Applied
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Professional
For the past few years, UPCEA and StraighterLine have been conducting studies to better understand the experiences, perspectives, and motivations of the Some College, No Credential (SCNC) population to determine how colleges and universities can encourage them to return to higher education. While the number of individuals enrolling in traditional undergraduate programs is declining, the SCNC population has ballooned to 40.4 million. This is a woefully untapped opportunity for higher education. Gain a clearer understanding of the SCNC population, what your institution can do programmatically to reengage them, and how your institution can improve its SCNC enrollment funnel.

• Amy Smith, StraighterLine
• Bruce Etter, UPCEA

Moderator: Doragnes Bradshaw, Rollins College

Transparency Matters: A Deep Dive into Credentialing Practices for Tomorrow's Market
Room: Lafayette East | Track: Leadership | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; External Advocacy
Join us to explore a case-making guide developed by JFF and Credential Engine, advocating for transparency in the workforce credential marketplace. Discover the significance of adopting Credential Transparency Description Language (CTDL) and how it ensures relevance and value for future credentialing needs. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, participants will examine the framework's impact on achieving greater transparency and integration of learning and employment records (LERs). Gain insights tailored to your context and challenges, and explore transformative approaches to empower learners, workers, employers, and educational institutions.

• Meena Naik, Jobs for the Future (JFF) Labs
• Deb Everhart, Credential Engine

Moderator: Sheila LeBlanc, University of Calgary

SESSION CANCELED: Advancing Competency-Based Education: Insights from the Launch of a K-12 Literacy Microcredential Initiative
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
Explore the Flamingo Literacy Micro-Credential, a competency-based online professional development initiative tailored for educators from Birth-Grade 12. This session delves into the program's structure, challenges, and impact on educational practice, providing insights from course data and participant experiences. Educators will learn about the program's benefits, including stipends and continuing education credentials, and engage in discussions to enhance their understanding and application of microcredentialing in professional settings.

• Bryn Humphrey, University of Florida
• Amanda Wilson, University of Florida

Moderator: Mieke Ridderhof, Drieam

A Pilot for a Proposed Southeastern Talent Ecosystem Talent
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
AACRAO is assisting two US states (Tennessee and Alabama) with a pilot to demonstrate digital and semantic interoperability by enabling learners to share their credentials across state boundaries and using different and independent wallet/credential platforms. This session will describe the status of the interstate pilot and the intersection of that work with international credential evaluation process.

• Mark McConahay, AACRAO
• Kimberly Wilson Linson, Level Data, LLC

Moderator: Julia Pomerenk, University of Oregon

All Together Now: Developing Microcredential Partnerships with Purpose
Room: Carollton | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Professional
In this workshop, facilitators will engage participants in hands-on activities to help discover the value of partnerships with purpose as part of their institutions’ microcredential vision and strategy. From partnering with other educational institutions or external providers, employers, regional workforce boards, community-based organizations, or other external organizations, as well as internal colleagues, participants will consider the elements that make partnerships work to advance learners’ opportunities and ensure the value of an institution’s microcredential initiatives. During the session, participants will explore the use a partnership planning tool that may help them generate partnerships with purpose.

• Melanie Booth, HLC Credential Lab
• Laura Pedrick, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
• Erica Noll Crawford, Miami University

Moderator: Laurel Hogue, University of Central Missouri

Blurring the Lines for the Win: Noncredit Microcredential Alignment with Credit for Prior Learning
Room: Acadia | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Stakeholder Engagement
In this session, presenters will share how a regional, comprehensive university has partnered with regional employers and organizations to create customized online and hybrid programs. Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has partnered with two of the region’s largest employers, Lee Health and the School District of Lee County, to create a series of programs to address skills gaps related to professional skills, educator credentials, and leadership at varying levels of the organizations. The FGCU Continuing Education digital badge model begins with development, in which university and employer partners collaborate to infuse organizational content into online modules developed by FGCU faculty. Further, faculty align competencies and skills with student learning outcomes in credit-bearing courses at the baccalaureate and graduate levels. Hear from the institutional collaborators who worked with education and healthcare leaders to identify skills gaps, desired competencies, and meaningful assessments to help upskill and reskill the existing workforce.

• Kristen Vanselow, Florida Gulf Coast University
• Tifarah Pardue, Florida Gulf Coast University

Moderator: Ginny Garayta, Anthology

Converging Pathways: Innovations in Industry-Related Credit for Prior Learning at the University of North Texas
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
Join us in this interactive session where we delve into the intricacies of establishing and implementing a robust Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) program tailored to industry-related learning. The University of North Texas (UNT) CPL landscape aligns academic rigor with industry relevance. Through a committee-driven approach, UNT has developed a streamlined process that not only upholds institutional and accreditation standards but also fosters rapid innovation. This session will showcase practical use cases of CPL implementation, ranging from partnerships with online learning platforms to customized corporate training initiatives. Participants will gain insights into crafting CPL policies, navigating partnerships, and maximizing the potential of CPL for academic and industry collaboration.

• Samantha Nikolai, University of North Texas
• Brenda Kihl, University of North Texas
• Shari Schwartz, University of North Texas

Moderator: Clayton Dean, Ziplines Education

Developing a Common Understanding of Credentials Across the University of Illinois System
Room: Algiers | Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Entrepreneurial Initiative
The University of Illinois System formed a working group charged with developing standardized language and understanding of non-degree credentials. This group was composed of diverse university stakeholders from three decentralized institutions. We engaged in a collaborative process cataloging and analyzing existing credentials, to develop a common language that captures the subtleties of various credentials. The panel will offer recommendations to broaden the conversation on non-degree credentialing in the academic community, based on lessons from the working group. This initiative exemplifies the complexities and potential of cross-institutional collaboration in higher education as a precursor to implementation of accepted language and strategies.

• Brian Clevenger, University of Illinois Springfield
• Sarah Gantz, University of Illinois System
• Layne Morsch, University of Illinois Springfield
• Jorge Villegas, University of Illinois Springfield

Moderator: Vickie Cook, University of Illinois Springfield

Enhancing Credit for Prior Learning with Micro-Credentials and Micro-Pathways
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Administration | Level: Applied |
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
Alamo Colleges District is combining the use of microcredentials, such as articulation badges and professional certificates, with micro-pathways to improve and enhance Credit for Prior Learning. Leveraging CPL as both enrollment and retention strategies, the District not only aims to accelerate the acquisition of degrees and credentials of value by learners, the District is also able to lean into legislatively set goals to better position Texas residents for high demand, high wage careers. We’ll also share how we partner with registrar and admissions teams, and colleagues from our five, independently accredited colleges, to make CPL a reality for our learners.

• Peter Thorsett, Alamo Colleges District
• Amber O'Casey, Alamo Colleges District

Moderator: Melanie O'Hara, StraighterLine

Leveraging Lightcast Data to Support Upskilling and Reskilling Through Innovative Credentials
Room: La Salle | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Digital Technology
The rapid turnover of skills in the U.S. job market underscores the pressing need for upskilling and reskilling and higher education institutions must effectively launch and market credentials to meet this demand. Explore how Gies College of Business utilized Lightcast labor market data for this purpose. Through labor market analysis and career pathway mapping, Gies promoted their new, innovative graduate certificate programs. Gain strategies and insights for leveraging Lightcast, and other labor market data for career-aligned program development and marketing.

• Chera LaForge, University of Illinois
• Morgan Halpert, Lightcast

Moderator: Jill Pippin, SUNY Oswego

Policy and Compliance Considerations for Alternative Credentials
Room: Audubon | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Faculty Experience
Imagine a Venn diagram of regulatory compliance and risk considerations for traditional versus alternative credentials. How large is the shared middle? Has it shrunk or expanded in recent years? While many institutions of higher education are starting to invest more time and attention to governance efforts for alternative credentials, the general perception of alternative credentials as more experimental, lower risk, and less in need of institutional oversight persists. In this session, the presenters will outline key compliance and policy considerations for alternative credentials (e.g., consumer protections, data reporting, tax, privacy, copyright, accessibility, quality assurance, etc.), with an emphasis on open online courses and programs, which arguably introduce the most risk. The presenters will also share updates regarding recent federal and state policymaking efforts that are likely to impact the alternative credential space in the years ahead. In addition, the presenters will share resources and best practices concerning policy creation and implementation efforts that address these concerns while continuing to promote innovation.

• Richard LaFosse, University of Michigan
• Erika Swain, University of Colorado Boulder

Moderator: Paul Huckett, Johns Hopkins University

Stop & Share #1
Room: Lafayette East

Stop & Share sessions are hosted during one concurrent session in a large room with multiple tables, Stop & Share presenters will each have their own table, as well as a slide template of up to six slides, uploaded to the app and for presentation (on rotation) on their own laptop or tablet, to allow brief, synchronous conversations with attendees stopping in and milling about. Each informal conversation will center around a hot topic, best practice, or technological innovation.

Moderator: Noah Geisel, University of Colorado Boulder

Academia and Industry Convergence: A Process for Leveraging Industry Advisory Councils in Programming, AI, and Skills Mapping
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
In response to increasing employee attrition, college leadership collaborated with an Industry Advisory Council (IAC) to close the academia-to-industry skills gap. We devised a four-phased process integrating foundational curricular content, employer-demanded skills, and emerging AI proficiencies. We constructed a comprehensive program map aligning program student learning outcomes, course student learning outcomes, program level skills, course level skills, program level AI skills, and course level AI skills. This map guided us in enhancing courses to blend academic and industry-specific knowledge. Our initiative serves as a model for institutions seeking to refine program and/or credential development, maintenance, and assessment strategies.

• Jacquelyn Kelly, University of Phoenix

Alternative Credentials as a Route to Reskilling Underserved Communities: The Intersection of Government, Academia and the Technology Sector
Track: Administration | Level: Applied |
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
This session will delve into the transformative potential of alternative credentials as a critical pathway to reskilling and upskilling underserved communities, emphasizing collaborative efforts between government, academia, and the technology sector under the umbrella of the US Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). It will also draw on the success and learnings of similar initiatives in other countries including the UK Department for Education’s National Skills Fund and Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF) in France.

• Riaz Moola, HyperionDev

Bridging the Gap of Non-traditional Programs at a Traditional Campus and then Bringing it International
Track: Administration | Level: Foundational |
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
The session will provide a brief overview of what a competency-based model (CBE) is and a historical understanding of how Northern Arizona University (NAU) launched its CBE model, which is a non-standard term model, on a standard-term campus. The session will discuss the challenges this faced with the operations with the Registrar’s office and how we overcame those challenges within our campus stakeholders. In addition, the progression we'll exaine how this program evolved once it partnered with an international education group in China, providing a model for students studying in China, in their own language, utilizing NAU’s CBE programs.

• Brynn Schichtel, Northern Arizona University

Building Bridges: Constructing Student Success Through Credentialing and Employer Engagement
Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
The demand for specialized skills is soaring, driving the rise of microcredentials to equip students with targeted competencies. This session dives into stackable credentials' trends, exploring how institutions can use them to meet learners' and employers' needs. However, microcredentials are just part of the solution. Building strong connections with community employers is crucial. Discover innovative strategies for engagement, from comprehensive partnerships to communication development. Join us to uncover actionable insights for bridging academia and community employers, empowering students for success in today's job market. This session promises to inspire and inform about navigating the evolving landscape of credentials and employer engagement.

• Karina Kogan, EducationDynamics

Creating Stackable Pathways with In-Demand Certifications
Track: Administration | Level: Applied |
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Stakeholder Engagement
This session will share how institutions can quickly deliver workforce-aligned certifications to increase learner employability, deepen skills-based credit and noncredit learning offerings, and reduce the challenges of learners who are looking for high-quality online credential options.

• Sarah MacDonald, Acadeum

Delivering Comprehensive and Meaningful Credentials through Standards and Credential Wallet Partnerships
Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
A conversation about how and why institutions should use LER standards like CLR to map and deliver student records for students in quantifiable and verifiable formats. We will dive into what CLRs and related standards are, an example of how they've been implemented at University of Phoenix, and a demonstration of how and why they can be adopted in a Talent Passport by individuals and presented to employers, by Gobekli Inc.

• Danny Done, Gobekli Inc.
• Kelly Hoyland, 1EdTech
• Doris Savron, University of Phoenix

Help Me Help You: Best Practices in Bridging the Gap Between Higher Education and Workforce
Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
Partnerships are critical to help bridge the chasm between the world of higher education and the skills needed to be successful in the workplace. Often, these two groups speak a different language! However, there are critical best practices that both universities and corporations can adopt to focus on the most important aspect, the learners.

• Charlotte Bencaz, D2L

Microcredentials Employers Crave
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Digital Technology
Are your courses stacking up for employers? What tools do you use to guide your learners to meaningful work? How are you equipping them with the digital data that Learning & Employment Records require? The Mississippi Online Workforce College and the Technical College System of Georgia have developed rich stacks of courseware that are aligned to job roles and recognized by local employers. Their programs empower learners to advance their education while keeping a firm eye on the world of work. And each program deploys badged pathways to help learners stay engaged, while equipping them with that crucial digital data.

• Elizabeth Miller, Instructure
• Michael Trest, Jones College

Non-Traditional Learners Offer Growth for PSE: Accelerating CPL Through College Informed AI CPL Solution
Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
KnowMeQ, an Ed-Tech company from Toronto, Canada built its innovative AI Credit for Prior Learning solution with internationally recognized AI not-for-profit, the Vector Institute, with input from faculty members, support staff and senior leaders from colleges in The United States and Canada. Presenters will discuss pilots of the solution at colleges in Canada and the United States, and showcase successes, key learning, and opportunities that the tool can offer that will benefit colleges, and their new learner populations.

• Matt Foran, KnowMeQ
• Michelle Head, Kennesaw State University

Retaining Alternative Credential Learners: Effective Community Strategies
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Online communities are essential for successful credential programs, addressing learners' feelings of isolation, disconnectedness from institutions, and uncertainty about career relevance. This talk delves into leveraging online communities to foster belonging, vital for learner retention. Research shows a strong sense of belonging correlates with higher retention rates. By facilitating peer support and reinforcing relevance, these communities enhance student engagement and commitment to their credentials. Moreover, they encourage learners to reflect on their credential's significance, driving motivation and effort. Join the discussion on how strategic community integration can transform credential programs, boosting learner success and institutional outcomes.

• Terry Randolph, Yellowdig

Steering Success: Governance Strategies for Undergraduate Certificate Initiatives
Track: Leadership | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; External Advocacy
Two members of the university registrar’s office discuss a model for governing credit-bearing undergraduate certificate programs. This session will be interactive for participants to learn from one another, and bring new ideas about the world of alternative credentials back to your institutions.

• Renée Kamauf, Yale University
• Beth Baumgartel, Yale University

Bringing Trusted Credential Insights Into Focus
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Stakeholder Engagement
Strada Education Foundation is partnering with Workcred, SkillUp Coalition, and many other organizations to launch a new nonprofit data trust (name to be disclosed at a later date) that will deliver actionable insights to issuers, policy-makers, employers, learners, and the general public. The new data trust will bridge the information gap on the impact of industry-based, professional, and workforce credentials, enabling informed decisions and fostering a more transparent and effective education and workforce system.

• Jon Furr, Strada Education Foundation
• Roy Swift, WorkCred
• Steve Lee, SkillUp Coalition
• Stacy Caldwell, Strada Education Foundation

Moderator: Tina Deneen, AACRAO

Empowering Learner Skill-Based Storytelling Through Leveraging Digital Credential Wallets and Comprehensive Learner Records
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Registrar | Level: Foundational | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
This presentation will highlight workflows that the University of Texas System uses to pilot and grow its use of digital credential wallets and comprehensive learner records among its students and alumni pursuing industry-recognized credentials in courses and co-curricular pathways.

• Kelvin Bentley, University of Texas System
• Kimberly Tate, University of Texas Arlington
• Tiffany Robinson, University of Texas San Antonio
• Keith Look, Territorium

Moderator: Darin Hobbs, Western Governors University

Leveraging AI for Skills Extraction & Research (LAiSER)
Room: Algiers | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Stakeholder Engagement
Skills are the language of education and workforce but we all speak different dialects. We demonstrate LAiSER, an open source process that leverages new AI technology, to help make sense of complex, human readable skills information for analysis and linking. This session will explain how the process works, present a number of test cases from around the US, and discuss the implications of democratizing skills data in a world of walled data gardens.

• Micah Sanders, George Washington University
• Kyle Albert, George Washington University
• Sam Shi, Northern Virginia Community College
• Rebecca Busacca, The National Accreditation Commission

Moderator: Kyle Albert, George Washington University

Microcredential Growth: Taking Microcredentials to the Masses
Room: Lafayette East | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Stakeholder Engagement
After a three-year pilot at Oregon State University where microcredentials were offered online only and in a limited capacity, the university evaluated the success of the pilot and determined that offering microcredentials to all students in all modalities is worth the investment in growing the program. Come learn about the outcomes of the pilot program, the processes used to evaluate and determine growth, and the next steps as we expand microcredential offerings to all students.

• Rebecca Mathern, Oregon State University
• Jarrell Townsend, Oregon State University
• Lisa Templeton, Oregon State University

Moderator: Lee Maxey, MindMax

Miles to Go: The Journey of Credential As You Go
Room: Carrollton | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Learner Experience
For the past five years, Credential As You Go has been working across multiple states, institutions, and organizations to build a fairer credentialing system that formally recognizes learning along the way through many types of incremental credentials. Over the last 3 years, data have been collected on over 150 credentials. During this session presenters will share information and engage participants in discussions regarding results, data issues, and credentialing stories from the field. In addition, we will present an evolving matrix developed from our lessons learned on critical factors impacting incremental credentialing implementation.

• Melissa Goldberg, Corporation for a Skilled Workforce
• Nan Travers, SUNY Empire State University
• Holly Zanville, George Washington University

Moderator: Anne Innis, University of Utah

Supporting Global Continuing Education with Digital Credentials at MIT Professional Education
Room: Acadia | Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; External Advocacy
With the rise in demands for more accessible and flexible learning opportunities, the onus has shifted to higher education institutions to cater to individual learner preferences, guide them on their educational journey, and demonstrate how courses align with their career goals. MIT Professional Education has done just that. The team implemented digital credentials and course recommendations resulting in increased learner engagement; over 90% of issued credentials have learner engagement. Join presenters as they explore how MIT is meeting these changing demands by using digital credentials to engage learners, promote continuous learning, and drive program growth.

• Dan Theckston, Accredible
• Myriam Joseph, MIT

Moderator: Deborah Silver, Rutgers University

Surfacing Marketable Skills at Scale with Innovation, Interoperability, and Digital Credentials
Room: La Salle | Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
Students are mastering skills through curriculum and activities along their academic journey; however, they are not always drawing connections to broader marketable skills essential for academic and workforce success. Join us to learn how San Antonio College and Alamo Colleges District partnered to increase student awareness of marketable skills attainment through student learning outcomes assessment and aligned digital badge pathways by implementing an interoperable solution that awarded 120K+ marketable skills badges to 8,000+ learners.

• Rosalind Ong, San Antonio College
• Amber O'Casey, Alamo Colleges District

Moderator: Jason Smith, Anthology

Try Before You Buy: Leveraging Pre-Admission Pathways
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Administration | Level: Applied |
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
Discover how earned admissions pathways, open content courses, and continuing education short-courses can entice prospective students to experience university life firsthand. Learn how these pathways seamlessly convert to college credit, allowing students to make tangible progress toward their degrees before formal admission. Through case studies and real-world examples, uncover the transformative potential of breaking down traditional barriers to entry and empowering learners to take control of their educational journey. Join us in reimagining admissions and expanding access to higher education.

• Courtney Brafford, The University of Memphis
• Tracy Robinson, The University of Memphis
• Angela Martin, The University of Memphis

Moderator: Joe Mullen, MindEdge

SESSION CANCELED: Alternative Credentials as Affordable Pathways to Degrees
Room: Audubon | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Diversity/Inclusion
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Professional
This panel conversation will highlight the access and affordability aspect of alternative credentials as exemplified in the noncredit to credit pathways from reputable, selective institutions. Drawing from the experience of panelists, we will discuss the faculty governance, institutional systems, and change management that enabled these pathways and identify opportunities for broader impact.

• Ronnie Godshalk, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Noah Geisel, University of Colorado-Boulder

Moderator: Yakut Gazi, Duke University

Noncredit to Credit Pathways: Systems, Processes, Policies
Room: Audubon
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Advocacy and Leadership
Explore the evolving landscape of noncredit to credit pathways in higher education. This panel discussion will delve into the systems, processes, and policies that enable institutions to create seamless transitions for students moving from noncredit to credit-bearing programs. Join us as we examine the opportunities and challenges in implementing these pathways, and discuss innovative strategies to enhance student success and institutional effectiveness.

• Tina DeNeen, AACRAO

Moderator: Quintina Barnett Gallion, AACRAO

Collaborations for Quality: From Educational Providers, to Microcredentials, to Outcomes
Room: Lafayette East
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
There are increasing microcredential offerings, along with an expanding set of microcredential providers, emerging in the postsecondary learning and skills marketplace. These myriad offerings and providers aim to address the chasms between higher education and employers, and to help advance lifelong learning to a larger set of learners than are currently being served. However, there is also an urgency to design for and assure quality and desired learner outcomes (academic, employment, social, and economic), and the necessity to dramatically improve transparency in the ever-expanding microcredential marketplace. Moderated by UPCEA, this panel will host representatives from three leading organizations that are working in the quality assurance space for non-degree microcredentials will share their individual organizational approaches to address the quality assurance and transparency need, as well as the ways they are contemplating layering their approaches to form a stronger microcredential quality assurance system.

• Jon Furr, Strada
• Kelly Hoyland, 1EdTech
• Melanie Booth, HLC Credential Lab

Moderator: Bob Hansen, UPCEA

How Do I Get There from Here? Moving Credential Programs Forward at your Institution
Room: Broadmoor
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Advocacy and Leadership
Explore the latest UPCEA resources designed to advance credential programs at your institution. Supported by a grant from the Walmart Foundation, this session delves into the comprehensive research, practical playbook, and actionable learning strategies developed over the past year. Learn how to effectively leverage these tools to enhance and expand your credential offerings, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of learners and the workforce. Join us for an insightful discussion on navigating the path to successful credential program implementation and growth.

• Aaron Brower, UPCEA
• Benjamin Brand, University of North Texas
• Claire Sullivan, University of Maine System

Moderator: Stacy Chiaramonte, UPCEA

My Mom Has No Idea What I Do for a Living: Effective Credentialing Comms
Room: Carrollton
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: External Advocacy; Digital Technology
Aside from explaining what all this “stuff” means to students, faculty, staff, employers and other key stakeholders, most of us working in the space of credentials innovation are challenged to explain what we do to our own families. We have a communication problem! This panel with over 25 years of combined badging experience will share specific examples of their successes (and failures!) in effectively communicating to various audiences, and engaging participants in a collaborative Communications Plan design activity that can help make sure that your messages are shared with the right messaging.

• Hilary Culbertson, Duke University
• Peter Thorsett, Alamo Colleges Online

Moderator: Noah Geisel, University of Colorado Boulder

Understanding our Learners: Intentionality and Inclusivity in Microcredential Programs
Room: Fountainbleau
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Advocacy and Leadership
Join the UPCEA Diversity & Inclusive Excellence Committee for a lunchtime discussion that explores the intersections of microcredentials, diversity, and inclusion. Discussants will tee up two topics and encourage participants to share their experiences and thoughts. We will conclude each conversation by highlighting table-level epiphanies for room considerations. We will discuss microcredential data--how do we know who we are serving and if we are serving them well, and a learner is a learner is a learner--inclusivity in non-degree programs.

• Mili Maldonado, Universidad Del Sagrado Corazón
• Fatimah Wirth, Georgia Institute of Technology
• Pamela Wimbush, California State University Sacramento

Moderator: Julie Uranis, UPCEA

What Employers Really Want, and How Colleges Can Realistically Deliver, Hosted by the UPCEA Council for Credential Innovation
Room: Lafayette West
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Entrepreneurial Initiative
This dynamic conversation with employers will draw from the significant research for the new book "Who Needs College, Anymore?" wherein the author argues that many employers, in the dawning age of skills-first hiring, care more about experience than they care about the degree, particularly in fields where they can see apprentices and interns in action, and can judge candidates by certifications. In panel format, this program will examine what models exist for how colleges can place experience first, how colleges can compete in this changing landscape, and how institutions can move forward with realistic plans to move toward skills-first hiring.

• Allison Ruda, Northeastern University
• Mike Macklin, Colorado Community College System

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Industry Insights
Room: Algiers
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
Industry Insights is a series of curated, short, extemporaneous presentations shared in succession by UPCEA’s and AACRAO’s highest level corporate partners. Each presentation will offer a quickfire introduction of an idea, challenge, solution, or product of critical import to the field of credential innovation, and each partner will offer thought leadership and resources on respective themes for attendees’ further consideration. Presenters will share valuable insights and expertise on current trends, emergent products, and/or original research, helping move the field of alternative credentials forward via takeaways, solutions, and innovative practices. All attendees are welcomed, regardless of positionality or organizational type.

Moderator: Charles McGinnis, Goodwin University

Microcredentials: Your Path to Student Success & Program Growth
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
95% of employers state a résumé listing microcredentials benefited the candidate, and over 73% reported hires with alternative credentials helped their organization fill a skill gap and improve their workforce. That said, even with the market momentum, not every microcredential carries the credibility students need to progress in their careers. Only programs that design learning pathways that engage students, incentivize capstone completion, and connect skills with career outcomes will earn the reputation needed to grow. In this session, you’ll learn how leading programs are using learning pathways and stackable microcredentials to increase engagement and completion rates and guide students to career success.

• Rochelle Ramirez, Accredible

Empowering Career Changers and Continuing Education Students with Professional Certifications
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Stakeholder Engagement
This presentation demonstrates how professional certifications and micro-credentials can benefit higher education institutions by providing flexible, industry-relevant educational pathways for career changers and continuing education students. By integrating these solutions, universities can enhance employability, address skill gaps, and support professional growth. The presentation highlights the importance of aligning curricula with industry standards, offering flexible learning options, and providing robust career services. It encourages educational leaders to adopt alternative credentials to meet industry demands, support student success, and improve the institution's appeal.

• Jeff Angle, ISACA

Adding Value to Higher Education with Credentials that Count
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
The higher education landscape is rapidly evolving, with alternative credentials emerging as valuable options alongside traditional degrees to support employability after graduation. So much so that the alternative credentials market for higher education is estimated to grow by nearly $3 billion between 2023 and 2028 (Technavio, Nov 23). In this session we’ll explore how departments can leverage digital credentials to meet student expectations around course flexibility and in-demand skill development to boost their employability.

• Jay Williams, Credly by Pearson

The Strategic Relevance of Alternative Credentials
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Will discuss the evolution of non-credit programming from a cash-cow afterthought to strategic diversification necessary for survival. I will outline my 20-year observations about the evolution of what has worked and what hasn't. Will propose factors/approaches necessary to succeed in the near term for launching and promoting alternative credentials.

• Lee Maxey, MindMax

How to Build a Flexible Alternative/Micro-Credential Content Model that Moves with the Pace of Industry
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Entrepreneurial Initiative
In today’s fast-paced higher education landscape, updating course content is challenging and resource-intensive. With adult learners seeking industry-specific, short-form content, and universities relying on continuing education for revenue, agile micro-credentials are essential. This session offers practical insights on creating flexible, industry-aligned content models. Attendees will learn strategies to tackle common challenges, maintain program relevance, and drive improved learner outcomes, ensuring sustained enrollment growth.

• Sara Leoni, Ziplines Education

Alternative Credentials Get Digital: Boosting Impact for Learners & Institutions
Room: Lafayette East | Track: Registrar | Level: Foundational | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
Maximize the benefits of your alternative credential programs! This session will discuss how linking them to digital badges and learner records can improve verification, portability, and value. Explore the advantages for institutions (simplified verification, data insights) and learners (greater visibility, career advancement). Gain practical strategies for implementation and empower your learners with the advantages of digital credentials.

• Chris Davis, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Tyson Heath, Western Governors University
• Rob Coyle, 1EdTech Consortium

Moderator: Sarah Schultz, Michigan State University

Empowering Educators: Crafting a Path with Microcedentials
Room: Carrollton | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Faculty Experience
In the dynamic landscape of U.S. education, the integration of microcredentials presents both promise and challenge. This presentation encapsulates key takeaways and lessons learned from an initiative aimed at constructing microcredentials within a university’s college of education. The active involvement of college representatives as willing partners fosters a collaborative environment drawing from diverse perspectives for both a core development team and an advisory board while navigating the complexities of building a new governance approval process for noncredit programming.

• Alicia Jenner, Michigan State University
• Kristine Bowman, Michigan State University

Moderator: Daniel Kalef, Green Flower

Empowering Life-Long Learning: Amplifying Student Educational Experiences and Success with Universal Competencies and Dynamic CLR
Room: La Salle | Track: Registrar | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
In the pursuit of higher education, obtaining a degree is just the tip of the iceberg. The educational journey is a transformative experience that encompasses knowledge acquisition, personal growth, and skill development. The University of Georgia (UGA) emphasizes how education equips students with not only a credential but also a set of competencies crucial for success in life. Through a dynamic CLR, students articulate skills essential for lifelong learning and successful transition to careers and beyond.

• Fiona Liken, University of Georgia
• Shefali Dhar, University of Georgia

Moderator: Rita Peaster, Oklahoma State University

From Task Force, to Road Show, to Recommendations: NC State’s Journey toward an Enterprise Framework for Non-Degree Credentials
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Stakeholder Engagement
Drawing on stakeholders from across NC State’s campus, the Provost charged a Task Force with examining the potential for non-degree offerings at an enterprise scale. Nine recommendations emerged from this Task Force ranging from the creation of guiding principles to a consideration of essential resources, relevant policies and stakeholder engagement. In this presentation, we will share our process, framework, and our current progress in moving forward on the nine recommendations.

• Donna Petherbridge, North Carolina State University
• Mark Bernhard, North Carolina State University
• Helen Chen, North Carolina State University
• Dan Gerger, North Carolina State University

Moderator: Pamela Wimbush, California State University, Sacramento

Getting Ready for Lift Off: Launching Microcredentials with Faculty as Navigators
Room: Acadia | Track: Leadership | Level: Applied | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
This dynamic session will review steps taken after a microcredential is created with faculty at the wheel. Learn what happens after a microcredential is taxied through governance and then moves down the runway. This session will review how to work with campus partners and faculty to navigate delays and receive clearance for takeoff. Learn about the second portion of the process of getting microcredential programs off the ground.

• Jill Pippin, SUNY Oswego
• Karen Archibee, SUNY Oswego

Moderator: Tatum Thomas, DePaul University

Identify, Quantify, and Execute: Building Market-driven Alternative Credentials that Create Pathways to Academic Programs
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Digital Technology
Join us for a dynamic program on new product development for non-degree offerings. Discover strategies to identify viable opportunities aligned with learner and employer demand, gain institutional alignment, and navigate project scoping and budgeting. Learn innovative tactics for crafting engaging alternative credentials that seamlessly articulate into academic pathways, fostering continuous learning and career advancement.

• Susan Zukowski, National University
• Paul Gartzke, National University
• Luke Cable, National University

Moderator: Tracy Chapman, Collegis Education

Intention Meets Performance: Exploring Learner-Intention in a MOOC-based Alternative Credential Course
Room: Algiers | Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Professional
This session focuses on the learner intentions within an introductory statistics massive open online course (MOOC). This MOOC is the first in a series of MOOCs that earn those who complete it with an alternative credential that can be converted into 9 hours of graduate school credit. This alternative credential is an opportunity to translate informal MOOC-based learning into formal academic credit. These findings pair self-reported learner intentions with course interactions to identify patterns that can inform strategies and scaffolds to increase learner completion as they pursue their educational and career goals.

• Rob Moore, University of Florida
• Chuang Wang, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Moderator: Shauna Cox, Modern Campus

Micro-pathways: A Model to Drive Regional and Statewide Transformation Initiatives
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
This engaging session will highlight three regional and state approaches to ground-breaking micro-pathway design work in Colorado, Montana, and West Virginia to better serve learners, employers and our skills-based ecosystem. Researchers note a need for a Fifth Wave of higher education transformation to accelerate the processes of discovery, creativity, and innovation toward a skills-based economy. This requires a systemic transformation aligning postsecondary higher education systems with the needs of a new economy that is already beginning to reshape American society, and by extension, the relationship that Americans have with education and work. Education Design Lab’s Community College Growth Engine program partners with over 60 colleges/systems in 18 states to support the relationship between the future of learning and the future of work, resulting in affordable micro-pathways in high-demand, good-paying jobs. Throughout this process, colleges and systems are driving broader innovations, including competency-based education, credit for prior learning initiatives, and data collection for alternative degree options.

• Julia Spears, Marshall University
• Hilary Gibson, Marshall University
• Mike Macklin, Colorado Community College System
• Minzi Thomas, Education Design Lab
• Angela McLean, Office of the Commission of Higher Education, Montana University System

Moderator: Rachel Kahn, Education Design Lab

Convergence Talks
Room: Audubon

Convergence Talks Sessions provide a quickfire introduction of an idea by a single presenter without audience discussion, and with strict guidelines (presentation can be no longer than 6 minutes and use no more than 6 slides). Up to nine or ten Talks are scheduled in one concurrent session, in sequence, to offer attendees numerous, shallow forays into critical topics. A moderator will offer opening remarks, as well as work with Talks presenters to organize a thoughtful order of topics presented, and to ensure smooth, timed transitions between Talks.

Moderator: Ryan Torma, University of Minnesota

Credentialing Digital Skills for Workforce Readiness: A Staple for 21st Century Land-grant Institutions
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Stakeholder Engagement
This talk introduces the idea of credentialing digital skills for workforce development as a staple of the 21st century land-grant institution. Higher education plays a crucial role in workplace readiness by equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to succeed in professional settings. With advances in technology, workforce development—from trades to higher learning—requires learners to be fluent in digital competences for a comprehensive preparation to career trajectories that will drive economic growth and societal advancement. As a land-grant institution of higher education, Michigan State University is exploring the delivery of microcredentials and certifications in alternative programming to signal to employers levels of competence and qualification for workforce readiness, inside or outside the structure of the four-year traditional degree. This convergence talk introduces the idea of credentialing digital skills for workforce development as a staple of the 21st century land-grant institution.

• Sarah Gretter, Michigan State University

Empowering Faculty Excellence: A Roadmap to Effective Digital Credentialing
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Faculty Experience; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Discover the keys to launching a successful digital credentialing program for faculty. In this session, we'll explore how to navigate legal concerns, and how to align a badging initiative with university priorities and pedagogical best practices. We will provide a step-by-step guide on the badge creation process, from conceptualization to criteria definition and the actual earning of badges by faculty. Participants will leave with actionable insights into developing a program that not only recognizes faculty achievements but also enhances the educational experience for students, creating a culture of continuous improvement and recognition within the university setting.

• C. Tahnja Wilson, University of Phoenix

Leveraging Design Thinking for Credentials: Prototypes of Innovation
Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Diversity/Inclusion
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
The adoption of Design Thinking methodologies can inspire innovation within the credentialing landscape. Aimed at educators and administrative leaders, this workshop facilitates an exploration several design thinking principles to create of flexible and innovative credential systems that align with the dynamic needs of learners. Participants will engage in a series of activities, including identifying assumptions, building empathy for all stakeholders, and the development and testing of credential prototypes.  Participants will cultivate community and consider alternatives by engaging with a variety of credential models.

• Natalie Murray, University of Texas Austin

The Future of Work: Strategies for Merging AI into Workforce Credentials
Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Stakeholder Engagement
This presentation examines the revolutionary impact of AI technologies and how UTSA PaCE has leveraged partnerships to create AI micocredentials focused on diverse workforce industries. This presentation will; a) showcase three different workforce industries and the strategies used to leverage course curriculum; b) determine potential partnerships within diverse workforce industries; and c) and showcase how to leverage AI technologies for workforce professional and continuing education programs.

• Melissa Vito, The University of Texas at San Antonio

Build Internal Business Processes that are Good for Business
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Registrar | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Professional
Join the discussion on how governance and policies can be supported with structured data; how to create processes that save time, money, and headaches; and how to build resilient, transparent, and scalable systems around alternative credentials. Panelists will discuss innovative strategies that bring together the Registrar’s office and Continuing Education teams to visualize and deploy a centralized system that enables quality assurance, stability, and scalability of alternative credentials across the institution.

• Noah Geisel, University of Colorado Boulder
• Rebecca Mathern, Oregon State University

Moderator: Erin McCord Savidge, CourseLeaf

Defining and Validating Skills: A Panel Discussion
Room: Carrollton | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
This conversation with industry, government, and higher education partners will discuss their perspectives on defining and validating skills to be most useful for learner/earners and other stakeholders in the skill-based ecosystem.

• Bryan Blakeley, University of Washington
• Josephine Lang, University of Melbourne

Moderator: Bryan Blakeley, University of Washington

Leveraging Alternative Credentials to Build AI Literacy and Skills
Room: Audubon | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Entrepreneurial Initiative
In an era transformed by artificial intelligence, developing AI literacy and skills has never been more important. How can alternative credentials help bridge this gap? This session outlines strategies for creating high-impact AI microcredentials for students, educators, and adult professionals. Through case studies from Auburn University, University of North Texas, and Vanderbilt University, we explore various credential designs and distribution methods. We show how microcredentials can imbed AI skills within broader ethical frameworks and across the curriculum, thus preparing learners for the AI-driven economy and empowering them to be responsible AI citizens.

• Asim Ali, Auburn University
• Amanda Harding, Vanderbilt University
• Benjamin Brand, University of North Texas

Moderator: Rochelle Ramirez, Accredible

Maximizing Potential: What New Research Says about the Relationship between AI, Learner Outcomes and Learner Records
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
This session, based on collaborative research between UPCEA and Instructure, examines AI’s impact on learner outcomes and comprehensive learner records. We will explore institutional perspectives around effectiveness of key technological tools such as Learning Management Systems (LMS), Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, and how they may be impacted by AI. The session aims to equip institutional decision-makers with actionable strategies to leverage AI, ensuring improved learner outcomes and robust learner records for online and professional education students.

• Bruce Etter, UPCEA
• Melissa Loble, Instructure

Moderator: Thomas Ohlenforst, Eduframe by Drieam

Strategy, Supporting and Implementing Microcredentials in the Wild West
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
Learn how the Maricopa County Community College District has implemented a forward thinking strategy to develop system-wide governance, infrastructure, policies and procedures to support microcredentials at the college, system and state-wide level. In alignment with the District's strategic plan, a proof of concept was leveraged to inform the creation of the infrastructure, governance, learner recognition and service models aligned with credentialing and alternative education. As this work has developed, the foundation is being used to develop state-wide microcredentials, including the governance and infrastructure aligned with healthcare areas across six community college districts in Arizona.

• Lisa Young, Maricopa Community Colleges
• Rochelle Rivas, Maricopa Community Colleges
• Janelle Elias, Rio Salado College

Moderator: Lisa Young, Maricopa Community Colleges

The Backwards and Forward Design of a Stackable Microcredential
Room: La Salle | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Digital Technology
In today's rapidly changing job market, the demand for adaptable credentials is high. Stackable microcredentials can offer targeted skills aligned with industry needs but crafting them requires a strategic blend of backward and forward design principles informed by historical and career destination data. This presentation explores the process by which the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign developed a novel microcredential that aligned learning outcomes and industry trends, with an eye towards scalability. The approach will showcase how institutions can adapt existing curriculum to meet employer needs with a stackable, scalable credential.

• Jean Starobin, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• Chera LaForge, University of Illinois

Moderator: Nathan Lippe, Coursera

Upskilling New-Traditional Learners: Stackable Credential Perspectives of a US Community College and a UK University to Foster Lifelong Learning
Room: Algiers | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
The future of continuing education is centered around alternative and stackable credentials to meet learners' evolving needs and improve their workforce employability. Discover perspectives from both sides of the pond in rolling out alternative credentials to boost lifelong learning with the University of St. Andrews (UK) and Online Workforce College (US). Join this insightful panel discussion for actionable insights on scaling two different alternative credentials models and empowering non-traditional learners to adapt to their (local) workforce needs.

• Michael Trest, Jones College
• Andrew Wilson, University of St. Andrews
• Thomas Ohlenforst, Drieam

Rountable Sessions
Room: Lafayette East

Roundtable Sessions are 25 to 30-minute 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 (up to 9 attendees can fit at each table), and promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective tables’ 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: Amanda Welsh, Northeastern University

Bachelor’s+ Program: Workforce-ready Certificate Program
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
It can take, on average, 18 months for new employees, especially new engineering graduates, to make a significant contribution due to the lack the applied knowledge and skills. In response, the Texas A&M University Office of Workforce Development in the College of Engineering, in partnership with a state-wide technical college, developed Bachelor’s+. Students obtain applied skills and workforce certificates, in a variety of hands-on, noncredit courses in the summer. During this session, participants will hear from two people who worked on both sides of this unique professional education program. Come learn the ins and outs and how to replicate it on your campus.

• Amy Vance, Texas A&M University

Bridging the Digital Divide: The Importance of Tech-Inclusive Learning and Industry Credentials to Effectively Upskill and Reskill Today’s Workforce
Track: Administration | Level: Foundational
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
Discover how 95% of U.S. companies use technology platforms, yet 76% of global workers feel unprepared to effectively use these digital tools, highlighting a significant skills gap that presents challenges for the workforce and businesses alike. This session, featuring leaders from four entities will explore strategies and gain actionable steps for launching tech-inclusive credentials to meet the growing market demand.

• Teri Markle, University of Denver
• Rebecca Cook, University of Arizona
• Sara Leoni, Ziplines Education

Evolving the Learning and Employment Ecosystem in Higher Education
Track: Leadership | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
When higher education and industry align on skills, everyone wins. Learners achieve and demonstrate industry-needed skills, educators promote the value of their “brand” and back it with marketable outcomes (graduations, hires), and employers hire better-qualified employees and retain them longer. Why and how should US Higher Education get involved in new innovative credentials to support this vision? This session will explore the history and rationale for such involvement.

• Rick Goldgar, IBM
• Mark McConahay, AACRAO

How UNT Uses Digital Communities to Connect Online Learners and Increase Persistence
Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
Discover how the University of North Texas (UNT) successfully leveraged a digital community platform to significantly enhance student engagement and achieve a 13% increase in persistence rates among online learners. This presentation covers the strategic implementation and remarkable outcomes of UNT's initiative to foster a vibrant online community, offering actionable insights for educators seeking to improve online student experiences.

• Samantha Nikolai, University of North Texas
• Katy Kappler, InScribe

Innovative Strategies for Global Education: The Role of Microcredentials in Empowering Learners
Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Digital Technology
Explore how microcredentials provide flexible, accessible pathways for skill acquisition and career advancement worldwide. Join industry experts as they delve into key aspects of microcredentialing, including recognition of informal learning, stackability, and industry relevance. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights into the evolving landscape of credentialing and its impact on lifelong learning and workforce development.

• Brandi Massarotti, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana
• Ivette Chavez, ISACA

Preparing for Institutional Success with Microcredential Initiatives
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Stakeholder Engagement
Academic institutions are responding to skills-based hiring trends by offering short-term microcredentials. However, this shift presents challenges. Institutions must align with industry needs, vet and purchase credentialing technology, allocate resources effectively, and establish policies to name a few. Join us as we present creative solutions to mapping, developing, and implementing stacking credentialing opportunities through collaborative efforts at your institution.

• Karen Solomon, Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Mo Riedy, Miami University
• Jenny Parks, Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC)

The Future of Work is Circular: How Industry and Academia are Co-Creating Credentials for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
In today’s educational landscape, learners seek practical workforce preparation. Academic-industry partnerships provide enhanced learning experiences to students by aligning curricula and assessments to the skills and knowledge valued by employers. “Design for the Circular Economy” is a graduate-level certificate co-developed by the University of Colorado, Boulder, and Siemens Digital Industries Software, offered on the Coursera platform. This program offers specific skills valued by employers, an option for graduate-level credit, and an industry-recognized digital badge. In this presentation, we’ll share strategies for combining each entities’ key objectives and discuss the value added when higher education collaborates with a professional industry.

• Kayla Kohake, University of Colorado, Boulder
• Christy Bozic, University of Colorado, Boulder
• Janelle Simmonds, Siemens Digital Industries Software

The Immersions Blueprint: Collaborative Microcredentialing for Tomorrow’s Workforce
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
Join us to explore the Immersions program from the University of Oregon's Lundquist College of Business, an innovative microcredential program developed alongside pilot partner Lithia & Driveway and expanding across industries. This session will illuminate how this partnership has pioneered a model for integrating marketable skills development with real-world applications, enhancing student employability. You will learn about the program's experiential learning design, its benefits for students and partners, and its potential as a scalable model for supplemental microcredential innovation.

• Trish Dorman, University of Oregon

Using Microcredentials to Address Infection Prevention in Healthcare Settings
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Entrepreneurial Initiative
We partnered with our state government to develop a series of microcredentials on infection prevention targeted at employees working in long-term care facilities. Upon completion of each microcredential, participants received a digital badge. In this presentation we will discuss our partnership with the state government, describe our process for quickly developing our microcredentials, discuss our decision to use digital badges, and demonstrate how Canvas Credentials makes digital badging a seamless process.

• Melissa Kaufman, Drexel University
• Elizabeth Miller, Instructure
• Michael Edwards, Drexel University

Building a Lifelong Learning Platform Fit for a Founding Father
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
Come learn how The George Washington University has launched a lifelong learning platform to meet the shifting needs of learners. This engaging session will feature an in-depth discussion about the ins and outs of building the platform, as well as an overview of where things are heading. Attendees will have an opportunity to explore the platform, hear about our lessons learned, and see first-hand what makes our foray into lifelong learning one-of-a-kind. You also will not want to miss the special guest; here’s a hint: he is both a founding father and the namesake of our university!

• Cody House, George Washington University
• Tobias Greiff, George Washington University
• Regina Law, Noodle

Moderator: Donna Petherbridge, North Carolina State University

Creating a Stackable Branded Certificate for the World’s Largest Retailer
Room: Audubon | Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Walmart’s Live Better U (LBU) is focusing on building skills that support associates in moving into in-demand roles within Walmart and Sam’s Club. As part of this movement, the company is partnering with the University of Arkansas to produce a Walmart Certificate in Supply Chain Operations. This joint venture paired employer and institution experts to create a certificate program that provides the skills needed to make associates more hirable and stacks seamlessly into the undergraduate degree program.  Come to this session to hear from the employer and institution about the leadership it took to move this impactful project from a vision to fruition.

• Cheryl Murphy, University of Arkansas
• Chelsea Miller, Walmart, Inc.

Moderator: Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

Evolution of UMGC Microcredential Strategy
Room: Acadia | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Under the leadership of our registrar, UMGC has evolved a microcredential strategy in alignment with the strategic initiative to develop “a skills architecture that can be translated between educational and work experiences.” Leveraging the 1EdTech TrustEd Microcredentials Framework, we are implementing the fourth generation of our CLR partnering with Territorium to launch a learner-centered CLR and ai-powered credential wallet that allows students to document skills learned, align against career goals, and initiate the job search. This interactive presentation will include a decision tree for helping institutions think through the options in designing a microcredentials strategy.

• Christopher Davis, University of Maryland Global Campus
• Keith Look, Territorium

Moderator: Kelvin Bentley, The University of Texas System

Learning is Fluid: Strategies for Recognizing Skill Achievement from Pre-enrollment to Completion
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Registrar | Level: Foundational |
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
This session will provide an overview of the vision and initial strategies we are taking at MiraCosta College in San Diego County, CA, to start awarding for benchmarks from the moment a student walks on to our campus. In this session, participants will learn about the technology solutions and business process analysis we took on to pave a road for students to begin achieving the moment they arrive on our campus.

• John Makevich, MiraCosta College
• Kathy Rodriguez, MiraCosta College

Moderator: Christina Albarracin, Louisiana State University

The Good Life(long Learning): Credentialing Lessons for Higher Education Systems from Nebraska
Room: Carrollton | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: External Advocacy; Professional
The University of Nebraska System supported a noncredit learning and credentials program for workforce and professional development across four campuses serving as Nebraska’s only public university. The four campuses set out to meet the goal of workforce and professional development through digital badging across the state with institutional support of Canvas Catalog and Canvas Credentials software platforms, guidance for consistency in branding, and one-time start-up funding (seed funding). The panel will share four unique leadership perspectives on university implementations, development challenges, successes, and fee structure considerations for repeatability and sustainability.

• Peggy Moore, University of Nebraska Medical Center
• Timothy Bartling, University of Nebraska - Kearney
• Ana Lopez Shalla, University of Nebraska at Omaha
• Angie Rushman, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Moderator: Kevin Shriner, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Unveiling the Employer's View: An Employer-Centric Approach to Higher Education Partnerships
Room: La Salle | Track: Leadership | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
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.

• Emily West, UPCEA
• Tracy Chapman, Collegis Education

Moderator: Lisa Verma, Louisiana State University

What’s Your Strategy for Contextualizing Your Credentials?
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Learn what Western Governors University and Credential Engine have devised to make contextualizing your credentials affordable, scalable, and durable over time. This strategy uses the latest CTDL (credential transparency description language) standard and Credential Engine's open data Registry to capture the Western Governors University program skills and competencies that learners acquire, then through the WGU Achievement Wallet, the information is quickly and clearly revealed to the learner and anyone the learner chooses to present themselves to.

• Deborah Everhart, Credential Engine
• Darin Hobbs, Western Governors University

Moderator: Rebecca Mathern, Oregon State University

Stop & Share #2
Room: Lafayette East

Hosted during one concurrent session in a large room with multiple tables, Stop & Share presenters will each have their own table, as well as a slide template of up to six slides, uploaded to the app and for presentation (on rotation) on their own laptop or tablet, to allow brief, synchronous conversations with attendees stopping in and milling about. Each informal conversation will center around a hot topic, best practice, or technological innovation.

Moderator: Christa Payne, Tulane University

A Skills-first Approach to Designing Microcredential Pathways Aligned to Industry Demand
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Stakeholder Engagement
This session will include presenters from the Education Design Lab and partnering institutions that have leveraged the T-Profile tool to engage employers in the co-design of competency frameworks.

• Naomi Boyer, Education Design Lab
• Faby Gagne, Education Design Lab
• Kimberly Moore, Wichita State University

Admissions, Enrollment, and Retention Models in the Alternative Credential Space
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Learner Experience
This presentation highlights strategies for implementing, monitoring, and strengthening a program outside the traditional degree program. In 2020, AAPC, a leading credentialing organization was able to stand up successful education cohorts focused on training students interested in obtaining certification in the healthcare industry. The retention rate in AAPC’s Virtual Instructor-Led Training program is over 95% and the program boasts an 80% first-attempt pass rate on their signature CPC® (Certified Professional Coder) exam. In 2024, AAPC launched the first Medical Billing and Coding Boot Camp in partnership with several colleges and universities. This presentation will focus on three key factors: Admission, Enrollment, and Retention. We will explore the tools, resources, and strategies employed to catapult each of these factors. We will also share how the need for alternative credentials continues to increase and how higher learning institutions can play a pivotal role in meeting demand.

• Leonta Williams, AAPC

Badging the Way: Turning Theory into Action for Microcredential Success
Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
Microcredentials and badging are powerful tools for modern learners. Higher education must seize this opportunity to develop a learner experience that meets students' needs. In this session, we'll discuss microcredential trends and how Harper College delivers a personalized learner experience while improving staff efficiency. Learn to strategically integrate badges and create effective marketing strategies. Discover the role of continuing education in driving badging adoption and understand the collaborative efforts required to meet learners' evolving needs.

• Shauna Cox, The EvoLLLution: A Modern Campus Illumination
• Scott Cashman, Harper College

Curricular and Alternative Credentials at Higher Education - Tec de Monterrey
Track: Administration | Level: Strategic | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Entrepreneurial Initiative
This presentation will showcase Tec de Monterrey's experience with curricular and alternative credentials in its competency-based educational model, and examine how competency evaluation occurs through the whole curriculum and the in-house software development that is being used.

• Claudia Zubieta, Tecnologico de Monterrey
• Maria Jose Pineda, Tecnologico de Monterrey

Digital Credentials and Workforce Skills are Powering Lifelong Learning
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Stakeholder Engagement
This panel discussion will be a Credly case study with continuing education programs, like Southern CT State University's Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning. We will explore how the use of digital credentials has boosted enrollment in their adult learning programs, by helping to bring focus to the power of building skills-based programs.

• Jay Williams, Credly by Pearson

Enabling Personalized Academic Pathways to Realize Career Goals
Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
Presenters will demonstrate and discuss the potential of the City University of New York’s (CUNY) interactive, AI-enhanced university-wide database and user-friendly navigation "Careers & Credentials Pathways" platform to map more seamless pathways for students between credentials and into the workforce. The platform integrates CUNY's degree and non-degree offerings, transfer equivalencies, and CPL opportunities as well as labor market data. Anticipated outcomes include increased enrollment in market-aligned degree and non-degree programs; increased persistence, retention, and graduation rates; reduced time and cost for credential completion; and more students attaining in-demand employment credentials.

• Kim Siegenthaler, The City University of New York
• Lauren Andersen, The City University of New York

Navigating the Future with the Learn & Work Ecosystem Library
Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: External Advocacy; Entrepreneurial Initiative
The Learn & Work Library Ecosystem will share its growing collection, search options, use of AI, and partnerships with institutions and organizations in the learn-and-work ecosystem.

• Holly Zanville, George Washington University
• Lucia Weathers, Learn & Work Ecosystem Library

Ready, Set, Credential! Launching the University of Toledo's Alternative Credentialing Unit
Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Stakeholder Engagement
The University of Toledo is launching an alternative credentialing initiative! This session kicks off our collaborative effort to build a robust unit offering alternative credentials to the Toledo community. Join this interactive session and be part of the launchpad for the University of Toledo's alternative credentialing initiative! We'll highlight our shared understanding of "alt-creds" at Toledo, as well as discuss how to build a winning team, how we are unleashing the power of technology, and how we are using training and support for our teams.

• Barbara Kopp-Miller, University of Toledo
• Jason Smith, Anthology

Recognize Competencies Using Open-Source Badging Solutions
Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
Digital Promise is a global nonprofit that works to shape the future of learning. We work across research, technology, and practice to test ideas, scale up what works, and expand opportunities for every learner.  With our microcredentials program and platform, we’ve worked with over 100 issuers including universities, states, districts, and non-profits to provide more than 600 competency-based microcredentials. We are also partnering with learners and practitioners to design an open-source badging solution focusing on Equity, Learner Autonomy and Control of Data, Serving All Ages, Open Source forand Sustainability and Scalability, and Adherence to 1EdTech Open Badges Standard V3.

• Kristen Franklin, Digital Promise
• Keying Chen, Digital Promise
• Ashley Miller, Digital Promise

Standard Practice for Competency-based Work-based Learning Programs
Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Entrepreneurial Initiative
Join us in this session to learn how you can be a champion for a new standard, denoted as E3416-23, Standard Practice for Competency-based Work-based Learning Programs. The standard provides instruction for the development and administration of competency-based work-based learning programs.

• Roy Swift, Workcred
• Amy Mackenroth, Dallas College

The Future of Assessment in Noncredit Education
Track: Leadership | Level: Applied | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Professional; Learner Experience
Oregon State University pioneers innovative assessment strategies in online learning and continuing education to meet evolving regulatory demands. Positioned at the forefront of educational innovation, we ensure responsiveness and effectiveness in preparing learners for the future.

• Patrick Kelley, Oregon State University

Room: Lafayette East
In these optional, small-group conversations, leaders will host informal, table-based discussions around some of the most pressing topics (and conundra!) surrounding credential innovation today. Find a table/topic of your choice, and enjoy informal conversation around topics such as "Employer Engagement;" "Business Models and Funding;" "Building Capacity;" "LER, CLR, What the R?" and more!

Workshop Sessions are 60-minutes, providing a deep dive wherein participants are actively, tangibly engaged in their learning, via collaboration and hands-on interaction. Workshop presenters generally spend less than half of the session sharing their ideas, using the remaining time engaged in activity that promotes interaction and discussion, ending with a takeaway for participants.

Architecting the Skills-Based Curriculum: Integrating Human and Machine Intelligence to Design Work-aligned Learning
Room: Audubon | Track: Administration | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Digital Technology
Curriculum mapping, often a daunting task for educators, is vital for designing effective learning systems. However, it's plagued by tedium and bias. To enhance efficiency and mitigate bias, leveraging technology such as AI and 'skillification' is crucial. These approaches streamline mapping, facilitate connection-making, and diversify perspectives. At Northeastern, educators are already implementing these methods, turning mapping into a collaborative effort between humans and machines. By freeing educators from tedious tasks, technology allows more time for creativity and collaboration. In this session, participants will learn practical techniques to integrate these advancements into their curriculum design processes, fostering transformative solutions.

• Allison Ruda, Northeastern University
• Amanda Welsh, Northeastern University

Moderator: Sallie Reissman, Wilmington University

EMPOWER: Building Professional Skills & Opportunities for Refugees
Room: Algiers | Track: Administration| Tag: Diversity/Inclusion
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
Participants who qualify for the Washington University program (through an English Language assessment), will have an opportunity to enroll, tuition-free into a Certificate of Completion in English Language after taking two English Language courses and a professional development workshop. In addition, students can enroll in a CAPS certificate of their choice to upskill or reskill into a professional career. Participants will have access to a career specialist to assist in resume building, interview preparation, and networking with companies.

• Jodie Lloyd, Washington University in St. Louis
• Andre Mayers, Washington University in St. Louis
• Kathleen Brown, Washington University in St. Louis

Moderator: Jo Maseberg-Tomlinson, Kansas State University

Empowering Faculty, Enriching Curriculum: Launching Summer Institutes for Microcredential Integration
Room: Broadmoor | Track: Registrar | Tag: Faculty
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Faculty Experience; Stakeholder Engagement
Students increasingly seek out industry-recognized microcredentials to distinguish themselves for high-value employment after graduation. Toward supporting faculty interested in incorporating industry credentials into academic curriculum, the University of Texas at Arlington and University of Texas at Tyler developed summer institutes. Delve into the processes of planning and executing summer microcredentialing institutes for faculty. Learn what worked well and our lessons learned. Discuss how the egistrar's office at one university is using workshop outcomes to support student success through increased transparency and enhanced reporting. Construct an outline for a microcredential institute to support faculty at your university.

• Amber Smallwood, University of Texas at Arlington
• Kimberly Tate, University of Texas at Arlington
• Scott Dillingham, University of Texas at Tyler

Moderator: Mieke Riddenhof, Drieam

From Learning to Earning 101! Understanding and Creating Skills Frameworks
Room: Acadia | Track: Administration | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Learner Experience; Digital Technology
Western Governors University's programs aim to empower learners in a dynamic job market and economic challenges. Workshop participants will develop skill comprehension, craft impactful skill statements, and understand credentialing frameworks. Upon completion, participants will effectively leverage skills data, creating Rich Skills Descriptors (RSDs) that meet Open Standards. The program emphasizes transforming RSDs into valuable microcredentials through rigorous assessment, aligning with Open Standards. It offers a transformative learning journey, equipping participants with essential tools for success in today's demanding professional landscape.

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

Moderator: Cheryl Murphy, University of Arkansas

One Badger: Breaking Down Silos and Building Collaborations for Positive Growth
Room: La Salle | Track: Administration | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; External Advocacy
In a large distributed research institution it is easy for silos to form and units to be protective of their ideas, work, and their limited resources, but silos create barriers and prevent positive change and growth. Learning how to collaborate across units is key to fostering new ideas, empowering team members, and ultimately to a better experience for students. Learn how UW-Madison’s university registrar, enrollment management and continuing studies teams have collaborated to accomplish complex projects, pilot new initiatives, and continue to be relevant for today’s learners.

• Aphra Mednick, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Alissa Oleck, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Scott Owczarek, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Moderator: Claudia Schiavone, Yale University

Operationalizing Credit for Prior Learning Pathways for Recruitment and Degree Completion Acceleration
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Administration
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Learner Experience
We live in a world of alternative credentials now and our approaches to recruitment, retention, and degree completion must also adapt to this new environment. Thomas Edison State University (TESU) has customized CAEL’s credit predictor pro tool to be used as a recruitment tool, providing prospective students with early, no-stakes, and free visibility into what their CPL credits might do for them before ever officially applying to the University.

• Jeffrey Harmon, Thomas Edison State University
• Cynthia Baum, Thomas Edison State University

The Irrefutable Power of Choice: Creating Badging Pathways to Guide Teaching Excellence
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Administration | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Faculty Experience; Digital Technology
Wondering where to start when it comes to creating stackable credentials for faculty development? Come join Indiana University as we share our lessons learned and next steps implementing a faculty development credentialing program for IU’s nine-campuses. Creating an institutional micro credential ecosystem accommodates faculty’s choice to select learning pathways relevant to their desired professional growth and showcases their learning journeys of new skills and achievements. This is an interactive, collaborative workshop, so bring your laptop or phone to complete the activities. We have tips and resources to share to help you develop your faculty development badging blueprint.

• Michele Kelmer, Indiana University
• Julia Sanders, Indiana University
• Zach Carnagey, Indiana University
• Randy Newbrough, Indiana University
• Jeani Young, Indiana University

Moderator: Jay Williams, Credly by Pearson

Transforming Education through Credential Innovation: A Comprehensive University-Industry Partnership Strategy
Room: Lafayette East | Track: Administration | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; External Advocacy
Discover how Kutztown University has transformed its educational landscape through a groundbreaking partnership with Coursera. This collaboration has driven the successful integration of microcredentials, aligning with the increasing focus on workforce development. Attendees will learn how Kutztown leverages Coursera to offer microcredentials campus-wide, creating pathways to enhanced employability and career opportunities for students, alumni, and community partners. The session will highlight best practices in developing quality microcredentials, ensuring seamless integration with academic records, and creating noncredit to credit pathways. Join us to explore how a comprehensive, industry-driven approach to credential innovation can revolutionize your institution's educational framework.

• Carl Sheperis, Kutztown University
• Lori Lentz, Kutztown University
• John Pobanz, Coursera

Moderator: Kristy Anthony, Louisiana State University

Why Are You Doing This? Uncovering Purpose in your Alternative Credential Program
Room: Carrollton | Track: Leadership | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Professional
This workshop, faciliated by co-chairs of the UPCEA Council for Credential Innovation, will provide senior leaders and aspiring senior leaders with a guided interactive discussion on institutional strategy around alternative credentialing programs. We will discuss strategic goals, priorities, and high-level implementation approaches. Through a series of structured questions and activities, participants will be asked to uncover the strategic goal of their existing or future alternative credential program (whether that be to facilitate better employment outcomes for learners, to support learners in degree completion, or something else), identify one opposing-yet-complementary strategy that is needed to be successful, and articulate the positive steps they can take towards meeting that goal.

• Ryan Torma, University of Minnesota
• Saira Cooper, Rice University
• Sheila LeBlanc, University of Calgary

Moderator: Charles McGinnis, Goodwin University

Building Bridges, Building Pathways
Room: Algiers | Track: Registrar | Level: Foundational | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; Stakeholder Engagement
With the rapidly evolving workforce, higher education needs to be agile and aligned with a world these embracing skills, alternative credentials, and degree pathways. National University has leveraged UPCEA’s Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation to develop and implement a strategy for building pathways and bridges between industry, degree, and non-degree programs--as well as within one's own organization. Join us to learn more about our approach and explore common challenges and practical tips to promote change!

• Errin Heyman, National University
• Susan Zukowski, National University
• Sarah Massey, National University

Moderator: Justin Louder, Anthology

Creating Social Mobility through Nursing Microcredential Pathways
Room: La Salle | Track: Administration; Leadership | Level: Applied | Tags: Employer Engagement; Diversity/Inclusion
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Learner Experience
The U.S. is experiencing a longstanding nursing shortage and nursing is a powerful path toward economic mobility but learners face many barriers to success. Alamo Colleges District pioneered a program merging microcredentials and global partnerships. The International Nursing Pathway, a collaboration with Tecmilenio and Methodist Healthcare, prepares Mexican nurses for practice in Texas, easing nursing shortages. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) greatly benefits students in persisting and completing their degrees, while crucially saving time and money, but underserved students are the least likely to participate. Capella collaborates with Sophia to create a streamlined pathway for learners to complete their nursing degrees with a focus on increasing participation by underserved learners. Join us to learn how Alamo Colleges District, Capella University, and Sophia Learning have created equitable pathways to improve social mobility.

• Isabel Diaz-Breuer, Alamo Community Colleges District
• Nick White, Sophia Learning
• Lisa Kreeger, Capella University

Moderator: Kyle McInnis, Providence College

Dollars and Sense: Pricing Considerations and Funding Models
Room: Fountainbleau | Track: Leadership | Level: Strategic | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Entrepreneurial Initiative; External Advocacy
Definitions in the microcredential market may be difficult to pin down, but what must become clear quickly are the dollars and cents at play in the funding models used to plan growth in our portfolios. Join us to explore the various ways we have approached funding new programs, from trade with social media influencers to pilot program loans from Academic Affairs. Attendees will network with others who also are in the midst of developing business plans for new alt cred programs. Attendees will depart with a financial model template they can use in their next program planning business planning exercise.

• Susan Seal, Mississippi State University
• Sean Owen, Mississippi State University
• Nicholas Swartz, James Madison University
• Sarah MacDonald, James Madison University

Moderator: Stacy Snow, Kennedy & Company

Implementing a Comprehensive Learner Record (CLR): The Long and Winding Road
Room: Audubon | Track: Registrar | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Learner Experience
We all know what an academic transcript is and what information it contains, but do you know what a comprehensive learner record (CLR) is and the value it can provide to a student? This session will share an institution's 2+ year journey from internal conversations through student usability testing of a vendor’s product, and everything in between (e.g. gaining institutional support, learning from others, technology usage, etc.). Come and learn about the University of Minnesota’s CLR journey and why assessment professionals should know about this work.

• Steven Hawks, University of Minnesota
• Sandy Nelson, University of Minnesota

Moderator: Dan Cavalli, ISACA

Innovating Education through VR: A Collaborative Model for Industry-Recognized Credentials
Room: Acadia | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Technology
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Digital Technology; Entrepreneurial Initiative
The session will showcase a pioneering initiative that blends VR technology with educational program development, culminating in a microcredential that serves as both a pilot for the university and a cornerstone for future VR-delivered credentials. The college worked externally with a partner to create the credential and internally with the office of the registrar in setting guidelines, changing policies, and increasing the entry points for learners. Participants will gain insights into the collaborative process, the challenges and triumphs encountered, and the broader implications of this technological integration in professional and continuing education.

• Ryan Walker, Mississippi State University
• Marian Chancellor, Mississippi State University

Moderator: Saira Cooper, Rice University

Pathways to Degree Completion: Transforming Noncredit Learning into Academic Credit through Cost-Effective Online Prior Learning Assessment Practices
Room: Lafayette East | Track: Administration | Level: Foundational | Tag: Policy
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Advocacy and Leadership; Learner Experience
Join us for a comprehensive presentation that explores the potential of recognizing, assessing, and transforming noncredit learning experiences that take place in the workplace into academic credit. This process, known as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), is crucial in acknowledging the diverse learning paths students take and integrating them into their academic journey. The presentation delves into the underpinnings of PLA, reviews current practices, and discusses maintaining academic integrity in the process. Additionally, it examines the cost-effectiveness of PLA and its impact on reducing student debt and accelerating degree completion.

• Manny De La Torre, Claremont Lincoln University
• Anne Escherich, Claremont Lincoln University

Moderator: Elizabeth Miller, Instructure

Utilizing Labor Market Data to Identify Revenue-Generating Microcredentialing Opportunities
Room: Lafayette West | Track: Administration | Level: Applied | Tag: Employer Engagement
Hallmarks of Excellence in Credential Innovation: Stakeholder Engagement; Digital Technology
Discover how the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO)'s data-driven approach revolutionizes microcredential courses, offering flexible, career-aligned skill acquisition without disrupting existing academic programs. Our analysis ensures ROI for students, aligning course topics with market demand and regional workforce needs. Join us as we explore insights and best practices, driving innovation in microcredential development across diverse fields.

• Ana Lopez Shalla, University of Nebraska at Omaha
• John Kerins, University of Nebraska at Omaha