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Live Learn Excelsior College Magazine Vol. 12, No.1, Spring/Summer 2010 Carol Tiger, Editor-in-Chief Dana Yanulavich, Sr. Editor Nick Klercker, Art Director/Designer Jason Hughes, Graphic Designer Ron Pavoldi, Production Manager

Thanks to all Excelsior staff who contributed to this issue. Cover Image: Nick Klercker Live & Learn is published twice yearly by the Excelsior College Office of Institutional Advancement Cathy Kushner, Vice President

CALENDAR 2010–11 Holidays (College closed) May 31 Memorial Day July 5 Independence Day (observed) B Commencement Ceremony July 9, 2010 C September 6 Labor Day D A October 11 Columbus Day E November 11 Veteran’s Day F November 25–26 Thanksgiving Day & Day After December 24 Christmas Day (observed) Important Deadlines for degree completion can be found on p.12 and at www.excelsior.edu/deadlines

Your questions and comments The www.excelsior.edu regarding Live & Learn are welcome. New! Please direct them to the Publications Office: Many of you in the Excelsior College community (students and future students, 7 Columbia Circle, alumni, staff and faculty) have made great suggestions as we work toward completing the Albany, New York 12203-5159 updated/upgraded EC Web site. And we’ve listened to you! phone: 518-464-8555 email: [email protected] All rights reserved. Unauthorized Enhanced look and feel reproduction or use prohibited. Enhanced look and feel Copyright © 2010 by Excelsior College. Intuitive navigation For general information about Excelsior Intuitive navigation College, call 888-647-2388. www.excelsior.edu StreamlinedStreamlined content content Coming in Summer 2010 Bachelor of Professional Studies programs encourage students to use their prior credits from industry and military training as well as college work to complete their degrees and build for their futures.” — Dr. Jane LeClair New! School of Business & Technology Launches Students in both BPS programs obtain solid foun- New Baccalaureate Degree Programs dations in such fundamental areas as management, leadership, accounting, computer applica- t’s been exciting to watch the development of the tions, and project management. School of Business & Technology during my many Those in the Business and years of association with Excelsior College—first as Management program complete a student, then as faculty, then as program director. core requirements in other business areas as well. Those in AndI now, as dean, I’m happy to be able to contribute to the the Technology Management program complete their tech- growing degree program opportunities for our students. So nology management core requirements and choose an area of it will come as no surprise that I feel strongly about the two focus in one of three technology areas: Electrical Technology, new Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) degrees that we Information Technology, or Nuclear Technology. All students launched in March. These programs—one in Business and in the BPS programs must complete the program capstone Management and one in Technology Management—continue course from Excelsior College. the Excelsior academic tradition. Both rigorous and flexible, they’re specifically developed to serve the needs of students The new Bachelor of Professional Studies programs who want to build on their existing knowledge and earn encourage students to use their prior credits from industry a bachelor’s degree within their career field—particularly and military training as well as college work to complete their those who want to apply credit for military or other training degrees and build for their futures. Credit will be awarded for towards a baccalaureate degree. Excelsior College courses and examinations, courses taken at accredited institutions other than Excelsior, approved profi- As a two-time graduate of the College, I understand the ciency exams, and training programs and courses approved important role the School of Business & Technology plays in for credit by the American Council on Education (ACE) or the life of the adult learner. I’ve been a nontraditional student the New York National Program on Noncollegiate Sponsored all of my life and know that we offer opportunities unavail- Instruction (NY PONSI). The BPS programs are also partic- able in mainstream education. As a member of the College’s ularly attractive options for military spouses, veterans, and nuclear engineering faculty since 2003, I have had many first- DoD civilians who have completed government-sponsored hand opportunities to interact with our students and have training that has been evaluated for college credit. heard directly from them about how we help them meet their professional and career aspirations through education. These degrees are excellent next steps for graduates of Excelsior’s associate degree programs in business or technology. They share a common and flexible curriculum structure. Students must earn a minimum of 30 credits in the arts and Dr. Jane LeClair Enhanced look and feel sciences, 45 credits in the professional component, and up to Dean, School of Business & Technology 45 credits in free electives. Intuitive navigation Streamlined content Streamlined content For more information on how a BPS degree can help advance your career, go to www.excelsior.edu/bps.

Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 3 Success Strategies for Military and Veterans Course n January, the newly New!revised Success Strategies “The book that we are using for “The assessments have helped Ifor Military and Veterans this course is WONDERFUL!!! me to both identify and confirm (CCS 112) course was launched, I would suggest this course and my skills and abilities. The providing active duty, transi- book to all military members assessment tools also helped me tioners reservists, guardians, and vets. In just one week this to feel more confident about the and veterans the tools for college class has been very helpful and decisions that I am making as I and career success. has me motivated to finish.” work toward my career goals.” Director of Veteran Services and Outreach Maya Gosserand Spc. Meredith Miller, Army National Guard Former Navy Petty Officer Judy Reed (pictured) and Career Services Coordinator Maribeth Gunner-Pulliam com- Military and veteran students also bined efforts to create gain knowledge of various job search a course specifically “I found the career action plan strategies including those specific to the for students with military backgrounds to be very helpful. It lays out a military and veteran populations. In as an introduction to Excelsior College nice foundation of the steps and addition, the course familiarizes them and a springboard to career transition- tasks needed to keep me with tools through which to explore ing from the military environment to the employment trends, job outlooks, and on the right track.” civilian workforce. other factors that may influence the choice of career paths. After complete Students can benefit in many ways Staff Sergeant Daniel Gill, U.S. Army from this eight-week, 3-credit course. review of decision-making models, the They learn about the numerous support students then proceed to create action services and resources available at plans to guide them toward degree completion. Excelsior—all designed to assist them CCS 112 helps students research in succeeding in college. Included is a career fields of interest along with cor- CCS 112: Success Strategies for review and full self-assessment of their responding education requirements, military education and training to help Military and Veterans convenes every culminating in the building of a per- other month. For more information, them design their degree goals most sonal education plan. go to excelsior.edu/veterans. efficiently.

Welcome to Washington! xcelsior College has opened an office in Washington, DC, to increase awareness and access to both established and new constituencies Eincluding the military, community colleges, higher education policy- makers, future students, and alumni. The Washington Center is staffed with admissions and military counselors who represent the College at events and one-on one visits throughout the Washington, Maryland, and Virginia area. New!

For general information, email [email protected]. For information specific to military and veterans, email [email protected].

4 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 Welcome Aspiring CIOs to the CenteNew!r for Technology Leadership

ission: To develop higher education technology leaders through accessible and affordable Meducation, networking, and advising. According to industry research, during the next 10 years, 45 percent of chief information officers (CIOs) in higher edu- One of the skills cation will retire. But who will take their places? Many are professionals need to not professionally ready for the top IT jobs, either because they lack mentors or fall short on advanced degrees. The move up is the ability to author of that research is Excelsior’s own Chief Information communicate effectively Officer Dr. Wayne Brown. Dr. Brown hopes to help close the about technology with knowledge gap that can hinder technology professionals from promotion to CIO by establishing a Center for Technology the people who use it.” Leadership. — Dr. Wayne Brown In his recent survey, Brown reported that 69 percent of technology professionals actually want to become CIOs. But, In October 2010, the Center will conduct two different he notes, “The number one answer to the question, ‘who is weeklong courses—Technology Leadership: A Foundation for helping you to get ready for the job’ was ‘no one.’ ” Aspiring Higher Education Chief Information Officers and Leadership Says Brown, “Information technology is a relatively new and the Higher Education Chief Information Officer. Both courses field, and technology professionals have varied backgrounds. will be developed and taught by higher education CIOs. What they need most are leadership skills, excellent commu- At the conclusion of each course, participants will receive nication skills, and role models.” CIOs from other institutions six hours of advising time from a higher education CIO affili- also see a strong need for professional development in this ated with the program. The Center will also offer memberships field, and some of them will be serving on the advisory board with benefits including tuition discounts, access to higher of this new Excelsior learning program. education technology leadership research, a CIO salary The Center for Technology Leadership will provide lead- survey, discounts on higher education consulting services, ership training, advising, and networking opportunities for Webinars, and job advertisements. aspiring and current higher education technology leaders. It will also offer consulting services for higher education Look for more information about the CTL on our Web site at technology position searches and technology department www.excelsior.edu/ctl. assessments. According to Brown, “One of the skills professionals need to move up is the ability to communicate effectively about technology with the people who use it.”

Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 5 Center for Professional Development

A New Career for One Military Spouse—Joy Glasco

hen Joy Glasco’s husband, U.S. Navy Sr. Chief Lavern Dion “I have always Glasco, was deployed onW the USS Eisenhower in February wanted to become 2009, Joy made the decision to temporarily leave their home in Virginia Beach a certified coder, and move back to Jacksonville, Florida, and I looked at to be near her family. She also thought it might be the perfect time to pursue many schools—but her goal of becoming a certified medical coder. Joy had always worked in health the cost was too care as an administrator, but she was high and I couldn’t anxious to take courses to move into a new health care field. “I have always spend a lot of time wanted to become a certified coder, and trains students as coders and also pre- I looked at many schools—but the cost in a classroom …” pares them for the national Certified was too high and I couldn’t spend a lot Coding Associate (CCA) examina- of time in a classroom because of work.” tion. Joy was motivated to get through the 240-hour program. “I started in Affording a course and finding the June 2009 and finished the course in right one to fit into her busy schedule December 2009.” was problematic until her husband emailed her some information about a When her husband returned home new program for military spouses that in fall 2009, he was surprised to see how could help pay for tuition. The Military far she had progressed toward complet- Spouse Career Advancement Accounts ing the program. Now, with her husband (MyCAA) program enables spouses of again deployed (as of January 2010), Joy active duty or reserve military to apply is working for the central billing office for up to $6000 in financial assistance of a primary care facility and studying Joy for the CCA certification exam, which Glasco for education, training, and licensing or certification programs. For Joy, it was she hopes to take in the next few months. just the opportunity she needed. “My What are her plans after that? “My goal, husband emailed me the informa- once I’m certified,” says Joy, “is to one tion about the program and within day have a small home business, helping a couple of days I was enrolled.” physicians do their medical coding. I am also looking forward to taking Joy registered for Excelsior another class in the health care field.” College’s Medical Billing and Coding online course through the Center for Professional By Susan Kryczka, Executive Director, Development. With open enroll- Center for Professional Development ment, students can begin their coursework as soon as they register and work at their own pace at a time Please note: The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program has been and place convenient for them. The temporarily halted for new accounts as of 2/16/10. Medical Billing and Coding course Check the MilitaryOnesource.com for updates.

6 Excelsior’s 2010 NACADA Nominee—Deborah Hodge

eborah Hodge, senior academic advisor in the School of Nursing, has been selected from another excellent group of nominees as the College’s DOutstanding Academic Advisor for 2010. Her nomination portfolio has been submitted to the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) for consid- eration for its Outstanding Academic Advisor Award. Highly respected by her colleagues, Deb is deeply committed to her students’ success as evidenced by these sample student quotes: Somehow just telling her thank you does not seem enough for all that she did to assist me. Please help me show her how much she means to the students of Excelsior. She is really the best.” — Charles Blades, RN, BS nursing

Speaking with Ms. Hodge makes that personal connec- tion with me … Her efforts confirmed in my mind that Excelsior College definitely was the right choice for me to fulfill my educational needs.” — Holly Mari Filer, RN

If you would like more information about the NACADA Awards, go to www.nacada.edu.

To nominate your advisor, please send an email to Betsy DePersis at [email protected], or fax 518-464-8777, or send a letter to the attention of Betsy DePersis. Include your name, student ID#, your advisor’s name, and a brief description of how your advisor has helped you work toward the completion of your college degree. We look forward to hearing from you.

Representing Excelsior in Hong Kong

xcelsior’s educational partner in Hong Kong, Consort Management Consultants Ltd, is working in partnership with the College to recruit students interested in earning a U.S. Edegree. Because of this relationship, we were able to have an employee from Consort represent us at a recent Career and Education Expo in Hong Kong—as part of a New York State initiative called “Study New York.” Consort Management works with schools in the U.S. and U.K., representing a number of institutions of higher learning. Consort also develops and designs educational curriculum, assesses qualification standards, and takes on quality assurance projects. The Career and Education Expo was well attended, and, according to our New York representative, many more prospective students learned about the educational opportunities available at Excelsior College.

Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 7 Lt. Col. Howard Wildove (USAF ret.), a veterans business advisor at the Small Business Development Center in Albany, participated in Excelsior’s first Veterans Open House, counseling vets seeking to start their own businesses.

College To Host Second Veteran/Military Open House

Due to the great success of Excelsior’s first Veteran/ Military open house last fall, a second one is sched- Come join us — find out how close you are to completing your degree. uled for May 19 at the College in Albany, New York. Wednesday, May 19

eterans and members of the military and their 10:00 am – 12 noon and 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm families and friends are invited to visit. Bring your military and civilian transcripts and receive one free preliminary transcript evaluation. Resumes Here’s what one guest and veteran Vicky Tillman (AS ’87) Vwill also be critiqued for free by our Career Center repre- wrote to Director of Veterans Affairs Judy Reed: sentatives. You can speak with staff from Excelsior’s Center I just wanted to drop a note and say thank you for hosting for Military Education Office, academic advisors from the the Open House for veterans and military members. I worked Schools of Liberal Arts, Business & Technology, Nursing, and with Krim Berard and she was very thorough and knowledge- Health Sciences, our Center for Professional Development, able. She covered so many items in such a short time in a very and the Center for Educational Measurement (Excelsior professional and personable manner. I asked a lot of questions, College® Examinations). all of which she had the answers to (or went to find out), and she You’ll find answers to questions regarding federal and even had answers to questions I didn’t even know I had! state financial aid, tuition and fees, VA and Post-9/11 GI Bill, It was a great experience and I wanted you and your staff to and scholarships. You’ll learn about the EC student experi- know. If you should ever host another workshop, I will certainly ence by speaking with our alumni. And you will discover more recommend it to everyone I know. about how Excelsior helps busy working adults earn degrees with flexible distance education programs while maximizing We hope to see you on May 19. For more information, their credit from military training. contact Judy Reed at [email protected].

8 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 Partnering With Excelsior College

ver the last six months, the business development team has formed a number ofO important educational partnerships including one with The Kroger Company. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kroger employs First Graduate! more than 300,000 people in 2,481 grocery retail stores Post-Master’s Certificate in 31 states, 771 convenience stores in 15 states, and 385 fine jewelry stores. We welcome these future students and in Nursing Education graduates! Since its inception in 2006, the business development The School of Nursing’s first team has built and expanded educational partnerships with graduate of the Post-Master’s nearly 40 corporations, companies, and associations. There Certificate in Nursing Education are a great many benefits to business/education partner- is Ms. Charlotte Crawford. An ships, particularly in terms of recruitment and retention associate director and care man- of employees. Student-employees can finish their degrees agement developer in Batavia, through a variety of affordable distance learning options New York, Ms. Crawford was such as Excelsior College courses and examinations. the certificate’s first official Additionally, the College is often able to award college-level student when she enrolled. She com- credit for corporate training programs. pleted her program just over a year later. To find out more about partnering with Excelsior Crawford’s long-term goal is to assist in the College, contact the Corporate Relations Office via email at education of individuals wishing to enter the [email protected] or call toll free 800-896-1632. nursing profession. She recognizes that there is an increased aging population for both health care Other recent partnerships include: providers and the general population. And this, in turn, increases the need for properly prepared health care professionals. In talking about her experience with the Albany Medical Center J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. College, Crawford explained that the program Albany, New York Lowell, Arkansas actually exceeded her expectations. She found A.O. Fox Hospital American Counseling the online format easy to use, and she enjoyed Oneonta, New York Association doing her own research and then sharing infor- Alexandria, Virginia mation with fellow students. Crawford also spoke Bassett Healthcare very highly of her course instructors and their Cooperstown, New York Professional Law responsiveness. Enforcement Charlotte Crawford believes the Post-Master’s Lockheed Martin Association (PLEA) Certificate in Nursing Education helped her to Systems Integration Troy, Michigan Owego, New York develop her own classes, gave her a better under- Public Service Enterprise standing of the education process, and made her Shands Lake Shore Group Nuclear (PSEG) more aware of the resources available to her. Hospital Lower Alloways Creek, We wish her success as she assists in educating Lake City, Florida New Jersey a new generation of nurses and caregivers.

Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 9 Do you want to explore new career options? Increase your employability? Create your own destiny? QA Welcome to Your New Career Center

•• Career Articles: Brief and informative, CAREER CORNER Check Out the Wide Array of Topics, these articles will enhance your career aware- Resources, and Services at the ness. Print and share! Career Center: by Maribeth Gunner Pulliam, MS Ed •• Career Counseling: Make an appoint- •• Self-Assessment: Examine what you ment to discuss your thoughts and ideas with xcelsior Career Center Services truly value in the workplace and find the best a professional career counselor. are designed to empower career fit. Use career self-assessment tools •• Resume Critique Service: students and alumni to better to uncover your sharpest skills and strongest Receive a professional resume review for a evaluate, develop, and imple- interests. nominal fee. Turn your resume into an invita- mentE targeted career decisions that are •• Career Exploration: Map out your future tion for an interview! consistent with occupational and life goals. career plan. Investigate more about career •• Web Chats and Archived Web We are committed to meeting the needs of fields, job outlooks, and employment trends. Conferences: Live Web chats offer diverse populations by providing resources and Identify new possibilities, or confirm that you valuable information on current career topics services that will help you determine your best are on the right path. throughout the year. Interact with other stu- academic and career paths for advancement. •• Job Search Tools and Techniques: dents and alumni. You can access upcoming and archived Web chats via the Career Center Today, workplace changes are a constant. Due Revitalize your resume and prepare for all homepage. Sign up! to increased technology, new jobs are created types of interviews. Find job leads. Research professional associations and develop your every year. For some occupational fields, there Stay On Top of the Learning Curve career network. are jobs that don’t even exist yet. Many current — Steer Your Career! jobs may be reconfigured or become obsolete. •• Graduate School Information: Statistics show that most people will have an Find a graduate program that meets your When you think about how much of your life is average of five to eight jobs and three different needs. Learn more about Excelsior’s graduate spent working, it’s important to take the time careers in their lifetime. You can best prepare for programs. now to address your future goals, research your interests, and develop a career plan that will these changes by increasing your awareness and •• Degree-Specific Resources: bring you satisfaction and success in the work taking advantage of resources that can help you Whether you are pursuing a degree in the you choose. promote your career. School of Nursing, Liberal Arts, Health The New Career Center features centralized Sciences, or Business & Technology, there are Visit the Career Center at: services for enrolled students, alumni, and future job resources that target your niche. There’s www.excelsior.edu/Career students. Other highlights include expanded something for everyone! career resources, improved navigation, and •• Military Transition Job Resources: Questions or comments? Email Maribeth easier access to career information. There is also Learn the advantages that military and veteran Gunner Pulliam, MS Ed, Career Services a new guided assessment tool that helps to align job seekers have. Check out career resources Coordinator at [email protected], Office your skills and interests with the Excelsior degree that assist all branches of the service. of Online Education and Learning Services. path and future career that bests fits you. •• Diverse Population Resources: Whether you’re beginning, changing, or develop- Find the job resources that support the ing your career—we can help! contributions of all diverse groups.

10 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 &QA& Advice& FromQA Your Advisors QAOne of the roles of academic advisors is responding to and even anticipating students’ questions. Students who have a thorough understanding of the College’s resources, policies, and services are better prepared to handle their academic challenges. Below are sample questions and answers we hope will be helpful throughout your journey at Excelsior.

Q: Why is it important for me to review Q: How will I know which courses or • allow coordination with your instructor to my initial Status Report (SR) and exams apply to my degree? potentially complete the course prior to the Academic Evaluation Summary (AES) term’s end. without delay? A: Use the MySearch feature to locate Online courses: courses and exams, both at Excelsior and at • are virtual classrooms accessible from A: You have 30 days from the date of your other institutions. MyEC, complete with substantive student- initial evaluation to make any changes to Course overviews are available through faculty interaction, your academic record. MySearch to assist with degree applicabil- • require weekly discussion board postings, • Your academic advisor selects the most ity, academic level, and any prerequisites. • contain weekly modules paced over the full appropriate courses and exams, based on Direct any questions prior to obtaining offi- term, which cannot be completed early, grades and degree applicability, for your cial course approval to your advising team initial review. These will appear on your through Message Center, email, or by phone. • are asynchronous, official Excelsior College transcript. Course approvals are valid for 6 months and • and use multiple assessments and timed • Any discrepancies or questions about are based on the information we have at the examinations taken online. excess credit should be addressed during time of your request(s). It is important that all : I’m getting close to degree completion. this 30-day period. official transcripts or other relevant documen- Q tation is submitted prior to course approval to What do I need to do? Q: What should I have in front of me when ensure degree applicability. calling my academic advisor? You can also research choices for future A: Your advisor will automatically process courses or exams by looking through your you for graduation upon receipt of your final A: You should have the following: academic catalog and the Student Guide to transcript. • your most recent SR and AES, both of Credit by Examination at Excelsior College. It usually takes about two months between which can be located on your MyEC page, receipt of your final transcript and your confer- Q: What are the differences between ral. Conferrals are held monthly; you can view • a list of Excelsior course(s) or exams(s) you CD-ROM and online courses? our Processing Parameters for Graduation on wish to take, MyEC. If necessary, you may request a Letter • information about courses you are con- A: CD-ROM courses: of Qualification (LOQ) from the Office of sidering taking from other colleges or • are well-suited for independent learners Registration and Records verifying your universities including specific course titles, and those without Web access, degree completion status. numbers, and the name/location of the institution, • provide flexibility for submission of exams By the Live & Learn Advisor Group: Martha Garing, and assignments via email, fax, or mail, Rachel Stolicky, Gale Deegan, and Michael Moran • specific questions related to your academic progress. • have open book examinations with no proctor necessary, and

Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 11 Evaluating Information: Easy Tips

valuating information is important in every aspect of our lives. We evaluate resources for research papers in school, work-related information while on the job, and personal questions at Here are some of the evaluation home.E In order to synthesize information and determine the criteria to keep in mind: best approach to take, it’s good to remember that information comes to us in many ways and formats. family, or other professionals Of course, there are physical books that you check out at What am I trying to find out? • in my field of inquiry? your local library or buy at a bookstore, online resources from What question am I trying to answer? research databases with journal articles and newspapers, • Is the source a known name in the industry—a reference general magazines such as Time and Newsweek, etc. But that’s • Do I need the most just scratching the surface. Information is in a constant state current information? Or or resource used by other of flux, so it’s important to be a savvy researcher. Be aware of am I researching from an professionals? historical perspective? new ways of communicating and obtaining information, too, • Does the author provide such as blogs, tweets, audio/video files, and social networking an objective or subjective • What is the most reliable Web sites. Keeping all of these types of formats in mind will and trustworthy source for viewpoint? help you narrow down your search to best meet your needs. the information I seek? • What are the legal ways of Following are just a few of the questions you might ask using this information? Is it • Do I have recommendations yourself as you sift through the wealth of information avail- from people I know and trust copyrighted? able through the Excelsior College Library, your own local such as colleagues, friends, public library, online resources—and everything in between! One last tip is a reminder that you’re only a phone call Contact your EC librarians toll free at 877-247-3097 or email or email away from information professionals who are always [email protected]. You can also check out our online tutorials at ready and happy to help guide you. www.excelsior.edu/librarytutorials and scroll down to the Evaluating Information link. By the Excelsior College Librarians

I m p ortant dead l ine s Plan ahead to make sure you receive your degree at the time you want it. Deadline for receipt of transcripts/ Deadline for receipt of transcripts/ CPNE Completion Final Conferral Date official documents for initial evaluation official documents for updated evaluation Cut-off (Nursing only) Changes May 21, 2010 Mar 12 Mar 26 Apr 2 May 7

June 18, 2010 Apr 9 Apr 23 Apr 30 Jun 4 Commencement July 9, 2010 July 16, 2010 May 7 May 21 May 28 July 2

August 20, 2010 June 11 June 25 July 2 Aug 6

September 17, 2010 July 9 July 23 July 30 Sept 3

October 15, 2010 Aug 6 Aug 20 Aug 27 Oct 1

Note: All additions/deletions/corrections to the final transcript must be submitted by the student, in writing, two (2) weeks prior to the conferral date.

12 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 Living & Giving Helping Bring Health Care to Those Who Need It Roger Unger BSL ’87

ne of the challenges of life on the North Dakotan frontier is the limited number of Receiving my bachelor’s health care facilities. Roger Unger knows this from experience—he provides critical degree from the College led me to access to health care services as the CEO a master’s degree and started me O of Linton Hospital and its three clinics. A nonprofit, community governed and sup- on the path to a comfortable living— ported health care organization, Linton Hospital provides a full range of primary, preventative, and diagnostic health care one which I’ve enjoyed for the past services to promote community wellness. 40 years.” Because scarcity of resources is an all too familiar concept in Unger’s experience, he has also taken an important step to “Receiving my bachelor’s degree led me to a master’s degree ensure lasting support for his alma mater—with his contribu- and started me on the path to a comfortable living—one which tion to the College’s Legacy Society. It was Excelsior (then I’ve enjoyed for the past 40 years,” says Unger. Those years Regents) College that provided him the option of earning a have taken him, his wife, and three children, from Wisconsin degree, consolidating accumulated credit earned during his to Michigan and then to North Dakota. “Unfortunately,” he military career as an Air Force Corpsman. “There were very regrets, “none of my children chose a health care career. It’s few options to earn a degree available to me outside of a tra- too bad, because the demand is so great.” ditional campus-based program. With Excelsior, I was able to earn my degree, and I quickly became the director of nursing Unger is helping to meet the need for qualified health care pro- at the hospital where I was employed. After that, I earned my viders by including Excelsior College in his estate plans. As a master’s and moved up to hospital administration.” member of the Legacy Society, he has taken the steps to secure the future of other students just like him, and we thank him. Unger then joined the North Dakota Department of Health, where he was responsible for licensing and certifying hospi- tals and nursing homes. Following 15 years with the state, he To find out more about Excelsior’s Legacy Society, contact Marcy Stryker at left to run the hospital in Linton. Unger also sits on the board 518-464-8543 or email [email protected]. of directors of the North Dakota Healthcare Association.

THANK YOU HSBC!

For the fifth straight year, HSBC Bank provided scholarship funds for students with financial barriers.

HSBC VP and Branch Manager Katrina Schweigard presents a $10,000 check to President John Ebersole. Also pictured (l to r) are VP for Institutional Advancement Cathy Kushner, HSBC Assistant VP and Business Relationship Manager Michael Quaranta, HSBC Trainee Nicholas King, and Assistant VP for Enrollment Management Tom Dalton.

Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 13 The Excelsior College Alumni Association offers free membership to all the College’s grads, and we hope you will take advantage of the many benefits and services we offer you!

Excelsior College to Publish Access to the Excelsior College 2010 Alumni Book Alumni Library Extended !

e are pleased to announce that work has begun on the first y popular demand, the Alumni Library Project has edition of Excelsior College been extended through August 2011. All alumni are Alumni Today, which will cele- Binvited to sign up for free, 24-hour access to the brateW the College’s 40th anniversary. Scheduled Excelsior College Alumni Library. for release in September, this beautiful limited Your use of the library, along with the feedback you provide, will help edition volume will be the most complete and determine the continued development and success of this service. up-to-date reference for more than 135,000 Registration is necessary to access the library. All interested alumni worldwide. It will also feature photos and alumni can sign up by doing the following: essays submitted by alumni. We need your help! ••Go to your My Profile page at www.excelsior.edu/myprofile Working in partnership with Harris Connect, (log in with your MyEC username and password) and click “yes” to the leading alumni directory publisher, EC alumni the library option to add library access. will be receiving communications inviting you to ••Then go directly to the Alumni Library at www.excelsior.edu/ update and verify your profile for inclusion in the book. alumnilibrary and start exploring! The directory will be sorted into three easy-to-use sec- tions, and to make networking easy with other alumni, it will include residence and business information as well as email addresses. When contacted, please take a few moments to verify that we have com- Don’t Miss Out! Stay Connected. plete and accurate information. The new 2010 Excelsior College Alumni Today promises to be an ExcelsiorM is expandingy itsE alumni WebC site and entertaining and comprehensive online services. Update your contact information coffee table book bound into a online today through MyEC. classic, library-quality edition. Go to www.excelsior.edu/myec and create a MyEC user account.

Nominate Yourself!

he Excelsior College Alumni Association offers an opportunity for graduates to nominate Tthemselves for one of its annual alumni awards. This honor gives recognition to outstanding graduates whose achievements inspire fellow graduates and students.

For more information and a self-nomination form, please visit www.excelsior.edu/alumniawards.

1414 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 The Excelsior College Alumni Association offers free membership to all the College’s grads, and we hope you will take advantage of the many benefits and services we offer you!

Career Web Chats and Conferences

nteract with career professionals and obtain You’re Hired: Acing the Job Interview valuable information and resources. Ask September 22, 2010, 8 – 9 pm ET questions — and get answers. Meet and chat Are you getting job interviews, but not the job? Are you not with students and alumni while expanding sure how to successfully navigate the sometimes difficult terrain of an interview? Haven’t interviewed in awhile and Iyour personal and professional networks. need to sharpen your skills? If you answered “yes” to any of Resumé Makeover: How to Write a Dynamic Resumé these questions, this Web chat is designed specifically for you. June 2, 2010, 8 – 9 pm ET Join us for an interesting and engaging presentation and chat on the latest interviewing techniques. You’ll learn about You seldom get a second chance to make a first impression. the different types of interviews—and why they’re differ- In today’s competitive job market, your resume is often your ent; how to prepare for an interview and develop confidence; first impression. Have you been applying for multiple jobs yet how to respond to behavioral interviewing strategies; how to received little or no response to your resume? Are you having properly close an interview; the art of the follow-up; key inter- trouble getting invited to interviews? If that’s the case, our viewing dos and don’ts; and much, much more. So play your “resumé makeover” Web chat will help you in creating a posi- cards right and join us for this Web chat—you just may ace tive first impression aimed at getting an employer’s attention. your next interview! Whether you have a resume that needs a makeover, Registering for any (or all!) of these career Web chats is or if you’re new to the world of resumes, this Web chat will simple. Send an email with your name, mailing address, the provide you with the information, knowledge, and strategies to name(s) of the chat(s) you wish to attend, and a contact phone increase your chances of success in the job market. Join us for number to [email protected]. Registration is limited and an interesting and interactive discussion about how to write available on a first-come, first-served basis. a dynamic resume—and learn how to truly make your first impression a lasting one!

Coming Soon ONline Excelsior College is Alumni Speaker Series Coming Your Way! e’ve already made visits to Buffalo, NY, San Francisco, he Excelsior College Alumni Texas CA, and, most recently, Atlanta, GA. In fact, our Speaker Series will be launched Atlanta reception in January had a record turnout! In on May 25, 2010, with an informa- W T the near future, we plan to visit New York, NY, Washington DC, and tive presentation from Alumni Advisory Board Fort Hood, TX. We are on our way and look forward to meeting you! member, Dr. Wayne A. Oppel. The topic will be Visit www.excelsior.edu/alumni for updates. “The Changing Face of Leadership.” Through this series of Web chats, EC alumni will beNew exposed to the collective York wisdom and accomplishments of our graduates and other distinguished friends. Facilitators will share their knowledge and experiences as experts and professionals, best practices they employ, and the great value of an Excelsior College degree. Stay tuned! VisitTexasTexas www.excelsior.edu/alumni for updates. Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 15 NewNew YorkYork Alumni E-Newsletter Keeping You Feeling Social? Check out Excelsior’s official Connected presence on the following sites: Not getting the alumni Facebook, LinkedIn, e-newsletter yet? Travel MySpace, Twitter, YouTube Sign up now! Create your online in Style user account by going to www.excelsior.edu/myec Let us send you a free luggage tag. Simply mail your and choose “Create a MyEC User business card to the Office of Account.” Already have a user Alumni Affairs, 7 Columbia account but changed your email Circle, Albany, NY 12203 and we address? Just log in to your account will mail you a coated tag made and update your address now. You from your card. won’t want to miss a single issue. www.excelsior.edu/community

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16 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 What have our graduates Hats Off! been doing? Read on to find out.

CALIFORNIA MARYLAND tant nurse manager. After completing his degree, Simms was accepted into a management posi- Lana L. Lynn, BS in nursing ’82, Salinas — has Raymond W. Simms, BS in nursing ’08, tion at a government health care institution, been involved in humanitarian relief in various Bowie — writes, “Obtaining a degree from where he is still employed today. parts of the world including service with Doctors Excelsior College paved the way for career Without Borders in Somalia and Afghanistan. advancement.” Prior to completing his degree, NEW YORK She has also served as a trainer for the military the highest position he had obtained was assis- Takis Dikas, BSL ’98, Albany — is employed regarding humanitarian and nongovernmental by the Comptroller’s Office for New York State, work in various countries. working with the Unclaimed Funds Unit and with Vernon E. Mortensen, BSL ’04 and AAS ’04, the Department of Taxation and Finance. He has Descanso — is the producer/director of the new written two novels. The first is titled Prosperous series, “Universal Dead,” starring DB Sweeney, Twenties With An Unnecessary Depression. His Doug Jones, Gary Graham, and Cade Courtley. second book is Abundant Life, which covers the Mr. Mortensen is also the co-executive producer topics of financial prosperity, healthy life styles, of “Chamaco,” a gritty Mexican boxing drama and spiritual growth. starring Martin Sheen and Michael Madsen, which is expected in theaters this spring. A California veteran of the special operation community, he George L. Conley Jr., BSL ’07, retired from the Navy SWCC in 2008. San Diego — earned a Master of Michael J. Spradley, AS ’98 and BSL ’00, Arts in Management from National San Diego — is a food critic and observer of University in San Diego in 2010. An San Diego restaurants. His column, “Spradley active duty Naval Officer who was New York on Restaurants,” appears in The Espresso: promoted to Chief Warrant Officer Marianne Sciucco, AAS in nursing An Independent Newspaper for Cafe Society. ’97, Middletown — is an RN, Spradley writes that his goal is to end childhood Four in Jan. 2009, he is currently hunger in the County of San Diego. the weapons officer at Naval Special Certified Case Manager. She is Warfare Center in Coronado, CA. also a writer with a BA in English from UMass—Boston. Her short story, “Ino’s Love,” was published CONNECTICUT in the 2009 issue of Kaleidoscope Illinois Magazine, Issue 59—Giving and Heather A. Alfonso, AS in nursing ’97 and SMSgt Mike Sanders, BS ’98, Receiving Care—A Delicate Balance. BSL ’06, Middlebury — has passed the ANCC Scott AFB — has served in the U.S. Published by United Disability Clinical Nurse Specialist exam after obtaining Air Force for more than 20 years. Services of Akron, OH, the award- her master’s degree in nursing. She has also He was promoted in 2009 to Senior winning Kaleidoscope expresses authored two articles for AWHONN’s journal, Master Sergeant. Prior to this, the experiences of disability from Nursing for Women’s Health and the Journal he was a Knowledge Operations of Gerontological Nursing. She is the interim the perspective of individuals, Manager for the 618th Tanker Airlift president of the Bridgeport, CT, chapter of the families, health care professionals, Control Center’s Current Operations TruthAboutNursing.org, a nursing advocacy and society as a whole. “Ino’s Love” Directorate. Last fall, MSgt Sanders group addressing media portrayal of nursing. is the story of an elderly woman celebrated his first re-enlistment sharing Christmas dinner with her FLORIDA following a yearlong bout with home health aide. Ms. Sciucco Brook J. Ford, BSL ’96, Orlando — has joined cancer. He held his re-enlistment believes that nurses have a Florida Encelium Technologies of Teaneck, NJ, a lead- ceremony among friends and responsibility and the privilege to Jennifer Lamothe, AAS in nursing ing international manufacturer and supplier of medical staff who helped him share what they learn about the ’10, Miami — left for Haiti the day addressable lighting controls for commercial through the cancer treatment and human condition. Writing fiction is after completing her degree to buildings, as director of sales of the Southeast. recovery process. Sanders has Ford spent ten years as an Infantry Officer in the one way she has learned to pass on help care for those left maimed written and published many articles U.S. Army, serving with the 19th Special Forces the knowledge and insight she has and homeless after the deadly including a three-part series on his Group, the 101st Airborne Division, 4th Infantry gained from working in health care. earthquake. With the support of her Division and 40th Infantry Division. battle with cancer. Just recently, he husband and three children, she In 2008, the Canadian literary was named the Scott Air Force Base made her decision to go and help in Daniel C. Williams, BS ’05, Tarron Athlete of the Year for 2009. He is Springs — was accepted in Aug. 2009 into journal, Inscribed: A Magazine for whatever way she could. a long-time marathon runner and Strayer University’s Master of Science in Writers, published another of her says it helps him stay healthy and Ms. Lamothe’s trip was arranged Information Systems—Software Engineering stories, “ICE.” And in 2007, her story in shape. by the University of Miami’s Project Management program. He hopes to graduate “Collection” won an award of High Medishare, and she traveled on in early 2011. Distinction in the Tom Howard/John behalf of The Children of Haiti GEORGIA H. Reid Short Story contest spon- Enhancement Foundation, an sored by Tom Howard Books. Sciucco Richard E. Verbeke, AAS ’02 and BS ’05, organization founded by her own is currently seeking publication for Saint Mary’s — will assume command as Trident her novel, Blue Hydrangeas, the story mother 15 years ago to promote Refit Facility’s 11th commanding officer when of an elderly couple struggling with education and provide basic needs he officially relieves Captain John A. Stewart to Haitian children. during a Change of Command ceremony sched- Alzheimer’s disease. uled for October 2010 at TRF’s Dry Dock Facility.

Hats Off Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 | 17 VERMONT uniformed servicemembers of all Regina L. Christianson, BAL ’82, Stowe — was branches, developed and presented one of seven newly matriculated students at the briefings, managed special projects, and Episcopal Divinity School, a respected center conducted visits and outreach to DoD- of study and spiritual formation for lay and wide military installations. ordained leaders with a strong commitment to justice, compassion, and reconciliation. Rev. CMC Zernick graduated from Coast Christianson is in the Diocese of Vermont and is Guard recruit training in 1983 and currently enrolled in the doctor of ministry pro- completed advanced Marine Science gram. The new students represent the Episcopal, Technician training with honors in Baptist, and Metropolitan Community Churches. 1985. He has served in a variety of field and administrative leadership VIRGINIA positions during his career. His personal Samuel T. Watkins Jr., BSL ’99, Virginia decorations include the Coast Guard Beach — is a recipient of the American Police Florida Commendation Medal with gold star and Hall of Fame & Museum Life Saving Award. Maryland He was honored in recognition of his unselfish Command Master Chief Timothy the Coast Guard Achievement Medal. actions during an emergency situation, which Edward M. Forsythe III, BSL ’01, Zernick BSL ’06, Pace — has completed In addition to his Excelsior College resulted in the saving of a human life. Ft. Meade — will retire this year, from his assignment as the eighth Special degree, CMC Zernick is a Certified Career the Navy after 21 years of service Enlisted Advisor to DANTES and is being Charles Henry Wetzel, AA ’09, Fairfax — is Development Facilitator and holds as a Russian linguist. He then plans reassigned to Coast Guard Headquarters enrolled again at Excelsior College, working on certification to teach elementary and his baccalaureate degree. He currently teaches to move to Japan to be an English in Washington DC, effective July 2010. middle school science in the State of English as a second language in Taiwan and professor at a University in northern In his new assignment, CMC Zernick New Jersey. He is currently pursuing his credits his success to Excelsior. Japan. Mr. Forsythe writes, “My will serve as Rating Training Master Certificate in Instructional Technology degree from Excelsior started me on Chief for Education Branch of the Force WASHINGTON from San Diego State University and a very interesting journey.” Readiness Command. His new duties will says, “My bachelor’s degree from Matthew P. McCally, BA ’90, Renton — was a include oversight of enlisted professional featured speaker at the biennial International Excelsior College was a huge stepping military and rating training and USMAP Reform Conference in Albuquerque, NM, put stone in my career. It was a critical coordination. on by The Drug Policy Alliance, a public inter- factor toward having the necessary est group committed to reducing the harms As the first Coast Guardian to serve as credentials for my DANTES Senior associated with both drug abuse and the war the DANTES Special Enlisted Advisor, Enlisted Advisor appointment, earning a on drugs. Mr. McCally is a Law Enforcement he advised the director of DANTES on teaching certificate, and acceptance into Against Prohibition representative and a former voluntary education issues affecting grad school.” probation officer whose panel, “Policing Drug Markets,” included the renown sociologist Harry Levine and the long-time executive director NORTH CAROLINA OHIO of the American Civil Liberties Union, Ira Glasser. Janet L. Lewis, BS ’96, Raleigh-Durham — has Ronald L. DeBlanc, AS ’97, BSL ’99, AAS, 16 years of freelance experience in educational ’03, Fairborn — earned a master’s degree in publishing as a writer, editor, and managing psychology from Northcentral University in editor. She is currently working on educational 2009. Mr. DeBlanc also holds a baccalaure- materials for mathematics, chemistry, biology, ate degree in theology from New Testament social studies, language arts, and English litera- Christian College and is an ordained minister ture textbooks. and local pastor as well as an Ohio State Board Professional Chemical Dependency Counselor. Virginia Tia Stewart, BSL ’97, TEXAS Richmond — writes in several genres, Patricia L. Harps, AS ’89, El Paso — com- but poetry is her passion. She is pleted her master’s degree in nursing from the virginia an RN, who attended Northwestern University of Phoenix in 2004. In 2008, she University and is an alumnus of earned her Post Master’s Certification as a Dr. Gregory V. Fant, BSL ’90, Family Nurse Practitioner. She is the primary Reston — a federal civil servant, was Norfolk State University and Excelsior care provider for more than 1,000 patients at promoted to a Supervisory Health College. Ms. Stewart also attended La Clinica Guadalupana a not-for-profit health Scientist with the U.S. Department the College of Human Medicine at care facility. Ms. Harps served in the U.S. Army of Health and Human Services in Michigan State University for one for 13-½ years, starting as a medic. She plans Rockville, MD, in 2008. He earned year before becoming a full-time to pursue a doctoral degree in nursing and professional recognition from the mother. She is a member of James Texas writes, “Thanks Excelsior College—for giving me Statistical Society of Australia with River Writers. Her third book is a a great start!” Col. Michael E. Champion, BSL the award of Accredited Statistician poetry-novel, Colors of Man: Tribute ’83 and AAS in nursing ’06 — was Jose A. Torres, BSL ’07, Frisco — completed in 2009. Dr. Fant graduated with his to African-American Men, due out promoted to colonel in the Texas a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership second master’s degree, a Master in spring. Her at Mountain State University and is cur- State Guard in Nov. 2009. Col. of Science in Health Science with first publication, rently working on a doctorate in business a concentration in public health, Colors of a Man: Champion has also achieved a administration, specializing in International summa cum laude from Touro Transgressions master’s in education from Boston Business. He recently submitted a article that and Hope was University, a master’s in Medical has been approved for publication in The University International in 2009. He Science from St. Francis University, Business Review, Cambridge, Vol. 14, summer is currently preparing an article on published in and a doctorate in Health Science 2010, titled “Understanding the Influence and tertiary breast cancer prevention 2009 as an from Nova Southeastern. Approaches to Effective Chinese Negotiations.” activities in public health cancer ebook on prevention plans. Amazon.

18 | Live & Learn Spring/Summer 2010 Hats Off Alumna Inducted into Hall of Distinction

developed by and within the medical research Excelsior graduate, but he shares her belief in community. She is also expanding the avail- the College and its students. Her mother, Mary, ability of jobs in the Rochester, New York, area. has been known to ask for contributions to the College in place of birthday gifts, and the Excelsior Dr. Maida’s enthusiasm for Excelsior College is family very generously supports the Summo President John manifested in her participation in the Excelsior F. Ebersole College President’s Advisory Council and her Scholarship Fund, established by Dr. Maida to presents the willingness to help wherever needed. “One of honor her mother and her deceased father, both cIcu award the wonderful aspects of Dr. Maida’s commit- of whom “instilled a love of learning and aca- to Dr. Mary ment,” notes Vice President for Institutional demic accomplishment” for Maida. Advancement Cathy Kushner, “is that she her and her five siblings. brings her incredible family with her.” Dr. Maida’s husband, Dr. David Felten, is not an

ew York’s Commission on Dr. Mary Maida and her Independent Colleges and mother, Mary, joined Universities (cIcu) offers Excelsior staff and member institutions the oppor- faculty at a reception in Ntunity to include New York alumni in its Hall of Dr. Maida’s honor prior Distinction. This year, the inductees reflected to the cIcu event. economic development role models—individuals who work to grow business in New York State. Dr. Mary Maida, CEO of the Medingen Group, chair and CEO of Clerisy Corp, and two- time Excelsior graduate was the College’s inductee. By founding both Medingen and Clerisy Corp, Dr. Maida is working to create broad availability of products

Tell us about all the great things you’ve been doing! Hats Off Special Edition

Excelsior College’s 40th year is about to begin! If you have ever wanted to share news of your accomplishments with your alma mater — now is the time. We want to hear from you, our graduates, for the upcoming Hats Off Special Edition. • Tell us about all the great things you’re doing • Update your contact information • Attach pictures electronically Just fill out the Hats Off form at the Excelsior Web site: www.excelsior.edu/hatsoff

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Come to Commencement! Join us on July 9, 2010 to Celebrate Your Achievement. An Excelsior College Commencement is an amazing event to attend, and the Capital Region of New York State is a great place to visit. 2010 keynote speaker: Under Secretary of Education Martha J. Kanter

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