



Theuniversityhas become a placethat prepares you for thefightsinthe world.
Theuniversityhas become a placethat prepares you for thefightsinthe world.
Editor’s Editor’s Note Note

Theuniversityhas become a placethat prepares you for thefightsinthe world.
Theuniversityhas become a placethat prepares you for thefightsinthe world.
Intheever-evolvinglandscapeofeducationandcareer development,theroleofuniversitieshasbecomemore vitalthaneverbefore.Highereducationinstitutionsare notjustcentersoflearning;theyareincubatorsfor innovation,hubsofcriticalthinking,andlaunchpadsfor successfulcareers.Aswedelveintotheyear2023,weare thrilledtopresenttoyouthelatesteditionofInsights Success,focusingon"MostPrestigiousUniversities DrivingStudentSuccessandCareerGrowth."
Inthisissue,weembarkonajourneytoexplorethe universitiesthatstandoutnotonlyfortheiracademic excellencebutalsofortheirunwaveringcommitmentto nurturingthetalentsandaspirationsoftheirstudents.These universitiesarenotjustplacesofeducation;theyare crucibleswherefutureleaders,innovators,andvisionaries areforged.
Youwillencounterinspiringstoriesofstudentswhoselives havebeentransformedbytheirexperiencesatthese prestigiousinstitutions.Fromgroundbreakingresearchto cutting-edgeprograms,theseuniversitiesareatthe forefrontofshapingthefuture.Theyempowerstudentsnot onlywithknowledgebutalsowiththeskills,values,and perspectivesthatareessentialforsuccessinaneverchangingworld.
Wehavehadtheprivilegeofspeakingwithuniversity leaders,facultymembers,andstudentswhosharetheir insightsandexperiences.Theirstoriesprovideaglimpse intothedynamicandinclusivelearningenvironmentsthat theseuniversitiesoffer Theyhighlighttheimportanceof mentorship,interdisciplinarycollaboration,andexperiential
WehopethatthiseditionofInsightsSuccessinspiresyou, whetheryouareastudentaspiringtojoinoneofthese prestigiousuniversities,aneducatorshapingthefutureof learning,oraprofessionalseekingtostayinformedabout thelatestdevelopmentsinhighereducation.Thestories withinthesepagesremindusthateducationisa transformativeforceandthepursuitofknowledgeisa journeythatknowsnobounds.
ThankyouforchoosingInsightsSuccessasyoursourceof inspirationandknowledge.Weinviteyoutoimmerse yourselfinthestories,insights,andideaspresentedinthese pagesandjoinusincelebratingthepowerofeducationto shapeabrighterfuture.
Virginia State University Virginia State University Greater Happens Here
A Kaleidoscope of Unvarying and "GREATER" Educational Opportunities
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DeVryUniversityischangingthewaystudentslearnand helpingthemearnthedegreestheyneedtofindsuccessin today’sandtomorrow’scareers.
Harris-StoweStateUniversityprovideseducational opportunitiesforindividualsseekingarichandengaging academicexperienceandoffersprogramsdesignedtonurture intellectualcuriosityandbuildauthenticskills.
LakelandUniversityiscommittedtoeducatingindividualsof diversebackgroundsenablingthemtoearnaliving,tomake ethicaldecisionsandtoleadpurposefulandfulfillinglives.
VirginiaStateUniversityisoneofVirginia'stwoland-grant institutionsandoffersseveralacademicprogramsfor transformativeexperiencesandopportunities.
YorkUniversityisatopinternationalteachingandresearch universityandadrivingforceforpositivechange.
I believe leadership is the art and ability to influence the behavior of others to bring about the desired results in a mutually beneficial way. We all lead.
Dr TiaA. Minnis Interim Provost and Vice President forAcademicThefutureofhighereducationisuncertain,butitis
clearthatthelandscapeischangingrapidly.The landscapeofhighereducationcanthereforebe statedasever-evolving,wherenewtechnologies,learning models,andstudentexpectationsemerge.Astheworld continuestochange,highereducationinstitutionsneedto adaptinordertomeettheneedsofstudentsandemployers.
VirginiaStateUniversity(VSU),whosemantraisGreater HappensHere,isadaptingtothesechangesandiswellpositionedtosucceedintheyearstocome.Dr.TiaA. MinnisistheInterimProvostandVicePresidentfor AcademicAffairsatVSU.Herunwaveringdedicationand passionhavehelpedpropeltheinstitutiontonewheights.
Dr.Minnisbeginsherdaywithaclearsenseofpurposeas thesunrisesoverthepicturesquecampus,castingawarm glowonthe251acregrounds.Withacurrentstudent populationofapproximately4800,theuniversityhumswith theenergyofknowledge-seekersfromdiversebackgrounds, eacheagertocarvetheirpathtowardsabetterfuture.VSU's sprawlingcampus,adornedwith11residencehallsand14 academicbuildings,perchesmajesticallyatoparolling landscapeoverlookingthesereneAppomattoxRiver, offeringbreathtakingvistasofPetersburg.
Withanimpressive412-acreagricultureresearchfacility, theuniversity'scommitmenttoinnovationandadvancement isevident.Inspiredbyherownjourneyasastudentata historicallyblackcollegeanduniversity(HBCU),Dr Minnisrecognizesthetremendousimpactofeducationon transforminglivesandcommunities.
"Higher education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's about empowering individuals to become catalysts for change,"emphasizesDr.Minnis.
Ourhumanresourcesareessential.Investinginourfaculty, staff,andstudentsiscriticaltotheinstitution’ssuccess.” emphasizesDr.Minnis.
Drawingfromherexperiences,shefirmlybelievesthat HBCUsplayacrucialroleinprovidingunderrepresented communitieswithaccesstoqualityeducationandunique culturalexperiences.Itisthisbeliefthatfuelsherdriveto partnerwiththeuniversitypresidentDr.MakolaM. Abdullah,andhisleadershipteamtoleadVSUtowards greaterheightsofinclusivityandacademicexcellence.
AstheUniversity’snewlynamedInterimProvostandVice PresidentforAcademicAffairs,Dr.Minnisisinstrumental
inshapingtheuniversity'scurriculumandfosteringan environmentthatpromotesinnovation,diversity,and growth.Herunwaveringcommitmenttotheuniversity's missionhasearnedhertherespectandadmirationof faculty,staff,students,andalumnialike.
Let's delve into Dr. Minnis’s collaborative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence!
Inthepursuitofabrighterfutureforbothstudentsand communities,Dr.Minnisisanadvocateforhighereducation.Withapassionthatburnsbright,Dr.Minnishas dedicatedherlifetothetransformativepowerofeducation. Herjourneybeganasastudentattendingahistorically blackcollegeanduniversity(HBCU),whereshewitnessed firsthandtheprofoundimpacteducationcanhaveonlives.
"Education is the key to unlocking the potential within each individual and creating a better future for all,"saysDr Minniswithconviction.
Throughoutheracademicjourney,sherealizedtheunique andcrucialrolethatHBCUsplayinsociety.Asenginesof opportunity,theyprovideamuch-neededpathwaytohigher educationforstudentsfromunderrepresentedcommunities. Beyondacademicgrowth,theseinstitutionsofferarich culturalandintellectualexperiencethatfostersadeepsense ofidentityandpride.
AspartoftheVirginiaStateUniversity(VSU)familyfor sixyears,Dr.Minnisiscommittedtoensuringthatthe universityremainsashiningexampleofhighereducation excellence.Thrilledtobeworkingalongsidethe University'sPresident,Dr.MakolaM.Abdullah,andthe dedicatedadministration,faculty,staff,students,and alumni,sheaimstostrengthenVSU'sstandingasagreat
I believe leadership is the art and ability to influence the behavior of others to bring about the desired results in a mutually beneficial way.
We all lead.
universitythatnurturesandempowerseveryindividualwho walksthroughitsdoors.
"Ibelieveleadershipistheartandabilitytoinfluencethe behaviorofotherstobringaboutthedesiredresultsina mutuallybeneficialway,"saysDr.Minnis.Hervisionfor VSUisoneofinclusivity,diversity,andgrowth,reflecting thebroaderaspirationsofhighereducationasawhole. Throughcollaborativeeffortsandasteadfastcommitment, Dr.Minnisseekstoforgeafuturewhereeducationknows noboundsandeverystudent'spotentialisunleashed, makingwayforabrighter,morepromisingtomorrow.
VirginiaStateUniversity(VSU)iscommittedtopromoting academicsuccessandprofessionaldevelopmentby sustainingasetoffundamentalvaluesandguidingprinciples.Thesevaluesserveasthecornerstonefortheinstitution'sdedicationtoacademicexcellence,individual development,andcareeradvancement.
VSUaspirestoexcellenceineveryfacetofitsacademic offeringsandsupportservices.Inadditiontooffering studentsademandingandintellectuallychallenging learningenvironment,theinstitutionsetshighstandardsfor teaching,scholarlyresearch,andinnovation.
Dr.Minnismentions,“At VSU, we embrace a studentcentered approach and place students at the center of our mission.”Theinstitutioniscommittedtoprovidinga supportiveandinclusivecampuscommunitythatnurtures individualgrowth,empowersstudentstoreachtheirfull potential,andpreparesthemforsuccessfulcareers.
VSUsupportsthehighestethicalstandardsandvalues academicintegrity Theuniversityencouragesintegrity, intellectualvigor,criticalanalysis,andresponsiblescholarship.Academicachievementissupportedinasettingthat valueseffort,commitment,andintellectualintegrity VirginiaStateUniversityisdedicatedtolifelonglearning andunderstandsthateducationgoesbeyondtheclassroom. Studentshaveaccesstoopportunitiesattheinstitutionto
participateinresearch,internships,experientiallearning, andcommunityservice.
VSUembracesdiversityandvalueseachpersonforwho theyare.Theinstitutionsupportsadiverseandwelcoming communitythatrespectsandvaluesindividualbackgrounds,cultures,viewpoints,andidentities.Dr.Minnis says,“We believe that having a diverse campus enhances learning and better equips our students for living in a multicultural world.”Thesebasicbeliefsandguiding conceptsdemonstrateVirginiaStateUniversity'sdedication toprovidingstudentswithatransformativeeducational experiencethatequipsthemforsuccessfuljobs,lifelong learning,andsignificantsocietalcontributions.
Tosupportthegrowthofthestudentsonbothapersonal andprofessionallevel,VSUactivelypromotesaninclusive anddiversecampuscommunity.Dr.Minnismentions,“To encourage diversity and inclusion on campus, we provide a variety of programs and initiatives.”Forstudentsfrom variedbackgrounds,VSUpromotesthecreationofsupport networksandaffinitygroups.Forstudents,professors,and staff,VSUoffersdiversityandinclusiontrainingcourses andworkshops.
Thesetrainingopportunitiesimproveculturalcompetency, raiseawarenessandprovidepeoplewiththetoolstheyneed tocreateaninclusivecampuscommunity VSUworkswith localbusinesses,organizations,andothereducational institutionstoprovidestudentswithchancesforcrossculturalinteractions,internships,andexperientiallearning. Thesecollaborationsincreasestudents'exposuretovarious settingsandviewpoints,broadeningtheirmindsand preparingthemforaglobalsociety Throughtheseprograms,VirginiaStateUniversitydemonstratesitscommitmenttocreatingafriendlyanddiversecampus.
VirginiaStateUniversity(VSU)hastakenseveralstepsto adapttothechanginglandscapeofhighereducation, includingadvancementsintechnologyandevolvingstudent expectations.Theuseoftechnologyineducation,blended andonlinelearning,improvedstudentsupportservices, partnerships,andcollaboration,aswellasongoing evaluationandimprovement,aresomeofVSU'skey initiativesandstrategies.VSUhasembracedtechnologyto enhanceteaching,learning,andadministrativeprocesses.
Theuniversityhasinvestedinstate-of-the-artinfrastructure, classrooms,anddigitalresourcestosupportinnovative instructionalmethods.Dr.Minnisstates,“We incorporate online learning platforms, multimedia tools, and virtual collaboration spaces to deliver engaging and flexible educational experiences.”Toaccommodatethechanging requirementsandinterestsofstudents,VSUhasincreased itsselectionofonlineandhybridcourses.Duetothe adaptabilityandaccessibilityoftheseformats,studentscan accesscoursematerialsandparticipateineducational activitiesattheirconvenience.
VSUalsoensuresthatthesecoursesmaintainhighstandardsofinstructionandpromoteinteractionbetween facultyandstudents.Inordertomeetchangingstudent expectations,theuniversityhasalsoincreasedthescopeof itsstudentsupportservices.VSUprovidescomprehensive academicadvising,mentoringprograms,andpersonal counselingservices.
Additionally,VSUoffersresourcesforfinancialliteracy, wellness,andmentalhealthsupporttopromotestudent well-beingandsuccess.Topromoteinnovationandaddress newchallengesinhighereducation,VSUactivelyengages inpartnershipsandcollaborationswithotherorganizations, businesses,andinstitutions.Thesepartnershipscould involvecooperativeresearchprojects,thesharingof resources,andjointprogramsthatofferstudentsdistinctive chancesandviewpoints.
Toguaranteealignmentwithshiftingstudentexpectations andtechnologyimprovements,VSUperiodicallyreviews andevaluatesitsprograms,services,andtechnological infrastructure.Toidentifyareasfordevelopmentandmake therequiredadjustments,theuniversitysolicitsfeedback fromstudents,faculty,andstaff.VirginiaStateUniversity exhibitsadedicationtoadjustingtotheevolvinghigher educationlandscapethroughtheseprograms.VSUseeksto giveitsstudentsarichandfuture-focusededucational experiencebyutilizingtechnology,improvingstudent supportservices,andbeingresponsivetochangingstudent expectations.
VSUunderstandsthevalueofinnovationandentrepreneurshipinpromotingeconomicgrowth,jobcreation,and leadershipdevelopment.Theuniversityprovidesvarious avenuesofsupporttoencouragestudentstobecomefuture leadersandjobcreators.
TheReginaldF.LewisCollegeofBusinessatVSUhouses theCenterforEntrepreneurship,whichactsasthefocal pointforallentrepreneurialinitiativesoncampus.Students interestedincreatingtheirownfirmsorventurescantake advantageofthecenter'stools,mentorship,andadvice.To developentrepreneurialskillsandpromoteaninnovative culture,itofferscourses,networkingopportunities,and businessproposalcompetitions.
Inordertosupportstudententrepreneurs,VSUoffers acceleratorandincubatorprograms.Theseprograms providephysicalspace,resourceaccess,coaching,and
networkingopportunitiesforstudentstoestablishandgrow theirenterprises.Theincubatorandacceleratorprogramsat VSUofferguidanceonhowtolaunchabusiness,enhancea product,andsecurefunding.
Dr.Minnisannotates,“We encourage collaborative partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and
We believe that having a diverse campus enhances learning and better equips our students for living in a multicultural world.
governmental bodies to develop student entrepreneurs.” Internships,jointventures,andresearchpartnershipsarea fewexamplesofthesealliances.VSUincreasesstudents' exposuretoactualentrepreneurshipandinnovationby connectingthemwithoutsidenetworksandresources. SuccessfulbusinesspeoplefromVSU'salumninetworkact asmentors,advisors,androlemodelsfortoday'sstudents. Studentscanlearnfromseasonedbusinesspeopleand obtaininsightfulknowledgeabouttheentrepreneurial processthroughthisnetwork,whichsupportsmentorship opportunities,networkingevents,andindustryconnections.
Throughtheseprograms,VirginiaStateUniversityfosters anenvironmentofinnovationandentrepreneurshipthat encouragesstudentstotakecalculatedrisks,exercisetheir imaginations,andacquirethecompetenciesrequiredto becomefutureleadersandjobcreators.StudentsatVSUare giventhetoolstheyneedtoturntheirentrepreneurialgoals intorealbusinessesthathaveagoodinfluenceonsocietyby providingawelcomingenvironment,mentorship,education,andaccesstoresources.
Inaddition,theuniversity’sBOLT(BecomingOutstanding LeadersofTomorrow)programisdesignedtodevelop VirginiaStateUniversitygraduateswithskillsandcompetenciestobecomeengaging,empathetic,andcollaborative leaderswithintheirlocal,national,andglobalcommunities. ThegoalofBOLTistoequipandprovideundergraduates withleadershipskillsandexperiencesbyinfusingleadershipcompetenciesthroughouttheVSUcurriculumand establishingaculturewhereleadershiplearningmanifests intocampusactivityandexperientiallearning.BOLT emphasizestwoaspectsofthesocialchangemodelof leadership:
Ÿ Leadershipisaprocessratherthanaposition.
Ÿ Allstudentsarepotentialleaders.
For,faculty,staff,andstudents,VSUoffersavarietyof professionaldevelopmentoptions.Thesepossibilities includeconferences,workshops,seminars,andtraining coursescoveringarangeoftopicsinteaching,research, leadership,andpersonaldevelopment.Throughthese programs,theVSUconstituentscanimprovetheirexpertise intheirspecializedsectors.
Inordertoassistprofessorsintheirteachingandresearch pursuits,VSUalsoprovidesfacultydevelopmentprograms.
Theuniversitysupportsfacultymembersinkeepingabreast ofdevelopmentsintheirfieldsandincorporatingfreshideas intotheirinstruction.Theinstitutionoffersgrants,financing options,andcooperativecollaborationstosupportresearch endeavors.Byparticipatinginresearch,individualscan deepentheirexpertise,contributetoknowledgecreation andstayattheforefrontoftheirrespectivefields.
Theinstitutionrewardssuccessandcontributionswith awards,accolades,andpromotions.Faculty,staff,and studentsaremotivatedtopursuegreatnessandmakean investmentintheircontinuedgrowththroughtheseaward initiatives.VirginiaStateUniversitycultivatesaculturethat appreciatesandencourageslifelonglearningthrough severalefforts.Theuniversityfosterspersonaldevelopment,careerprogression,andtheacquisitionofinformation andskillsthatcontributetobothindividualandinstitutional successbyencouragingteachers,staff,andstudentsto engageinongoingprofessionaldevelopment.
DeVry University strives to close our society’s opportunity gap by preparing learners to thrive in careers shaped by con nuous technological change.
Inthedynamiclandscapeof
highereducation,where innovationandadaptability areparamount,abeaconof progressivelearningshinesbright -DeVryUniversity.Picturethis: abustlingdigitalrealmwhere individualsshapetheirdestinies throughcutting-edgeeducation tailoredtotheever-evolving demandsoftomorrow'sindustries. Thisiswheredreamsarenurtured, challenged,andtransformedinto triumphantrealities.
Formorethaneightdecades, DeVryhasstoodattheforefront ofeducationalmetamorphosis. Theinstitutionembodiesan inclusiveethosthatenvelops everyaspiringmindinan environmentwhereinspiration, challenge,andempowerment intertwineseamlessly.
Theworldwhereacademicprogramsareingeniously designedtocatertothetech-centeredneedsthatdefinethe industriesofthefuture.DeVry'slegacyisetchedinits unwaveringcommitmenttocraftingsuccessstoriesforboth todayandtomorrow.Overthesedecades,DeVryhasbeen anunwaveringpartnerincountlessjourneystoward professionalachievement.
Let’s delve into the journey of knowledge and transformation beginning at DeVry University, where dreams unfurl and futures are etched in the annals of greatness!
Brieflydescribeyourmissionandvisionregarding studentsuccessandcareergrowth
DeVryUniversitystrivestocloseoursociety’sopportunity gapbypreparinglearnerstothriveincareersshapedby continuoustechnologicalchange.Itservesandempowers learnerswhowanttosucceed,particularlythosewholack theoptionstodosowithinthetraditionalhighereducation system.
Throughinnovativeprograms,relevantpartnerships,and exceptionalcare,DeVryempowersstudentsto meaningfullyimprovetheirlives,workplaces,andthe communitiestheyserve.
Couldyouhighlightsomeoftheuniversity'smost innovativeprogramsorinitiativesaimedatenhancing studentsuccessandcareergrowth?
DeVryUniversityisconstantlyinnovatingitsfullrangeof programstocreatemoreopportunitiesforlearnersto succeedinatech-centeredworld.DeVry’sScholars programsempoweramorediversetalentpipeline:
Ÿ Women+TechScholarsProgramempowersfemale studentstotakethefirststeptowardtech-focusedcareers intoday’sdigitallydriveneconomy.It’sdesignedtooffer mentors,earlyaccesstojobopportunitiestohelpthem preparetobreakthroughinadigitalfield.
Ÿ NextGenHispanicScholarsProgramisagroup-based modelthatprovidesaccesstoeducational,community,
andmentorshiptoolsandresourcesaimedtohelp Hispanic,Latino,Latina,andLantinxstudentsintheir pursuitofacollegeeducationandtechcareerandfor graduatestudentstocontinuetoadvanceinthe workforce.Moreover,ithelpstoclosethegapandfillthe pipelineofjobseekerswithskilledHispanic,Latino, Latina,andLatinxgraduates.
Ÿ FutureCyberDefendersScholarsProgram provides learnerswiththeresourcesandsupporttosucceedas cybersecurityprofessionals.
Howdoestheuniversityfostercollaborationswith industriestocreateopportunitiesforstudents?
DeVryUniversityhasadirectengagementwiththe businesscommunity.ThroughDeVryWorks,theuniversity helpscompaniesbuildtheirfutureandcloseskillsgapsby partneringwithhundredsofbusinessesandorganizations acrossthecountryandacrossindustriestoreskill/upskill employeesfortoday’smodernworkingworld.
Inaddition,DeVrycollaborateswithcomplementary educationprovidersandlocalchambers,theuniversity’s PartnershipsTeamleverageshundredsofmeaningful partnershipsthatempowerunderrepresentedlearnersto gaintheskillstothriveintechcareers.
Couldyousharesomeremarkablesuccessstoriesof alumniwhohaveexcelledintheircareersafter graduatingfromuniversity?
SonyaWickelwasalwaysworkingwithcomputersoutside ofworkandaspiredtobeinatechnologyrole.Shesigned upwithDeVryUniversityandgraduatedwithabachelor’s degreeinInformationTechnologyfromDeVry,anMBA, andamaster’sdegreeinInformationSystemManagement fromtheKellerGraduateSchoolofManagement.Shetook thosedreamsallthewaytoTriumph,agloballeaderinthe aerospaceindustry,servingastheirChiefInformation SecurityOfficer
AtTriumph,shebuiltamultifacetedcybersecurityprogram thatincludesthreathuntingandsecuritymonitoring, improvingemployeeculturethroughskill-basedsecurity awarenesstraining,andarisk-basedapproachtowards vulnerabilitymanagementandoutsourcingpartnerships.
Throughcomprehensivepoliciesandprocedures,she addressestheever-changingincidentandthreatlandscape anddesignedacomprehensiveauditprogramto demonstratecompliancewithcontractual,regulatory,and privacyrequirements.Sonyahasbeenastrongadvocatefor herfield,forunderrepresentedcommunitiesintechnology, andcreditsmuchofhersuccesstohertimewithDeVry Sonyaisa2023AlumniLegacyAwardwinnerfromDeVry UniversityanditsKellerGraduateSchoolofManagement.
MichaelOmideleunderstandsthedrivepersonaltragedy cancreate.Helostafamilymemberduetoa“medical recordsmix-up”inNigeria.So,hesetouttodowhathe couldtopreventitfromhappeningtosomeoneelse. MichaelearnedaBachelorofScienceinNetworkand CommunicationsManagementdegreein2012fromDeVry University
Drawingonhisworkexperienceaftergraduation,Michael founded Clinify in2020tohelpdigitizeandcentralize medicalrecordsacrossAfrica’shealthcaresystemand improvepatientoutcomes. Clinify beganitsrolloutin Nigeria.Sincethen,itstechhasbeendeployedwith medicalinsurancegroups,healthcareproviders,and patients–creatingapositiveimpactonhealthcare.
AsaMcDonald’sCISO,GeorgeMaropakisleadsa diverseteamthatpartnerstoprotectthecompany’ssystem fromcybersecurityrisksandensureMcDonald’sis positionedtomakedelicious,feel-goodmomentseasyand
secureforeveryone.HejoinedtheMcDonald’steamin 2015asthedirectorofsecurityoperationsandeventually servedastheseniordirectorofsecuritydeliveryassurance implementingthreatintelligenceandincidentresponse capabilitiesbeforemovingintohiscurrentrole.
Georgeisresponsibleforleadinghisteamtocollaborate withMcDonald’sglobalstakeholderstostrategicallyalign, deployandgoverncybersecuritystandardsacrossnumerous countries.InadditiontoinitiatingtheMcdonald’s cybersecurityapprenticeshipprogramtodevelopthetalent pipeline,GeorgehasreceivedawardsfromCDOMagazine asoneoftheLeadingMidwestCybersecurityleadersin 2023andtheDigitalShadowsBestCyberThreat IntelligenceProgramfor2022.
HegraduatedfromDeVryUniversityin2000witha BachelorofScienceinTechnicalManagementandin1997 withanAssociateofAppliedScienceinElectronics.
MichaelandGeorgewererecognizedas2023recipientsof DeVry’sAlumniAchievementAwards.
Howdoestheeducationalestablishmentassiststudents inidentifyingcareerpathsandsecuringinternshipsor jobopportunities?
StudentCAREisembeddedineverythingDeVrydoes.That includesaccesstocareerplanningandanetworkof opportunitiesthroughitsCareerServicesstafftohelp studentsthrivelongaftertheygraduate.
ThroughDeVry’sCareerCompact,auniquebenefits programthatsupportsalumnibeyondgraduation,graduates fromDeVryandKellerGraduateSchoolofManagement haveaccesstopersonalizedcareeradvising,onlinecareer tools,tuitionsavings,andlifelonglearningresourceswhich canempowertheirfuturelearningandprofessionalpursuits.
Howdoesyoureducationalinstitutepromote mentorshipandguidanceforstudentsthroughouttheir academicjourney?
DeVryUniversityunderstandsaccesstoeducationaloneis notenough;studentsneedsupportthroughouttheirjourneys tosucceed.Forinstance,DeVryhasworkedtirelesslyto amplifyitscultureofCAREthroughtheuseoftechnology.
DeVry’sCAREFormulaisaninclusiveapproachto servicesandsupportthatenablesitsstudentsintheir
educationaljourneyandcareergoals.Itnotonlycomes fromfacultyandadvisorsthatinteractwithstudentsevery daybutitisincorporatedintotheirprocessesand technologiestofurtherthatcommitment.
Byprovidingsupporttostudentsfromenrollmenttocareer outcomesandallthestepsinbetween–likeattendanceand tutoring.DeVryhascreatedacommunityofpersonal supportandacademicmotivation.
Intoday’srapidlychangingjobmarket,whatefforts doestheuniversitymaketoequipstudentswithfuturereadyskills?
DeVryUniversityisconstantlyinnovatingourfullrangeof programstocreatemoreopportunitiesforlearnersto succeedinanevolvingdigitizedeconomy.DeVryoffersa tech-centeredprogrammixacrossdifferentdegreelevels, specializationsandcertificates.Learnersdigdeeperto understandtechnology’sroleinallthings,sotheyare equippedtofindsolutionstotoday’schallenges.
Furthermore,elementsofDeVry’scurriculumprepare studentsforadigitally-drivenfuturebyaligningitto professionalcertificationssuchasCompTIA,CISSP, SHRM,andMicrosoft,tonameafew.Forinstance, DeVry’s techprograms alongwithCompTIA ApprenticeshipforTechhelplearnerstodevelopastrong foundationincoreIT,business,andtechconceptswhile providingreal-worldon-the-jobexperienceandaddressing currentandlong-termworkforceneeds.
DeVry’scurriculumisdevelopedwithinsightsfrom industryexpertswhoserveontheNationalAdvisory Committees(NACs)taughtbyfacultywithreal-world experienceandprovidesindividualandteam-basedlearning experiences.
Howdoyoumeasurethesuccessofitsinitiativesin drivingstudentsuccessandcareergrowth?
DeVryUniversityhasmadeaccountabilityabedrock principle.DeVryreleaseditsfirstannualImpactReportin Januaryofthisyear,whichcloselyexaminedthecurrent stateofhighereducationandhowDeVry’suniqueapproach ishelpingtodrivebetteroutcomesandclosethe opportunitygapfordiverse,underservedlearners.
Inthatvein,theuniversitywillcontinuepublishingthe annualreporttoholditselfpubliclyaccountableformaking processtowardfulfillingitsmission.
Educationisacornerstoneofpersonalandsocietaldevelopment.Itnot onlyequipsindividualswithknowledgeandskillsbutalsohasaprofound impactontheiroverallwellbeing.Accordingtodifferentsurveys,itis shownthatwell-beingandlearning(education)arewellconnectedwitheach other;goinghandinhand.Inrecentyears,therehasbeenagrowingrecognitionof theimportanceofvalue-addededucationalprogramsinenhancingstudents’ wellbeing.
Theseprogramsgobeyondtraditionalacademiccurriculatoprovidestudentswith aholisticeducationthataddressestheirphysical,mentalandemotionalneeds.In thisarticle,wewillexplorethesignificantimpactofvalue-addededucational programsonstudents’wellbeing,supportedbystatisticsandreal-worldexamples.
Value-addededucationalprogramsaredesignedtonurturestudentsnotonly academicallybutalsoemotionallyandsocially.Theseprogramsrecognizethata student’swellbeingiscloselyintertwinedwiththeiracademicsuccess.Aholistic approachtoeducationensuresthatstudentsareequippedwiththetoolsandskills tonavigatethechallengestheymayfaceintheirpersonalandacademiclives.
Statistics:AccordingtoasurveyconductedbytheNationalCenterforEducation Statistics(NCES),schoolsthathaveimplementedvalue-addedprogramsreporta 25%reductionindisciplinaryissuesanda20%increaseinstudents’overallsense ofwellbeingcomparedtothosethatdonot.
Examples:MentalHealthandEmotionalWellbeing:Manyschoolshave incorporatedmindfulnessandstress-reductionprogramsintotheircurriculum.For example,the“MindfulSchools”programhasbeenimplementedinseveral schoolsacrosstheUnitedStates.AccordingtoastudypublishedintheJournalof AppliedSchoolPsychology,studentswhoparticipatedinthisprogramreporteda 30%decreaseinanxietylevelsanda25%improvementintheiremotional wellbeing.
• PhysicalHealth:Physicaleducationisacrucial componentofvalue-addedprograms.Schoolsthat prioritizephysicalhealthhavereportedadecreasein childhoodobesityrates.Forinstance,astudypublished intheJournalofPediatricsfoundthatschoolswith comprehensivephysicaleducationprogramshada15% lowerobesityrateamongstudentscomparedtoschools withoutsuchprograms.
• CommunityEngagement:Manyvalue-addedprograms emphasizecommunityengagementandservicelearning. Studentswhoparticipateincommunityserviceactivities tendtohaveastrongersenseofpurposeandwellbeing. AccordingtoasurveybytheCorporationforNational andCommunityService,studentswhoengagein volunteerworkduringhighschoolare50%morelikely toreporthighlevelsofwellbeinginadulthood.
• EnhancingAcademicSuccess:Contrarytothebelief thatfocusingonwellbeingmightdetractfromacademic achievement,value-addededucationalprogramshave beenfoundtoenhancestudents’academicsuccess.The NationalEducationAssociation(NEA)reportsthat studentswhoparticipateinvalue-addedprogramsare 20%morelikelytograduatefromhighschooland15% morelikelytopursuehighereducation.
Examples:
• Personalized Learning:Manyschoolshaveadopted personalizedlearningapproachesthatcatertoindividual students’strengthsandweaknesses.TheKhanAcademy, forexample,providespersonalizedonlineresourcesfor students.Accordingtotheirdata,studentswhoused KhanAcademyformorethan30minutesaweeksawa 20%increaseintheirmathscoresonstandardizedtests.
• STEM Programs:Science,Technology,Engineering,and Mathematics(STEM)programsoftenincludeprojectbasedlearningandhands-onexperiences.Astudy publishedintheInternationalJournalofSTEM EducationfoundthatstudentsenrolledinSTEM programswerenotonlymorelikelytoexcelinthese subjectsbutalsoreportedahighersenseof accomplishmentandwellbeing.
• Arts and Creativity:Value-addedprogramsofteninclude artsandcreativityintheircurriculum.Astudypublished intheJournalofEducationalPsychologyfoundthat studentswhoengagedincreativeactivities,suchas musicandart,scored15%higheronstandardizedtests andreporteda10%increaseinoverallwellbeing comparedtothosewhodidnot.
Value-addededucationalprogramsaredesignedtoequip studentswiththeskillsandknowledgetheyneedtothrive intherealworld.Thispreparationextendsbeyondthe classroomandintotheirfuturecareersandpersonallives.A surveyconductedbyGallupfoundthat85%ofemployers believethatgraduateswhohaveparticipatedinvalue-added programsarebetterpreparedfortheworkforceintermsof problem-solving,criticalthinking,andcommunication skills.
Examples:
• Financial Literacy: Somevalue-addedprogramsinclude financialliteracyeducation,teachingstudentsabout budgeting,investingandmanagingdebt.Accordingtoa studybytheNationalEndowmentforFinancial Education,studentswhoreceivedfinancialeducationin highschoolreporteda25%lowerrateoffinancialstress inadulthood.
• Entrepreneurship Programs: Schoolsthatoffer entrepreneurshipprogramshaveseenstudentsdevelop valuableskillssuchasinnovationandadaptability A reportbyJuniorAchievementUSAindicatedthat70% ofstudentswhoparticipatedintheirentrepreneurship programsfeltmoreconfidentintheirabilitytostarttheir ownbusinesses.
• Global Awareness: Value-addedprogramsoften incorporateglobalawarenessandculturalcompetency AccordingtoresearchbytheAmericanCouncilonthe TeachingofForeignLanguages(ACTFL),studentswho learnasecondlanguageandengageinculturalexchange programsare30%morelikelytohaveaglobal perspectiveandbeopentodiverseexperiences.
Conclusion
Theimpactofvalue-addededucationalprogramson students’wellbeingcannotbeoverstated.Theseprograms havedemonstratedtheirabilitytoenhanceacademic success,nurturementalandemotionalhealthandprepare studentsforthechallengesoftherealworld.Aswe continuetoprioritizeeducation,itisessentialthatwe recognizethevalueofholistic,comprehensiveeducational approachesthatprioritizethewellbeingofourstudents.
InthebustlingheartofthemetropolitanSt.Louis
region,aneducationalbeaconshinesbrightly,offering boundlessopportunitiesforthoseseekingtoshape theirfutures.ThisbeaconisnoneotherthanHarris-Stowe StateUniversity,anesteemedinstitutionwithapurpose deeplyingrainedinitsveryfoundation.Envisionedthrough thelensofSenateBill153,theuniversitystandsasa testamenttoitscommitmenttoaddressingthehigher educationneedsofthecommunityitproudlyserves.
Amidtheevolvinglandscapeofeducation,Harris-Stowe StateUniversityhasembarkedonaremarkablejourney, embracinginnovationandadaptabilitytomeetthedemands ofthemodernworld.Inaworldwhereknowledgeisno longerconfinedbyphysicalborders,theuniversityhas takenaboldstepforwardbyestablishingitselfasahubfor E-LearningProviders,bridgingthegapbetweenvirtual educationandtangiblecareeroutcomes.
Nurturingthisvisionaryinitiativeisateamofdedicated individuals,eachcontributingtheirexpertisetofosteran environmentofgrowthandexcellence.Harris-StoweState University'sE-LearningProviderinitiativehasblossomed intoacollaborativeecosystemwhereacademicinstitutions, industrypartnersandlearnersconvergeinpursuitof knowledgeandskillenhancement.
IntherealmofE-LearningProviders,Harris-StoweState Universitystandsasatestamenttothepotentialofmerging educationwithtechnologytodriveeconomicgrowthand socialadvancement.Withalegacybuiltonaddressingthe highereducationneedsofthemetropolitanSt.Louisregion, theuniversitycontinuestoevolve,providinginnovative learningsolutionsandshapingabrighterfutureforall.
Asthejourneycontinues,Harris-StoweStateUniversity's E-LearningProviderinitiativeremainssteadfastinits commitmenttoempoweringlearners,bridginggapsand fosteringmeaningfulconnectionsinthedynamiclandscape ofeducationandbeyond.
Let's delve into the intercepts of these educational realms!
Brieflydescribeyourmissionandvisionregarding studentsuccessandcareergrowth.
Harris-StoweStateUniversity(HSSU)placesstudentsat thefrontandcenterofalldecision-making,aimstomake collegeaffordableandaccessibleandproducesworkforcereadygraduates.Weoffer63majorsandcertificateprogram optionsinbusiness,education,arts,sciences,humanities, andSTEM.
Inalignmentwithourstrategicplan,ourcultureofstudent achievementandacademicaccomplishmentisatthetopof our6keypriorities.78%ofourstudentsgraduatewithjobs, internships,oracceptanceintograduateschoolstocontinue theireducation.
Couldyouhighlightsomeoftheuniversity'smost innovativeprogramsorinitiativesaimedatenhancing studentsuccessandcareergrowth?
Thereareseveralinnovativeprogramsandinitiativesthat HSSUhascreatedinordertoenhancestudentsuccessand careergrowth.TheAnheuser-BuschSchoolofBusiness (ABSB),itallowsstudentstoparticipateinnational industry-relatedcompetitionsinordertocompeteand connectwithindustryprofessionals.
"Scholars develop presentation skills, learn more deeply about the industry they are pursuing and increase their confidence,"ABSBAssistantDeanDr.Shelitha'Lisa' Pepperssaid.
ThoseexamplesincludeABSBstudents'participation, placingandwinningintheHBCUStockMarketChallenge andtheHBCUAdvertisingCaseCompetition.ABSBalso hasseveralclassesthatofferinternshipandexternship opportunitiessuchasGlobalEntrepreneurshipVentures wherestudentswereabletoseeentrepreneurshipoutside thecountryinParis,FranceandGhana.
IntheCollegeofSocialSciences,ArtsandHumanities, STEMprogramsaregrowing,exploringthelaunchof HSSU'sCollegeofScience,Technology,Engineeringand Mathematics.
ProvostofAcademicAffairsDr.DimitriHornersaid,"The College of STEM will be an innovative and impactful addition to the workforce development ecosphere and prepare individuals who tend to remain in the St. Louis region for careers, career advancement and other postbaccalaureate opportunities.”
Furthermore,theCollegeofEducationwilllaunchan acceleratedpathwaytocertificationforpracticingparaeducatorscalledTheACTProgram.Thisprogramnotonly supportsstudentswhomayhavehadtopausetheir educationalpursuitsduetocircumstancesoutsideofthe classroombutalsoaddressesthelocalandnationalcallfor morehighlyqualifiedindividualstoservepublicschoolsas teacherleaders.
These mentors serve as role models, offering advice encouragement and sharing their own experiences to help students navigate challenges and achieve their goals.”
DeanoftheCollegeofEducationDr.MarrixSeymoresaid thisofthecollege'sprograms,"The CoE employs several High Impact Practices (HIPS) to engage students during their academic journeys. One of those practices is through collaborative research and presentation on various education-specific topics. Such activities not only retain students but expose future educators to information and experiences that undergird instruction that takes place in our teaching labs.”
Also,theOfficeofCareerEngagementandExperiential Learninghasproventobeagreatassettotheinstitutionand itsstudents.ExecutiveDirectorofCareerEngagementand ExperientialLearningDr VictoriaHarrisspeaksaboutthe office'sinvolvementwitheachcollegewithinthe University.
"Our curriculum requires students to participate in an experiential learning course before graduating from HSSU,"shesaid."This course allows students to achieve up to 240 work hours of student-teaching (practicum) or internship that closely defines their future career endeavors.
It encourages students to apply their classroom knowledge to their designated assignments effectively and create a rapport with other interns, mentors and supervisors.
Shealsosaid, "Engaging in experiential learning opportunities and making meaningful connections with community members before graduation will also help students further understand their interests and help develop experiences to include on their resumes as they prepare for their next endeavor. Whether working in a Fortune 500 company, government entity, nonprofit, or a small business, internships are a vital opportunity to begin building one's professional network.”
Howdoestheeducationalestablishmentassiststudents inidentifyingcareerpathsandsecuringinternshipsor jobopportunities?
OneofHSSU'smainfocusesisgettingitsstudentscareerreadyaftergraduation,whetherthatisgraduateschool, completinginternships,orgoingrightintotheworkforce aftergraduation.HSSU'sOfficeofCareerEngagementand
ExperientialLearningpreparesstudentsforlifeafterschool. Dr.Harrisheadstheofficeandcreatesavenuesforstudents topreparefortheworkforce.Dr.Harrisexplainswhat offers.
"Currently, we offer YouScience, an online assessment tool for students to discover their natural aptitudes to correlate to career exploration,"shesaid."No assessment can determine one's career goals; however, I believe this resource can be an excellent way for students to explore areas and gather ideas about what they are interested in pursuing as a career. We also utilize the Handshake platform, which connects scholars with local and global employers to find internships, leadership, virtual and inperson job fairs and career opportunities. This platform is available to all enrolled and graduates at HSSU.”
TRiOExecutiveDirectorDr.JasmineLewisalsospeaksto careerengagement'sworkforthestudents.
"Career Engagement collaborates with students to explore their interests, skills and aspirations, offering personalized guidance to help them make informed decisions about their future careers,"Dr.Lewissaid."Additionally, we maintain strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, which allows us to connect students with internship and job opportunities relevant to their fields of study.”
ABSBalsotakespartincreatingcareer-readystudents.The collegehasbuiltpartnershipswithvariouscorporations suchasWellsFargo,Kemper,PNC,Momentum,and Accenture.Manyoftheseserveassubjectmatterexperts, andtheycometotheclassroomstospeaktothestudents. Corporatepartnershipscreatecareerpathsforourscholars byincludingscholarships,internships,immersive experienceopportunitiesandmentorships.
Howdoesyoureducationalinstitutepromote mentorshipandguidanceforstudentsthroughouttheir academicjourney?
Whenspeakingofmentorships,HSSUunderstandsthat theyareimperativetostudentsuccess.TRiOStudent SupportServicesMentorshipprogramconnectsstudents withexperiencedfaculty,staff,orpeermentorswhoprovide invaluablesupportthroughtheircollegeexperience.
"These mentors serve as role models, offering advice encouragement and sharing their own experiences to help students navigate challenges and achieve their goals,"Dr
Lewissaid."Regular mentoring sessions, workshops and networking events are organized to foster meaningful connections and a supportive learning community that empowers our students to thrive academically and personally.”
ABSBhostsbusinessmeetingseachsemestertoshareplans andresourcesfortheschoolyear,whichthestudentsare requiredtoattend.Thisallowsstudentstohaveavested stakeinnotonlytheireducationbuttheeducationoftheir peersaswell.
HSSUalsoincorporatesprofessionaldevelopmentfor facultyandstaffinordertoequipthemwiththeknowledge andskillstocontinuetoreachandteachstudentsinsideand outsideoftheclassroom.
Howdoyouengagestudentsinresearchprojectsand industry-specificinitiativestoenhancetheirpractical knowledgeandskills?
HSSUestablishescourses,certificatesandincreasing credentialsasameanstocatalyzestudentpursuitof practicalknowledgeandskills.HSSUisincreasingresearch capacityandcapability,institutionallyandthroughstrategic partnershipswithneighboringinstitutionsofhigher education,toaccommodatealargernumberofstudent interestandplacementwithinmeaningfulexperiential activitiesand,increasingly,issecuringfundingforthese opportunitiessothatsocioeconomicwillnotbeabarrierfor anystudent.
Socialeducationplaysapivotalroleinpreparingstudentstonavigatethe
complexitiesofanincreasinglyinterconnectedworld.Inthisrapidly changingscenario,itistheresponsibilityofeducationalinstitutionsto providetheirstudentswithrichopportunitiestoachievethebestlifepossible andthus,theymustdobetter.Unfortunately,despitemanyadvances,curricula ofsocialstudieshavenotyetbeenupgraded.Asnotmodifyingthesocial educationcurriculaistantamounttofailureinfurthereducation,universities mustadapttheircurriculatoequipstudentswiththeknowledge,skillsand perspectivesneededtobecomeinformed,engagedandresponsibleglobal citizens.
Manyforceshavepromotedchangeinthecurriculaandthisarticleexactlytaps intotheenhancementsofsocialeducationintheuniversitycurriculum,backed bystatistics,highlightingtheimportanceoffosteringadeeperunderstandingof societalissues,culturaldiversityandcivicengagement.
Socialeducationencompassesawiderangeofsubjects,includingsociology, anthropology,politicalscience,andculturalstudies,amongothers.These disciplinescontributetothedevelopmentofcriticalthinking,empathyanda well-roundedworldview.Moreover,studentsgetadeeperviewofcitizenship, humanity,culturaldivergences,andadjustmentsinbehaviorpatterns. Institutionsthatintegratesocialeducationintouniversitycurriculaempower studentstotacklecomplexglobalissues,suchasinequality,climatechangeand politicalinstability
Statistics: AccordingtoasurveybytheAmericanAssociationofCollegesand Universities,93%ofemployersbelievethatacandidate’sabilitytothink critically,communicateclearlyandsolvecomplexproblemsismoreimportant thantheirundergraduatemajor.AreportfromtheWorldEconomicForum statesthatskillslikeemotionalintelligence,culturalcompetencyandsocial awarenesswillbeamongthetopskillssoughtbyemployersin2025.
• TheInterdisciplinaryApproach:Thisapproachin educationisprominentlyusedtoenhancesocial problems,awarenessandsocialdevelopment.Forthat, universitiesareincreasinglyadoptingan interdisciplinaryapproachthatallowsstudentsto explorecomplexissuesfrommultipleangles,fosteringa moreholisticunderstandingofsocietalchallenges. Throughthis,theycanunderstandbiasesinprocesses, tolerateambiguity,implementcriticalthinking,etc.
• Statistics:AstudypublishedintheJournalofHigher Educationfoundthatstudentswhoengagein interdisciplinarycourseworkaremorelikelytodevelop criticalthinkingskillsandabroaderperspectiveon complexissues.
• GlobalPerspectives:Inaneraofglobalization,itis crucialforstudentstodevelopglobalperspectives. Universitiesareexpandingtheirinternationalexchange programs,offeringopportunitiesforstudentstostudy abroadandgainexposuretodifferentcultures,languages andpoliticalsystems.
• Statistics:TheInstituteofInternationalEducation reportsthatthenumberofU.S.studentsstudyingabroad increasedby2.7%inthe2018/2019academicyear,with atotalof347,099Americanstudentsstudyinginforeign countries.
• CivicEngagement:Socialeducationalsoemphasizes civicengagement,encouragingstudentstoactively participateintheircommunitiesandcontributetosocial change.Universitiesareprovidingplatformsforstudents toengageinvolunteerwork,internshipsandadvocacy.
• Statistics:TheNationalStudyofLearning,Votingand Engagement(NSLVE)foundthatvoterturnoutamong collegestudentsintheUnitedStatesincreasedfrom 19%in2014to40%in2018,indicatingagrowing interestincivicparticipation.
• TechnologyIntegration:Withtheadventoftechnology, universitiesareincorporatingdigitaltoolsandplatforms toenhancesocialeducation.Onlinecourses,virtual simulations,anddataanalysistoolsprovidestudents
withvaluableskillsininformationliteracyanddigital citizenship.
• Statistics:AccordingtotheBabsonSurveyGroup,the numberofstudentstakingatleastoneonlinecourse increasedby5.7%in2019,representingagrowingtrend indigitallearning.
Whiletheenhancementsinsocialeducationarepromising, therearechallengestoovercome.Somestudentsmayface barrierstoparticipatinginstudyabroadprogramsdueto financialconstraints.Additionally,ensuringthatsocial educationremainsrelevantandadaptabletorapidly changingsocietalissuesisanongoingchallengefor universities.However,thesechallengesalsopresent opportunitiesforinnovation.Scholarshipsandfinancialaid canmakestudyabroadprogramsmoreaccessible,while ongoingcurriculumreviewandfacultydevelopmentcan keepsocialeducationcoursesup-to-date.
Inaworldwhereglobalchallengesrequirecollective solutions,enhancingsocialeducationintheuniversity curriculumisimperative.Byadoptinginterdisciplinary approaches,promotingglobalperspectives,encouraging civicengagement,andintegratingtechnology,universities areequippingstudentswiththeknowledgeandskillsthey needtobecomeinformed,engagedandresponsibleglobal citizens.Thestatisticspresentedthroughoutthisarticle underscoretheimportanceoftheseenhancementsin preparingstudentsforthecomplex,interconnectedworld theywillinherit.Asuniversitiescontinuetoprioritizesocial education,thebenefitswillextendnotonlytoindividual studentsbutalsotosocietyasawhole,astheseeducated andengagedcitizensworktowardpositivesocialchange.
Arecenthighschoolgraduatewhoiseagertostarta collegecareerwantstoattendaschoolthatwill challengethemacademically,preparethemfora successfulcareerandhelpthemgrowasaperson.
LakelandUniversityisanoutstandinginstitutionwhere studentsarepreparedfortheever-evolvinglandscapein differentsectors.Studentshereattendaschoolthatis affordableandhasastrongsenseofcommunity.Itsmain campusislocatedinruralSheboyganCounty,Wisconsin, Lakelandisaprivateliberalartsuniversitywithafocuson experientiallearning.Thisreflectstheopportunitytogain hands-onexperienceinthefieldofstudythrough internships,co-ops,andotherexperientiallearning opportunities.
Thefocusonall-arounddevelopmentatLakelandgivesa challengingyetrewardingjourneytothestudents.Being partofaclose-knitcommunityofstudents,facultyand staff,Lakelandisknownforitsfriendlyandsupportive atmosphere.
Let’s explore Lakeland University’s exceptional educational approach, which continues to be the foundation upon leaders who build their remarkable journeys!
Brieflydescribeyourmissionandvisionregarding studentsuccessandcareergrowth.
Ourmissionistoeducateindividualsofdiverse backgrounds,preparethemtothinkcritically,communicate effectively,succeedprofessionallyandleadethical, purposefulandfulfillinglives.
Foundedin1862,LakelandUniversityhasatraditionof entrepreneurialprogramming,integratesliberalartsand experientiallearningtodevelopthewholepersonfor successinthedynamic,multi-facetedworld.
Couldyouhighlightsomeoftheuniversity'smost innovativeprogramsorinitiativesaimedatenhancing studentsuccessandcareergrowth?
LakelandstandsasthesolefullyCooperativeEducation institutionintheMidwest.Studentsengageinfull-and part-timepositionswithCo-Oppartners,gainingacademic creditandwagestooffsettuitionandminimizepostgraduationdebt.ThroughCo-Op,Lakelandstudentscan completeupto25%oftheirdegree(30credits)viahandsonlearning,asignificantcontrasttomostschools'6-credit limit.Theobjectiveistoenhancedegreeaffordabilityand honorthesignificanceofpracticalexperience.
Lakeland'sBlendEdstructureishighlyadaptableona nationalscale.Everyclassweek,studentschoosebetween in-persontraditionalclassroomattendanceoronline participation,accommodatingworkingadultsmanaging travel,lateworkhours,orfamilycommitments.
ThismarksthelatestevolutioninLakeland's40-plus-year historyofcateringtoonline,adultandnon-traditional academicprograms.Lakelandpioneeredofferinga comprehensivebachelor'sdegreeforworkingadultsin Wisconsin(1978)andwasanearlyadopterofcomplete onlinedegreeprograms(theearly1990s).
Students engage in full- and part-time positions with Co-Op partners, gaining academic credit and wages to offset tuition and minimize post-graduation debt.
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InJapan,Lakelandholdsauniquestatusastheonlyprivate Americanliberalartsuniversity,oneoftwoAmerican universitiesalongsideTempleUniversity.Sinceits establishmentin1991,LakelandUniversity-Japandelivers four-andtwo-yeardegrees.Acrosstheyears,numerous studentshavepursuedstudiesatLakeland'sWisconsin campusasasegmentoftheirdegreeprogram.
Howdoestheuniversityfostercollaborationswith industriestocreateopportunitiesforstudents?
ThroughourCo-Opprogram,wecreatepartnershipsthat connectcompanieswithourstudents,hiringtheminfull andpart-timeroles.Thisallowsemployerstotest-drive possiblenewemployeesandallowsstudentsthechanceto experiencedifferentworkplacecultures.
Lakelandalsohasadvisoryboardsofemployersthatshare industrytrendsthatmakesurethecurriculumisupdated andreflectswhat’shappeningintoday’sworkplace.
Couldyousharesomeremarkablesuccessstoriesof alumniwhohaveexcelledintheircareersafter graduatingfromuniversity?
Certainly!Herearetheremarkablesuccessstoriesof alumniwhohaveexcelledintheircareersaftergraduating fromuniversity:
Ÿ BarbLaMue’95:President&CEOofNewNorthInc., drivingeconomicgrowthinNEWisconsin.Named influentialbyBizTimes.
Ÿ JeffSpence'83:Over20yrsatMilwaukeeMetropolitan SewerageDistrict.Civicleader,MPSBoard,nonprofits.
Ÿ CaitlinBrotz'05:FounderofOlivu426,craftingnatural careproducts.RecognizedbySheboyganChamber.
Ÿ RichardEnsweiler'63:Cooperativefinancetrailblazer, HallofFameinductee,globalrecognition.
Ÿ DeanHaen’10MBA:PortofGreenBayDirector,
Ÿ $147Mimpact,influentialperBizTimes.
Ÿ MikeKertscher’17:RoadAmericaPresident,500+ events,$100Meconomicimpact,BizTimesrecognition.
Ÿ DarrylMoore’96:MilwaukeePublicSchools performancecoordinator,supporting25schools.
Ÿ JesseSpearo’03:Asst.Director,Miami-Dade EmergencyManagement,resilienceinapopulousarea.
Ÿ KateBaer’05MAC’15:UnitedWayofSheboygan CountyExec.Director,pandemicsupporthub.
Ÿ SteveVollmer’02:VPofCreativeforNFL'sTampa BayBuccaneers,prosportscareer
Ÿ EmilyRendall-Araujo'11MBA'14:Directorof SeniorServices,Sheboygan,strategicgrowthachiever
Howdoestheeducationalestablishmentassiststudents inidentifyingcareerpathsandsecuringinternshipsor jobopportunities?
OurCareerReadinessandCooperativeEducationOfficeis constantlyworkingwithstudentstopairthemwithwork experiencesonandoffcampusthatmatchtheirskillsets andtheirmajortosetthemupforpost-graduationsuccess.
Howdoesyoureducationalinstitutepromote mentorshipandguidanceforstudentsthroughouttheir academicjourney?
OurCo-Opprogramplacessupervisorsinmentorroleswith thestudentstheyhire.Lakelandalsoencouragesalumnito givebackbymentoringcurrentstudentswhoareinsimilar majorsandcareerpaths.
Intoday'srapidlychangingjobmarket,whatefforts doestheuniversitymaketoequipstudentswithfuturereadyskills?
ExperientialeducationisakeycomponentofaLakeland degree.Lakeland’sCo-Opprogramallowsstudentsto engageintheircareerpathearly,lettingthemseeifthisis therightfitforthem.Lakelandhastwospecialtycourses linkedtoourCo-Opprogramthatteachstudentsthesoft skillsthatemployersareseeking,furtherpreparingthemfor post-graduationcareers.
Howdoyouengagestudentsinresearchprojectsand industry-specificinitiativestoenhancetheirpractical knowledgeandskills?
Lakelandstudentscanearnacademiccreditforexistingand futureworkprojectsthatbenefitthestudentandtheir employer Thestudent,employerandasupervisingfaculty
memberdiscussreal-timeworkprojectsandhowtheytie intothestudent’sacademicprogram.
It’sespeciallypopularforneededtasksthatoftenget shelvedformoreurgentwork.Itallowsstudentstoworkon solutionstorealworkplaceproblemsandchallenges, benefitingtoday’scompaniesanddevelopingtomorrow’s nextgreatinnovators!
Howdoyoumeasurethesuccessofitsinitiativesin drivingstudentsuccessandcareergrowth?
Lakelandconductsanannualfirstdestinationsurveytosee whererecentgraduateshavelanded,thepercentageofgrads workingintheirmajor,attendinggraduateschool,etc.
Sinceexperientiallearningisanimportantpartofa Lakelandeducation,theinstitutionalsotracksthenumber ofhoursofhands-ontrainingandpracticeearnedby undergradandgradstudents,aswellasthenumberof credit-bearingexperientiallearningexperiencesandtotal semesterhoursearned.
The best university is the university of life.