Bernard Brown, of Fair Oaks, California, earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Excelsior University (then Excelsior College) in 2007. Brown shares, “I am proud to be an alumnus of Excelsior. The foundation of my undergraduate degree has allowed me to go on to earn two master’s degrees (Clemson and Texas A&M).” He is the chief operating officer for an emerging energy company.
Linda Peacock, AS in Nursing, 1992; BS in Nursing, 1994
Linda Peacock, of Saratoga Springs, New York, earned an Associate in Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Excelsior University (then Regents College) in 1992 and 1994, respectively. As a single mother of three sons, Peacock worked three jobs as an LPN while pursuing her degree. She shares, “I now have an MBA and have been a nurse educator in pharmaceuticals for the past 10 years! Regents changed my life tremendously!”
John Baldino, MA in Liberal Studies, 2017
John Baldino, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, earned a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from Excelsior University (then Excelsior College) in 2017. After using his Excelsior degree for six years as an instructor at Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Baldino was recently promoted to assistant professor in philosophy and religious studies. He also was recently published in Catholic Insight for his articles, “A Little Lenten Reflection,” and “Matthew’s Lessons on Lenten Humility.”
Edward Sachs, BS in Liberal Arts, 1977
Edward Sachs, of Columbus, Ohio, earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University (then Regents External Degree Program) in 1977. He worked within the microbiology field from 1977 through 1979. Sachs went on to become a U.S. Air Force officer and pilot.
Janet Huizenga, AS in Nursing, 2000
Janet Huizinga, of Morrison, Illinois, earned an Associate in Science in Nursing from Excelsior University (then Regents College) in 2000. Huizinga was an LPN for 27 years prior to earning her degree from Excelsior. She has had experience in CCU, ICU, and cardiac nursing. In addition, she taught clinicals for LPNs and was a travel nurse. She shares, “I’m now retired. Thank you for that great ride. I am very proud of what I am!”
Fred Chmiel Named BGSU Women’s Basketball Head Coach
Fred Chmiel is the new head women’s basketball coach at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio.
Chmiel comes to BGSU after spending the last eight seasons on head coach Dawn Staley’s staff at University of South Carolina. During Chmiel’s tenure, South Carolina won two national titles reaching the Sweet 16 in all seven seasons the NCAA Tournament was held in that time.
Chmiel earned his BS in Liberal Arts from Excelsior in 2010 before earning a master’s degree in coaching and athletics administration from Concordia University in 2022.
Arcimoto Appoints Chris Dawson as Chief Executive Officer
Arcimoto, Inc., makers of ultra-efficient electric vehicles announced on April 20, 2023, that Christopher W. Dawson has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Dawson, a 2009 graduate with a BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology, most recently served as the Chief Executive Officer of Nikola Tesla Co., an engineering services company. He has also served as the Chief Technology Officer for both HNO international and Tesla Aerial Robotics, as well as Chief Engineer on various U.S. Department of Defense projects.
Tracey Lee Celebrates 28 Years of Service to the Lakewood, Colorado Police Department
On May 1, 2023, Agent Tracey Lee celebrated his retirement after 28 years on the Lakewood Colorado Police force.
Lee served in the United States Air Force before graduating from Excelsior in 2014 with a BS in Public Service. After joining the L.P.D in 1991, Agent Lee started in the Patrol Division, before moving to the Economic Crimes Unit as a detective and then serving on the Special Enforcement Team. Agt. Lee also worked as a field trainer molding the next generation of police agents and is the recipient of two Distinguished Service Medals and the Medal of Valor.
Career Spotlight: Urban Planning and Development Director
When you were a child, did you ever build complex cities out of Legos? Have you always been fascinated by how cities develop and grow? The professionals who figure out the best way for cities to develop responsibly are urban planners.
Urban planning ensures citizens and nature can exist together in a diverse, sustainable place where people want to live, work, and play. Urban planners help develop a city’s infrastructure all the way from designing public transportation systems to creating plans for building parks, sewer systems, and bridges.
At the forefront of every planning team is the leader. These professionals, known as urban planning and development directors, work to identify the needs of a community and develop solutions to improve and advance cities.
What Is Urban Planning?
Urban planning involves determining what land to use for green spaces, transportation, buildings, and other features of a city. Urban planners work to create the plans for cities, towns, and other urban areas. They work with government officials, land developers, and other community members to develop cities to meet the needs of the community and the environment.
There are different types of urban planners, depending on their area of focus and expertise. A sample of these types are:
- Land use planners. These planners develop guides that include working with zoning laws and codes that determine how land is used and developed.
- Environmental planners. These planners predominantly focus on the development of the natural environment and try to minimize the impact municipal growth has on natural resources.
- Infrastructure planners. Infrastructure planners focus on developing and managing a city’s important systems, including the transportation system that includes roads, highways, pedestrian walk lanes; community infrastructure that includes hospitals and schools; and public works that includes the water supply and sewage system.
- Economic development planners. These planners work with the goal of promoting economic growth in a city. They work to make sure a city can support new businesses and create jobs.
- Community planners. Community planners work with community members and stakeholders in the planning process. They hold public meetings, conduct surveys, and gather feedback from residents to make sure the city meets community members’ needs and desires.
What Does an Urban Planner and Development Director Do?
Urban planning and development directors lead teams of planners in identifying and creating solutions to improve and advance cities. They use a variety of tools to help them in their work. They will often prepare spreadsheets, use statistical programs, design visuals, and use other programs like Geographic Information System software to develop their plans.
Some of their responsibilities and duties include:
- Oversee recruiting and managing of staff and other workers
- Report to senior management and elected and appointed officials
- Attend meetings with city council, planning commission, boards, and other officials
- Represent the organization at public events and presentations
- Make site inspections and assess project proposals
- Manage client expectations
- Prepare and establish the budget for the department
- Review, evaluate, and process applications and technical documents
- Keep up to date with the latest laws and regulations
- Organize, motivate, develop, and manage the planning team
- Prepare and write recommendations, reports, and graphic presentations
- Manage databases and use data to improve services
- Interpret and explain zoning codes and regulations
- Monitor and evaluate the efficiency of methods and procedures
Important Skills of an Urban Planning and Development Director
Urban planning and development directors must have the knowledge and experience to develop, oversee, and manage plans accurately and efficiently for a city. Some of the other important qualities and skills they should possess include:
- Interpersonal skills
- Written communication skills
- Ability to understand political situations
- Analytical skills
- Leadership and management skills
- Networking skills
- Sense of creativity
How to Get Started on a Career in Urban Planning
Is urban planning starting to sound like a career you want to pursue? That’s great! There are few steps to follow to become an urban planner and development director.
The first step to becoming an urban planner and development director is earning a degree in higher education. A bachelor’s degree in urban planning, architecture, environmental management, or similar is required to get you started, and a master’s degree can take you further in your urban planning career. Earning a master’s degree can make you stand out to a potential employer and help you obtain employment in higher positions, like as an urban planning and development director. You may also want to gain experience in urban planning by taking internships with community developers or taking entry-level jobs in urban planning.
Since urbanization occurs so frequently and across the world, it is important to keep your knowledge up to date. Being aware of new laws and regulations can help you to make accurate planning choices. Though not required in all states, you may also consider earning a certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners.
Urban Planner and Development Degrees—What Degree Is Best?
As mentioned, a bachelor’s degree is necessary to get you in the door at entry-level urban planning jobs. A master’s degree is necessary if you prefer to move further up in your career and take on roles like an urban planning and development director. Excelsior University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program can prepare you to become a skilled public service leader who works toward improving your community.
The MPA program can help you master both the personal and the business side of public administration with courses and assignments that show you how to harness information technology, respond to ethical issues, foster constructive collaboration, and more. You can also gain practical experience in honing your presentation skills, developing strategic plans and financial reports, and analyzing data to make strong decisions. This program is an excellent choice if you wish to pursue an urban planning career.
Urban Planning Career Paths
Earning a master’s degree can help you obtain a job as an urban planning and development director, but it can also set you up for success in other planning careers. Some of the other types of jobs that you can get with a degree related to urban planning are:
- City government planner
- Urban consultant planner
- Economist
- Geographer
- Real estate development manager
- Planner and analyst for a nonprofit organization
- Architectural designer
- Land surveyor
- Urban planner for municipal law firms
- Planner for telecommunication companies
- Consultant with an engineering firm
- Owning your own consulting firm
According the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the annual wage for urban and regional planners was $78,500 in May 2021. Employment is expected to grow 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is average for all other occupations. According Comparably.com, the annual wage for urban planning and development directors was $139,609, though the salary range is between $125,500 to $173,809.
If a career in urban planning or as a urban planning and development director sounds right for you, consider speaking with an Excelsior University advisor to get started on your education.
Career Spotlight: Border Patrol Agent
Since 1924, U.S. border patrol agents have patrolled 6,000 miles of international land borders and 2,000 miles of coastal waters to prevent illegal persons, goods, and weapons from entering the country. Agents work in any kind of weather and for long hours to make sure the nation’s borders are protected.
Border Patrol Agent Job Description
Border patrol agents are employed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to monitor and guard the borders of the United States, as well as to protect the nation from terrorists; enforce laws on immigration, customs, and trade; and prevent dangerous pests from entering the country.
Some of the common duties of border patrol agents include:
- Monitor checkpoints along border areas
- Detect and apprehend undocumented noncitizens, smugglers, and illegal goods
- Check transportation for suspicious or illegal goods or passengers
- Conduct anti-smuggling operations and smuggling investigations
- Patrol cities and areas close to the borders
- Maintain safety protocols
- Perform line-watch duties, traffic checkpoint operations, transportation checks, and other duties
- Enforce border procedures with fairness
- Use technology such as infrared scopes during night operations
- Maintain strong domestic and international partnerships
- Record and report information
- Promote compliance with border and trade laws
Types of Border Patrol Agent Roles
In addition to the many duties listed above, as your career as a border patrol agent advances, you may have the opportunity to participate in other types of assignments. Assignments for experienced border patrol agents include:
- Marine Patrol: The marine patrol unit contains more than 100 vessels that patrol the coastal waterways of the United States, Puerto Rico, and the interior waterways separating the United States and Canada.
- Horse Patrol: Horse patrol agents are dispatched to areas that are geographically sensitive and cannot be entered by any other means.
- Emergency Medical Program (EMP): The EMP consists of emergency medical technicians who provide emergency services to fellow agents, illegal citizens, and people from various communities.
- Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC): This highly trained unit responds to situations that require special tactics, techniques, and procedures necessary for defending the United States.
- Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR): The specialized BORSTAR unit provides search, rescue, and medical response capabilities and assistance to local, county, state, tribal, and federal communities.
- Peer Support Program (PSP): PSP helps border patrol agents and their family members with personal needs and traumatic incidents that may have occurred on the job or due to the job.
- Off-Road Vehicle Unit: This off-road vehicle unit consists of agents who use various vehicles like ATVs, dirt bikes, and other modes of transportation to traverse areas of the border otherwise not accessible.
- K-9 Unit: The K-9 unit uses dogs to locate illegal goods, narcotics, and people who are hidden in vehicles and other locations. They also work in search and rescue, human remains detection, and tracking.
Requirements to Become a Border Patrol Agent
If you are growing curious about becoming a border patrol agent, there are a few things to be aware of. First and foremost, there are some skills and qualities that you should possess to be a successful border patrol agent. These include:
- Be physically fit
- Be less than 40 years old (unless a veteran or previously employed by law enforcement)
- Have no criminal record
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Have lived in the United States for last three years
- Have good critical thinking skills
- Be ethically sound
- Be empathetic
- Have social awareness
- Have good investigative skills
- Have quick decision-making skills
How to Become a Border Patrol Agent
In addition to the above, to become a U.S. border patrol agent, you will need to pass an entrance exam, a background check, a medical exam, a physical fitness test, a polygraph test, and a drug test. You will also need to attend training at the Border Patrol Academy in New Mexico for 13 weeks.
The minimum educational requirement for a border patrol agent is a high school diploma, though a bachelor’s or master’s degree can help you advance in your career.
Education Necessary to Become a Border Patrol Agent
A bachelor’s or master’s degree is certainly preferred if you are looking to be hired as a border patrol agent. Excelsior University’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice can help you develop your expertise in the administration of criminal justice, homeland security, and emergency management agencies in the United States. Course work and assignments will teach you how to address legal and ethical dilemmas in the workplace, analyze crime statistics, and develop effective crime-fighting strategies based on your findings. The Certificate in Homeland Security and Emergency Management will educate you about the threats posed by domestic and international terrorism and the best strategies for countering them. You will build your skills and develop emergency and disaster plans that can be employed in the face of both man-made and natural threats. Both the degree and the certificate program are good choices if you would like to pad your resume in preparation to apply for a job as a border patrol agent.
How Much Do Border Patrol Agents Make?
According to the USAJobs website, border patrol agent salaries range from $41,000 to $90,000 per year. This range is due to education, experience, and post areas. Border patrol agents have many opportunities to increase their pay by improving their education, applying for overtime, and working holidays and night shifts.
If you are interested in becoming a border patrol agent, speak to an Excelsior admissions counselor to start your educational journey.
Career Spotlight: IT Support Technician
Have you ever seen the “wheel of death” on your computer screen? Are your older family members at a loss as to how to download and view the new photos of the little ones? Maybe you’re an online student and you experienced not being able to connect to your institution’s network. In these and other situations, who do we call for help? Tech support.
Tech support, or IT support, is an umbrella term for all the technicians, specialists, and other IT professionals, and the variety of tools they use to help solve peoples’ hardware and software problems.
Do you have a background in IT? Do you like helping others? A career as an IT support technician might be for you.
What Is an IT Support Technician?
An IT support technician is responsible for using their knowledge to help customers with technical computer problems. They work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, finance, data processing, computer design, higher education, health care, and more. They often help install, troubleshoot, test, and maintain hardware and software such as security systems, internet networks, and computer systems. They also help customers understand their computer problems so they can recognize and address them in the future.
IT Support Technician Job Description
IT support technicians primarily work to help customers with computer and network system problems. Other responsibilities can include:
- Answer queries from clients
- Troubleshoot and diagnose hardware and software issues
- Manage help desk software and tools
- Set up computer networks
- Delegate tasks to appropriate support channels
- Assist employees and customers with IT-related problems
- Install applications
- Stay up to date on company products and services
- Maintain records of IT issues they encounter
IT support technicians help customers remotely or in person, and by phone or e-mail.
How to Get Started in IT as a Support Technician
A college degree is not required for many IT support technician jobs, but a high school diploma certainly is. And while that may get you in the door, a college degree can move your resume to the top of the pile. Earning a degree in computer science, information technology, information science, or a related field can set you up for success.
It is also important to practice your skill set and grow your expertise. You can help people you know with IT problems, or you can volunteer or intern at a local company to help with their technical issues.
Earning a certificate is not necessary to be an IT support technician, but it can make you shine to potential employers. A couple certificate programs to consider are the HDI Desktop Advanced Support Technician and the Microsoft Modern Desktop Administrator Associate certification.
If you have the education, certification, and experience, don’t stop there. The world of IT is always changing, so it’s good to stay up to date on the new developments. Taking new courses and pursuing a higher degree may help increase your knowledge and show employers you’re willing to keep up with the fast-paced industry.
Skills Needed to Work in IT Support
In addition to the steps above, there are certain skills you must possess to be a successful IT support technician. These include:
- Up-to-date knowledge of computer technology
- Analytical skills to identify problems
- Problem-solving skills
- Good interpersonal communication skills
- Good customer service skills
- Ability to work in a team setting
- Organizational skills
- The ability to exhibit patience and empathy
Education Needed to Work in IT Support
As mentioned, a high school diploma is all that is required for entry-level in IT support. If you want to grow your knowledge and impress potential employers, though, you should consider pursuing a college degree. Excelsior University’s ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program provides you with the knowledge, skills, applications, and practices you need to make an immediate impact in the information technology field. With this program, you will develop expertise in subjects including software and development, computer systems, database management, network communication, cybersecurity, system administration, human-computer interaction, and project management. You can choose between two technical concentrations or pursue the general option.
If being an IT support technician is in line with your career goals, consider exploring the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program, and reach out to an advisor to get started on your path to success.
Excelsior University Snacks for Students Drive Concludes
Final Deliveries of Classroom Snack to Albany High and Troy High Schools
[Albany, New York] – Excelsior University’s community engagement group partnered with two local high schools for the 2022-23 school year to collect snacks for students to help combat food insecurity in the classroom. The Snacks for Students drive concluded this week with final drop-offs to Albany High School and Troy High Schools. The drive ran from October through May, with Excelsior staff conducting snack deliveries every month.
“Sometimes students don’t get here in time for breakfast, sometimes they are here for a bunch of hours because they have afterschool stuff, or they are growing, or diabetic,” said Erin Reeve, teacher at Albany High School. “It has helped in so many ways. There have been a lot of kids impacted.”
Food insecurity can impact the health and well-being of students as well as their academic performance. Excelsior staff donated items such as granola bars, breakfast bars, fruit snacks, bottled water, and other snacks, and distributed them to schools for teachers to hand out in their classrooms as needed.
“Excelsior makes things much easier for us throughout the course of the school year, and we can’t thank you enough for choosing Troy as one of your schools,” said Rich Hurley, assistant principal at Troy High School. “We look forward to building a long relationship with you.”
Throughout the year, the drive impacted dozens of classrooms and over a thousand students between the two school districts. Excelsior is looking forward to the opportunity to continue to partner with local schools in the future to combat food insecurity.
“The community engagement group at Excelsior University supports our local community in many ways,” said Zachary Patterson, chair of Excelsior’s community engagement group. “The partnerships with Albany High School and Troy High School were exceptionally meaningful as we were able to provide a basic need through the snack donations that impacts student’s ability to focus and engage in learning and overall supporting their educational experience.”
To view the b-roll with sound bites, visit here.
# # #
Media Contact Excelsior University:
Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498
ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.
