Taking the Road Less Traveled: New White Sox Manager Reflects on Journey to Head Coaching Position

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York – The Chicago White Sox have welcomed Pedro Grifol as the 42nd manager in franchise history. Grifol, a native of Miami, Fla., is also a former professional baseball player and an Excelsior University graduate.
Pedro Grifol

Grifol’s baseball and coaching career has been anything but ordinary. After being named the Florida high school baseball player of the year in 1988, Grifol attended Florida State University to continue his playing career. Following his All-American season in 1991, he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 6th round of the 1991 MLB draft. When he became a professional baseball player, Grifol was unable to complete his college degree at Florida State University. Following his nearly 10-year playing career, Grifol came to Excelsior to help complete his academic journey.

“Excelsior University afforded me a great opportunity to attain my degree after a 9 1/2-year professional career, both of which led to countless opportunities,” said Pedro Grifol, manager of the Chicago White Sox. “I strongly encourage all those contemplating making this sacrifice for their education to take this leap of faith. Excelsior University will make it worth your while.”

The next step in Pedro Grifol’s journey includes trying to do something that hasn’t been done since 2005–bring the White Sox back to the World Series. For Grifol, the World Series is familiar territory, serving as the catching coach for the Kansas City Royals during their 2015 championship. From his time at Florida State to Excelsior University, Grifol has always accomplished what didn’t seem possible and will look to continue those ways with the Chicago White Sox.

“It takes incredible dedication to complete a degree as an adult. You have to be determined and focused among competing priorities,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “Pedro’s story showcases this dedication to education that is shared by many students and alumni in our Excelsior community, and his success shows us all what is possible.”

Excelsior meets students where they are to work toward degree completion through generous credit transfer and flexible, online education with instructor-led, self-paced courses for the changing needs of adult learners.

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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.

Q&A with Stephanie Yackel

Posted on by Emily Miller

About Stephanie Yackel

Stephanie Yackel is a faculty program director with Excelsior University’s bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs. She has been with Excelsior since September 2020.

Yackel brings 10 years of experience in higher education to her role at Excelsior. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from Bethel University and her doctorate in educational leadership from American Sentinel University. Prior to working with Excelsior, she was a dean of nursing, overseeing LPN, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs, at Rasmussen University. Clinically, she specialized in oncology and worked in post-surgical nursing.

We asked Yackel about her career, her work in curriculum development, and how she thinks students will benefit from Excelsior’s bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs. Check out her answers below.

Q&A with Stephanie Yackel

Q: Can you tell us a little about your background?
A: I started off in nursing by achieving my bachelor’s degree, and I started in a post-surgical unit at a hospital. Then the majority of my career was as a RN in oncology. Then I achieved my master’s degree, and after that, I was recruited to be a full-time faculty member at a university. I did that for about a year, and I was recruited at that university to then move into the dean of nursing position.

Q: How did you come to Excelsior?
A: I decided that I wanted a new area and to try something a little bit different. I had been in my position for almost 11 years, and I wanted to just see what other options were out there. I came across Excelsior, and I really liked the job description. As far as the faculty program director [position] is concerned, a lot of it overlapped with my dean of nursing position. However, it also was a different avenue. A lot of it focused on curriculum development, which I had done in the past. This [role] was much more into that versus overseeing the students and all the issues and concerns that they dealt with. So this role was focusing more on the curriculum development part and the faculty.

Q: Can you tell us about your work in curriculum development?
A: Curriculum development is a team. We work with subject matter experts in the area of the course that we’re developing. As the faculty program director, I oversee the subject matter expert, who we call SME, and then we also work with a design team to put all the thoughts and ideas into the course and make it look nice and interactive for our students. We really want to ensure that when we’re developing the courses, the students are achieving the student learning outcomes within that course. So, we will create assignments, discussion posts, scaffold assignments. As a faculty program director, I oversee that the vision is coming together to meet the needs of the students and to ensure they’re achieving those outcomes.

Q: What do you want students to get out of the bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs?
A: The bachelor’s is elevating them, such as from an LPN. Many facilities, particularly hospitals, are requiring a bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s is putting them on that springboard to get to where they need to be within their current job or potentially new job. Excelsior prepares that graduate to be a critical thinker on the floor and also in leadership. Students then have the ability to move on, if they choose to do so, with the master’s program. A master’s creates the framework for no matter what area that they’re looking at, whether it be informatics, education, or leadership, and it creates leaders in education, leaders in informatics, and leaders in management. So, it’s more focused on that leadership platform.

Q: What does Excelsior receiving university status mean to you? What do you think it means for our students?
A: University status does elevate the college. It does show that [elevation] through our accreditation, through our processes, through surveys, and through showing how students make it through the courses. We’re meeting the needs of the accrediting bodies and of the community. So that status does rise us above and does put us into the same sort of bucket as other universities. It also allows us to continue to potentially create new programs, such as maybe doctoral programs in the future or other programs along that line.

Excelsior University Named Best for Adult Learners by Intelligent.com Ranking of Best Online Colleges in New York

Posted on by Erin Coufal

[Albany, New York] – Intelligent.com, a trusted resource for program rankings and higher education planning, has included Excelsior University to its list of the Best Online Colleges in New York in 2023 and named Excelsior Best for Adult Learners. The research identifies top schools in the state based on tuition costs, the number of credits required to graduate, and the online coursework delivery format.

“Excelsior has long been an education home for adult learners in all stages of their professional and educational journey,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “We are proud to receive this recognition with a Best for Adult Learners ranking for 2023. This award is a testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and administration.”

Excelsior University was awarded Best for Adult Learners as part of the Best Online Colleges ranking. Intelligent.com implemented a unique methodology that ranks each institution on a scale from 0 to 100 across six categories. The scoring system compares each school according to tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation, as well as the student resources provided for online students.

Studies show that obtaining a degree increases income substantially, with graduates earning 84% more than those with only high school diplomas or those without a completed GED. The percentage difference in earnings continues to grow with higher learning degrees such as master’s, doctoral or professional degrees, with the unemployment rate decreasing to as much as 1.6% for those with a doctorate. To access the complete ranking, please visit https://www.intelligent.com/best-online-colleges/new-york/#excelsior_college

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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.

Career Spotlight: Security Operations Engineer

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

As the use of technology increases daily, so do threats to the cyberworld. Companies and organizations all over the world are hiring cybersecurity professionals to help protect and defend their computer software and networks. A key member to this team is a security operations engineer who monitors computer systems to better protect the company or organization against cyber threats. While for this reason, security operations engineers play a critical role, at the end of the day, they protect the consumer too.

If you’ve ever purchased something online and thought about what happens to your credit card or personal information, the protection guaranteed at companies starts with a security operations engineer. This guide will give you the steps to becoming a security operations engineer.

Security Operations Engineer Job Description

Security operations engineers make sure data, personal information, and software are protected against all cyber threats. While many members of IT teams help fix a cyberattack after it has occurred, security operations engineers work to prevent threats from becoming incidents. While we all know cybersecurity threats are bound to happen, hiring a security operations engineer will decrease the chances of a threats turning into an attack, which in turn will help your organization and your customers.

Start your career defending against cyberattacks with a cybersecurity degree from Excelsior.

Security Operations Roles and Responsibilities

Security operations engineers are highly technical computer specialists whose main responsibilities include:

  • Research, design, develop, and test software
  • Implement safety measures to protect sensitive information and secure data from hackers
  • Maintain security policies at the points of access to a clients’ networks
  • Evaluate security vulnerabilities of all computers systems and networks
  • Create policies and procedures for end users to ensure systems are protected
  • Act as liaison for companies, working with different vendors and partners to ensure network access and security requirements are met
  • Provide defense tactics if and when a cyberattack occurs

Security operations engineers are also considered experts in their field. If and when something occurs, they provide support and leadership to any parties involved.

Skills and Education Needed to Become Security Operations Engineers

Security operations engineers must be highly educated in the field of cybersecurity, information technology, or computer science. All positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. As technology changes and companies continue to grow in the cyberworld, advanced degrees in cybersecurity, combined with multiple years of experience, are starting to be required. A graduate certificate in cybersecurity operations from Excelsior University will set you up to be a successful candidate for any cybersecurity engineering position. This degree builds your skills in threat detection, incident response, information assurance, defense mitigation, and risk assessment.

In addition to education requirements, hiring managers look for individuals who have strong:

  • Communication skills. Security operations engineers must be able to explain technical language to leadership and other members of the team.
  • Project management skills. With technological advances happening every day, a security operations engineer will be pulled into a lot of projects. Being able to stay organized and prioritize projects efficiently and effectively is necessary.
  • Ability to work under pressure. In a crisis, security operations engineers must act quickly and professionally to access situations and protect data.

Security Operations Engineer Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for security operations engineers are expected to grow 28 percent by 2026. The demand will continue to grow as technologies change and new threats arise. Protection of sensitive data and the ability to fight cyberattacks should be a top priority for all companies. If a cyberattack occurs, it can mean a significant loss of money and resources for all involved. If the wrong people get a hold of sensitive and private information, many people could be in danger.

According to Payscale.com, security operations engineers make, on average, $100k per year. Earn your degree in cybersecurity from Excelsior University to protect individuals, families, and companies from cyber threats from throughout the world.

Career Spotlight: Medical Records Manager

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Medical professionals know that the best care comes from a clean environment. Staff constantly check to make sure that everything providers and patients might touch is organized and sterile.

While medical records managers may not interact directly with patients, they also play an important part in keeping the medical system running cleanly—by practicing good data hygiene. Dirty data, just like a dirty surface, can be hazardous to your health and result in wrong diagnoses, incorrect medications, and improper treatment plans.

Medical records professionals work behind the scenes in health care facilities and anywhere else patient data is kept. They serve as a link between providers, clients, and patients and are the gatekeepers to your protected health information.

Medical records management is a strong career choice for someone looking to put a bachelor’s degree in health care management to work and break into the administrative and informatics side of health care.

Build a career in the business side of the health sciences with a BS in Health Care Management.

Medical Records Manager Job Description

Doctors count on having an accurate record of a patient’s health and health care history to make decisions about medications, tests, and other medical steps. Patients need to know their sensitive information is secure, accurate, and accessible to any provider they visit, and insurance companies rely on medical records to keep a detailed account of what care a patient has received and what it has cost. Keeping track of it all are medical records managers.

Years ago, this process used to be done with rooms filled with paper folders and files, but today, medical records are entirely electronic and medical records managers are responsible for managing the complex technology systems and products that keep them organized.

Most medical records manager positions are in large-scale health care facilities like hospitals, but they can also be found in physician’s offices, nursing homes, home health agencies, mental health facilities, and public health agencies. Organizations you might not expect to handle patient data such as pharmaceutical companies, law and insurance firms, and health product vendors employ medical records managers as well.

Good communication skills and attention to detail is a must in this position. As a medical records manager, you’ll be working with and possibly supervising a staff of medical billing and coding personnel to make sure sensitive medical records are maintained correctly.

You’ll be responsible for developing, maintaining, and evaluating existing systems, creating reports, and dealing with records requests. Security is essential for anything having to do with medical records, so you will also need a solid understanding of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) regulations to ensure that you comply with all financial, legal, or administrative requirements.

Medical Records Manager Education Requirements

To pursue a career as a medical records manager, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in health sciences and ideally some previous experience in medical billing or coding.

A bachelor’s degree in health care management gives you in-depth knowledge of practical approaches to the business side of health care as well as other skills you’ll need to advance your career, such as departmental budget preparation, health insurance payment and reimbursement systems, financial reporting, health regulation compliance, electronic documentation, and digital data systems.

Specialized certifications such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT®) or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA®) credentials from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) are also recommended for boosting your career.

Medical Records Manager Salary

Salary.com reports that the average salary range of a medical records manager falls between $81,048 and $116,769 but can vary depending on education, certification, and years of experience.

The field of medical records management continues to expand along with other related jobs in health data and health care informatics. Technology is always changing, and more of these data-driven health care professionals are needed to keep pace.

If you’re interested in starting your career as a medical records manager or want to explore more growing careers in the health sciences, contact an Excelsior admissions counselor to start a conversation about how to reach your goals.

Native American Heritage Month

Posted on by Pamela Jimenez

The History of Native American Heritage Month

November commemorates Native American Heritage Month, also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, and November 26 is proclaimed Native American Heritage Day. In 1986, President Reagan proclaimed November 23-30 as American Indian Week, which would typically fall alongside Thanksgiving in the United States. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (including “Native American Heritage Month” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”), have been issued each year since 1994. This is a time to honor the contributions of the people who were the first inhabitants of North America. It is also a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native people.

Why is Native American Heritage Month Important?

Despite a harrowing history marked by unjust federal policies of assimilation and termination, American Indian and Alaska Native peoples have persevered. Currently, about 6.79 million Native Americans in the United States face extraordinary challenges including social, cultural, economic, and physical. Patterns of struggle uniquely and negatively impact Native American communities and families. While it is essential to be positive and hopeful about the future for Native Americans, it is also important to have a genuine and clear understanding of the challenges and struggles of Indigenous people individually and collectively. During this heritage month and beyond, let us take the time to honor the Native American community by educating ourselves and the public about the tribes, raising awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and presently, and learning about how tribal citizens have worked to overcome these challenges. We invite you to explore the links below and learn more about Indigenous culture, life, and struggles.

Learn more about Native American Heritage Month

National Congress of American Indians Website
Fact Sheet
About Native American Heritage Month
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month in New York State
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/native-american-heritage-month

Thanksgiving

Posted on by Pamela Jimenez

Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday that is based on the 1621 Plymouth colonist and the Wampanoag people sharing an autumn harvest feast that subsequently became the first Thanksgiving celebration in the colonies. For the Native Americans, the assembly of the Wampanoag people and English settlers had more to do with political alliances, diplomacy, and a pursuit of peace. While Americans share a meal and give thanks for family, friends, and community, the United American Indians of New England recognize it as a National Day of Mourning for Native Americans and their allies.

As a holiday, Thanksgiving originates from the from the Native American philosophy of giving without expecting anything in return. During this meal, the Wampanoag people shared their land, food, and knowledge of the environment with the English. The Wampanoag tribe not only provided the food, but also the teachings of agriculture and hunting. Corn, beans, wild rice, and turkey are some of the foods introduced by Native Americans.

This time of year, the two holidays of Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Day, give us the opportunity to reflect on our collective history and to celebrate the beauty, strength, and resilience of the Native tribes of North America. The idea of giving thanks is central to Native heritage and culture and in this way, Thanksgiving is a chance for all to appreciate family, community, and the riches of the land.

Recommended Resources for Learning more:

Native Hope
The History of Thanksgiving
Watch The True Story of the First Thanksgiving

Career Spotlight: Power System Operator

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Do you like problem solving, figuring out how things work, and working with computers? Maybe being a power system operator is the right job for you. A power system operator, also known as a power plant operator, is someone who manages a power plant facility. They keep the power plant running and ensure the facility is safe and functioning properly.

Let’s dig a little deeper to see if a power system operator lines up with your career goals.

Power System Operator Job Description

Power system operators work in a variety of power plants, including natural gas-powered electric, nuclear electric, hydroelectric, coal-powered electric, and solar-powered electric, but they may also work in manufacturing plants, hospitals, universities, and government organizations.

Power system operators operate switchboards and other electrical equipment in highly advanced control centers to maintain and manage the distribution of electrical power throughout a transmission network. In other words, they are responsible for making sure electricity gets to the appropriate consumers.

Duties of a Power System Operator

Power system operators have a variety of responsibilities and duties depending upon where they work. They may perform some or all of the following:

  • Control and direct the transmission of electricity to meet distribution demands
  • Monitor power-generating equipment fueled by coal, gas, nuclear, wind, or other energy resources
  • Ensure constant flow of electricity to avoid blackouts
  • Check equipment to monitor pressure, temperature, and vibration
  • Oversee maintenance personnel
  • Monitor and visually inspect station instruments, meters, and alarms
  • Perform maintenance on machines
  • Start or stop generator turbines when necessary
  • Complete and maintain station records, logs, and reports
  • Locate and isolate system problems

Skills Needed to be a Power System Operator

You may have guessed that one of the top skills needed to be a successful power system operator is attention to detail because a power system operator is in charge of maintaining a whole power grid. There are other important skills you should possess, too.

  • Be in good physical condition. As a power plant operator, you may be required to carry out a variety of physical activities, from crouching, reaching, climbing, and more. It would be beneficial, then, to make sure you are in good shape.
  • Possess good communication skills. Although you may work alone some of the time, you will also interact with other team members to install new generators, upgrade systems, and carry out daily tasks. You may also need to communicate technical information to management, consumers, and stakeholders, so being a good communicator is crucial.
  • Possess strong technical abilities. As a power system operator, you may need technical skills to understand how a power plant runs and operates. Your technical abilities may include an aptitude for math and mechanical and technological knowledge so you can properly perform your duties.
  • Capable of patience and focus. Power system operators often must monitor gauges, dials, and other electrical equipment to make sure the plant is running properly. Having strict patience and a strong ability to focus can make monitoring various equipment easier and can help minimize distractions.

How to Become a Power System Operator

Does a power system operator job sound intriguing? Well, before you start applying for any openings, there are requirements you should be aware of if you want to pursue this career.

Although it is possible to become a power system operator with just a high school degree, most companies prefer you to have at least an associate degree. Still others prefer a bachelor’s. Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology program prepares students for technical positions in the nuclear industry. The ABET-accredited program provides knowledge in areas such as reactor operations, health physics, quality assurance, chemistry, and instrumentation and control related to the nuclear engineering technology field.

In addition, to work in a power plant, you must pass a background check as well as drug and alcohol screenings. Some states also require workers to be licensed as engineers or firefighters.

Depending upon where you work, you may also need to obtain other certificates or licenses, so it’s important to do your research when you are looking for a job.

Power System Operator Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that as of 2021, the median annual wage for power system operators and similar occupations was $94,790. The BLS predicts employment in this career to decline 15 percent between 2021 and 2031. Despite this, about 3,200 openings are projected each year over the next decade, so this is still a career option to pursue if you’re interested in power plants, computers, and making sure things work correctly.

Careers in Cyber: SOC Analyst

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

Are you interested in joining the growing field of cybersecurity and information technology but are not sure where to start? If this sounds like you, a security operations center (SOC) analyst might just be for you!

What Is a SOC Analyst?

Specific cybersecurity organizations have security operation centers that are charged with monitoring and protecting an organization’s assets. Within these centers are SOC analysts. They investigate potential cyberattacks, while examining traffic and user logs. SOC analysts work as a team, using a network of sensors, monitoring equipment, and security tools to stop potential cyberattacks. Between the entire team, SOC analysts provide 24-hour, 7-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year protection and immediate response capabilities. Each analyst might have a specific role or have many responsibilities, depending on the organization where they are employed. SOC analysts’ key roles can include:

  • Threat detection
  • Incident response and reporting
  • Research and compliance
  • Network monitoring

Job duties in any of these roles can include:

  • Monitoring an organization’s networks for security breaches
  • Investigating when cyberattacks occur
  • Using software to protect sensitive information (firewalls, data encryption programs, etc.)
  • Researching the latest information technology trends
  • Ensuring end users have what they need to install and learn about new security products and procedures
  • Developing best practices for their organization and making recommendations to leadership for security enhancements
Start your career defending against cyberattacks with a cybersecurity degree from Excelsior.

How to Become a SOC Analyst

Entry-Level SOC Analyst: Education Requirements

A position as a SOC analyst is perfect for someone trying to enter the field of cybersecurity and passionate about security, data sensitivity, and computers. While you do not need a degree for an entry-level position, it does not hurt to have one! A degree in cybersecurity can show that you are committed, focused, and ready to take on the job of an SOC analyst. It also will set you apart from other candidates for promotions and management-level positions.

SOC Analyst Certifications

In addition to a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, there are many certification programs that may be of interest to someone looking to get into the field. A quick Google search shows what certifications hiring managers look for depending on the field of your organization. A few examples of the top security analyst certifications are Security+, CySA+, Certified Information Systems Auditor, and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control. While these are not required, it does show hiring managers that you are able to retain information, and have a vested interest in the field.

Skills of a SOC Analyst

Typically, hiring managers look for SOC analysts who have some knowledge of computer systems, software, and networks. Some of these skills can include:

  • Coding and database languages
  • Cybersecurity best practices, techniques, and tools
  • Network concepts

Hiring managers also look for candidates who show they have strong:

  • Critical thinking skills
  • Communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Don’t let these scientific terms scare you! If you are just starting out, an entry-level position as a SOC analyst provides on-the-job training, and managers will encourage you to gain the necessary certifications to succeed.

SOC Analyst Salary

Employment for SOC analysts is expected to grow 35 percent by 2031, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations. With the continued growth of cyberattacks, analysts are needed more than ever. They will be part of the people who create innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing sensitive information.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the median annual wage for SOC analysts was $102,600 in 2021. Most salaries vary based on the industry in which you are employed. The top three highest paid industries for SOC analysts are information technology, finance and insurance, and business management.

Most SOC analysts work full-time, as SOC offices are never closed. Working overtime and remotely are common in this field. Don’t wait—start your degree in cybersecurity today to begin your journey as a SOC analyst!

Q&A with Nancy Bellucci

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

About Nancy Bellucci

Nancy Bellucci is a faculty program director with Excelsior University’s graduate nursing program. She has been with Excelsior since July 2021 overseeing faculty and courses in both bachelor’s and master’s nursing programs.

Bellucci earned a PhD in nursing education from Capella University, and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing education from Thomas Edison State College. She holds a certificate in nursing education from Thomas Edison State College and is a certified nurse educator (NLN). Bellucci has held multiple clinical nursing and academic nursing positions since becoming a nurse in 2006. She has taught nursing leadership, health care policy and finance, nursing informatics, evidence-based practice, capstone courses, and professional roles and values

Bellucci has written many articles for the American Nurses Association, NurseTogether, RN Journal, dailynurse.com, and Nurse.com. She has presented original research and other presentations at the National League for Nursing’s Education Summit, the Sigma Theta Tau International Conference on Healthy Work Environments, and the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) National Summit.

At Excelsior, Bellucci oversees the nursing informatics, research, and Capstone courses for the bachelor’s in nursing program and the courses in the Master of Science Nursing Informatics program.

We asked Bellucci about her career, nursing Capstone courses, and takeaways for Excelsior students in the bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs. Check out her answers below.

Q&A with Nancy Bellucci

Q: Can you briefly describe your nursing career?
A: I was a nurse starting in 2006. I came into nursing late in life; I had already had a full career working in an office and in our boat dealership. We sold our business, and a retired nurse mentioned, “Why don’t you be a nurse?” So the journey began there.

Q: What topics or areas of nursing do you have expertise in?
A: I started out in med-surg nursing and then worked my way into the operating room where I scrubbed in and did all kinds of interesting surgeries. From there, I became a clinical development specialist and oversaw eight surgical units with 144 staff members and did all their clinical education. Then I got involved in nursing academics and have been here ever since.

Q: What is your role at Excelsior?
A: I’m a faculty program director. So what that means is I not only help develop our faculty who teach, but also help to do curriculum design, which I’m passionate about. I try to bring that real-world experience into the online setting…I give back to nursing; I get to give my expertise.

Q: What can students expect from the bachelor’s Capstone course you teach?
A: We’ve just redeveloped the Capstone for the bachelor’s program, and we’ve done it in a way that helps students build a quality improvement project. They take a topic that they’re passionate about—something that they think needs to be changed in the clinical setting—and they work through with a mentor who they choose, to develop that plan incrementally over the course of 15 weeks. And then hopefully many of the students that I’m teaching right now have implemented their plan and are starting to see the benefits of their voice in the creation of process and policy change.

Q: What about the master’s in nursing informatics Capstone?
A: Currently I’m recreating the nursing informatics Capstone. It’s very similar to the bachelor’s Capstone in that it’s rigorous—15 weeks. We scaffold the assignments, meaning that the student has to build a systems plan as the project manager and a leader because nursing informatics isn’t just about informatics or health information, it’s about leading a project, working on interprofessional teams, collaborating with one another, and creating lasting change. So just as you see in the bachelor’s Capstone, and all of our master’s Capstones, we are working to help students select a topic and decide how they want to attempt to create the change. So we’re really working to help them build a final product that they can use in the real world.

Q: What do you hope students will take away from the bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs?
A: We’re in really challenging times in nursing. Nurses are now having to get a bachelor’s degree, and it’s become a requirement of work where they can’t progress in their profession unless they have one…So I hope that they take away from this that it’s not just to have to—it’s yours. I mean you own it. It’s your degree, no one can take it from you, and it still should be that badge of honor. And for the master’s, I hope that you realize that you can create change, you can promote others, you can promote yourself; you can be a benefit to nursing.

Excelsior University Ribbon Cutting and Launch of the Center for Social Justice

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York – Excelsior University hosts a ribbon cutting and reception on Wednesday, November 16, to celebrate the change from College to University and launch Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice.

“This is an exciting time for Excelsior University, our faculty and staff, our students, and our community,” said David Schejbal, PhD, president of Excelsior University. “Although the name change became official on August 1, being able to celebrate with our Excelsior family is incredibly special. Our celebration is two-fold as we also launch Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice and solidify the justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work that has always been an essential part of Excelsior.”

The transition to a university recognizes Excelsior’s commitment to meeting opportunities for delivering education and the changing needs of adult learners. For more than 50 years, Excelsior has contributed 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.

In the past, Excelsior has experienced name changes and each change offered benefits unique to our students and academics. Becoming a university is the next step in Excelsior’s evolution and will provide a platform to continue to serve adult students in broader ways. Students and alumni will benefit from the growing prestige of Excelsior University, and we will use this as an opportunity to connect, re-engage, and grow our Excelsior community.

“The purpose of the Center for Social Justice is to elevate the University as a model that embraces diversity to challenge the status quo and impact students and our communities,” said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, founding director of the Center for Social Justice and chief diversity officer. “In doing so, we can aim to create a just world focused on equity, access, and human rights. We are excited for the opportunities that this center will open for our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the overall Excelsior community.”

Excelsior’s investment in social justice will create a platform for meaningful dialogue as an asset to the organization’s decision-making and performance, as an opportunity to enhance underprivileged students’ access to higher education, and a conduit for all students’ intercultural development.

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B-roll video: https://bcove.video/3g5IqvP

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.

8 In-Demand Allied Health Careers

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

If you’re not already working in health care, the term “allied health” might be new to you. But with every visit to a doctor, dentist, or specialist, you’ve surely encountered one or more of these essential health care professionals.

If health care is the goal for your next move, allied health jobs are a great place to start or grow your career. We’ll break down what allied health is, what you need to break into the field, and eight of the most in-demand careers.

What Is the Allied Health Field?

Careers that are included as part of the allied health field have different roles than those of a doctor or nurse but operate together as part of a team in the pursuit of patient care.

The Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) defines allied health professionals as those being “…involved with the delivery of health or related services pertaining to the identification, evaluation and prevention of diseases and disorders; dietary and nutrition services; rehabilitation and health systems management, among others.”

Examples of common allied health job titles include: dental hygienists, sonographers, dietitians, medical technologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, radiographers, respiratory therapists, and speech language pathologists just to name a few.

The need for health care professionals is growing by the year, and the ASAHP estimates that around 60 percent of the U.S. health care workforce could be classified as allied health.

Earn your BS in Health Sciences and jump-start your allied heath career today.

8 In-Demand Allied Health Careers

Medical Coders

Medical coders work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities and doctor’s offices to communicate with insurance companies. The medical coder interprets patient files and updates them with medical codes. They analyze all parts of a patient’s file, including tests, consultations, in-office procedures, and medications. Learn more about how to become a medical coder.

Medical Assistants

Medical assistants are the backbone of medical facilities. They focus on the administrative and clinical tasks involved in health care, like taking vital signs, administering medications per a physician’s order, or gathering medical history. They also may help with scheduling appointments, billing insurance, and processing paperwork. Learn more about how to become a medical assistant.

Clinical Nutritionists

Clinical nutrition is the study of how nutrients in food are processed, and what combination of nutrients are right for different health conditions and goals. Clinical nutritionists use research and medical tests to determine the best course of action for a patient to lead a healthy life. Learn more about how to become a clinical nutritionist.

Registered Dietitians

Registered dietitians work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and inpatient and outpatient clinics, and often work with individuals experiencing eating disorders, substance abuse, or medical conditions with symptoms that can be improved or managed with a more specific diet or meal planning. Dietitians create unique nutrition plans for clients and help them maintain healthy eating habits based on their medical needs. Learn more about how to become a community health worker.

Occupational Health Workers

Occupational health workers help businesses keep their workplace safe and healthy. Occupational health is designed to protect employees from potential risks and hazards on the job, assisting with everything from injury prevention to injury care. Learn more about how to become an occupational health worker.

Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists are public health workers who investigate patterns and causes of disease. Their main objective is to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes. Epidemiologists typically specialize in a specific public health area, such as environmental health, infectious disease, and mental health. Learn more about how to become an epidemiologist.

EKG Technicians

EKG technicians operate equipment that measures, monitors, and graphically traces the electrical activity of the heart. They may also review images or test results to check for quality and coverage and analyze diagnostic information to provide a summary of findings for physicians. Learn more about how to become an EKG technician.

Potential Career Paths with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences

Each of the above jobs needs at least an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree to start at the entry level, but an advanced degree is often required.

A health sciences degree combines practical science with care and teaches you how to apply both laboratory science skills like biology, chemistry, and physics, and social science disciplines like psychology and sociology to real-world health issues facing individuals and communities.

To advance your career in the in-demand field of allied health, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in health sciences. A BS in Health Sciences is a flexible degree that widens your path of opportunity for careers in both the patient-facing, and administrative sides of health care. It is also the degree of choice for those looking to continue on to a medical degree or advance their career further with a master’s degree in health sciences.

No matter what professional direction you decide on, an Excelsior admissions counselor can help you choose the right health sciences degree for your goals.