Social Media as an Investigative Tool and the Rise of Citizen Detectives

Posted on by Emily Miller

If the activity of citizen detectives is any indication, social media can become a useful tool for law enforcement and other agencies as they work to investigate and solve crimes.

Amateur crime solvers are turning to sites such as websleuths.com and Reddit to use the collective power of social media for the good of solving cold cases and crimes. This is publicized by none other than Billy Jensen, an investigative journalist, and co-host of the podcast “The Murder Squad,” which tells some of these unsolved stories and invites listeners to help crack the cases. The podcast urges listeners to upload their DNA to international databases to help solve cold cases and, in fact, got its first credited arrest in 2020.

Many of the first of these citizen detectives are not without qualifications, as they are also investigative journalists whose work experience and skill set have continued to prove useful as they cross over into this area of solving crimes. Jensen has a new documentary miniseries on Discovery+ called “Unraveled” in which the public gets a glimpse into the real-time work behind the scenes of solving unsolved cases, such as the Long Island Serial Killer. Jensen is well known for his best-selling book, “Chase Darkness With Me,” in which he chronicles his rise as what he deems a “citizen detective” as well as his connection with the late Michelle McNamara, a true-crime journalist who started the website TrueCrimeDaily.com. McNamara eventually wrote the book “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark,” which took a deep dive into her almost obsessive search for information on the East Area Rapist/Golden State Killer, who she hypothesized may still be alive. Through her digging, Jensen’s help, and working with law enforcement, this serial killer was eventually identified through DNA, arrested, and took a plea deal admitting guilt to all of the crimes in exchange for being spared a death sentence.

Social Media’s Role in Crime Investigations

TikTok, a social media platform where users generate video content, is becoming a haven for these citizen detectives, particularly as very public cases such as the recent homicide of Gabby Petito unfold in the public eye. Previously, you would have seen platforms like Twitter being used to instantaneously share theories and evidence in cases, but the demographic has changed. The ability of TikTok to generate video and greenscreen other platforms and photos to analyze more deeply what’s going on has made it a logical platform for this type of work.

This brings to light a two-fold idea that social media can be helpful in solving crime. Social media is not only a tool in which the public, witnesses, law enforcement, journalists, and citizen detectives can share and analyze evidence but also a source of evidence provided by the accounts of the victims and persons of interest.

Danielle Radin, a digital journalist with CBS LA, has taken to TikTok to post a more than 30-part video series in which she dissects Petito’s social media accounts and alleges that Petito’s boyfriend, Brian Laundrie, took over Petito’s accounts. She has been trying to determine what is authentic to determine what may have occurred to Petito. The first video she created has over 300,000 views. Another account, @red.white.andbethune, who posts content that has nothing to do with true crime, happened to be the person who found Petito’s van and captured that on video. The TikTok they posted of her van has been seen 8 million times and is now a major piece of evidence in the case. Consider too, that Miranda Baker, a woman who unknowingly picked up Laundrie hitchhiking in the hours after Petito’s death, didn’t have a TikTok account prior to this encounter, but she created one simply to share a video of her story while simultaneously working with the authorities. In the video, she tells about how she picked up Laundrie and how he seemed and was acting. Her original video posting has 17 million views, and she alone has 320,000 followers.

Similarly, Brian Entin, a correspondent for News Nation Now out of Miami had been stationed outside the Laundrie family house in North Port, Florida, for weeks covering the comings and goings and any updates from law enforcement in the Petito case. He is seen on social media as the go-to for information, even before agencies like the Denver field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), for his thorough investigation and explanation of what certain actions mean.

Law enforcement is also using social channels. Twitter is a platform that sees a lot of what-if and conspiracy theories. More and more law enforcement agencies such as the FBI have taken to using Twitter to release statements, arrest warrants, etc., in highly publicized cases. The FBI has the main Twitter account, and then each corresponding field office has its own account. It’s unclear as to whether or not there are specific standard operating procedures to be followed, but not only can they disseminate information this way, they can also use the power of the internet to gather tips, gain awareness, etc.

Using Social Media to Effectively Solve Crimes

It is estimated that 45 percent of the world’s population is active on social media. To make social media an effective tool in criminal justice, a more effective process and training is needed.

In a 2014 report from the Center for Improving Investigations, 8 out of 10 police officers were using social media as a tool in their investigations, with the majority of these uses focused on crime investigation as opposed to crime prevention. I can only imagine that in the seven years since this report was published, these numbers have risen dramatically. However, 52 percent of all agencies admitted to not having a process for social media; documented procedures for what can be used and how it can be used; what’s considered usable evidence and admissible in court; and even access to the platforms while they’re working, let alone training for agency employees.

The focus for law enforcement agencies has been more on creating guidelines for officers and other law enforcement professionals on how to use and structure their personal social media accounts and what content is appropriate for them to post, and less on the way social media can be used in investigations and in bringing perpetrators to justice. To be most effective, there needs to be a collaboration between law enforcement agencies and citizen detectives to provide real-time help in solving current and cold cases.

 

What You Need to Know to Become an Epidemiologist

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

COVID-19 has seriously disrupted daily life worldwide. Doctors and nurses fight to keep patients alive in hospitals, teachers are struggling to help students learn, and more parents and caregivers are working full-time while also caring for their families. There are also people fighting to learn more about the vaccine, discover how this virus will affect people long term, and identify ways to reduce the overall risk. Some of these people are epidemiologists.

Epidemiologists are public health workers who investigate patterns and causes of disease. Their main job objective is to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes. This is done through research, community education, health policy, and public health. Epidemiologists typically specialize in a specific public health area, such as environmental health, infectious disease, mental health, or public health preparedness.

Main Duties of an Epidemiologist

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the typical responsibilities of epidemiologists across all industries are:
• Plan and direct studies of public health problems to find ways to prevent or treat them
• Communicate findings with health professionals, the public, and policymakers
• Collect and analyze information to find causes of diseases or other health problems

Epidemiologists may also supervise professional, technical, and clerical personnel and manage all programs through planning, progress, and improvement.

Important Skills of an Epidemiologist

To be successful as an epidemiologist, it is important to have the following skills:
• Proficient in biology, chemistry, and behavioral sciences
• Critical thinking and attention to detail
• Math and statistical skills
• Scientific research and writing

How to Become an Epidemiologist

It takes time, education, and work experience to become an epidemiologist. Epidemiologists must be passionate about their work, education, research, and serving the public.

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree

There is no specific degree required to become an epidemiologist. However, it is recommended to complete a degree at the undergraduate level in public health, biology, health sciences, or nursing. Most schools do not have a bachelor’s degree specific to epidemiology, but the courses in these fields will prepare you for this career.

According to the BLS, entry-level epidemiologist positions require at least a master’s degree, so a bachelor’s degree provides you the foundation to continue your education. At Excelsior College, you can complete a bachelor’s degree in health sciences fully online. With this degree, you will learn about the organization, purpose, and quality of U.S. health care, and excel in subjects important for your career, including health care policies, federal regulations, cultural competencies, and strategic approaches for regional health issues. You will take courses in statistics, natural sciences, and psychology that will provide the foundation needed to continue your education and become an epidemiologist.

Step 2: Complete a master’s degree

Typically, a master’s degree in public health with a concentration in epidemiology will prepare you for this career. Coursework includes community health, environmental health, and research methods that prepare students for the data analysis and research required of epidemiologists.

Step 3: Work experience

Along with completing your education, gaining work experience is recommended to enter this field. Fieldwork is critical to this career, as many of the daily responsibilities of an epidemiologist are taught on the job. In addition, work experience gives you the opportunity to use your academic skills in a real-world setting. Experience in public health, research labs, or any related field will prepare you for a career in epidemiology.

Job Outlook

With the ongoing public health crisis of COVID-19, now more than ever is a great time to enter the epidemiology field. In 2020, the BLS reported that this career is expected to grow by 5 percent by 2029, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations. Many jobs are in state and local governments where epidemiologists are needed to help respond to emergencies and to provide public health services. While the average salary for epidemiologists was $74,000 in May 2020, the highest 10 percent earned more than $126,000 a year.

Chat with Excelsior College today to start on your educational journey.

Excelsior College Announces Founding Director of the Center for Social Justice and Chief Diversity Officer

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York—Excelsior College is pleased to announce Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, PhD, MDiv, as the founding director of the Center for Social Justice and chief diversity officer.

Daniel Pascoe Aguilar

Pascoe Aguilar brings a holistic view of social justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion to this role and is committed to developing a diverse and interculturally developed next generation of leaders. He has extensive experience as a leader in higher education and has served on think tanks and strategy groups like the Future Talent Council. His thought leadership on social justice has both national and international reach.

“Daniel brings great experience and a rich perspective to this role,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior College. “His collaborative approach to both the student and employee will be important to the work of DEI and social justice at Excelsior.”

Pascoe Aguilar has more than 30 years of leading and managing a diversity of higher-education, social service, and religious organization professional teams and programs. He also has more than 20 years of progressive performance in student development systemic leadership, proactive collaborations, tactical administration, strategic planning and assessment, technology innovation, and theory/data/practice-informed management.

“I am deeply honored to become part of the leadership of an institution with such a keen and moving focus on equitable access to higher education, on the integration of the student story into their curriculum and development, and on our necessary collective and individual fight for social justice,” said Pascoe Aguilar.

Excelsior’s commitment to social justice and diversity, equity, and

inclusion are deeply rooted in the mission, vision, and values of the institution. For more than 50 years, Excelsior College has opened doors for those who haven’t seen themselves reflected in traditional higher education. Through a Center for Social Justice, Excelsior will have a hub for its efforts to elevate the understanding and appreciation for diversity, equity, and inclusion and social justice among the College’s stakeholders, and incorporate the principles of social justice into the College’s culture and operations so that they are reflected in the student experience and in the day-to-day running of the College.

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 Media Contact Excelsior College:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College is an accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college 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.

 

 

 

The Write Stuff

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Paul Kingsbury of Carrollton, Virginia, is an organizational leadership and management consultant, author, and president of the Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA). While in the Navy, Kingsbury attended Excelsior College to prepare for his future career. It was at Excelsior that Kingsbury developed a love of writing, and he has made the art form part of a communications career.

 

Kingsbury joined the Navy at 17 years old and after many years in service, decided he wanted to pursue a college education to prepare for a civilian career after his retirement. In the 1980s, he completed Naval Nuclear Power Program training, and then in the 1990s, he attended classes at Adirondack Community College. He continued to chip away at a degree until he earned an associate degree from Tidewater Community College in the early 2000s. At this point, Kingsbury was a chief petty officer and wanted an advanced degree. He stumbled upon Excelsior College and was impressed by how many credits he could earn with DANTES and CLEP exams, as well as by transferring in credits from his previous attendance at community colleges and receiving credit for nuclear power school.

 

While on his second tour as command master chief for an aviation squadron based out of Oceana, Virginia, between 2005 and 2008, Kingsbury worked on his Excelsior studies. “I was doing courses on American Civil War and African American history. I remember everything being heavily writing-intensive. There was a lot of writing, but at the same time, because I was at sea, I had all this time to focus on it,” he recalls. Kingsbury grew to enjoy writing due to the coursework, and he earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts in April 2008.

 

After 31 years with the Navy, Kingsbury retired from service, but his relationship with naval service was not over. Kingsbury had developed such good writing skills while taking his Excelsior courses that he found an outlet through the U.S. Naval Institute’s Proceedings magazine. “I got into writing articles for Proceedings magazine and I won prizes in their general and enlisted essay contests. After having several articles published, and given my insight as a Fleet Master Chief, the U.S. Naval Institute asked me to join their editorial board, so I did that.”

 

The Naval Institute Press then reached out to Kingsbury to rewrite the second edition of the Chief Petty Officer’s Guide, a basic leadership and management guide for chief petty officers and those who aspire to be one. Toward the end of his Navy career, Kingsbury was offered a position at the Naval Institute, which he couldn’t resist. “I landed in this great place where I can write about making the Navy or Marine Corps and the Coast Guard better. So, I got brought on to reach out and engage in enlisted audiences, to introduce them to Naval Institute, and encourage them to join as members and to write,” says Kingsbury. He is currently working on the first edition of the Petty Officer’s Guide and the next edition of the Bluejacket’s Manual, which is the guide that each recruit receives upon entering the Navy.

 

Kingsbury’s good communication skills also landed him in a volunteer position as president of the NCOA. In 2019, the former NCOA president approached Kingsbury with the offer to take over when he would be leaving in 2020. Initially, Kingsbury wasn’t sure he would live up to the position, but after reflecting on it, he felt he could help grow the NCOA. As president, Kingsbury works to help the organization stay organized and keeps internal communication working smoothly. “It became less about being the face man and more about, ‘okay, let’s get internally organized, let’s get refocused.’ Building relationships and maintaining them with senior service enlisted is important. Our work with our partner organizations like Excelsior College is equally as important, and the next thing I’ll help them work on is writing and implementing our strategic communication plan,” he says.

 

Kingsbury believes in the NCOA working closely with its partner organizations. For example, he is a proponent of keeping the NCOA’s ties with Excelsior strong and growing, so that members can take advantage of discounted tuition. He comments, “I think that our servicemembers and family members can take advantage of the benefits and resources available to them. And educational benefits and resources is one of them.”

 

Kingsbury writes for a living, and he also writes in his personal time. He tells people it’s a form of artistic expression that he finds to be a creative process. He even has a podcast called the Cutlass Podcast through which he and his guests offer insights and advice on how listeners can use social science and the experience of others to improve their leadership, communication, and management skills to achieve their goals and bring out the best in their people. He says, “if you’re going to go after something, go after something that’s going to support your career.”

 

Excelsior’s President Schejbal Joins AGB Council of Presidents

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York — Excelsior College is pleased to announce that David Schejbal, president of Excelsior College, has been appointed to the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) Council of Presidents. The council leverages the experience, perspectives, and insights of its members with active leadership roles for the development of AGB expertise designed to strengthen strategic board governance across higher education.

“I am pleased to be a part of this distinguished group and to contribute to conversations about how higher education can help improve the lives of our students, engage our communities, and help address the myriad of challenges that face our society,”  said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior College. “Higher education is a public good that is needed more today than ever before, and I look forward to exploring, with my colleagues, ways that we can work together for positive change.”

The AGB Council of Presidents regularly convenes to discuss strategic priorities across higher education and includes representatives from a range of institutional types, including public and private, large and small, single institution and multi-campus system, two- and four-year, religious and secular, and domestic and international. This diversity affords the group a broad pool of experiences that help inform AGB about the obstacles and macro-level trends that governing boards face. In turn, AGB leverages its advisory groups to create tools and resources that benefit more than 2,000 institutions and 40,000 members.

“Our council members generously agree to lend their time and talent to advancing strategic governance across higher education,” said Henry Stoever, AGB president and CEO. “Alongside the AGB Board of Directors, AGB consultants, and other board governance experts, the AGB Council of Presidents ensures that boards across the country are receiving leading and practical guidance on salient topics throughout the year. These council members help to ensure that we are aware of not only what’s going on at that moment but also what they need to know from AGB to lead with confidence and knowledge in the boardroom. It’s a crucial partnership, and I appreciate their hard work.”

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Media Contact Excelsior College:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College is an accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college 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.

ABOUT AGB
The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) is the premier membership organization that strengthens higher education governing boards and the strategic roles they serve within their organizations. Through our vast library of resources, educational events, and consulting services, and with 100 years of experience, we empower 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations to navigate complex issues, implement leading practices, streamline operations, and govern with confidence. AGB is the trusted resource for board members, chief executives, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership.

 

 

 

 

Excelsior Faculty Director Elected President of Missouri State Board of Nursing

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York—Bonny Kehm, PhD, RN, faculty program director at Excelsior College, has been elected president of the Missouri State Board of Nursing (MSBN). Kehm will serve a two-year term beginning December 2021. Kehm has served on the board since 2017 and previously served as vice president and secretary. The MSBN consists of members selected by the governor and confirmed by the senate.

“The Missouri State Board of Nursing is fortunate to have such an accomplished health care professional lead the board,” said Lori Scheidt, executive director of MSBN.

The mission of the Missouri State Board of Nursing is to protect the public’s health and safety through regulation of nursing education, licensure, and practice. A board member is a public official who exercises legislative delegated duties in the regulation of the nursing profession. Among other responsibilities, board members develop rules and regulations that set the standards for nursing practice and education, set the qualifications for licensure, and ensure that the disciplinary process is implemented in a fashion that guarantees due process and public protection.

As president, Kehm will have the additional responsibilities of presiding at all meetings of the MSBN and serving as a delegate at the National Council of State Boards of Nursing’s meetings.

“Representing Missouri nurses on the state board and being elected president by my fellow board members is an honor. The experience of presiding over the regulation of nursing education, licensure, and practice has truly enriched and enhanced my work at Excelsior,” said Bonny Kehm, managing faculty program director at Excelsior. “My work with the MSBN has positively influenced my ability to design curriculum, educate, and mentor the next generation of nurses here at Excelsior College.”

Excelsior College School of Nursing offers programs for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The online nursing degree programs are accredited and tailored for working nurses. The School of Nursing provides access to quality nursing education for a diverse and underrepresented population of adult learners who bring varied lifelong knowledge and experience to the academic journey.

“Bonny Kehm’s election as president of the MSBN is an acknowledgment by her professional peers of her strong leadership abilities and her expertise as a nursing clinician and educator,” said Mary Lee Pollard, dean of the School of Nursing at Excelsior College. “The faculty and students in the Excelsior’s School of Nursing are fortunate to have Kehm as a faculty member and a colleague, and the citizens of Missouri can be assured she will do everything to make sure they have access to safe nursing care.”

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Media Contact Excelsior College:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College is an accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college 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.

 

 

 

Excelsior College Concludes Monthlong Tribute to Veterans

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York—Excelsior College concludes its monthlong tribute to veterans this week. From relaunching the Lt. Col. Bryant A. Murray Veterans Center to marching in the New York City Veterans Day Parade and from a donation drive for Stratton Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Albany to a fundraising campaign for veteran scholarships, Excelsior celebrated and supported veterans throughout November.

Named a “Best for Vets” school 11 times and with over 72,000 veteran alumni, Excelsior College has a strong military and veteran student population and community. Veterans and military students represent 51 percent of Excelsior’s student population.

“We are committed to serving the veterans in our Excelsior community and supporting all U.S. veterans,” said Jim Lettko, chief operating officer of Excelsior College and retired U.S. Army brigadier general. “We coordinate our support of veterans with our students in mind first and then look for ways to support veterans within the entire Excelsior community and the public.”

Cold-weather clothing items collected by the Excelsior staff community were donated to the Stratton VA Medical Center for veterans experiencing homelessness or on the brink of homelessness. Alumni supported veteran students by donating to scholarships all month through a Stamp the Map campaign. As alumni are represented in all 50 states, the Stamp the Map participation campaign tracked donations from each state and will end on Giving Tuesday, November 30.

Team Unbroken at NYC Veterans ParadeOn Veterans Day, alumni and staff participated in the New York City Veterans Day Parade with Team Unbroken, an adaptive adventure racing team composed of combat-wounded veterans as well as civilians with life-altering injuries or illness.

 

 

 

 

 

Gretchen Evans and Rusty, Veteran Service Dog Military service dog Rusty gives support to Excelsior trustee Gretchen Evans during the NYC Veterans Day Parade.

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Media Contact Excelsior College:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

 

ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College is an accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college 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.

 

 

 

Excelsior College Announces Commencement 2022

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Excelsior College Announces Commencement 2022

 Albany, New York—Excelsior College is excited to announce it will hold an in-person Commencement ceremony on Friday, July 8, 2022, in Albany, N.Y., at the Times Union Center (planned to be renamed as MVP Arena in 2022).

Graduates from the Classes of 2020 and 2021 are invited to join the Class of 2022 at this special celebration. The new location of the Times Union Center allows space for graduates from all three years as well as their loved ones to attend.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Commencement in-person again and to extend the invitation to three years of Excelsior graduates,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior College. “The Times Union Center provides the space needed for our graduates and their families who travel to Albany, N.Y., from around the country and the world for Commencement after completing their degree online.”

Excelsior College is the largest, fully online college in New York state and boasts students from all 50 states and more than 20 nations. A return to an in-person Commencement in 2022 allows graduates the opportunity to connect with fellow graduates, faculty, and staff. For those unable to attend, the event will be live streamed with engagement opportunities. All Commencement information will be shared at https://www.excelsior.edu/commencement.

“Commencement is one of the most important moments of an individual’s life, whether they’re embarking on a new career path or after working toward a degree to expand their current career opportunities. It’s a day that will be remembered and cherished for the rest of their lives, and it’s something that deserves an in-person ceremony and celebration when possible,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “As an Excelsior alum myself, I’m truly thrilled that Albany County has the honor of hosting next year’s Commencement and the talented group of graduates at our county-owned arena, a facility with the size and resources needed for a truly memorable and safe event.”

Available B-Roll Footage: https://bcove.video/3nmzRNY

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 Media Contact Excelsior College:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College is an accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college 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.

 

 

 

SEFCU Donation to Veteran Scholarships Honored on National Philanthropy Day

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York- Excelsior College is honored to announce a $25,000 donation by SEFCU to fund veteran scholarships. The generous donation will fund up to 25 scholarships for veteran students in New York State attending Excelsior College with financial need.

On this National Philanthropy Day, Excelsior recognizes SEFCU’s philanthropy to Excelsior and the entire community. This is a day to celebrate the impact that philanthropy has on organizations and society, and SEFCU plays a key role in giving in the Capital District.

Fifteen percent of Excelsior’s students are veterans. Named a “Best for Vets” school 11 times, Excelsior College has made it a priority to ensure that all veterans, as well as servicemembers, have access to the resources and education they need. With SEFCU’s donation, Excelsior will award annual scholarships to veteran students from New York State to help remove the burden of tuition cost, enabling students to focus on their academic pursuits.

“Excelsior is committed to serving veteran students and providing them with the resources needed for academic success,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior College. “With SEFCU’s generous contribution, we will be able to offer much needed financial support to help our veteran students pursue their college degree.”

Supporting military veterans is a core focus of SEFCU’s philanthropy. The credit union supports programs that assist veterans with basic needs such as food security, clothing, adequate housing, healthcare, and supportive mental healthcare. In addition, SEFCU supports programs that assists veterans with higher education, career training, and small business development.

“While we can never truly repay our veterans for their selflessness, service, and sacrifice, it is an absolute honor to help these American heroes pursue their educational goals and prepare for the future,” said SEFCU President and CEO Michael Castellana. “At SEFCU, we are humbled and honored to offer financial support to veterans studying at Excelsior. We believe every day should be Veterans Day, and through their support and commitment to our vets, at Excelsior College, we know it is.”

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Media Contact Excelsior College:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College is an accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college 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.

 

 

 

What Does a Career in Homeland Security Look Like?

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was established in 2002 following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Today, the department employs nearly a quarter-million people in the United States across 22 different federal departments and agencies. Those looking for a career in homeland security can choose jobs that range from airport security and border patrol to cybersecurity and immigration services.

DHS has a budget of $12.8 billion and is the third-largest Cabinet department, behind only the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs. In addition, state, county, and city agencies offer many homeland security-related positions.

Homeland security has created a boom in jobs for those who “protect and provide,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS includes emergency management directors and other homeland security-related professions in this group.

An online Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management prepares graduates for careers in this expanding, challenging industry. Homeland security attracts people who want to dedicate their professional life to keeping citizens safe during natural disasters, pandemics, and terrorist attacks, as well as to secure the nation’s borders.

Careers in Homeland Security

Students pursuing a degree in homeland security enjoy diverse career opportunities. DHS employees secure borders, airports, seaports, power grids, computer networks, and waterways in the U.S. They also research and develop security technologies, respond to natural disasters and terrorist assaults, and analyze intelligence reports.

The federal government groups almost two dozen agencies under the DHS umbrella. Some of the most well-known include:

  • Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
  • Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS)
  • Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
  • Secret Service
  • S. Coast Guard (including careers for civilians)

DHS also oversees the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). The center operates as an inter-agency organization that trains the next generation of law enforcement officers.

A career in homeland security can refer to an assortment of jobs in many agencies. That’s why students often focus on one area, such as emergency management. In addition to jobs with FEMA, they work for local governments as an emergency manager, hazard mitigation officer, emergency preparedness coordinator, public safety manager, or emergency services director.

Some large private companies also employ professionals with a degree in homeland security to develop and oversee emergency management and risk assessment plans. Hospitals may also employ emergency management professionals.

Careers in homeland security often appeal to those with some experience in law enforcement or the military.

Salaries for Homeland Security Jobs

With the variety of jobs in homeland security, the job growth and salary depend on the specific homeland security career path. However, the BLS and other government agencies provide salary and job growth data for homeland security-related fields that offer an idea of the salary potential.

  • Emergency management director: $76,250
  • Security guards, including transportation security: $31,080
  • Border patrol officer: $49,508 to $78,269 starting salary, according to CBP
  • Emergency management specialist at FEMA: $91,202

Building a Foundation in Homeland Security

At Excelsior College, core courses in the online BS in Homeland Security and Emergency Management program prepare students with the skills and knowledge they need to direct first responders, emergency operations at utility companies, community health groups, and security businesses.

Students gain the skills to manage natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, and earthquakes. Students also learn one of the most important parts of the job: developing plans that guide governments and businesses to prepare for disasters. This includes having strategies for prevention, preparation, response, risk mitigation, and recovery.

Preparation management aims to reduce disruption to normal business and services and minimize the risk of injuries and property damage.

Careers in homeland security offer college graduates a stable, growing field of work. The many options available provides graduates a better chance to find a career that matches their talents and interests.

 

Success in Facilities Management

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

After 25 years working in general construction in upstate New York, Lawrence Warner of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, packed up his bags in 2014 and moved to Florida to pursue a career in facilities management. Thanks to his Associate in Applied Science from Excelsior College and his determination to succeed, he has never looked back.

 

Warner’s career in construction ranged from forklift operator to purchasing manager at Lincoln Logs in Chestertown, New York, followed by 26 years of construction project management. After more than two decades in that career, he followed his son and daughter to Florida. He relocated with no job prospects but with the hopes of starting a new life. A friend at Paradigm Precision in Stuart, Florida, a manufacturer of gas turbine engines, was the connection to Warner’s next career. He started at Paradigm Precision as a second shift supervisor before moving into a first shift facilities manager position. He hadn’t expected to land in that kind of a role, but it fit. “Basically, I kind of fell into it. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, I guess, when I moved down,” he says and notes he was going to try for a job in construction, but when this opportunity came up, he couldn’t pass up the new challenge.

 

After going through training and correspondence courses, Warner realized the next logical step was to earn his degree. “My experience and value I could give to the company was to go further and get my degree in technical studies,” he says. Warner began looking around at online colleges to fit into his busy schedule and came across Excelsior. He had already taken a few courses in the 1980s with Adirondack Community College, a partner institution with Excelsior, and discovered the credits would transfer toward his degree. “It just worked out well, where I was able to have flexibility when I could spend my time doing it [my studies] during lunch hours at work, after work, on weekends—it just worked out well,” recalls Warner. He earned his Associate in Applied Science in Technical Studies in September 2020.

 

The curriculum in the associate degree program matched well with the job in facilities management. “Literally every course tied directly back into my day-to-day work. I found it very fulfilling. I literally could go out into my shop in the facility and find something exactly to what they were talking about and dig into it further…,” Warner explains.

 

In July 2021, Warner and his family saw some big changes. Not only did they sell their house in Port St. Lucie, but they also purchased a new one in Coral Springs near Fort Lauderdale and Warner landed a new job in the same city as a facilities manager for Sheltair Aviation. There, he is responsible for private airline facilities at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, and Pompano Beach Airpark. Warner oversees the maintenance of all hangars, offices, private jet terminals, etc.

 

One of Warner’s first projects was conducting a kaizen blitz, an action meant to achieve important goals, to ensure 11 hangers at the Fort Lauderdale locations are in working order, and if not, to make the appropriate adjustments. After only being in his role for a few weeks, Warner said he felt at home. “I think my favorite part is just the excitement of so many opportunities for improvement and starting over again…it’s kind of exciting to see that I can take everything that I’ve learned from prior training and Excelsior College and apply it towards what I’m doing here.”

 

Lifelong learning and continuous improvement are part of Warner’s mantra. He has already completed certification in Level 1 infrared thermography and is working on four certifications with the International Facilities Management Association. “I’m not really taking a pause at learning,” says Warner. “I wouldn’t take a pause on the degree, and now I’m working on some other credentials. They certainly can help me in my career.”