Excelsior College Thanks Police Officers

Posted on by Alicia Jacobs

Excelsior College Thanks Police Officers

Albany, NY — In honor of National Police Week in May celebrated in 2020 from May 10–16, Excelsior College and Pizza Hut are teaming up to deliver pizza to seven New York Police Department precincts on Thursday, May 14, as a token of appreciation for law enforcement officers.

The Excelsior College community is tremendously grateful to all law enforcement officers during these unprecedented times and thanks every police officer every day, in every way, for their important work.

pizza hut delivery to law enforcement

“It is an honor to provide meals to the heroes serving day in and day out on the front lines, and we are proud to be partnering with Excelsior College to serve the NYPD,” said Cristi Lockett, chief people officer, Pizza Hut US. “We want to thank the police officers who repeatedly make sacrifices for the greater good, and this is just one way we can show our appreciation during these challenging times.” Pizza Hut has had an exclusive educational partnership with Excelsior College since 2016 when Life Unboxed was launched.

This partnership offers Pizza Hut team members and their families the opportunity to continue their education at a discounted rate and to receive up to 60 college credits for Learning Zone training completed at Pizza Hut.

Excelsior College takes pride in helping to educate the workforce to meet today’s societal needs, including in the field of law enforcement.

“Excelsior College has been educating adult learners for nearly 50 years. Among our 40 online degree programs are criminal justice programs designed for working adults at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels,” says James N. Baldwin, president of Excelsior College. “Thank you to NYPD on the front lines as first responders during COVID-19 and thank you to police officers across the country.”

The Excelsior College partnership with NYPD has been in place since March 2016, and there has been a total of 42 graduates since that time.

“One positive element of the COVID crisis is how it can bring people and organizations together.  A great example of this is Excelsior College, who along with their partner Pizza Hut, is supporting our members of the service, by donating pizza to commands throughout the city, says Fred Tanner, executive director of NYPD Office of Professional Development. “On behalf of the NYPD, the Office of Professional Development wants to thank Excelsior College for their continued partnership and support.”

While an in-person thank you was not possible at this time, Excelsior College and Pizza Hut hope officers can take time to rest, refuel, and know the community is thinking of them.

 

Thursday, May 14 at 3:00 p.m. The locations of deliveries are listed below*

  • Precinct 6: 233 West 10th NY, NY
  • Precinct 45: 2877 Barkley Ave. Bronx, NY
  • Precinct 46: 2120 Ryer Ave. Bronx, NY
  • Precinct 47: 4111 Laconia Ave. Bronx, NY
  • Precinct 76: 191 Union St. Brooklyn, NY
  • Precinct 114: 34-16 Astoria Blvd. Queens, NY
  • Precinct 121: 970 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, NY

*Members of the media who are looking to gain photos or videos for this story can reach out Alicia Jacobs for coordination of deliveries and opportunities outside of the precinct.

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About Excelsior College

Excelsior College (excelsior.edu) is a regionally 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. Learn more at excelsior.edu.

Media Contact: Alicia Jacobs

Email: ajacobs@excelsior.edu

Phone: (518) 410-4624

Patricia Hill, BS in Nursing, 1990

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Patricia “Patti” Hill, of Macon, GA, completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Georgia State University in May of 2019. Since earning her BS in Nursing at Excelsior College in 1990, Hill has gone one to earn an MS in Nursing Administration in 1996, a post-master certificate in nursing education in 2006, and a post-master family nurse practitioner certificate in 2008, all from Georgia College and Georgia State University.

She has been working for the past 10 years as a family nurse practitioner at North Macon Family Healthcare Associates in Macon, GA.

Excelsior College Changes to Virtual Commencement Event on July 10

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, NY — This week, Excelsior College announced its annual Commencement will be held virtually this year. The July 10 Commencement will take place online with speakers, alumni tributes, and social media shares of photos and stories of graduates from around the country.

As a distance learning college, Excelsior delivers instruction and testing online, but this will be the first Commencement ceremony to be 100 percent remote. In anticipation of this year’s July 10 event, the College has been monitoring COVID-19 closely and assessing news from public health officials in New York. Unfortunately, the events surrounding COVID-19 have raised insurmountable concerns with protecting the health and safety of graduates and their families, faculty, and staff for a traditional Commencement celebration.

“Commencement is our favorite day of the year. It is our chance to appreciate the resilience and persistence of our students. We are disappointed to not celebrate in person this year, but we envision a far-reaching celebration to recognize the entire Class of 2020. Our hearts are with our graduates and still full of pride for their accomplishments,” said James N. Baldwin, president of Excelsior College.

Approximately 6,000 graduates make up Excelsior’s class of 2020. Students from across the country and the world are enrolled at Excelsior, which is based in Albany. Each year, the traditional Commencement ceremony brings graduates together and is broadcast live online for all to enjoy. The fully remote event will be even more inclusive. With a virtual event, all graduates will have the opportunity to participate without travel concerns. Full details will be announced in the coming weeks. As always, graduates will also have the option to walk in a future Commencement ceremony.

 

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About Excelsior College

Excelsior College (excelsior.edu) is a regionally 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. Learn more at excelsior.edu.

Media Contact: Alicia Jacobs Email: ajacobs@excelsior.edu Phone: (518) 410-4624

Sasha Frate, MA in Liberal Arts, 2015

Posted on by Caitlin Abram


Air Force veteran Sasha Frate, of Portland, OR, is the owner and editor in chief of “Face the Current Magazine,” a multi award-winning aspirational lifestyle publication covering international content in travel, culture and arts, music, sports and fitness, and health. Read in more than 56 countries and with 750,000 monthly reach, the magazine is available online via the website and on ISSUU, as well as on Amazon’s U.S. and U.K. newsstands. Frate’s purpose-driven company aims to create a ripple effect of positive change in the world by illuminating stories of extraordinary examples of people, brands, and experiences to provide fuel to inspire people to live with purpose.

Frate’s company was recently honored with several industry awards including: #1 Best Print Magazine in a 7-state region of the Western US, #1 in Magazine Inserts, , the National Premier Print Award of Recognition by Printing Industries of America, and October’s Publisher of the Month on ISSUU.

Dr. Jeffrey Stephen Grote, BS, 1997

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Dr. Jeffrey Stephen Grote, of Mechanicsville, MD, was recently selected as one of October 2019’s “Braves of the Month” at Chopticon High School in Morganza, MD. A 1997 graduate of Excelsior College, Grote has been working as a long-term substitute teacher at Chopticon where he has also served as a tennis coach. Grote holds a PhD in Education from Walden University in Minneapolis, MN and is currently working towards a Doctor of Ministry at the University of the South, Sewanee, TN.

Hooked on Volunteering

Posted on by Zach Patterson

My parents instilled in me the importance of volunteering and giving back to those less fortunate as a sign of love, compassion, and support. When I was growing up, every Christmas morning, my family would help at the Schenectady City Mission soup kitchen before opening presents. In doing this, my parents showed me from an early age the value and importance of volunteering.

I cannot say I had done a lot of volunteering as I grew older until my dad passed away from brain cancer in 2013. To honor him I started to participate in a local walk to raise money for the National Brain Tumor Society. This was a way to honor my father, keep his legacy alive, and help those families that will encounter this hardship in the future. Doing this sparked a renewed desire and passion to branch out and help others.

I reached out to Alicia Jacobs, who leads Excelsior’s community engagement efforts, back in 2016 to tell my story of why I volunteer and to spread the word about the annual brain tumor walk. Little did I know that would open a whole new world for me and volunteering. After that conversation, Alicia asked me to join the Community Engagement Group and as they say, the rest is history. Since then, I went from an active member of the group to now serving for two years as co-chair of the committee. I have volunteered for many organizations in this time and helped with the planning and implementation for others in the Excelsior College community to do so as well.

Over the years, I have volunteered with such places as the Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Ronald McDonald House, and 518 S.N.U.G. The reason I am a part of the Community Engagement Group and volunteer as much as I can is because of the feeling I get when I do so. There is no better feeling than knowing you are making a difference in someone else’s life. Every act of volunteering makes a huge difference to the people you are helping, regardless of the scale in which you are helping.

Another amazing benefit of volunteering is the relationships you build with your fellow colleagues. I have had the opportunity to build many great relationships with amazing people here at Excelsior that I may have never known if I hadn’t chosen to volunteer with them as a group representing the College. Volunteering as a group builds a strong sense of community and togetherness that makes the College stronger in our day-to-day activities in helping our students achieve their educational goals.

I am so thankful for Excelsior College and the work Alicia Jacobs, the Community Engagement Group, and all the many volunteers within the Excelsior College community do every day to help those in need both locally and nationally. Having this opportunity to be a part of the Community Engagement Group has truly enriched my life in a way words could never describe, and the joy I get from helping others is priceless.

Manuel Lombardero, BS in Technology, 2006

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Manuel Lombardero, of Hawthorne, FL was presented with a “Game Changer Award” for his work digitalizing the lubrication maintenance program at his company, AES Costa Norte. Lombardero’s work made information including safety data sheets, technical specifications, procedures, and analytical data   readily accessible through the use of QR codes to mobile devices. He also created training videos to help digitalize and retain knowledge in the plant.

This award, issued by Chemical Engineering and Power magazine, recognizes people who are in the front lines of implementing digital technologies in the chemical process and power industries and was presented during the Connected Plant Conference in Atlanta, GA on February 26, 2020.

Richard Varner, BS in Liberal Arts, 2016

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Richard Varner, of Humble, TX began his doctoral studies at Drexel University this year. Since graduating from Excelsior College in 2016, Varner has gone on to earn master’s degrees in instructional design and technology from Full Sail University and in human resources from Webster University. He also earned an Associate of Applied Science in Technology from Excelsior in 2003.

After changing careers two years ago, Varner now works in higher education as an instructional designer at San Jacinto College in Houston, TX. As he prepares to take the next step towards his doctorate, Varner credits Excelsior with his success saying, “I could not have achieved what I have without Excelsior. Not only did I get a quality education, I was prepared for graduate school (even though it was very tough). I am so grateful to Excelsior College.”

Federal Government Jobs

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

How to find, apply for, and land your dream job with the federal government

With relative job security, opportunities for career growth, and stable benefits, it makes sense that landing a position with the federal government is a goal for many job seekers. According to federal workforce statistics prepared for Congress in October 2019, there are approximately 2.7 million people employed in federal agencies (including the U.S. Postal Service) and working in roles that vary from clerical and administrative to skilled scientific, research-based positions. Navigating just how to find, apply for, and ultimately be hired for one of these coveted positions can be intimidating. That’s why we’ve put together a walkthrough on what to expect about using USAJobs.gov, the official employment website of the federal government.

According to USAJobs.gov, “the Federal Government offers unique hiring paths to help hire individuals that represent our diverse society.” You’ll find there are several different areas of the site dedicated to leading special populations like veterans, students, and recent graduates, individuals with disabilities, and others through the job application process. Depending on your eligibility, you could qualify for priority programs or special assistance during your search. For example, family members of overseas service members could be eligible for priority placement with overseas positions at the U.S. Department of Defense. For jobs categorized as open to the public, anyone who is a U.S citizen is eligible to apply.

Applying for a federal job is similar to the application process at large private companies but with a few extra steps. First, you need to create an account with login.gov and then create a profile on USAJobs. Once your profile is created, you can apply to jobs on the USAJobs website. You will have the ability to upload resumes and other documents. There is even a resume builder tool if you need to create a new resume. You can also save jobs you’re interested in and set automated searches so you’re alerted when a job title that matches your skill set becomes available.

When you’re ready to apply, read each job announcement carefully to ensure you have the minimum necessary educational and experience qualifications to make sure your application is accepted. Each announcement contains sections that detail important information you need to know before applying, such as the job’s overview, locations, duties, requirements, required documents, benefits and how to apply.

Once you build your application, you will then be sent to the application system of the specific federal agency that is advertising the job. The steps will vary depending on the agency, but you may need to provide additional personal information, provide extra documentation, or answer more in-depth eligibility questions. The hiring agency will start reviewing applications once the job announcement closes and will place applicants into either “minimally qualified” or “highest qualified” applicant pools.

After the hiring agency reviews all applications, the highest qualified applicants are sent to the hiring official—these applicants will see  Referred  in their application status. All other applicants who are not being considered will see a Not Referred status.

After the agency completes the interview process, they will select a candidate(s) and contact them to start the job offer process. For those not selected, the hiring agency will update their application status to Not Selected. Interviews can be conducted via a panel, in-person or by video and phone.

If you are the final candidate, the hiring agency will extend a tentative job offer. Once you accept this offer, the agency will start a background investigation. The agency may require additional security checks for jobs that need a higher-level clearance.

As with any job search, some common-sense rules still apply. Make sure you follow all instructions when submitting application paperwork and give complete, accurate information. Take the time to tailor your cover letter to highlight specific skills and experiences that relate to the duties of the position you’re applying for, and always check your documents for spelling and grammar. Make sure you visit the USAJobs website for more information and to get started on your journey to a career with the federal government. Once you land your dream job, you can take advantage of Excelsior College’s educational partnership with the federal government, that offers a discount on undergraduate and graduate tuition and fees if you decide to advance your education. Earning an MPA will prepare you for career advancement at state, federal or municipal government organizations. Good luck!

Looking for more career tips? Visit Excelsior’s Career Services.

Excelsior College Partners with Tarrant County College (TCC) to Expand College Access in Texas

Posted on by Alicia Jacobs

Albany, N.Y. – Excelsior College launched a partnership with Tarrant County College (TCC), one of the nation’s 20 largest higher education institutions, to help students continue their educational journeys beyond their associate degree. This partnership creates a seamless transfer pathway for TCC students, staff, and graduates as well as for Early College High School students.

Excelsior College is a regionally accredited, not-for-profit, online institution that provides adult learners with flexible and affordable pathways to a degree completion.

Alexander Guerra, a transfer student from TCC who is committed to enroll at Excelsior College, said, “This is something I can do — a radical solution for the economic climate we are in right now. It’s great to have that option because it’s totally practical.”

The partnership with Excelsior College waives the application fee for TCC students, staff, and graduates and provides a discount of up to 20% on tuition and the opportunity to transfer as many as 90 TCC credit hours from their associate degree program to a bachelor’s degree program. Excelsior College offers more than 30 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of business, health sciences, liberal arts, nursing, public service, and technology.

“We are excited to partner with TCC and provide opportunities for their students, employees, and alumni to earn their next-level degree,” says Dawn Gerrain, chief marketing and business development officer at Excelsior College. “Excelsior’s online courses make it possible to fit learning into a busy life and our six start times a year keep students making steady progress toward a degree.”

TCC has six campuses with more than 50,000 students, including approximately 22,000 online students, more than 2700 Early College High School students, more than 6,900 dual credit students, adult students, and traditional students. Early College High Schools in Texas allow high school students to take community college courses so they graduate from high school with an associate degree. Currently, TCC has 11 Early College High Schools in its system.

Chancellor Eugene Giovannini said, “Tarrant County College’s partnership with Excelsior College represents another opportunity to provide our graduates with a seamless pathway to a bachelor’s degree. Not only does Excelsior’s credit acceptance policy allow TCC students to save money, its online programs make it easier for students to pursue a four-year degree, all while balancing other responsibilities.”

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 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College (excelsior.edu) is a regionally 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. Learn more at excelsior.edu.

Excelsior College Media Contact:

Alicia Jacobs, ajacobs@excelsior.edu, 518-464-8531

 

About TCC

Serving more than 100,000 students each year, Tarrant County College is one of the 20 largest higher education institutions in the United States. The two-year college offers a wide range of opportunities for learners of all ages and backgrounds, including traditional programs, such as Associate of Arts degrees, Community & Industry Education courses, workshops and customized training programs. The College has six campuses throughout Tarrant County, including TCC Connect that provides flexibility with e-Learning and Weekend College. TCC also assists employers in training their workforces with its TCC Opportunity Center.

TCC Media Contact:

Reginald E. Lewis, reginald.lewis@tccd.edu, 817-515-1889