Message from the President

For over 40 years, Excelsior College has expanded access to higher education for adult learners through its flexible, affordable, and innovative programs and services. Established by the New York State Board of Regents in 1971, America’s first virtual university was founded on the philosophy that “what you know is more important than where or how you learned it.”

With a commitment to supporting workforce development, individual employability, and career advancement, Excelsior College presents a compelling, quality model for the university of the 21st century in online teaching, evaluation of prior learning, and comprehensive degree-completion advising.

Others are increasingly replicating elements of our model as they endeavor to attract distance and adult learners—the very students Excelsior has served successfully for over three decades. This in turn has encouraged us to continually evolve in our mission. Excelsior continues to seek new ways to improve the experience of students working toward the goal of achieving a college degree.

In 2011, I co-authored (with William B. Patrick) the book, Courageous Learning: Finding a New Path through Higher Education. It offers a comprehensive overview of adult education in America.

Helping guide the College in fulfilling its mission is a dedicated faculty and committed staff, including members of the College’s leadership profiled here. The importance of our work together is a source of both inspiration and motivation. I hope that you share our pride in our students and graduates. We thank you for your support.