Dr. Lisa Daniels Named Assistant Vice President of Outcomes Assessment and Institutional Research; Todd Thomas Named Assistant Vice President for Budgets and Financial Analysis

Albany, N.Y. (August 23, 2011) – Excelsior College has named Dr. Lisa Daniels as assistant vice president of outcomes assessment and institutional research. Daniels, previously the director of institutional research, replaces Dr. Mary Beth Hanner, who was recently named provost and chief academic officer.

Todd Thomas, previously executive director for budgets and financial analysis, has been promoted to the position of assistant vice president for budgets and financial analysis, in recognition of increasing responsibilities at the regionally accredited, private, nonprofit distance learning institution.

As director of institutional research, Dr. Daniels led research and analytics into college-wide initiatives. As assistant vice president, Daniels will also oversee the coordination and implementation of outcomes assessment for all schools and other academic units. She will also provide leadership in setting strategic and policy direction.

“We’ve made tremendous strides these past few years toward establishing Excelsior as a leader in the assessment of student learning outcomes and the use of research to inform decision making,” said Dr. Daniels. “Our position as a founding member of Transparency by Design reflects our commitment to public accountability. I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead as assistant vice president.”

Preparing Excelsior’s operating budget had been a primary responsibility in Todd Thomas’ position as executive director of budgets and financial analysis, and he will continue to do so as assistant vice president position. In addition, Thomas will provide increased guidance to college leadership on the financial aspects of new business opportunities.

“It’s an honor to have earned the trust and respect of my colleagues, the Board of Trustees and Excelsior College in this ever-changing fiscal landscape,” said Thomas.

“Dr. Lisa Daniels and Todd Thomas have been tremendous assets to Excelsior College and have played an integral role in transforming us into the institution we are today,” said Dr. John F. Ebersole, president of Excelsior College.