La Universidad Excelsior da la bienvenida al nuevo presidente y a los nuevos miembros del Consejo de Administración. 

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Excelsior University Board of Trustees chair Kent A.D. Clark

Albany, N.Y.  — The Excelsior University Board of Trustees has named Kent A.D. Clark as its chair and appointed six new trustees. The University’s governing body, the board consists of individuals from across the country who are leaders in the fields of business, education, and government. 

Clark, of Valrico, Florida, is president and chairman of the board for the Clark Advisory Group LLC and CAG Federal, a military veteran, and an Excelsior alumnus. Clark is an experienced chief executive officer certified in board and advisory work across the spectrums of cybersecurity, governance, finance, audit, strategic planning, and development for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He has been a member of the Excelsior Board of Trustees since 2020, most recently serving as treasurer. 

“As a board member and alumnus, Kent Clark’s expertise, leadership, and commitment to Excelsior’s mission of educational access have had a profound impact on our university,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “I look forward to working with Chair Clark and this remarkable group of trustees as we continue our growth as a comprehensive educational institution dedicated to creating opportunities for learners everywhere.”     

As a veteran of the U.S. Army, Clark held progressively senior ranks, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. During his service, he advised U.S. Armed Forces leaders across multiple geographical locations, both domestic and abroad, on strategy, logistics, and resource planning. He also specialized in the deployment of large overseas logistical operations during combat, working with allies, foreign militaries, governments, and inter-agency partners. 

He most recently held the position of CEO at AMVETS National Service Foundation in Lanham, Maryland, where he spearheaded the major transformation of the one of the country’s largest veterans service organizations with a complex organizational structure, providing clear direction and governance while upholding the highest levels of ethics and fiduciary care. Previously, he held the position of chief appropriations advisor/national security director in the office of U.S. Rep. C. W. Bill Young. 

“As a military student in need of flexible education, Excelsior helped set me on a path to success in both my Army and civilian careers,” said Clark. “It has been an honor to give back to the University as a trustee, and I am thrilled to step into the role of chair at this exciting time in Excelsior’s history.” 

New trustees appointed to the board include Diane Adams, chief learning officer of Mount Sinai Health System; Todd Greene, vice president of Work, Education, and Labor Division and executive director of WorkRise Urban Institute; Jessica Hinkle, senior vice president of Strada; Ruth Lown Turman, senior sales operations manager at Optum Serve of UnitedHealth Group; Jeff Metzler, partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP; and Tony Spearman-Leach, director of development and philanthropy at the National Academy of Public Administration.  

For the past ten years, Diane Adams has served a workforce of 50,000 people at the Mount Sinai Health System as chief learning officer. In this role, Adams creates and drives the organizational learning strategy, leading a team of talent development professionals implementing programs focused on areas such as leadership development, workforce capacity building, engagement, and patient experience.  

Todd Greene is a vice president of the Work, Education, and Labor Division (WELD) at the Urban Institute. He leads a team of K-12, higher education, workforce development, apprenticeship, and labor market experts who shape education and training that leads to lifelong success. He also serves as the executive director of WorkRise, a research-to-action network focused on jobs, workers, and mobility hosted by the Urban Institute.  

As senior vice president of strategic investments for Strada Education Foundation, Jessica Hinkle evaluates potential mission-aligned investments and manages Strada’s portfolio of direct minority investments and early-stage fund investments. Previously, Hinkle advised and supported Strada’s mission-aligned affiliates, leading product strategy and innovation for Strada’s commercial and products division. 

An active and engaged Excelsior alumna, Ruth Lown Turman was recently appointed president of the Excelsior University Alumni Leadership Council and will serve as an ex officio board member. Turman currently serves as senior sales operations manager at Optum Serve (UnitedHealth Group). Her experience spans health care, technology, and financial services, with a focus on proposal management, process design, and cross-functional leadership supporting complex federal and commercial programs.  

Jeff Metzler is co-leader of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP’s education group and is ranked by Chambers for Higher Education law. He has extensive experience handling complex civil litigation, investigations, and appeals for a diversity of clients. He also has significant appellate experience in New York state and federal courts and has served as trusted counsel to boards and senior leaders in government and nonprofits. 

As senior director of institutional advancement at the U.S. Congressionally chartered National Academy of Public Administration, Tony Spearman-Leach engages major philanthropists, corporations, and foundations, securing commitments that ensure long-term sustainability while expanding programs in good government and governance. An Excelsior alumnus, Spearman-Leach recently concluded his term as Excelsior Alumni Leadership Council president.  

For more information on the Excelsior University Board of Trustees and full biographies of each member, visit excelsior.edu/about/leadership/trustees. 

Media contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

Acerca de la Universidad Excelsior

Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit higher education institution focused on helping learners 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 in Albany, New York, 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 is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs.

Autorizada por la Comisión de Educación Independiente del Departamento de Educación de Florida (n.º de licencia 12928). Para obtener más información sobre esta institución, póngase en contacto con la Comisión en la dirección 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, número gratuito: (888)-224-6684.

Conectando la equidad y la empatía en el tratamiento del dolor

Publicado el por Brian Pervis

Brian Pervis, director del departamento de la Facultad de Enfermería de la Universidad Excelsior, publicó un artículo titulado «Bridging Equity and Empathy in Pain Care» (Conectando la equidad y la empatía en el tratamiento del dolor) en el boletín posterior a la conferencia de la Asociación Nacional de Enfermeras Negras (NBNA) (págs. 34-40). El artículo examina las disparidades en la evaluación y el tratamiento del dolor y destaca el papel de la formación en enfermería, la práctica clínica y el liderazgo profesional en la mejora de la atención al paciente y los resultados de salud. Refleja los esfuerzos académicos y profesionales que se están realizando para fortalecer la práctica de la enfermería y la atención centrada en el paciente.

Lea el artículo aquí.

De inmigrante a oficial

Publicado el por Jenna Kerwin

In 2013, when Jervaughn Miller was 18, his family emigrated from Jamaica to the United States in search of a better life. Miller’s parents believed that greater opportunities were in store for their son. “We didn’t have everything figured out, but they believed in the promise that hard work and dedication could lead to something better,” he says. Twelve years later, Miller is in the military, has three degrees, and works to contain hazardous materials. He’s proving the American dream isn’t just a fairy tale.

During his deployment to Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, from Diciembre 2017 to Octubre 2018, Miller worked night shifts as a hospital corpsman. He spent most of his nights responding to medical emergencies and providing health care to his fellow service members. One evening, his chief gathered all the sailors outside the living quarters to explain his expectations of them. He also gave them an ultimatum: Either find a hobby or go back to school.

“I couldn’t do any hobbies or play any sports, so I chose school,” he says, remembering his parents’ belief that a better education and a better future were attainable in the United States. That belief was deeply personal to Miller and would stay with him throughout his military and educational career.

Miller needed to pick a major. He chose health care, in part due to his role as a hospital corpsman. However, his military duties made it difficult to take courses in person. So, instead of focusing on the clinical side of health care, he decided to focus on prevention, policy, and public health.

Those interests led him to Excelsior University (then College). The school’s education standards impressed him. While stationed at the Naval Support Activity Orlando base not long after his time in Guantánamo Bay, he completed his associate degree (2019) and bachelor’s degree (2021), both in health sciences, before starting work on his Master of Science in Health Sciences.

Learning While Leading

The curriculum of Excelsior’s health sciences programs supported his interest in public health. “The courses enlightened me of all the issues that our health care system is experiencing right now. It piqued my interest,” he says.

In 2022, after spending eight years in the Navy, Miller was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army. He decided to attend the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Basic Officer Leadership Course to start focusing on public health concerns. It wasn’t easy; Miller took the course at the same time he was completing his master’s. It was no small task, but he pushed through and finished both programs in 2023.

As a CBRN officer, Miller leads a command defending against chemical and biological weapons, and weapons of mass destruction. “In essence, we try to detect, analyze, and mitigate any type of chemical, biological, or radiological threats,” he says. “If we have personnel or equipment that are contaminated, we are able to decontaminate them. … Many of us are also trained as hazmat technicians.”

Jervaughn Miller in his military uniform looking at the camera

As a reconnaissance platoon leader, Miller oversees what he calls a “mobile science lab on wheels.” This specialized military vehicle carries equipment that detects and analyzes hazardous agents in real time. If there’s a nuclear event or chemical spill, Miller and his colleagues drive in, collect samples, and determine what’s out there. Mini mobile labs allow them to test the air samples from safely inside their vehicles. Air is pulled in through ports, analyzed by detectors, and displayed on screens inside, giving the team immediate data. Although not usually necessary, if Miller and his team need to go outside, they wear required protective suits and masks.

Training for the Unthinkable

Most days aren’t spent in active crisis response, but Miller and his team are constantly training. Miller’s days begin at 6:30 a.m. with physical training, followed by working on vehicles and doing drills. He also has leadership duties such as managing soldiers, planning training for his 16-member platoon, and briefing senior officers.

Miller’s academic background directly supports his Army work. Excelsior’s courses in biology, environmental science, and even weather have practical applications in understanding how hazards spread. Leadership training has been equally important. “A few of my classes had a leadership aspect to it, like how to be a good leader, servant leader, so that kind of really helped me to be a good leader to my platoon and the orders that I’m giving,” he says.

With 11 years of service—eight in the Navy, three in the Army—Miller remains focused on his platoon, his higher education, and his mission of improving public health and safety. He credits Excelsior for his growth and where he is today.

The Road Ahead

But there’s a spark in Miller that pushes him to do more. He’s pursuing a doctoral degree in health care administration at Virginia University of Lynchburg. “Preventative medicine is my thing. I’m really big into holistic care, preventative medicine, using the wellness model … maybe creating some type of wellness program to help people better their health,” Miller says. He wants to teach, influence policy, and develop wellness programs to prevent public illness.

His Excelsior experience may have set him up for a career beyond the military, but it was his family who instilled in him the importance of never giving up. For as much as he values his achievements, he knows how much every milestone of his journey has meant to his parents. “Every degree I’ve earned has been a reflection not just of my personal drive but also of the sacrifices my family made to give me this chance,” he says.

Miller shows that it may be difficult, but with determination and hard work, the American dream is never far out of reach.

Una nueva forma de obtener su título de enfermería en la Universidad Excelsior

Publicado el por Brian Pervis

IDEAS IN BRIEF

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program is designed for individuals with little to no health care experience, including recent high school graduates and adults seeking a new career path in nursing. Excelsior University’s hybrid bachelor’s degree program offers hands-on education for those entering the nursing profession for the first time.

The Excelsior University School of Nursing in St. Petersburg, Florida

Today represents the ideal opportunity for nursing students to begin their education at Excelsior University’s site in St. Petersburg, Florida, which now offers a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The newly opened location will provide convenient access to our Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program for students looking to start their health care journey or advance their education. Excelsior University St. Petersburg enables students to experience the University’s innovative hybrid nursing curriculum, with online learning complemented by on-site lab practice and hands-on clinical training in local health care facilities.

What Will the Hybrid Nursing Program Experience Look Like?

The hybrid BS in Nursing program at Excelsior’s St. Petersburg location combines online learning with practical in-person training. This program is designed to offer the flexibility students need while providing a structured pathway into nursing.

Students begin their education online, allowing them to study on their own schedule through asynchronous coursework. As part of the hybrid format, students move seamlessly from theoretical knowledge to practical application through hands-on lab exercises and in-person simulation learning—with experienced nursing faculty on-site in St. Petersburg to support their learning—as well as through supervised clinical experiences in partnered health care facilities. Excelsior’s combination of online coursework and in-person training offers collaborative, hands-on learning and individualized faculty support that equips students with the skills and confidence that make graduates highly competitive in the nursing profession.

What Will You Learn in Excelsior’s Hybrid BS in Nursing Program?

Excelsior University’s prelicensure teaches students to practice nursing in real-world settings while helping them succeed on the registered nurse licensing exam, the NCLEX-RN. The curriculum teaches students evidence-based nursing practices, clinical decision-making, and teamwork skills, which are vital for nursing practice in the 21st century. Through study in areas such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and patient safety, students learn to integrate critical thinking and communication skills guided by the nursing process.

The curriculum focuses on delivering complete patient care through various nursing approaches that serve different patient groups, including women, children, mental health patients, and community populations. Students develop their clinical skills through simulation-based training, which provides a safe environment to practice, make mistakes, and apply learned concepts before and alongside hands-on clinical experiences with real patients. The program teaches students to become proficient in NCLEX-RN exam preparation while they learn to transition into their first nursing position after graduation.

Can I Get into This Nursing Program with No Medical Experience?

Excelsior University’s hybrid prelicensure BS in Nursing program welcomes students who have little to no health care experience but want to begin a career in nursing. The program enables individuals from diverse professional backgrounds to enter the field, whether they’re pursuing nursing as a first profession or as a second career.

The prelicensure program enables students to earn their nursing degree and sit for the NCLEX-RN through a modern curriculum pathway. Students receive the knowledge, skills, and professional values needed to prepare for practice as a bachelor’s-prepared registered nurse. Excelsior University supports students at every stage of their journey through a comprehensive range of services, which include admission support, individual academic advising, and NCLEX test preparation.

Why Choose Excelsior to Earn Your BS in Nursing?

Excelsior University has maintained its position as a nursing education leader for more than 50 years through its dedication to modern learning methods and adaptable programs that support student achievement. The University’s hybrid learning approach to its St. Petersburg nursing program provides the flexibility of online learning as well as confidence-building in-person instruction and the invaluable hands-on experience that employers seek. And we’re proud to say Excelsior supports students through their entire educational journey, from admission through their first day on the job.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your New Nursing Career?

Join a new generation of nurses with Excelsior University’s hybrid BS in Nursing program in St. Petersburg, Florida. Regardless of how much health care experience you have, our expert faculty and support team are committed to guiding you every step of the way—from your first course to NCLEX-RN preparation—ensuring you’re ready to enter the workforce with confidence.

Apply today and take your first step toward a meaningful new career in care.

Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, License No. 12928.

La Universidad Excelsior lanza un nuevo e innovador programa de enfermería para abordar las necesidades sanitarias de Florida.  

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Excelsior University is proud to announce the launch of its Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program, a hybrid learning experience designed to create new opportunities for Florida students in the health care field. The program is the first health care offering at Excelsior University St. Petersburg, the institution’s new immersive learning site in Florida. 

Directly addressing Florida’s nursing shortage by focusing on entry-level, generalist nursing practice, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program combines online coursework with in-person training at Excelsior University St. Petersburg’s nursing lab facilities and partnering health care sites. Clinical credits are completed in direct care settings, helping students develop practice-ready skills. The program is designed to be completed in three years or less of year-round study, creating an accelerated path to Registered Nurse licensure and sustainable careers.  

“At Excelsior University’s new St. Petersburg site, learners in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program will build critical patient care skills through individualized, hands-on coaching and high-fidelity simulation experiences that mirror real-world scenarios,” said Christina Jones, executive site director for Excelsior University St. Petersburg. “With access to state-of-the-art technology and guidance from Excelsior’s highly experienced nursing educators, students will graduate ready to care for their communities.” 

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program is the next phase of Excelsior’s extensive history of nursing education. While Excelsior’s popular Associate Degree in Nursing program is designed to help LPNs, LVNs, paramedics, and certain military personnel build on their health care knowledge to transition to careers in nursing, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program requires no previous health care experience. The program is ideal for those just beginning their career journey or looking to forge a new path in the nursing field.  

“More than 50 years since Excelsior launched its first nursing programs, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program reflects our continued evolution as a leader in health care education,” said Diane Pytlik-Flammia, dean, Excelsior University School of Nursing. “By combining the flexibility of online learning with immersive labs at our new St. Petersburg site and training at clinical partner locations, we are preparing the next generation of nurses for dynamic, rewarding careers in health care.” 

For more information on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing prelicensure program and enrollment materials, visit the program page.  

# # #

Media Contact Excelsior University: 
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446 

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.   

Excelsior es una universidad sin ánimo de lucro con un campus principal en Albany, Nueva York, y un centro educativo en San Petersburgo, Florida. Los programas académicos de la Universidad Excelsior están registrados en el Departamento de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, con licencias adicionales para los programas con sede en Florida.   

Autorizada por la Comisión de Educación Independiente del Departamento de Educación de Florida (n.º de licencia 12928). Para obtener más información sobre esta institución, comuníquese con la Comisión en 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, número gratuito: (888)-224-6684. 

Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences Worth It?

Publicado el por Jenna Kerwin

Health sciences is a diverse field that combines biology, chemistry, social science, health care systems, management, and more to understand how people stay healthy, promote health and wellness, prevent illness, and improve health care policy. Health sciences is a good career if you’re interested in entering the world of health care but don’t want to become a doctor or nurse. However, you still need to pursue higher education and earn the appropriate degree for your goals.

A degree in health sciences can prepare students to pursue many health sciences careers, from clinical and administrative roles to public health and policy-focused positions. Students can also build the foundation to advance to graduate or professional programs in a variety of settings.

5 Reasons to Earn a Health Sciences Degree

A degree in health sciences is a good option for someone who is broadly interested in a health-related career. Here are a few reasons to earn a health sciences degree.

Versatility

A degree in health sciences prepares you for a wide range of health sciences careers. It encompasses study areas like health care, public health, biomedical research, and more. Students can build their foundation in general health topics and then explore specific areas of study. This type of degree can prepare students for careers in clinical, administrative, research, and public health. You can get jobs in settings such as hospitals, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, nonprofit organizations, and more.

Career Stability

Health care is an essential part of everyday life. As such, a job in the health care industry offers great stability. The demand for health care workers is on the rise in clinical and nonclinical roles, including research, administration, and public health. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts about 1.9 million new jobs to open up each year from 2024–2034. Earning a degree in this field means job security and many career options for students.

Working with Diverse Populations

Students in health sciences degree programs learn how biological and social factors combined with cultural and socioeconomic factors affect health outcomes. Through coursework and hands-on experiences, they learn to work with different populations. This helps them develop skills to communicate effectively and provide unique, sensitive care. Many programs also emphasize ethics and health equity, and prepare students to work with patients of all ages and backgrounds.

Access to New Technologies

Health care is rapidly evolving with new breakthroughs continuously enhancing the way professionals care for patients. A health sciences degree prepares students to work with these innovations by providing a strong foundation in scientific principles and practical skills. Participating in labs, simulations, and clinical trainings, as well as working with medical equipment, wearable monitoring devices, and diagnostic tools, help prepare students to keep pace with emerging technologies.

Making a Difference in People’s Lives

A degree in health sciences equips students with the knowledge they need to help patients heal and grow through direct care, research, or management. Health science careers can have a variety of effects, from improving individual outcomes to advancing medical knowledge. Many degree programs emphasize empathy, ethics, equity, and social responsibility. Students are trained to be competent professionals that can care for patients with a humanistic approach.

Start Your Career in Health Care with Excelsior

Job security and helping others are some of the many reasons to earn a health sciences degree, but it’s important to remember that many jobs require some education. Many entry-level jobs in health sciences require at least an associate or bachelor’s degree. A health sciences degree combines science with care, teaching students to apply laboratory skills in biology alongside topics like psychology, sociology, and health and wellness. To advance in the allied health field, a bachelor’s degree provides a flexible foundation to pursue a master’s degree.

Excelsior University’s flexible online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program is designed for students from any professional background or those exploring a health care career, preparing graduates for a booming job market. The program equips students to help care for the health of individuals and communities while gaining practical knowledge in areas such as state and federal health policies, cultural competence, and strategic approaches to regional health challenges.

Start your journey into the health sciences field by pursuing your degree. Talk to an admissions counselor today.

Christopher Martz Arima elegido vicepresidente segundo del Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos de la Universidad Excelsior 

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Excelsior University Alumni Leadership Council second vice president Christopher Martz Arima

ALBANY, N.Y.  — Excelsior University today announced the election of Christopher Martz Arima to the position of Alumni Leadership Council (ALC) second vice president. In his leadership role with the 12-member council, Arima will help guide initiatives in alumni engagement and outreach, strengthen the network of more than 200,000 Excelsior graduates, and act as an official representative of the University over the course of his terms.  

Arima, B.S. ’18, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an assistant district attorney with the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. A veteran and practicing attorney, Arima’s career bridges public service, legal advocacy, and education. Before joining the District Attorney’s Office, he managed his own law firm, Arima Law, and previously served as a public defender with the New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defender. Arima earned his Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law (cum laude, with a Certificate in National Security and Counterterrorism Law), a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University, and an Associate of Arts in Arabic from the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center. 

He teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in mediation, constitutional law, and criminal justice at Excelsior University. A member of the American Bar Association, the New Mexico State Bar, the Albuquerque Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the Justinian Society, and the Young Democrats of New Mexico, Arima has served as Chair of the ABA Young Lawyers Division Committee on Criminal Justice and as liaison to the Committee on Homelessness and Poverty. He is the author of numerous scholarly publications.  

“Excelsior University changed what was possible for me, and service on the Alumni Leadership Council is a way to give that opportunity forward,” said Arima. “My commitment is to our alumni community, to inclusive engagement, and to ensuring that Excelsior University continues to grow in reach, relevance, and purpose ever upward.”   

Arima is joined on the ALC leadership team by Ruth Lown Turman, president, and Christopher Alan Hirschler, first vice president. The council membership also includes Sena Amegbletor, Matthew Baumgartner, Annie L. Hough-Everage, Pamela Monk, Morgan CJ Morgan, Douglas Perry, Tony Spearman-Leach, and Samuel T. Watkins Jr. Made up of Excelsior graduates representing a wide range of professions and backgrounds, the ALC reflects the diverse nature of Excelsior’s alumni population.   

Find more information on the ALC, including individual member biographies, here. 

Contacto para los medios de comunicación de la Universidad Excelsior:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446 

Acerca de la Universidad Excelsior 

Excelsior University es una institución de educación superior acreditada y sin ánimo de lucro dedicada a ayudar a los estudiantes a completar sus estudios y avanzar en sus carreras profesionales. Excelsior contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, educada y preparada para el mundo laboral, valorando el aprendizaje permanente y haciendo hincapié en atender a las personas que históricamente han estado infrarrepresentadas en la educación superior. Fundada en 1971 en Albany, Nueva York, Excelsior se adapta a la situación académica y geográfica de los estudiantes, eliminando los obstáculos que les impiden alcanzar sus objetivos educativos a los adultos que desean continuar su formación y completar sus estudios. Nuestros pilares son la innovación, la flexibilidad, la excelencia académica y la integridad.    

Excelsior es una universidad sin ánimo de lucro con un campus principal en Albany, Nueva York, y un centro educativo en San Petersburgo, Florida. Los programas académicos de la Universidad Excelsior están registrados en el Departamento de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, con licencias adicionales para los programas con sede en Florida.   

Autorizada por la Comisión de Educación Independiente del Departamento de Educación de Florida (n.º de licencia 12928). Para obtener más información sobre esta institución, comuníquese con la Comisión en 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, número gratuito: (888)-224-6684. 

Estudiantes adultos: las ventajas de volver a estudiar

Publicado el por Personal de Excelsior

As an adult learner going back to school to earn a degree or to add to your credentials, you open new doors no matter what stage of life or career you’re in. At the same time, you might feel anxiety. You likely have more responsibilities, demands on your time, and financial pressures than you did when you were younger. As an adult learner, you might feel out of place on campus.

That said, the numbers tell a story of real value in lifelong learning. Going back to school to earn a degree can help you advance in your profession, successfully change careers, or have the know-how you need to succeed in starting your own business. Adult learners saw up to a 140% increase in their annual salaries, with the average annual gain being $7,500 a year over peers.

If you’re thinking of your next steps, it’s never too late. Many universities offer online, hybrid, and executive track degree and certificate programs. Here are some reasons to consider going back to school to earn your degree as an adult learner.

Higher Earning Power

Earning a degree pays off. According to a report by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, full-time, full-year workers with an associate degree earn $400,000 more over their careers than those with just a high school diploma. At $2.8 million in median lifetime earnings, workers with bachelor’s degrees can expect to pull in 75% more than their high school graduate counterparts. And master’s degree holders tack on another $400,000 with $3.2 million in median lifetime earnings, doubling the career earnings of full-time workers with only a high school education.

Median lifetime earnings by education level from Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce

Advancement Within Your Current Career

Measuring your increased earning power is only part of the story when it comes to the value of going back to school. Adult learners tend to earn a degree or certificate for a specific career purpose that may not be measurable in income. Advancing to a higher role, making an advantageous lateral move, or adding to your job responsibilities in a rewarding way are other reasons why adult learners return to campus.

Changing Careers

When you earn a degree, you establish your credibility in a new career area, increasing your chances of getting hired. As an adult learner, going back to school shows your commitment and enthusiasm for a new career path. Beyond a career change, if you are starting a new business, you can earn a degree and acquire valuable knowledge, experience, and network contacts to enhance your chances of success.

Oportunidades de establecer una red de contactos

As an adult learner going back to school to earn a degree, you can open important doors for your next career steps. Professors act as mentors as much as instructors; they can connect you with industry contacts and opportunities. Many degree programs include career services and job-finding resources. You may be able to join professional associations at a discount. Alumni networks can also help you pivot careers or move forward in your current field. Some degree programs offer collaborative projects, mentorship opportunities, and internships that give you access to professional communities.

Realización personal

As an adult learner, you’re more likely to have the maturity and life experience to take full advantage of a degree or certificate program. Beyond career advancement and earning potential, many adult learners report enjoying the intellectual challenge, the inspiration of pursuing a long-held passion, and the pride of achieving a goal. The personal growth and sense of satisfaction you can feel when you earn a degree is every bit as important as the financial and professional advancement it affords.

Expanding Your Worldview

When you earn a degree or certificate, you expose yourself to new ideas, diverse perspectives, alternative ways of thinking, and exciting challenges. You interact with professors and classmates with different backgrounds and experiences. How you approach problems and make decisions will be enriched by your interactions in the classroom and with your academic community—on campus and online.

Start the Next Step in Your Career with Excelsior

Excelsior University has been serving adult learners for more than 50 years. We understand going back to school is a balancing act. That’s why our programs have flexible options, including eight-week and 15-week formats, as well as 100% online and hybrid learning formats. A generous transfer credit policy helps you earn your degree faster, taking into account previous coursework, military training, various certifications, and professional experience. We also offer financial aid, including scholarships and grants. With more than 40 degree and certificate programs in areas of study like business, health care, technology, and liberal arts, Excelsior is here to support your next steps and fulfill your aspirations.

Alongside flexible degree options, Excelsior also supports adult learners through Career Readiness services that help connect education to meaningful career progress. Students receive career coaching, resume and interview support, employer webinars, and practical strategies for building professional connections. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role, pivot into a new field, or reenter the workforce with confidence, Career Readiness provides the tools and guidance to support your next step.

Ready for more in your career and your life? Read more about tips for returning to college or contact our friendly admissions counselors to find out which Excelsior University degree program is right for you.

Review and contribution by Camille Dumont.

Christopher Alan Hirschler elegido vicepresidente primero del Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos de la Universidad Excelsior 

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Christopher Alan Hirschler, vicepresidente primero del Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos de la Universidad Excelsior.

ALBANY, N.Y.  — La Universidad Excelsior ha anunciado hoy la elección de Christopher Alan Hirschler como vicepresidente primero del Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos (ALC). En su función de liderazgo dentro del consejo, compuesto por 12 miembros, Hirschler ayudará a orientar las iniciativas de participación y divulgación de los antiguos alumnos, reforzará la red de más de 200 000 graduados de Excelsior y actuará como representante oficial de la universidad durante su mandato.  

Hirschler, licenciado en Ciencias en 1998, de Sheffield Village, Ohio, es decano de la División de Ciencias de la Salud y el Bienestar del Lorain County Community College en Elyria, Ohio. Hirschler también es miembro del cuerpo docente de la Excelsior University. Le apasiona el éxito de los estudiantes y anima a los antiguos alumnos a que retribuyan a su institución. Hirschler forma parte de varios consejos de administración y es autor de numerosas publicaciones y artículos en revistas especializadas. Además de su licenciatura en Ciencias Liberales por la Excelsior University (entonces Regents College) en 1998, obtuvo un máster en Estudios Liberales por la SUNY Brockport y un doctorado en Educación Urbana por la Cleveland State University. Posee la credencial de Especialista Certificado en Educación y ha obtenido certificados de Harvard, Yale y Cornell.   

«Estoy realmente emocionado por formar parte del Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos y seguir contribuyendo a la Universidad Excelsior de esta nueva forma», afirmó Hirschler. «Excelsior ha tenido un impacto profundamente positivo en mi trayectoria profesional, y trabajar junto a los miembros del ALC, que demuestran un gran orgullo por la universidad, así como con el personal, tan dedicado y servicial, ha sido uno de los aspectos más destacados de mi carrera profesional. Contribuir a Excelsior como miembro del ALC y como profesor de cursos de salud pública me ha permitido establecer vínculos significativos tanto con antiguos alumnos como con estudiantes actuales. Relacionarme con los antiguos alumnos y celebrar con los graduados su paso por el escenario ha sido increíblemente gratificante». 

Hirschler se une al equipo directivo de la ALC junto con Ruth Lown Turman, presidenta, y Christopher Martz Arima, vicepresidente segundo. Entre los miembros del consejo también se encuentran Sena Amegbletor, Matthew Baumgartner, Annie L. Hough-Everage, Pamela Monk, Morgan CJ Morgan, Douglas Perry, Tony Spearman-Leach y Samuel T. Watkins Jr. El ALC, formado por graduados de Excelsior que representan una amplia gama de profesiones y procedencias, refleja la diversidad de la población de antiguos alumnos de Excelsior.  

Encontrará más información sobre el ALC, incluidas las biografías de cada uno de sus miembros, aquí.

Contacto para los medios de comunicación de la Universidad Excelsior:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446 

Acerca de la Universidad Excelsior 

Excelsior University es una institución de educación superior acreditada y sin ánimo de lucro dedicada a ayudar a los estudiantes a completar sus estudios y avanzar en sus carreras profesionales. Excelsior contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, educada y preparada para el mundo laboral, valorando el aprendizaje permanente y haciendo hincapié en atender a las personas que históricamente han estado infrarrepresentadas en la educación superior. Fundada en 1971 en Albany, Nueva York, Excelsior se adapta a la situación académica y geográfica de los estudiantes, eliminando los obstáculos que les impiden alcanzar sus objetivos educativos a los adultos que desean continuar su formación y completar sus estudios. Nuestros pilares son la innovación, la flexibilidad, la excelencia académica y la integridad.    

Excelsior es una universidad sin ánimo de lucro con un campus principal en Albany, Nueva York, y un centro educativo en San Petersburgo, Florida. Los programas académicos de la Universidad Excelsior están registrados en el Departamento de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, con licencias adicionales para los programas con sede en Florida.   

Autorizada por la Comisión de Educación Independiente del Departamento de Educación de Florida (n.º de licencia 12928). Para obtener más información sobre esta institución, comuníquese con la Comisión en 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, número gratuito: (888)-224-6684. 

Ruth Lown Turman elegida presidenta del Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos de la Universidad Excelsior

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Excelsior University Alumni Leadership Council president Ruth Lown Turman

ALBANY, N.Y. — Excelsior University today announced the election of Ruth Lown Turman to the position of Alumni Leadership Council (ALC) president. In her leadership role with the 12-member council, Turman will help guide initiatives in alumni engagement and outreach, strengthen the network of more than 200,000 Excelsior graduates, and act as an official representative of the University over the course of her term.  

Turman, B.S. ’96, of Columbia, South Carolina, currently serves as senior sales operations manager at Optum Serve (UnitedHealth Group). Her experience spans health care, technology, and financial services, with a focus on proposal management, process design, and cross-functional leadership supporting complex federal and commercial programs. An active and engaged alumna, Turman previously served in roles on the Alumni Leadership Council as secretary and first vice president, contributing to initiatives focused on alumni engagement, recognition, governance effectiveness, and the development of enduring alumni legacies. As ALC president, she will emphasize stewardship of alumni resources, operationalizing effective alumni leadership practices, and strengthening connections between alumni leaders and the University community. Turman holds a Bachelor of Science from Excelsior University and maintains a strong record of professional and volunteer leadership. Her service includes past membership on the International Board of Directors of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals, reflecting a sustained commitment to mentorship, professional standards, and collaborative leadership. 

“It’s an honor to serve with such an experienced and passionate Alumni Leadership Council at this moment of tremendous momentum for Excelsior,” said Turman. “My own journey has been profoundly shaped by this community, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support, celebrate, and elevate our extraordinary alumni, whose determination and commitment to lifelong learning continue to lift us ever upward.” 

Turman is joined on the ALC leadership team by Christopher Alan Hirschler, first vice president, and Christopher Martz Arima, second vice president. The council membership also includes Sena Amegbletor, Matthew Baumgartner, Annie L. Hough-Everage, Pamela Monk, Morgan CJ Morgan, Douglas Perry, Tony Spearman-Leach, and Samuel T. Watkins Jr. Made up of Excelsior graduates representing a wide range of professions and backgrounds, the ALC reflects the diverse nature of Excelsior’s alumni population.  

Encontrará más información sobre el ALC, incluidas las biografías de cada uno de sus miembros, aquí.

Contacto para los medios de comunicación de la Universidad Excelsior:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446 

Acerca de la Universidad Excelsior 

Excelsior University es una institución de educación superior acreditada y sin ánimo de lucro dedicada a ayudar a los estudiantes a completar sus estudios y avanzar en sus carreras profesionales. Excelsior contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, educada y preparada para el mundo laboral, valorando el aprendizaje permanente y haciendo hincapié en atender a las personas que históricamente han estado infrarrepresentadas en la educación superior. Fundada en 1971 en Albany, Nueva York, Excelsior se adapta a la situación académica y geográfica de los estudiantes, eliminando los obstáculos que les impiden alcanzar sus objetivos educativos a los adultos que desean continuar su formación y completar sus estudios. Nuestros pilares son la innovación, la flexibilidad, la excelencia académica y la integridad.    

Excelsior es una universidad sin ánimo de lucro con un campus principal en Albany, Nueva York, y un centro educativo en San Petersburgo, Florida. Los programas académicos de la Universidad Excelsior están registrados en el Departamento de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, con licencias adicionales para los programas con sede en Florida.   

Autorizada por la Comisión de Educación Independiente del Departamento de Educación de Florida (n.º de licencia 12928). Para obtener más información sobre esta institución, comuníquese con la Comisión en 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, número gratuito: (888)-224-6684. 

Nueva lista de oficiales elegidos para el Consejo de Liderazgo de Antiguos Alumnos de la Universidad Excelsior

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Clockwise from top: Ruth Lown Turman, Christopher Arima, Christopher Hirschler

ALBANY, N.Y. — Excelsior University today announced the election of a new slate of officers to its Alumni Leadership Council (ALC). The group consists of Excelsior graduates Ruth Lown Turman, president; Christopher Alan Hirschler, first vice president; and Christopher Martz Arima, second vice president. In their leadership roles within the 12-member council, officers will help guide initiatives in alumni engagement and outreach, strengthen the network of more than 200,000 Excelsior graduates, and act as official representatives of the University over the course of their terms.  

“It’s an honor to serve with such an experienced and passionate Alumni Leadership Council at this moment of tremendous momentum for Excelsior,” said Turman. “My own journey has been profoundly shaped by this community, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support, celebrate, and elevate our extraordinary alumni, whose determination and commitment to lifelong learning continue to lift us ever upward.” 

Ruth Lown Turman, B.S. ’96, of Columbia, South Carolina, currently serves as senior sales operations manager at Optum Serve (UnitedHealth Group). Her experience spans health care, technology, and financial services, with a focus on proposal management, process design, and cross-functional leadership supporting complex federal and commercial programs. An active and engaged alumna, Turman previously served in roles on the Alumni Leadership Council as secretary and first vice president, contributing to initiatives focused on alumni engagement, recognition, governance effectiveness, and the development of enduring alumni legacies. As ALC president, she will emphasize stewardship of alumni resources, operationalizing effective alumni leadership practices, and strengthening connections between alumni leaders and the University community. Turman maintains a strong record of professional and volunteer leadership. Her service includes past membership on the International Board of Directors of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals, reflecting a sustained commitment to mentorship, professional standards, and collaborative leadership. 

Christopher Alan Hirschler, B.S. ’98, of Sheffield Village, Ohio, is the dean of the Health and Wellness Sciences Division at Lorain County Community College in Elyria, Ohio. Hirschler is also an adjunct faculty member for Excelsior University. He is passionate about student success and encouraging alums to give back to their institution. Hirschler serves on several boards, and he is the author of numerous publications and journal articles. In addition to his 1998 Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University (then Regents College), he earned a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies from SUNY Brockport and a Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Education from Cleveland State University. He holds the Master Certified Education Specialist (MCHES) credential and has earned certificates from Harvard, Yale, and Cornell.  

Christopher Martz Arima, B.S. ’18, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an assistant district attorney with the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. A veteran and practicing attorney, Arima’s career bridges public service, legal advocacy, and education. Before joining the District Attorney’s Office, he managed his own law firm, Arima Law, and previously served as a public defender with the New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defender. He teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in mediation, constitutional law, and criminal justice at Excelsior University. A member of the American Bar Association, the New Mexico State Bar, the Albuquerque Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the Justinian Society, and the Young Democrats of New Mexico, Arima has served as Chair of the ABA Young Lawyers Division Committee on Criminal Justice and as liaison to the Committee on Homelessness and Poverty. Arima earned his Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law (cum laude, with a Certificate in National Security and Counterterrorism Law), a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University, and an Associate of Arts in Arabic from the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center. 

The council membership also includes Sena Amegbletor, Matthew Baumgartner, Annie L. Hough-Everage, Pamela Monk, Morgan CJ Morgan, Douglas Perry, Tony Spearman-Leach, and Samuel T. Watkins Jr. Made up of Excelsior graduates representing a wide range of professions and backgrounds, the ALC reflects the diverse nature of Excelsior’s alumni population.    

Find more information on the ALC, including individual member biographies, here. 

Media contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

Acerca de la Universidad Excelsior

Excelsior University es una institución de educación superior acreditada y sin ánimo de lucro dedicada a ayudar a los estudiantes a completar sus estudios y avanzar en sus carreras profesionales. Excelsior contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, educada y preparada para el mundo laboral, valorando el aprendizaje permanente y haciendo hincapié en atender a las personas históricamente infrarrepresentadas en la educación superior. Fundada en 1971 en Albany, Nueva York, Excelsior se adapta a la situación académica y geográfica de los estudiantes, eliminando los obstáculos que impiden alcanzar los objetivos educativos de los adultos que desean continuar su formación y completar sus estudios. Nuestros pilares son la innovación, la flexibilidad, la excelencia académica y la integridad.   

Excelsior is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs.  

Autorizada por la Comisión de Educación Independiente del Departamento de Educación de Florida (n.º de licencia 12928). Para obtener más información sobre esta institución, póngase en contacto con la Comisión en la dirección 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, número gratuito: (888)-224-6684.