The Phenomenon of True Crime

Posted on by James Norton

Evolution of True Crime Entertainment

Over the last few years, true crime has evolved from a low-brow, late-night indulgence to a global phenomenon and conversation about our criminal justice system and criminality in general. True crime can be about the mystery, psychology, history, and sociology of crimes. Audiences are eager to explore the extremes of human behavior, especially the psychological and social factors that trigger certain individuals to commit heinous acts of violence. People don’t just want to be entertained by watching or reading true crime; they want to understand criminality and play an active part in how justice systems respond to crime.

True Crime TV Shows and Novels

I will admit, my Netflix queue reads “MINDHUNTER,” “Criminal Minds,” “Ozark,” “Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer,” “Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist,” and “Man Hunt: Unabomber.” My Kindle has “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman’s Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer” by Michelle McNamara and Jack Ryan novels by Tom Clancy. In the New York Times op-ed piece, “How Dostoevsky Predicted the ‘True Crime’ Craze” author Jennifer Wilson highlights the growing interest in shows like “Serial,” “Making a Murderer,” and the Peabody-awarded podcast “In the Dark,” and makes connections to the Russian author Dostoevsky (1821–1881), writer of “Crime and Punishment.”

So entrenched were the people of czarist Russia at the time of “Crime and Punishment,” that defense lawyers would invoke the novel’s main character, Rodion Raskolnikov, when seeking jury nullification. Dostoevsky was actually under much scrutiny himself, being a member of the Petrashevsky Circle, a literary group made up of progressive individuals with French utopian ideals, and wrote his novels with strong opinions on mercy, punishment, and death. Books like “The Brothers Karamazov” posed the question of collective guilt; thinking beyond the idea of guilt or innocence meant political incarceration, jury nullification, or how societal failures affected the individual.

We know the fictionalized versions of true crime stories are hyper dramatized or manipulated: “Making a Murderer” left out DNA evidence; the homicidal triad (“triad” of ominous childhood behaviors) has been debunked; and “Dog Day Afternoon” wasn’t just about Attica. However, they ask questions like those about socio-economic bias in “Making a Murderer,” the flaws of family or society with nonconformity in “MINDHUNTER,” and about disenfranchisement — whether transsexualism or prison riots — in “Dog Day Afternoon.”

Theory of Anomie

At the end of the 20th century, David Emilé Durkeim’s theory of anomie (when rapid population growth leads to a breakdown of communication, thus leading to a breakdown of norms and values) was attributed to three main arguments about crime in times of great modernization; they boil down to a greater variety of behaviors being tolerated and punishments changing to become functional law. While Durkeim’s work has been criticized for not focusing enough on socioeconomic inequality and its implication on crime, Durkeim’s main point was the effect of society on the individual.

Critical Criminology

Authors using crime drama to explore socioeconomic inequality and its effect on criminality is not new. According to Wilson’s article, what is new is that “Serial,” “Making a Murderer,” and “In the Dark” take a decidedly different narrative closer to the Attica prison riot in September 1971 or Dostoevsky’s writing in that “The genre is increasingly framed as reformist, with critiques of police abuses, overzealous prosecutions, and mass incarceration playing central roles.” In “Theorizing Criminal Justice: Eight Essential Orientation,” authors John Brent and Peter Kraska discuss how critical criminology, a branch of criminology that explains crime by challenging traditional perspectives and beliefs regarding crime and criminal justice, has targeted the government’s construction of and reaction to crime versus the acceptance, where the oppression orientation views of criminal justice is seen as an apparatus of oppression: “Early critical criminologists wrote during a time when the government was being critiqued passionately on many fronts. The criminal justice system was no exception…Quinney forthright claimed that ‘law has become the ultimate means by which the state secures the interests of the ruling class.”

Anomie and Critical Criminology – Theories in Opposition

Durkheim’s anomie theory and critical criminology are almost the opposite sides of the same coin. Durkheim saw failure of society to meet the changing social constructs of modernization as a core cause of deviancy, whereas critical criminology views police deviancy as enforcement of socioeconomic status quo, thus the search for justice must subvert to the public. In either case, the reason serial killers and true crime stories are topping the Pulitzer and Netflix lists, Wilson says, is the same reason Dostoevsky’s work did: “It is not only our task to support the innocent or wrongly convicted but also to recognize the humanity of the guilty and the shared sense of responsibility that we have for one another.” How do we do that now?

Degrees at Work: Robert Leonard

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Robert “Terry” Leonard’s career in law enforcement has spanned more than two decades in various capacities, from a 911 dispatcher to a criminal investigator. The knowledge he gained from earning a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business and Management in 2015 has contributed to advancements in his work, and his passion for his career is evident each day he is on the job.

Leonard is one of six state criminal investigators with the Montana Department of Corrections headquartered in Helena, Montana. He began his career as a 911 dispatcher with a county sheriff/police department communications center, eventually becoming a deputy. He then became a detective and worked for a High Intensity Drug Traffic unit where he became a DEA task force officer. He recalls, “Narcotics work is very hard on the family with long and irregular hours. I loved it, but when the state investigator position was offered, we decided as a family it was really the best move all around.”

Now, Leonard spends 60 percent of his work days in the office and 40 percent of them in the field where he could be doing anything from conducting interviews and coordinating operations to obtaining warrants and subpoenas. He notes that conducting a criminal investigation is time consuming and that, “rushing an investigation can lead to any number of mistakes,” so it’s important to pay attention to the details.

Leonard says to succeed in his line of work, it’s important to be a self-starter and to have empathy. He notes that “cases don’t just solve themselves;” you have to track down even the most minuscule lead even when the case doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. He also says that empathy goes a long way during an interview: “Being able to get inside the person’s mind and really try to understand ‘why’ from their point of view is really helpful.” He adds that just being nice is some of the best advice he’s ever received; sometimes if you are nice to a person in an interview, you can end up uncovering small details that can lead to solving the case.

When Leonard came to Excelsior College, he was able to transfer prior military and coursework credit from the University of Florida toward his bachelor’s degree. He says it might seem like his degree doesn’t fit into his line of work, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. “The project management courses I took at Excelsior are my baseline for setting up how I am going to run a major case,” he says. He adds that knowledge of finances is also helpful since the No. 1 rule when running a major criminal enterprise investigation is to follow the money. He says, “Those accounting courses I took really help me when analyzing financials and trying to determine the flow of cash and assets in a criminal network.”

While he credits some Excelsior courses with help in his career, he thanks his wife for helping him get through his courses. He says it is already stressful enough to be a parent and to hold down a full-time job, but going back to school adds another layer. “My wife was really supportive on my limited off-time while I completed my Excelsior coursework…I could not have done it without her support.”

Leonard has come far in his more than 20 years as a law enforcement officer. He has been able to advance in his career thanks to hard work, dedication, and pursuing his higher education. He has advice for others, however: when it comes to being successful in his career he mentions the importance of sustained performance. He says, “You can’t just make a couple of cases and then sit back on your laurels. Being dedicated and passionate about my career field helped as well.”

Industry Notes From Robert Leonard…

Best book/podcast/e-newsletter that’s relevant to your industry?

“‘Sworn’ podcast is awesome, especially for detectives and investigators. The National Tactical Officer’s Association magazine is also a great resource.”

What time management tips do you have for current students juggling activities outside their Excelsior studies?

“Set a schedule and make it a routine. Be flexible, but have that routine in place. Keep your eyes on the prize and stay dedicated. Everything else will fall into place.”

What networking tips would you give to current Excelsior students?

“There is no better asset than a good network. Here’s my advice to establishing a good network: never turn down the opportunity to help someone in your job field. Do anything you can to help a colleague obtain their objective and that will pay itself off 10 times down the road. I wouldn’t be where I am today without an awesome network of colleagues that know they can count on me and are always there when I need them.”

Personal and Professional Financing for the Health Care Administrator

Posted on by Lisa Giarda

Finance and budgeting may seem like a thousand miles away when deciding your path toward a health care administration career, but it only takes one step to begin the journey of budgeting on a professional level – or even in our personal lives. My students often students say, “Is it math?” I promise you it is not! Well, there is math involved, but it is completed using the basic tools of a calculator, an Excel spreadsheet, or software. Budgeting is much more about decision making and less about math. The financial information we usually need is easily generated through software programs.

Why Do I Need a Budget?

Most people ask themselves if they really need a budget. If you have financial goals, such as saving for a new TV, or a larger goal of putting money away for your or your children’s college education or even for retirement, then I highly recommend a budget even if it is only a few entries.
A budget can be a guide and allow you to control your finances. This is especially vital for college students, who are often incurring college expenses or anticipating student loan expenses. For military personnel who are planning to return to civilian life, having a workable budget can make all the difference.

When budgets are not in place, and this goes personally and professionally as a manager, you lose control. Budgeting and saving for something specific, or just for an emergency, is the best outcome of any budget. With control of my finances I can sleep well knowing I am possibly preventing financial hardship if it were to knock at my door tomorrow. I remain prepared for most emergencies that may arise unexpectedly (auto repairs, medical bills, etc.).

When budgeting, make sure to include:

  • Cash Savings/Emergency Fund – Have at least three months of living expenses (mortgage, utilities, food, car payment, insurance, and whatever else you normally budget for) in a savings account. Whatever you do, don’t touch it. It’s not yours to spend (I tell myself that every day)! It may or may not take a bit of time to save this up, but with a budget you’ll plan to save. I’ve been to many financial seminars that stress paying yourself first. Don’t keep more than six months of living expenses in savings; if you have more, consider investing the rest to earn a higher level of interest.
  • Percentage of your Income to Retirement – An IRA, or retirement type of account offered by your workplace. A small percentage adds up over the year and you’ll barely miss it. Make sure your percentage also meets your goals (and at least the max percentage your organization is matching), that’s free money for your retirement plan. Retirement plan advisors are always helpful in discussing the type of accounts that will suit your needs, goals, and based on your age at the time you open the account.
  • Take advantage of flexible spending accounts (FSA) and/or health savings accounts (HSA) – These a can be pre-tax contributions put aside for out of pocket daycare or medical expenses on an annual basis. With four school-age children at one time with summer daycare/camp and after school care, I was able to pay for it on my pre-taxed contributions, another way to save money. You are never too young or old to have a retirement account and/or flexible spending accounts.
  • Budget for fun – Yes, budget for fun— a date night, your special coffee, and even your vacation. When you don’t budget for it you’ll spend more than you really wanted, and you can never get it back, trust me on this one.

Budgeting Software

Being in finance, working with health care organizations software programs, I realized it was also convenient to use software to keep track of my personal finances. The financial software available can assist in keeping you on target, and most are good; it’s just based on your individual needs and what you’re willing to spend. Most financial institutions now can download your transactions directly into your software and with a few clicks of your mouse, let you know exactly where you stand, financially. There is software that can assist with your personal finances and software that can account for multiple financial records. For example, your personal and maybe a small business or consultant income and expenses can be kept separate within the same program, which is important, since reporting can be separated for budgeting and even tax preparation.

Professional Budgeting

Just as important as a personal budget is a professional budget. As a health care administrator, I worked in billing for medical practices and hospitals, and as business manager of several retail businesses that were owned by the doctors, as well as a veterinary clinic. In each financial management position, I continued to build my knowledge. I encourage you to take every opportunity while in school to learn financial management principles so that you can identify a strong budget and identify warning signs in a budget that could spell trouble for a unit or organization. In our courses at Excelsior College, you will learn about a collection of commonly followed accounting rules (commonly referred to as GAAP or generally accepted accounting principles) and standards for financial management and reporting used in the health professions. Our health care management students learn how to read and interpret standard financial statements, organizational budgeting, navigate the complexities of reimbursements in the healthcare sector, and manage financial risk while meeting the needs of their client base. Our students create a budget using spreadsheet software and make informed decisions to help health care organizations remain competitive and successful.

With that said, most elements of budgeting are the same across professions. In health care, we focus on patient revenue and make decisions on how to remain profitable while increasing the quality of our services and decreasing costs. It’s always a fun challenge, as the health care industry is ever-changing.

Are you interested in learning more about budgeting or financial management for health care? Finance does not have to be scary! Consider signing up for HSC 414 Budget and Finance in Health Care Organizations in the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management program (or the Management emphasis of the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program) or HSC 518 Health Care Finance in the Master of Healthcare Administration.

 

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on by Diane Oakes

In an open letter to the American public in October 2018 Justice Sandra Day O’Connor shocked the American public with the revelation she had been diagnosed as being in the early stages of dementia. Years ago, she made the difficult decision to step down from her position as the first female justice on the United States Supreme Court to care for her husband, John, who had been diagnosed with dementia. As she is one of the most powerful and brilliant legal minds of our time, Justice O’Connor’s diagnosis highlights the unpredictability of dementia and that dementia can strike anyone at any time.

What exactly is dementia?

According to the 2018 World Alzheimer’s Report, it is our most feared disease that someone develops every three seconds. The likelihood of developing dementia increases with age, but many older adults are unaware that they have it. Of the 5.7 million Americans who have dementia, only half have a formal diagnosis by a physician. Although dementia is often used interchangeably with Alzheimer’s disease, they are not the same. The Mayo Clinic describes dementia as “a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily functioning.” Alzheimer’s is one of the most common types of dementia, followed by vascular dementia and Lewey body dementia.

Dementia can make us feel powerless, whether as health professionals or individuals seeking to stay healthy in mind and body. Subtle symptoms of dementia often begin years or even decades before a diagnosis occurs. So what can we do, right now, to reduce our risk of developing dementia? Studies vary in recommendations. Some professionals recommend staying in school through age 15 to avoid social isolation. On the other hand, it can be confusing to determine how to prevent dementia. Yet, it is imperative to try. A 2017 report by the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention and Care states that up to one-third of dementia diagnoses might be preventable. The Alzheimer’s Association offers these prevention guidelines:

    • Don’t smoke
    • Keep blood pressure, cholesterol and blood-sugar levels within recommended limits
    • Eat a healthy, balanced diet
    • Exercise
    • Limit alcohol consumption

Research on dementia prevention and treatment is expanding, with intriguing new recommendations coming out regularly. Stay informed. Assess what you read and be sure that the recommendations are evidence-based. After all, dementia impacts not only the person diagnosed, but also loved ones, families, health professions, communities, and nations. Finding a cure and treatments to stay the progression of the disease is fast becoming a global priority.

Interested in learning more about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease? Check out HSC 416 Introduction to Gerontology, or at the graduate level, PBH 647 Vulnerable Populations.

Financial Aid Verification Frequently Asked Questions

Posted on by Denise Gonyo

The federal government requires colleges and universities to verify or confirm the data reported by students and their parent(s) on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Verification is confirmed when the information provided on a student’s FAFSA is determined correct through documentation. The verification process ensures that eligible students receive all the financial aid to which they are entitled and prevents ineligible students from receiving financial aid to which they are not entitled.

How will I know if I am selected for verification?

Students will receive notification from U.S. Department of Education indicating that they have been selected for verification. The Financial Aid Office at Excelsior will also send an email to you if you have been selected with information on next steps.

Why was I selected for verification?

If you have been selected for verification it means that you were chosen randomly, the FAFSA you submitted was incomplete, your FAFSA contains estimated information, or the data you provided on the FAFSA is inconsistent. Verification is a federal regulation. Students who are selected for verification are not being punished; rather, verification prevents ineligible students from receiving aid by reporting false information and ensures that eligible students receive all the aid for which they are qualified.

What do I have to submit and where do I send it?

You can also see if you have been selected for verification by logging into your MyExcelsior portal, selecting the My Details tab, clicking “Go to Online Financial Aid System,” selecting “Menu,” and then selecting “Documents.” This section will list any documents that are required for the verification process.

Some forms can be completed directly through this screen. Other documents, such as tax transcripts, can be sent as attachments via your MyExcelsior message center, emailed to vafa@excelsior.edu, or faxed to 518-464-8660. These documents can include tax transcripts, W-2s, signed statements, proof of citizenship, selective service registration, or high school diploma. Do not wait to submit your documents. Failure to submit documents early could result in longer wait times.

What happens once I submit my documents and how long does it take?

The typical turnaround time is 7–10 business days. During peak times, it can take longer. After the initial review, sometimes the Financial Aid Office will require additional documentation for verification. This process could take an additional 7–10 business days. Once verification is complete, the Financial Aid Office will begin reviewing your eligibility for financial aid. It is important to note that once verification has been completed, any changes to your FAFSA could require additional documentation.

What if I don’t want to complete the verification process?

The verification process is a federal regulation and must be completed for a student to receive federal aid.

How will I be notified if I have incomplete verification materials?

You will be notified via your MyExcelsior message center. If there are additional documents that are required, they will be added to your Documents tab in your Online Financial Aid System and will be listed as ”Not Received.” If you need to update something already submitted, the document will be listed as “Incomplete.”

How do I request a Tax Return Transcript?

Whenever possible, it is recommended that students use the Data Retrieval Tool on your FAFSA if it is listed as an option. Alternatively, students can order tax transcripts by visiting the IRS web site at http://www.irs.gov. Under the “Tools” section, select “Get a Tax Transcript.”

 

Caring for Those With Dementia

Posted on by Marisa Iacobucci

Caring for someone with dementia can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. I work with caregivers of individuals with dementia every day and one thing that comes up often is that they are uncertain of how to interact with the person they’re caring for, particularly as the disease progresses. While every caregiving situation is unique depending on the kind of dementia, there are 10 caregiver commandments that can provide guidance for all.

 

Always…

  • Agree, Never Argue. Even if the person you’re caring for is saying something that isn’t true, makes no sense, or is offensive, roll with it. Meet that person where they’re at. Arguing just creates stress for you and them.
  • Redirect, Never Reason. When the person your caring for is fixated on something – they insist it’s time to go home, even if they are home – redirect their attention to something else. It could be something on the TV, showing them a picture, mentioning the weather…anything that will move them away from whatever they’ve fixated on.
  • Distract, Never Shame. If a mistake is made and confusion sets in, just laugh it off and instead, tell them how good they look! Positivity isn’t always easy, but humor and compassion can help in a tough situation. Humans often dwell on mistakes or lost memories; focusing on something positive or even fun can bring peace and joy, even if only for a little while.
  • Reassure, Never Lecture. Individuals with dementia become more fearful as the disease progresses. Reassure them that everything is okay, even if they continue to express fear and anxiety. Keep in mind that even the familiar may now be new and unfamiliar to them.
  • Reminisce, Never Say “Remember.” To say, “don’t you remember” is very frustrating and hurtful to someone with dementia because they truly can’t remember. When they see you frustrated, they will get equally frustrated. Things can easily fall apart. Instead, just share a memory you have and even if they don’t remember it, they’ll often enjoy the story you’re telling.
  • Repeat, Never Say, “I already told you that.” This ties into not saying “remember.” You may have told something to the person you’re caring for less than five minutes ago, but they won’t remember. If you find yourself getting frustrated with repeating the same thing over and over again, drop that thing and move onto something else. This goes back to the “Redirect” commandment.
  • Say “Do what you can,” Never Say “You can’t.” Provide easy tasks for the person your caring for—folding towels, drying the dishes, sweeping, helping with bathing—to make them feel useful and a part of daily living.
  • Ask, Never Command. The person with dementia deserves respect and kindness. Treat them the way you’d like to be treated.
  • Encourage and Praise, Never Condescend. Always remember that a simple task is not easy for someone with dementia. Giving them praise will go far.
  • Reinforce, Never Force. You may have to repeat how to do something many times, but your patience will be appreciated.

 

Adapted from https://www.njseniorcare.com/angel-inspiration-caregivers-10-commandments/

 

The Alzheimer’s Association is a hub for many services, support groups, and excellent trainings and disease education.  Go to https://www.alz.org/ to find your local chapter. They have a 24/7 helpline (1-800-272-3900) to help you during times of stress, when a new behavior occurs that has you frightened or frustrated, or if you just need someone to talk to.

Are You “Cyber Smart”? Test Your Cyber Security Knowledge Before Your Personal Identity Is Breached

Posted on by Alicia Jacobs

With the start of the holiday season and increase in online shopping, do you know how “cyber smart” you are? Is your personal information safe? Two Excelsior College employees skilled in cybersecurity, Ethan Sprissler, the faculty program director, information technology and undergraduate cybersecurity, and Amelia Estwick, program manager, graduate cybersecurity, share tips to test your cyber knowledge. If you are interested in technology and cybersecurity check out the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.

This “Cyber Smart Test” will help you stay safe when surfing the internet and using technology at home, in the car, on your watch, or in the workplace.

Test question 1:

Do you ever test if your passwords are secure? If yes, you’re ahead of the curve. If not, test yours here.

Test question 2:

For online security, do you create passwords or passphrases? Cyber experts suggest you create a passphase for added protection. It’s quite simple.

  • Pick a phrase – Example: I shop at Marshalls
  • Use 1st letter of each word – Example: ISAM
  • Add a name of a website – Example: Isamarshalls
  • Substitute special characters – Example: Isamarshalls$364!

Test question 3:

When the pop-up question, “Do you want to save this password?” appears on your computer, what do you do? The answer should be “No – never for this site.”

Test question 4:

Do you put the information below on forms, applications, in email, or on websites? Your goal should be to minimize personal information sharing.

  • Passwords
  • Credit card numbers
  • Addresses for work/home
  • Email addresses
  • Birthdates
  • Pharmacy prescriptions – remember to safely discard your personal information that comes with prescriptions. This is a big business now with the opioid crisis.
  • Electronic health records
  • Financial Information
  • Vehicle license info
  • Biometric identifiers – Be careful with thumbprint, eye scanners, etc. In general, be safe when sharing personal or unique information. Ask who is storing this? Is it safe?

Test question 5:

Do you use Bluetooth? Malicious attackers can crash your devices, block them from receiving phone calls, and drain your battery. It is suggested to turn off your Bluetooth when you’re not using it. Check out the article that appeared in Forbes this summer: Update Your iPhones and Androids Now If You Don’t Want Your Bluetooth Hacked.

Test question 6:

Do you use Amazon Echo? Each time you say “Alexa,” you can see a log in on Amazon. Be mindful of where you are tracked. It is recommended to unplug these home devices when you’re not using them. Also, be careful when mobile apps ask for permissions. They can access your address book, etc.
To amplify your knowledge on cyber trends, consider the additional tips below.

  • Have you heard about zero trust states in cybersecurity? This means with cybersecurity, trusting relationships allow access to people you know, however, individuals can allow access to someone they know. Zero trust states the opposite. Identify who you are and then authorize trust. This is the new model built into cyber and being adopted in health care and financial industries.
  • Have you heard about crackers? They break into cyber systems and circumvent security. These people present reports to companies on cyber weakness.
  • Data is king and queen – The dark web is big. It removes trackability. It hides a user’s identity and location, and users can see what kind of accounts you connect to. To learn more visit here.
  • What is multifactor authentication? It is a security system that asks for more than one method to identify; for example, what the user knows (password), what the user has (security token), and what the user is (biometric verification). Banking is doing this now and can lock down accounts.

World Kindness Day : Thanks for Giving a Helping Hand

Posted on by Alicia Jacobs

November 13 is World Kindness Day, but it doesn’t take an official date on the calendar to make the world a better place. Everyone can make a difference in the life of someone else with a thinking-of-you text, a nice gesture, or doing something to make life a little sweeter.

excelsior staff volunteer at salvation army

Acts of Kindness Through Excelsior Cares

At Excelsior College, employees help with community events, drives, and fundraisers to expand the College’s mission of service to the underserved by assisting with critical needs of the community.

Throughout the year, employees support a variety of causes and volunteer individually and collectively to show Excelsior Cares. Employees are also offered Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to participate in community activities during the workday. In 2018, 138 staff members helped 52 organizations and donated 541 VTO hours.

Looking back at 2018, Excelsior employees also made an impact on some large community projects. During Excelsior Cares Volunteer Week this past April, 108 volunteers helped with 23 community projects at such organizations as Veterans Miracle Center, Ronald McDonald House, Crohn’s Colitis Foundation, Salvation Army, Cystic Fibrosis, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, Alzheimer’s Association, American Heart Association, Special Olympics, and JDRF. The National Volunteer Week projects included sorting inventory items, cooking, promoting upcoming charity events, painting, feeding the hungry, and cleaning. This was significant as both the size and scope of projects increased from a year ago when 57 employees helped with 9 community projects during Volunteer Week.

Excelsior Cares

Why is the Excelsior Cares culture of giving so important? For employees, helping the community is a chance to learn about themselves and others. It is a chance to appreciate what they have when you see firsthand others who are less fortunate. It is also an opportunity for employees to learn about services provided by many non-profits in the community and perhaps refer others to. It is also a chance to meet and work with colleagues from various units across the College while serving great causes.

Beyond feeling good and helping others, the feedback we receive from organizations is inspiring. For example, Nancy Pechony, logistics director from Veterans Miracle Center, stated, “It was wonderful having your group here. They were a great blessing to us, enabling us to get so much more humanitarian aid packaged to go out than we ever could have with just our own staff. Thank you more than words can express!”

Carolyn Braunius, associate director of development, Capital District Region, Special Olympics New York, shared, “Thank you so much for letting Special Olympics New York be a part of Excelsior Cares volunteer day! We had such a great time working with the volunteers from the College, and they made such a huge difference for us here at our organization! Five volunteers worked seamlessly with staff and five of our athletes to clean out and organize our equipment storage facilities.”

In addition to Volunteer Week, in 2018, employees raised more than $3,000 from a themed gift baskets fundraiser to support local community projects in need of assistance throughout the year. They donated to special collection drives like Adopt a Family and Toys for Tots and collected 646 pounds of food for the Regional Food Bank’s inaugural Hunger Action Challenge.

Planning for 2019 community engagement activities has begun, and Excelsior employees look forward to lending a helping hand on world kindness day and beyond throughout the Capital Region.

Faculty Profile: Randy Holt

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

“Don’t give up.” “Don’t be shy.” “Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Randy Holt’s advice to students is vast and supportive. He may be a technology instructor for Excelsior College, but he has more to teach his students than just technology.

Holt has been with Excelsior since 2015, and teaches Technology in Society, which covers technological change from historical, artistic, and philosophical perspectives, and its effect on human needs and concerns. In addition to his teaching background, he supervises the Distributed Controls Group at Dominion Energy, Cove Point LNG in Lusby, Md. “In my 14 years of service at the facility, I’ve served as an operator and a controls technician,” says Holt. He earned a MS in National Cybersecurity Policy and an MBA from the University of Maryland.

Holt understands the difficulties of the adult learner. He knows that coursework takes time and recommends students do not take on too much at once for fear of burning themselves out. He says, “Prior to signing up for a course, think about the lifestyle you want to maintain while you are engaging in your coursework and ensure you can manage the balance.”

He also recommends students take advantage of what Excelsior has to offer, particularly pointing out the free writing resources like the Online Writing Lab. “Being able to write and communicate effectively is very important, particularly in the work place,” says Holt. He notes that working on assignments earlier in the week can be helpful because you can have someone else proofread your work. Oftentimes, having a second set of eyes makes all the difference.” He admits that technology is evolving at a rapid pace, but this can mean more opportunities for collaboration with other students. Holt tells students to reach out to fellow group members when working in groups. “Don’t be shy! The earlier you get involved in the process, the more successful you will be. Don’t sit back and wait for people to contact you,” he says.

Personal connections are not just beneficial for educational reasons. Holt’s networking advice to students is to use established relationships to create new opportunities. “Remember,  always be pleasant to those you encounter. If people understand that you are good with people, they will be more likely to hire you,” he says.

For those students looking for jobs, Holt says to never give up and to keep applying. “It may take time and it will definitely take lots of energy, but don’t give up,” he says. He reminds students that to land a dream job, they may have to relocate, but to not count that out. Sometimes it will be end up being a great opportunity. And, within the workplace, Holt says to “trust but verify.” His advice is to “be sure to preform your own independent analysis prior to relying on the recollection, or word, of others.” He also reminds students to never be afraid to ask questions.

In his spare time, Holt can be found spending time with his wife Christie and their two Goldendoodle dogs. It’s clear his passion is helping his students; when asked what he loves most about teaching for Excelsior, he says, “I really enjoy learning about the various backgrounds of the students.” If anything is for certain, it’s that his students enjoy learning from him, too.

 

 

Why You Need a Career Plan

Posted on by Maribeth Gunner

Some people will spend extensive energy preparing for a trip, meticulously arranging every detail of their excursion, but they will not invest the same time and effort planning for their future careers. How about you? Do you make time to review your professional goals and ambitions? Are you satisfied with your current job, or do you wonder about other options that could be a better fit? Establishing and implementing a career plan can help answer these questions and more. Career planning is a beneficial process used to map out the steps, skills, goals, and even the people you will need to help you reach your professional aspirations.

Engaging in periodic review of your current career status is more essential now than ever before. We live in a fast-paced, information-driven, knowledge-based global economy where the work world is changing at a rapid pace, and the skills you need change just as fast. The future will bring new and different employment options which will require you to be adaptable, resourceful, and proactive. One way to ensure you will always be ready and responsive to advance in the job market is to create a plan based on an assessment of your current knowledge, skills, interests, values, and goals. A flexible career strategy is also necessary to allow for happenstance within your plan, both personally and professionally. Chances are you may refine your career direction several times over your lifetime. Whether you are just formulating your first career plan or reviewing an older one, here are some tips to consider as you move forward:

 

  • Conduct a Career Self-Assessment: Take a formal or informal inventory of your current career values, interests, skills, strengths, and lifestyle preferences. What is most meaningful to you at this point in your life? Is it a high salary? Benefits? Work flexibility? What are you really interested in? Is there something new you want to, or need to learn to remain competitive in your field? Identify your transferable skills. Are there strengths you can apply to another line of work, or skills you can hone for your current position?
  • Research Your Career Field: Once you know more about the level of career satisfaction, and/or the skills you wish to polish, look for opportunities to gain advancement. Seek education options, job entry points, both within your organization and externally. Use online sources to research current market trends. Where is job growth expected? What is the outlook for your line of work? Investigate the Occupational Outlook Handbook (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/) by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to learn more.
  • Make Informed Decisions: Once you have gathered good information, reflect. If you are considering a change, evaluate the pros and cons. Consider risks, if any. Are you happy where you are? Do you need additional training? Consult trusted contacts. Prioritize as needed. Then, determine the best solution for moving forward.
  • Set Goals: Look at where you are— and where you want to be. Do the next steps you have chosen seem reasonable? Logical? Set short-term goals to follow (0–3 years), and long-term goals to reach (3–5 years). Make sure the goals you develop are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely).
  • Document Your Plan: Write it down. Include the steps/goals you have decided on and corresponding dates. Add whatever other information is helpful to you. Remember that the plan should have structure but also be flexible. Consider posting it in a place where you can see it. If you need a template, visit Excelsior College Action Plan. Refer to it throughout the year. Revise it as needed. Note when you have achieved something. Acknowledge your accomplishments and celebrate!

Benefits of Career Planning

No matter what industry you are in, or what level position you hold, career planning can become an integral component of your professional life. This beneficial process will help you gain more control, instill a stronger sense of purpose, and create a more definitive vision for your future. Break free from any self-imposed limitations, and realize the full potential of your abilities. Select a time that works best for you; perhaps the New Year or early spring. Whatever you choose, commit to continuous lifelong learning, and devote some time to review your career plan each year. Then, go ahead and spend the rest of your energy arranging that next trip. Learn more about Excelsior College’s 3+1 program.

How to Negotiate Salary

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

NEGOTIATE A FAIR SALARY BY PLANNING AHEAD

Most job seekers agree — the one aspect of a job search that causes the most angst is how to negotiate salary. The most important decision you’ll consider when contemplating a job offer is whether or not the compensation for the position is accept­able. Once you have secured an interview and proven to be a top candidate, the subject of salary is inevitable. Salary negotiation is complex mainly because there are many other things that you can be missing out on if you don’t ask about them, and the way you do this is you bring them up, with an excited energy to be a part of the company and contribute in the role, but wanting to work out what’s fair for both of you. How can you be sure to negotiate the best salary? With some basic knowledge and proactive preparation, you can reduce your stress and increase your potential for a success­ful salary outcome.

KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

Preparing for effective salary negotiating should begin well before the job interview. Evaluating your priorities and examining your needs is a good starting point. What do you want to attain in your next career step? What type of organization do you want to work for? The size, scope, and mission of an organization will dictate the type of compensation package that is offered.

For example, a small business may not offer as competitive a salary as a larger one, but it may provide comparable benefits that augment salary, such as stock options or comprehensive health benefits. Would you accept a lower salary as a trade-off? What if other benefits are offered? You need to consider your bottom line. Review your personal budget. What amount do you need to sustain or enhance your lifestyle? What is the minimum offer that you will accept? Assessing your wants and needs prior to the interview will help to define your desired work/life balance and allow you to confidently pursue salary negotiation. According to PayScale, 25 percent of those who negotiate get more than they expected.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Another important task to complete, prior to an interview, is researching salary information pertaining to the job you are seeking. It is critical to know what both the job and you are worth to ensure the best bargaining power when negotiating. Compensation is not determined solely by your experience and abilities. Other factors affect potential salary, including geographic location, economic conditions, trends in the industry, size of the organization, job level, and the overall status of the job market. For successful salary negotiation, you need to determine the fair market value for the position you are seeking in your specified geographic location.

There are several online resources that can aid in your research such as salary calculators, salary surveys, and cost-of-living calculators. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, features salary information, job descriptions, and an employment forecast for each industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also offers a thorough package of employment information and statistics by region. These tools are generally free and designed to provide an overview of salary information that is pertinent to your specific situation. Salary calculators compute salaries for jobs by title, industry, and geographic location. Some salary calculators will also provide more personalized reports for a fee. Salary surveys, too, reflect the general range of compensation awarded for jobs in your career field by occu­pation, industry, and location. Some salary surveys also provide information on starting salaries based on college major. Don’t forget to ask friends and alums of your school who work in the industry what a typical starting salary for a new graduate is in the job of your choice.

To determine if a specific employer’s salary offer is reasonable, you need to have good assessment of what the going rate is for the position you are seeking. Professional associations in your field are another excellent source of salary information that cannot be overlooked. These associations often conduct regular salary surveys of their members, which yield the most current and job-specific salary information. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Occupational Outlook Handbook are two additional web tools that provide helpful data and statistics on salaries. Although salary surveys and calculators provide good estimations, the results may not match your job description exactly. However, the informa­tion can still be useful as a baseline for what is generally standard in your field. It’s a good idea to investigate more than one of these resources to obtain several perspectives. If you plan to relocate for a job, cost-of-living calculators are good indicators of what you’ll need to earn in order to make a living in various locations in the U.S. For example, a larger city may have a much higher cost of living than a small city or town. It is important to allow for differences in the cost of living when determin­ing the salary you will seek in a new location.

The more information you gather about the current overall job market — and your value within that market — the stronger founda­tion you’ll have to successfully negotiate and maximize your chances for an optimal compen­sation package.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR NEGOTIATIONS

Once you’ve done your research and have a good understanding of the compensation you’re worth, you will be prepared to talk salary. Many employers have an established range of salaries budgeted for specific jobs, and they anticipate that a candidate will bargain. There are several points to consider in the negotiation process:

  1. During the interview, avoid being the first to mention salary. Allow the employer to introduce the topic. Delaying any salary discussion opens the door for you to tout your strengths and establish why you are the right one for the job, before compensation is determined. Postponing the topic of salary also provides time for you to glean more information about what the position entails. When it is evident that there is a strong mutual interest, and you are deemed to be an exceptional candidate, place the onus on the employer to pitch the best offer. You’ll have greater leverage for successful negotiation.
  2. Be aware that some employers may attempt to engage you in a salary discussion early in the interview process. In this case, you may need to take a different tack. You don’t want your response to price you out of the job or invite an offer that is less than the going rate. If asked what your salary requirements are, try not to disclose a specific figure that could minimize your bargaining power. If you must quote a baseline number, remember to ensure that it is one you know will fully support, if not improve your current lifestyle.

Here’s a few optional responses:

  • Explain that you would like to know more about the expectations and duties of the position, prior to the salary discussion.
  • Indicate that your salary requirements are contingent upon review of the total compensation package being offered.
  • Focus your reply on a salary you believe to be commensurate with the job responsibilities, based upon your previous research.

If asked about your salary history, be honest. If your previous salary was consider­ably higher or lower than the range being offered, be prepared to address this. Be creative. Contextualize your past salary. Note if there was a difference in location or size of the prior organization. Highlight any addi­tional benefits you may have received, such as extensive health care coverage or invest­ment options that account for the disparity in compensation.

Remember: During a salary negotiation, you and the employer are working toward a shared goal. Be prepared to compromise. If you are not successful at negotiating the exact salary you want, consider asking for other alternatives to achieve your objective. It is also important to consider the benefits offered as they can significantly add to your base pay.

While benefits are considered standard for many employers and may not be negotiable, some do offer flexible benefit packages that provide employees with choices. A trade-off might be to secure an increased pension plan, flexible working hours, tuition reimbursement, bonuses, additional vacation time, or coverage of moving expenses. At this point, pursuing all options can bring you closer to your desired goal.

Of course, always maintain a positive and professional communication style when nego­tiating. Your demeanor during negotiations gives the employer a view of who you are. Even if you don’t take the job, you never know if your paths may cross in future business situations. When salary negotiations conclude, and an offer is made, it is prudent to ask for time to review the offer — if you are still unsure.

Once you do accept the job offer, it is important to get the final offer in writing. Regardless of whether you choose to accept or decline, be sure to confirm your response in writing and acknowledge your appreciation for the employer’s time and efforts.

5 MORE TIPS ON HOW TO NEGOTIATE SALARY

Sufficient preparation for salary negotiations can change a challenging aspect of the job search process into a rewarding experience. Sharpening your salary negotiation skills will give you the tools you need to get the compen­sation you deserve and set your career path in the right direction.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, Maribeth Gunner, Director of Career Services offers these five tips to help you in your next salary negotiation.

Editor’s note: Text adapted from Maribeth Gunner Pulliam’s article, “Sharpen Your Salary Negotiating Skill,” Live & Learn, Spring/Summer 2007.  Maribeth Gunner Pulliam is the director of Career Services at Excelsior College. 

Alternative Medicine: Therapeutic Touch

Posted on by Nicole Helstowski

Continuous learning has always been one aspect of my role as a registered nurse. This year, I began searching for ways to integrate holistic care for patients. A colleague encouraged me to explore alternative therapies to support my nursing practice and I discovered therapeutic touch.

Therapeutic touch is an evidence-based healing modality that is grounded in the assumption that all humans have energy fields that extend beyond their physical body. Established in the late 1970s by Dolores Krieger, PhD, RN, and the late Dora Kunz, therapeutic touch promotes many aspects of healing for individuals. For various reasons, a person’s energy field may require redirection or repatterning to facilitate physical and emotional healing.

According to Therapeutic Touch International Association, therapeutic touch practitioners use four phases during a session, which include centering (and setting an intention), assessment (holding hands over the recipient’s body to assess the human energy field), rebalancing (moving energy through the field based off the assessment cues), and reassessment (to ensure the energy field is flowing). The effects of emotional, spiritual, and physical stressors can take a toll on our body’s ability to regulate homeostasis. Because of the large amount of evidence that supports a relaxation response and stimulation of the body’s immune response in recipients of therapeutic touch, I decided to pursue certification as a qualified therapeutic touch practitioner.

While my initial intention for pursuing therapeutic touch certification was to create a more holistic nursing care for my patients, I have discovered an unexpected self-fulfillment in its practice. To center oneself to enter another person’s energy field with positive intentions, I have learned how to pause and slow down from the rapid pace of the work environment. I have learned how to create the space to connect with another individual on a higher level. I have also become more conscious of how my actions and energy can impact another person. This enhanced self-awareness has significantly impacted my practice as a nurse.

My practice in therapeutic touch has also reinforced the need for self-care in nursing. As an educator of nursing students, I feel it is not enough to teach and advocate for self-care; I must practice it, too. Meditation, quiet reflection, and centering help, so I am in an optimal state to care for my patients and students. I have evolved from a registered nurse who anticipated the physical and emotional needs of my patient to a registered nurse who connects with patients to individualize the care I provide with additional treatment modalities. Therapeutic touch has provided me with an opportunity to develop a more comprehensive approach to patient care. I am enjoying this new avenue of professional learning as I progress with the practice of therapeutic touch.

 

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Excelsior College, its trustees, officers, or employees.