Board and Commission Candidate Profiles
NACEP Board of Director Candidates
Two-Year Public Institutional Representative
(Eligibility: The candidate for Two-Year Institutional Representative must come from a NACEP–accredited program)
Organization: Snow College, UT
Job Title: Chief Concurrent Enrollment Administrator
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
I have extensive experience in K-12 having served as a teacher, counselor, diagnostician and administrator at the local level. Appointment to Director of RtI (Multi-tiered system of supports) at the State level from 2008-2011. I am an expert Grant reviewer for the U.S. Department Education where I have evaluated and analyzed Federal grants for the last twelve years. I have been serving students in Utah as a Concurrent Enrollment Advisor since 2016. I mobilized a team of colleagues in 2021 to apply for accreditation through NACEP. I successfully facilitated this process, and we were awarded accreditation for our program in 2022. I continue to work on providing equitable access to a higher education for all students but especially underrepresented populations.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
I serve the Snow College Community by implementing a peer-reviewed and evidence-based concurrent program that is accredited through NACEP. I have served as a lead peer reviewer for the NACEP accreditation team in 2022. I hold a Leadership Position within Utah’s version of NACEP, called UACEP to provide leadership and build capacity among rural high schools for concurrent enrollment in Utah. I compiled the accreditation requirements and along with my team of colleagues, facilitated the accreditation application process that led to a victorious accreditation of our institution.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
I have served in many leadership positions, and my unwavering support for NACEP and involvement with NACEP since 2016, have prepared me for this important position. I have served on the Board of Directors for other entities in the past, but wish to provide my expertise to NACEP.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
I have supported NACEP since 2016. My Team and I attend NACEP’s National conference each year and conduct presentations that advance the field of concurrent/dual enrollment. After my institution received accreditation through NACEP, I continued to support NACEP as a lead reviewer for other institutions applying for accreditation. I continue the important work of removing barriers to access concurrent enrollment, a priority among underserved populations in Utah.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Received accreditation status for my institution in 2022 Chair of UACEP’s Special Initiatives where I am spearheading efforts to develop a guidance manual of evidence-based and research-based practices for concurrent enrollment in Utah Employee of the Fall Semester 2022; Snow College and Board of Directors Wasatch Mountain Club
Organization: Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, PA
Job Title: Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Education has always been a passion of mine. Throughout my career, I have been involved with different aspects of the education system, both secondary and post-secondary. After completing my undergraduate degree, I worked as an Alternative Education Instructor, providing instruction to students who did not function successfully in a traditional classroom. After spending five years in this position and working through my Master's degree, I started as a faculty member at a business college. This position broadened my view on high education and encouraged me to move into administration. In 2016, I accepted a position as an administrator at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, working with the day to day operations of the college's concurrent enrollment program. I have been working in this program ever since and now completely oversee all aspects of the program as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. I love having the opportunity to use my experience in both secondary and post-secondary education to help students gain access to affordable college credits while still in high school. In addition to my career in education, I also serve on the Board of Directors for a local childcare center and preschool. The mission of this agency is to provide free childcare and preschool services to single parents who are enrolled in school or a job training program. Providing opportunities to remove barriers to allow for access is something that is close to my heart.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
I have worked in dual/concurrent enrollment since 2016 when I started at Penn Highlands Community College. In my position as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, I oversee a program that partners with approximately 50 high schools. During this time, I have led my team through a successful accreditation application. Through continuous improvement of our program, I use time in my position ensuring we uphold the integrity of the college and NACEP. I have spent many years as a volunteer with NACEP, first as a peer reviewer and later as a two-year representative on the Accreditation Commission. I have presented at several Accreditation Institutes and conducted webinars on the accreditation process as part of the Accreditation Commission.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
As a former member of the Accreditation Commission, I had the opportunity to attend joint meetings with the board and gain insight on the strategic plan. I feel my time as a commissioner has provided me with the knowledge and skills needed to be a contributing member as a two-year representative of the Board of Directors. The current strategic plan, Vision 2025, focuses on professional development, state and federal policy and advocacy, standards and accreditation, and connection. These areas touch all of the NACEP membership and are essential in maintaining the NACEP values of access, community, education, equity, and excellence. As a NACEP volunteer, I have seen the benefits of this strategic plan and am excited about the opportunity to help reach more of the membership.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
I have been an active volunteer with NACP since 2018. I have served as a peer reviewer, commissioner on the Accreditation Commission, and member of the planning committee for the National Conference. As part of these roles, I have also had the opportunity to review proposals for the National Conference to help identify presentations that will move NACEP forward in their mission and vision. NACEP's commitment to access, community, education, equity, and excellence is present in all aspects of their operations. As a volunteer, I take pride in participating in the continuous improvements that I see NACEP make to help the membership break down barriers and provide equitable access for students to participate in quality post-secondary education.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Peer Reviewer. Former Commissioner in the Accreditation Commission, Member of National Conference Planning Committee
NACEP Commission Candidates
Advocacy Commission
Region: 1
Organization: Sussex County Community College, NJ
Job Title: Director, Concurrent Enrollment Program Coordinator
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Julie Fliegel has served at Sussex County Community College for over 30 years in the Office of Admissions. She currently oversees all dual enrollment opportunities at the College and has been pivotal in transforming the institution in terms of student on-boarding and retention. In moving Sussex forward towards NACEP-accreditation, she played a instrumental role in working with high schools to advocate for quality and consistency across all concurrent enrollment programs.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Julie's work the last several years to strengthen the Concurrent Enrollment Program positioned the College to be able to apply for accreditation this year. She serves as the conduit between the high schools and the College regarding curriculum and instructor approval. She participates frequently in the listerv to help improve NACEP as a whole and the SCCC Concurrent Enrollment Program.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Julie has done extremely well in helping to advocate for quality in the concurrent enrollment program through the NACEP Standards. Her work at Sussex has helped inform high school partners and other colleges in the State about the importance of the NACEP mission in terms of ensuring students are set up for success when matriculating to the College.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Julie has worked extremely hard to help advance the concurrent enrollment program in terms of equity and quality at Sussex, and in turn the State of NJ. Julie was pivotal in helping to braid funding sources together to support free/reduced lunch students who wanted to participate in concurrent enrollment but could not afford it. In addition, her outreach to all high schools in the region has allowed the College to increase the number of students and offer concurrent enrollment in neighboring Pennsylvania due to them not having post-secondary opportunities.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Julie serves as the Secretary of the College’s Staff Senate and was recently appointed chair of the Work Flow and Work Process Committee. She is a past coach for the Dingman-Delaware Little League and a past Girl Scout Leader.
Region: 1
Organization: Reynolds Community College, VA
Job Title: Director of Dual Enrollment
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Mr. Riddle has a Master's Degree in Information Systems, and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. He previously worked as a K12 teacher for 23 years. During this time he served as an adjunct IT professor and the Director of the Advance College Academy (ACA) for Business Administration located at Highland Springs High School in Henrico County, Virginia. The ACA program allows high school students to earn an A.S degree in Business Administration that includes 61 transferable credits upon graduating high school. Mr. Riddle has presented at several NACEP National Conferences and served as a Commissioner on the NACEP Accreditation Commission. Mr. Riddle was hired in January 2020 as the Director of Dual Enrollment for Reynolds Community College and continues in this role today.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Mr. Riddle has presented at several NACEP National Conferences and served as a Commissioner on the NACEP Accreditation Commission. Mr. Riddle was hired in January 2020 as the Director of Dual Enrollment for Reynolds Community College and continues to serve in this role today.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Mr. Riddle has been involved in dual enrollment since 2016 first as an adjunct professor in a K12 high school. He has guided and supported hundreds of K12 DE students and parents through the challenges of earning a full AS degree while in high school. After serving for the past three years as the Director of Dual Enrollment for Reynolds Community College, Mr. Riddle now oversees all DE offered by the college which includes: the Advance College Academy, the Early College Academy, traditional DE offerings, and all CTE DE courses and pathways. This unique perspective should be quite valuable to NACEP.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Mr. Riddle has presented at NACEP on "Concurrent Enrollment 101" and "What Else Transfers? Translating the Academy Experience into University Study". Mr. Riddle also presented at a regional NACEP conference in Rhode Island in 2018 on "Forging Strong Partnerships Between Secondary and Postsecondary Institutions". Mr. Riddle believes that ALL qualified students should have access to life changing DE coursework options. Mr. Riddle has seen first hand how lives are changed from students earning full AS degrees, and also by simply having access to as little as one 3 credit DE course that shows a student they can successfully complete college coursework. DE can and should be leveraged to positively change the lives of ALL qualified students.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Mr. Riddle has served on K12 school division CTE advisory committees to support our school partnerships and to encourage K12 partners to consider expanding CTE DE pathways and courses where appropriate.
Region: 1
Organization: Montgomery College, MD
Job Title: Director of Academic Initiatives
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Mr. Rogers has over 30 years of experience in higher education. He is currently the director of academic initiatives, where he manages the academic partnerships with Montgomery County Public Schools for the college, including college readiness initiatives and all dual enrollment programs. His unit has 16 staff and faculty in support of dual enrollment efforts. Mr. Rogers began his career at MC in 2004 as an education specialist in the Gateway to College program. Before coming to MC, he was the Associate Dean of Students at the Catholic University of America and assistant director for judicial affairs at Boston College. Mr. Rogers holds a Master of Arts degree from Boston College and a Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Mr. Rogers has direct leadership and oversight for the dual enrollment programs at MC. MC enrolls over 2,500 degree and non-degree high school students taking 6,000+ courses per year. Under the dual enrollment umbrella, there are 4 degree programs (Early College, Middle College, P-TECH and Virtual Middle College) offering 23 different degrees as well as Jumpstart pathways for students to earn individual college credit. Last year over 260 students simultaneously earned their associate and HS diploma, making it the largest dual enrollment graduating class in the state. Last year, Mr. Rogers launched the Virtual Middle College, enabling students to earn their college degree entirely online, while staying at their high school. This summer, Mr. Rogers co-developed and implemented the eFaculty Fellowship for Dual Enrollment as a professional development opportunity for college professors seeking to learn best pedagogical practices for teaching and understanding younger students in an online environment. Mr. Rogers has been working with dual enrollment in various capacities since 2004.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Mr. Rogers is currently in the position, having been appointed in the interim due to a departure. In addition to this role, he has taken the lead in organizing the Maryland state dual enrollment special interest group meetings for CAPACRAO. He is an active member of NACEP and recently presented at the Minneapolis conference on the Virtual Middle College program.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Mr. Rogers is currently in the position, having been appointed in the interim due to a departure. In this role he was part of the review team for presenters at next year's conference. He is an active member of NACEP and recently presented at the Minneapolis conference on the Virtual Middle College program.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Mr. Rogers is the college representative to the state on the Blueprint for Maryland's Future legislation, which has key initiatives and mandates related to dual enrollment and CTE.
Region: 3
Organization: University of Texas at San Antonio
Job Title: Director, Instructional Outreach Programs, University College
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
16 years leading dual credit programs across South Texas.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Last 16 years of my career have been focused on developing dual credit programs both at the community college level and university level.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Passionate Education Access leader with over 24 years of experience across the learning spectrum, with the last 14 years focusing on higher education outreach, instructional partnerships, and college readiness initiatives. Worked with K-12, undergraduate and graduate student populations on college access programming, counseling, recruitment, and enrollment initiatives. Developed strong relationships with professional organizations and community partners across Texas, and nationally for advocacy while expanding college enrollment pathways.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
This is my first year with NACEP but I have been a tremendous advocate for dual credit across my institution and state. I want to help learn about the accreditation process and help institutions strengthen their programs.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
N/A
Region: 5
Organization: Weber State University, UT
Job Title: Executive Director of High School Dual Enrollment
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Colton has served as the Executive Director of High School Dual Enrollment at Weber State University for almost one year. Prior to that, he served as the Director of Advising and Outreach at Utah Valley University. These two institutions have some of the largest concurrent enrollment populations in the nation. He has also served as a first-year academic counselor, an admissions counselor, and as a high school teacher. Each of these roles directly relates and contributes to his overall success in the field of high school dual enrollment.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Colton just started as a member of NACEP this last year but has been doing great things with dual and concurrent enrollment in that time at Weber State. He's combined our efforts from across campus including high school dual enrollment course scheduling and high school partnerships, training, advising, and recruitment.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
In this last year, Colton has been a fantastic advocate of concurrent enrollment within our state and was a leader in helping to design a rubric to evaluate teaching qualifications to both increase access for faculty to be able to teach but also to maintain a rigorous college curriculum and experience for our concurrent enrollment program.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Colton's work on teacher qualifications and course availability has been just fantastic in the last year with the aim to increase the availability in our school districts with diverse populations. Our underrepresented student participation has lagged a bit in concurrent enrollment, and Colton spearheaded efforts to hire our first advisor with a requirement that they were able to speak Spanish, and he has done incredible work to expand access by increasing course offerings, information sessions, and translating materials into Spanish.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
N/A
Region: 5
Organization: College of Southern Nevada, NV
Job Title: Director, Early College Programming
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Leticia Wells serves as the Director of Early College Programs at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN), the community college serving the Southern Nevada community in Las Vegas, Nevada. She is responsible for college-level coordination and strategic planning of early college programs including concurrent enrollment, dual enrollment, and articulated college credit. She helps support early college programs in over sixty high schools. Leticia has over 15 years’ experience in higher education having served in positions across college divisions within academic affairs, student affairs, and advancement.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Leticia is a newcomer to dual and concurrent enrollment and NACEP. She started in February of 2022 and attended her first NACEP program, the Washington Policy Seminar, in April 2022. It was important to her to understand the trends and policies influencing the field and, just as important, have a network of colleagues that she could reach out to as she works towards building and strengthening dual and concurrent enrollment programs at CSN.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Leticia has served as the NACEP Advocacy Commissioner for Region 5 for the past year. She presented and helped to plan the State Policy Pre-Conference Workshop at the 2022 NACEP National Conference. Leticia is a doctoral student in public policy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where she is researching topics related to concurrent enrollment programming.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Leticia is committed to NACEP's mission, vision, and diversity and inclusion statement and has served on the Advocacy Commission representing Region 5 for the past year.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
2019 Administrator of the Year Region V Award Nominee, Association of Career and Technical Education, 2018 Administrator of the Year, Nevada Association of Career and Technical Education, 2017 Woman of Influence, College of Southern Nevada, 2012 Distinguished Administrative Faculty of the Year, College of Southern Nevada, 2009 Woman of Excellence, College of Southern Nevada
Engagement Commission
Region: 3
Organization: Lone Star College System, TX
Job Title: Manager of School Partnerships
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
My higher education experience began in 2012 when I began working in the IT department of Wharton County Junior College. At the time, I was working on my AA degree. After two years, I became the administrative assistant to the dean of vocational instruction. This position set me on the path of academic administration. After earning my BS degree, I briefly worked in the Glasscock School of Continuing Studies at Rice University then in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at University of Houston-Downtown. My relevant professional experience began in 2017 working as the dual credit coordinator at San Jacinto College where I was responsible for managing and facilitating the recruiting, admissions, testing, educational planning, registration, and academic monitoring processes for over 2500 dual credit and early college high school students. I worked there for 4 years before accepting my current position of manager of school partnerships at Lone Star College-Houston North. In this position, I am responsible for managing the same items as my previous position with additional responsibilities in partnerships, strategic planning, and instructional activities. In addition to my administrative responsibilities, I am an adjunct instructor of English at College of the Mainland and Lone Star College.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
In addition to my work in dual credit at San Jacinto College and Lone Star College, I am the co-chair of the Dual Credit Gulf Coast Consortium, an informal association of the dual credit offices of the 9 community colleges in the Houston area (Alvin Community College, Brazosport College, College of the Mainland, Galveston College, Houston Community College, Lee College, Lone Star College, San Jacinto College, and Wharton County Junior College). In this capacity, I have put together the bi-annual meeting, providing professional development in the form of presenters and a panel discussion. Upon joining Lone Star College, I encouraged our system office to join NACEP as a way for our 8 dual credit offices to get professional development and network as a way to better our own programs. I have attended the Summit for Dual Credit Programs conference in South Padre Island, Texas. I recently joined the professional development committee of the Texas Dual Credit Alliance, NACEP's state chapter in Texas. In this capacity, I will contribute to virtual professional development for dual credit professionals in the state as well as put on the first annual TDCA conference.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
The engagement commission has three main functions:
1. Recruit new members--a large part of my job has been recruiting students and new partners to increase our enrollment and help students achieve their academic goals.
2. Provide professional development and support to all members--I recently joined the professional development committee of the Texas Dual Credit Alliance and have contributed to the professional development of the dual credit team at Lone Star College, as well as the faculty at our partner high schools.
3. Serve as a conduit in collecting and sharing the successes and issues of members and other commissions--I am passionate about information sharing. We are all facing the same problems of practice and if someone has already solved the problem, why should the rest of us try to reinvent the wheel? As the chair of the DCGCC, and a leader in dual credit at my campus, I spend a large part of my time keeping stakeholders informed of progress on projects, issues, solutions, etc.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
I have engaged with NACEP through first getting LSC a membership, and then by attending the Summit for Dual Credit Programs in South Padre Island, Texas. From that conference, I have made contacts across the state and country. Many of these I have reached out to in the months since the conference to exchange ideas, and pick each others' brains.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
N/A
Region: 3
Organization: Tulsa Community College, OK
Job Title: Director, Dual Credit Programs
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
As the director of the largest dual credit program in Oklahoma for over a decade, Melissa holds a unique perspective on how to effectively develop dual credit opportunities, collaborate with faculty and college staff, and partner with high schools. Formerly a K-12 educator and college adjunct professor, she applies her experience with students and partnerships to dual credit programming and assists peer IHEs with program development statewide. Melissa shares continuous improvement processes, innovative partnership lessons, and student success support systems that have led to nationally recognized early college programming with EDGE: Earn a Degree, Graduate Early, a Bellwether Consortium Top Ten Innovative program.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Melissa's experience over the last twelve years creating the state's first dual credit department and subsequently, first early college high school in Oklahoma required organizational development viewpoints ranging from the big picture to the minute details. In addition to her institution, she has assisted multiple Oklahoma IHEs by sharing program development and experience, chaired a state task force that led to the development of a NACEP affiliated state chapter in May 2023, and is currently the region three engagement commissioner.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Melissa served two years as the region three commissioner. As a commissioner, she volunteered at the NACEP conference VIP room assisting new NACEP attendees, reviewed conference proposals, leadership academy applications, and participated in engagement commission meetings.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
In addition to presenting at the NACEP conferences, Melissa has reviewed conference proposals as a volunteer for multiple years. She co-led the state of Oklahoma's committee to develop a state chapter - the newly formed Oklahoma Alliance of Dual Credit Partnerships, and is the lead on Tulsa Community College's NACEP accreditation committee, which will be the state's first accredited dual credit program. The NACEP mission, vision, and diversity and inclusion statements have been instrumental to the development of the state's first early college high school program at TCC. This emphasis on inclusion led to the standards required for low-income students, first-generation students, and minority students not represented in higher education as a basis for the TCC early college program. Expanding into rural high schools, virtual programs, and creating multiple on-ramps for equitable access are key programming strategies that Melissa draws from NACEP standards.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Tulsa Community College 2022-2023 Professional Staff Excellence Award
Region: 5
Organization: California State University - Dominguez Hills
Job Title: Director, Student Success Center, College of Education
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Have worked in higher education over 20 years, in advising, administration, teaching. Recently have coordinated dual enrollment efforts at CSU Long Beach.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Coordinated dual enrollment at CSU Long Beach, served on planning committee for launch of new chapter in California (CADEP), presented work at NACEP conferences and participated in NACEP Leadership Academy.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Mainly, participating in Leadership Academy (meeting others in dual enrollment nationally), and planning committee for CADEP. Have engaged with others in California (in k-12 and community college) on dual enrollment. Was appointed CSU representative on CADEP.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Participated in 2021-2022 Leadership Academy, presented at national conference and regional conference on dual enrollment.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
In addition to my new position at CSU Dominguez Hills, I am also continuing as member of Leadership Team for the CSU-wide Middle Leadership Academy.
Research Commission
Region: 1
Organization: Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, NC
Job Title: Director, Career & College Promise Programs
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Kelli Antonides is Director of Career and College Promise Programs at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College where she plans, assesses, and implements initiatives and programs related to North Carolina’s dual enrollment program. Her work at Rowan-Cabarrus encompasses career and technical education, college transfer pathways, cooperative innovative high schools (early colleges), and co-facilitation of the College's Perkins grant. With 15 years of experience in education, Kelli’s past work as a college advisor, secondary classroom teacher, and education research associate have all contributed to her passion for serving students. A first-generation college student from Forest City, North Carolina, Kelli earned her bachelor’s degree in both Political Science and Communication Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her Master of Arts in Teaching degree from the University of Southern California. She is currently pursuing her Ed.D in Community College Leadership from North Carolina State University.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
While Kelli’s work in dual enrollment is focused on North Carolina, she actively seeks out research, conferences, and local and national networking to further her knowledge and bring it back to her institution for inspiration and discussion with academic leadership. Kelli frequently presents on dual enrollment with a focus on DEIJB efforts supported by data at the local, state, and national levels. In 2021, Kelli and her colleague from Kannapolis City Schools presented on the topic, Student Success Through High School and Community College Partnerships, at NACEP’s National Conference. Through her work in North Carolina, she is a member of the Career & College Promise Association for dual enrollment practitioners and has served in multiple advisory roles for local and state level dual enrollment projects and initiatives.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
In an Ed.D program at North Carolina State University (NCSU), Kelli is currently in the dissertation phase of her doctoral program and is scheduled to begin her dissertation research pending IRB approval in the fall. Throughout the time in her doctoral program, research and data have been at the center of the program’s coursework and deliverables. NCSU’s Adult and Community College Leadership program brings leaders in the community college arena to the students for a number of exercises, including research best practices. Understanding the process of research from design to implementation are skills that will be beneficial if able to serve on the Research Commission. Additionally, through her coursework, she was able to conduct a formal program evaluation as a part of a team for a local education non-profit organization in North Carolina.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Kelli has been an active member in NACEP since attending her first national conference in 2017 and has attended all national conferences since. In 2019, Kelli was selected to participate in the NACEP Leadership Academy and completed the Academy in 2020. Her capstone project focused on specific equity measures to increase access for Spanish-speaking dual enrollment students at her institution. Committed to advancing equity for all dual enrollment students, Kelli’s work in North Carolina is a testament to her belief in NACEP’s vision statement. She continues to advocate for students at the local level and through her dissertation and professional development. She remains committed to ensuring that all student populations have equitable access to and opportunities within dual enrollment participation through data analysis, transparency, communication, and educational & community partnerships.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Kelli currently serves on the following boards: Kannapolis Education Foundation, State Employees Credit Union, and CC Griffin STEM Middle School. She is also a member of the Junior League of Charlotte (2016) and has held multiple leadership positions.
Region: 1
Organization: Sussex County Community College, NJ
Job Title: Vice President of Student Success and Institutional Effectiveness
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Cory is currently the Vice President of Student Success and Institutional Effectiveness at Sussex County Community College. In this role, he has oversight of the following departments: Admissions, Concurrent Enrollment, Advising, Marketing, Athletics, Institutional Research, Financial Aid, Distance Learning, Campus Life, and Media Services. In addition to his primary functions in this role, he serves as the Accreditation Liaison Officer (ALO) for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the Director of the Skylands Research Institute, a member of the Higher Education Data Advisory Group (HEDAG) for the State of New Jersey, and a member of New Jersey Education to Earnings Data System (NJEEDS) Data Advisory Council.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Cory has direct oversight of the concurrent enrollment program at SCCC, where he has used data and research to strengthen high school partnerships and strengthened the overall quality of the concurrent enrollment program. He has helped position the institution for CEP accreditation over the last several years.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Cory has a PhD in Psychology and is the current Director of the Skylands Research Institute. He currently chairs a number of governance committees at SCCC with direct ties to the concurrent enrollment program. In addition, he is a member of the Higher Education Data Advisory Group (HEDAG) for the State of New Jersey, and a member of New Jersey Education to Earnings Data System (NJEEDS) Data Advisory Council.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
With Cory's background in research and data analysis, he is hopeful that he can drive positive change for the Region 1 Research Commission. With no currently NACEP accredited schools in New Jersey, it will be critical to use research and data analysis to improve the concurrent enrollment for the State. He was also pivotal in creating equitable pathways to earn concurrent enrollment program credits through grant funding initiatives.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Cory is actively involved and committed to community service. He is currently a member of the board director for Delaware Valley School District (where he also serves as past president), serves as a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of First-Generation Student Success, and is the Dive Captain for the Westfall Volunteer Fire Department.
Region: 3
Organization: National Park College, AR
Job Title: Director of Institutional Research
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Chris has been the Director of Institutional Research and Assessment at National Park College for the past seven years. He serves as the liaison for data reporting to state, federal, and local entities for all things data. He has been in various roles in the education field for the past twenty-one years. Chris is able to work well with others, share collaboration efforts, he has great interpersonal skills such as communication, negotiation, teamwork, and conflict resolution. He is able to use his strengths to tackle complex problems, leverage different expertise, and find creative solutions. Chris holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Kinesiology, a Master of Science in Sports Administration, an Educational Specialist degree in Higher Education Leadership, and is ABD in the Higher Education Leadership Doctoral Program. Chris has been in the education field for the past twenty-one years in various roles, from all aspects of athletic training, classroom instruction, to academic affairs administrative functions.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
Chris has been a blended concurrent instructor for the past five years. As a blended instructor, he has both high school and traditional college students in his online courses. He works closely with the Concurrent Coordinator to ensure the Evaluation Standard is met at National Park College. As of this year, he has completed the training to be a NACEP Peer Reviewer for the Accreditation Commission and will serve as a Peer Reviewer for the 2023-2024 cycle.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
Chris’ previous work on the National Park College Strategic plan and his role as the Institutional Research Director provides him with the experience to assist the Research Commission in the scope of goal setting and oversight for the strategic plan. He is able to collaborate with others and provides and communicates data upon request.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
Chris has completed the training to be a NACEP Peer Reviewer for the Accreditation Commission and will serve as a Peer Reviewer for the 2023-2024 cycle. He works to ensure equity not just in dual and concurrent enrollment but in traditional college enrollment through his role with institutional research.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Chris has presented data utilizing Power BI and the impact this can play on the college campus. He has received the NPC President’s Volunteer Service Award for the past ten years and is active in the Alpha Delta Epsilon chapter of Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society in Education NCU.
Region: 3
Organization: Collin College, TX
Job Title: Dual Credit Professor of History
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
I began my professional teaching career at a 4-year institution as a graduate assistant, where I earned a master’s degree in addition to my K-12 teaching certification. As a product of the amazing benefits that dual enrollment offers, I knew that I wanted to teach dual enrollment and foster an engaging classroom for this growing program. I've spent a total of ten years in the classroom - seven as a dual enrollment professor. In my current role at Collin College, I serve on numerous committees that foster a commitment to excellence and equity, like our Online Advisory Board, Quality Enhancement Plan planning committee, and Dual Credit Advisory Board. In the 2022-2023 academic year, I created the Data Subcommittee of the Dual Credit Advisory Board. In this capacity, I author reports on dual credit success and withdrawal rates, dual credit success in workforce programs and future job projections in Texas, and a detailed demographic breakdown of dual enrollment students at our college.
In addition to my work at the college, I also engage in professional development for dual enrollment professionals through the Texas Consortium of Community Colleges, the Teaching History Conference, and conferences for regional colleges. Beginning in Spring 2024, I plan to pursue an Ed.D. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas with a focus on dual enrollment. NACEP's 2022 "Research Priorities for Advancing Equitable Dual Enrollment Policy and Practice" laid out an abundance of challenges still facing researchers in this field, and my hope is to focus on filling in a small portion of this.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
My entire career is focused on teaching dual enrollment students. In addition to staying current in my field (History), I also consider it a priority to stay current on trends in dual enrollment research. NACEP's reports, professional development, and conferences have been an incredible help in this area. I attended the online conference in 2022 (hosted in-person in Florida) and have been accepted to present at the 2024 conference in St. Louis. Most of my research-oriented dual-enrollment work pertains to internal reports for my college. Our department is proud to work alongside the Institutional Research Office in creating guides that upper-administration can use to make informed decisions. The rest of my work in dual credit is more public-facing. I have a very informal blog that started as a space for those who know nothing about dual enrollment to learn the very basics.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
As a historian, I'm a trained researcher. One of the reasons I'm pursuing an Ed.D. in higher education is to get a better handle on the research methods that will help me continue the work I'm currently doing. I also quite literally grew up in higher education (my mother worked at a large 4-year university) - so I came into academia already understanding a lot of the bureaucratic and political underpinnings that most people take years to unravel. But most importantly, I have been a dual enrollment student. I'm thrilled to have the perspective of a student, of time, and of a professional.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
The bulk of my engagement with NACEP is research and professional development. It's so easy to see from that exposure that NACEP is wholly dedicated to the values of fostering an organization built on the strengths of diversity. I am also entirely dedicated to this mission, and hope to see NACEP lead the way in breaking down barriers and vocally supporting students with disabilities, students who feel unwelcome or unsafe due to their gender or sexual orientation, and/or students who face barriers to learning that are not seen as "traditional." It is my hope that as a community of educators and advocates for students, we will seek out what Dr. Cate Denial refers to as "Pedagogies of Kindness."
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
No
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Awarded Random Acts of Core Values, November 2022 & January 2023 at Collin College (one for taking dual enrollment students to the Texas Capitol for Community College Day at the Capitol). Volunteers with City House (shelter/program for homeless youth, 0-18 years).
Region: 3
Organization: Lee College, TX
Job Title: Executive Director, School & College Partnerships
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
As Executive Director, I supervise Advising & Transfer, Dual Credit Programs, Recruitment & Outreach, Student Employment & Career Services, and Shared College Coordinators, whose primary focus is on postsecondary matriculation with service area independent school districts. As a student affairs administrator and student advocate for over 20 years at Lee College, previous roles include Embedded Counselor in local high schools and Director of the Advising/Counseling Center. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin-School of Social Work with Bachelors and Master’s Degrees. In addition, I completed my Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Houston-Main Campus, publishing two articles in the Community College Journal of Research and Practice about the matriculation of dual credit students and the impacts of academic momentum of Early College High Schools.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
More recently, I serve as a commissioner for the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships - Research Commission, where I work with top researchers in the areas of dual credit and concurrent enrollment, researching policy across the nation. I serve as the Governmental Relations Committee chair for the Texas Dual Credit Alliance chapter where I am responsible for reporting policies across the state to dual credit programs. I stay up to date on research to make better informed decisions for our teams.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
I have two published articles about dual credit and Early College High Schools in the Community College Journal of Research and Practice and I am working on completion of my third publication with New Directions for Community Colleges (NDCC). I currently serve on the Research Commission, assisting with webinars and co-hosting the Research Rendezvous at the end of July. More recently, I was asked to present on a webinar presented by CCRC and NACEP, discussing successful collaborative partnerships.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
I am an active member of NACEP, attending National Conferences. I recently completed the Leadership Academy. I currently serve on the Research Commission and hope to continue my work, as I am completing someone else's term and have only served for 6 months. Serving on the USC's Race and Equity Leadership Academy, I understand the importance of DEI work not only within our institutions of higher education but also within our partnerships by way of dual credit courses we provide. I am committed to analyzing local and state data to identify equity gaps in efforts to provide equitable access for all students. As a researcher, historically excluded students are a priority across all programs who offer dual credit as an equalizer in education.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
I completed the NACEP Leadership Academy October 2022 - capstone resulting in a published article for NDCC. In addition, I represent Lee College by serving on the Achieving the Dream and USC Race and Equity Center’s Racial Equity Leadership Academy Team.
Region: 5
Organization: George Fox University, OR
Job Title: Director of K12 Initiatives
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
I have worked in higher education for 22 years in admissions, academic advising, instructional design, fund-raising, coaching and high school programming including dual credit and CTE pathways work.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
I have worked for over 5 years in the field of dual credit which includes a NACEP re-accreditation for my institution.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
I currently run the dual credit program at GFU and am on the High School Based College Credit Partnerships Oversight Committee for the state of Oregon.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
When I accepted the position at George Fox University, the dual credit program was running its first year of courses. I use the NACEP standards as a guideline in the creation of GFU's dual credit programming and my 3-5 year goal is to apply for NACEP accreditation. Without this organization, dual credit and high school programming would not have a solid foundation for advocacy and support.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
Having a well-rounded career in higher education, my passion has always been student success. Every student should have the tools they need to succeed and to have a sustainable career that can provide the quality of life they deserve.
Region: 5
Organization: Central Washington University, WA
Job Title: Director of Concurrent Enrollment and Continuing Education
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
I have been working in concurrent enrollment for about 7 years. I am a former K-12 teacher and am currently working on my Ed.D. My capstone for my Ed.D is focused around matriculation rates and those that have participated in concurrent enrollment.
WORK IN THE FIELD OF DUAL & CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT AND WITH NACEP:
I recently led CWU through the NACEP accreditation process and were awarded accreditation. I am an advocate for concurrent enrollment research and provide workload for faculty on campus to conduct research for the field. Our faculty have presented their research at NACEP and published their work.
EXPERIENCE RELEVANT TO POSITION NOMINATION:
I am working on my Ed.D. with a focus on concurrent enrollment matriculation. I also support faculty at my institution with research for the field.
ENGAGEMENT & COMMITMENT WITH NACEP, THE MISSION, VISION & DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT:
I have attended almost every national conference from 2017 - current and enjoy my time at the conference. CWU is a proud member of NACEP and we were recently awarded accreditation. I also participated in the NACEP Leadership Academy. Providing these types of opportunities is important to me and I would like to help NACEP in any way that I can. I also recently was a review member for those applying for accreditation and I enjoyed learning about another program and working with colleagues.
PRESENTED AT A NACEP NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Yes
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VOLUNTEER SERVICE, AWARDS OR RECOGNITION:
I did briefly present at NACEP a few years ago in collaboration with faculty from my institution. My professional goal is to each year find a way to engage with NACEP and the good work that is done there.