UPCEA

"As part of my role at UPCEA, I regularly step into the shoes of a prospective student through “secret shopper” Enrollment Process Reviews—evaluating how colleges communicate, respond, and engage at the very start of the enrollment journey." After reviewing several institutions, clear patterns have emerged around what works and what falls short. This blog shares key takeaways on how institutions can improve the top of their enrollment funnel to better connect with today’s students. Read more. https://ow.ly/W3sq50VwAxE

Register by April 15 for the best rates for the 2025 UPCEA SOLAR (Summit for Online Leadership and Administration) conference. This year's program features keynotes, workshops, and networking focused on leadership strategy, credential innovation, program design, policy trends, and supporting diverse learner populations. SOLAR 2025 offers actionable strategies and insights for today's digital education learner. Lear more and register. https://ow.ly/5i3f50UKnXN

Congratulations to Asaf Wolff, University of the People, recipient of The Dorothy Durkin Award for Strategic Innovation in Marketing and Enrollment Management. This award recognizes an individual for achievement in strategic planning, marketing innovation or enrollment management success. A key element in all areas is demonstration of creativity layered on a foundation of strategic thinking. Awardees will have exhibited leadership and commitment to achieving a responsive, student-centric culture at their institution. Read more. https://ow.ly/Ekax50VsMIW

AI-driven search is changing the game for university visibility—don’t get left behind! Learn how to rank in AI results, boost enrollment, and track success with expert insights from UPCEA’s Bruce Etter and Search Influence. Transform your SEO strategy for real impact. Register now! https://ow.ly/jKZC50VsMmL

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO APRIL 11. Submit a proposal for the 2025 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education Conference! We're accepting proposals for sessions on credential innovation that bring attention, resources, and focus to the future of learner mobility. Interactive, multi-institution sessions that address the needs of diverse learners and institutions are especially encouraged. Proposals are due by April 11! Learn more. https://ow.ly/M9ne50Vl7ik

Congratulations to Esteban Contreras of Oregon State University, recipient of the UPCEA Outstanding Professional, Continuing, and/or Online Education Student: Credit Award! His dedication and achievements in lifelong learning are truly inspiring. Read more. https://ow.ly/Ekax50VsMIW

Congratulations to Dr. Nikki Ashcraft, University of Missouri, recipient of the UPCEA Excellence in Teaching Award. The UPCEA Excellence in Teaching Award is presented to individuals who have provided outstanding teaching, course development, mentoring of students, and service to continuing education. This award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to credit or non-credit programs and who have provided inspirational teaching to continuing education students. Read more. https://ow.ly/exy450VsAhY

We’re excited to announce our opening general session speaker for the 2025 Summit for Online Leadership and Administration (SOLAR) Conference, Lilach Mollick. Dr. Mollick is a leading expert on AI in education, developing global tools for learning and advising organizations on AI’s impact. Join us to hear her insights and connect with your colleagues in online education July 22-24 in Portland, Oregon. Learn more. https://ow.ly/JlPC50VsEOj

Congratulations to Stephanie McGrew, MHA, MPH, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, recipient of the UPCEA Leadership In Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Award. The UPCEA Leadership in Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Award honors individuals or programs that drive meaningful change in diversity and inclusion. The award recognizes excellence in education, workplace culture, community impact, and research, recipients demonstrate innovative, measurable efforts to support diverse perspectives and underrepresented groups. Read more. https://ow.ly/1Ei850Vszyn

Congratulations to Bethany Simunich, Quality Matters, and Andrea Gregg, PhD and Penny Ralston-Berg, The Pennsylvania State University, recipients of the Phillip E. Frandson Award for Literature. The Phillip E. Frandson Award for Literature recognizes the author and publisher of an outstanding work of continuing higher education literature. It is given in memory of Phillip E. Frandson, Dean of Extension, University of California, Los Angeles, and NUEA President, 1977–78. Read more. https://ow.ly/3Pzw50Vsysf