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CODL is Code for Productive, Engaging Online Learning at Syracuse University

When someone says “university” what often comes to mind are sprawling campuses, vast book-filled libraries and jam-packed sports stadiums. While this might be true, a rapidly increasing number of universities are choosing to embrace online learning as a degree path for students.

Since its founding in 1946, Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies, formerly known as University College, has been dedicated to supporting the unique needs of part-time students who are enrolled in courses at the University but don’t reside on campus.

In support of the University’s strategic response to create access and postsecondary educational opportunities (primarily through online programming) for populations that fall outside the traditional residential undergraduate and graduate learner, Dean Michael Frasciello, soon after his appointment in 2017, formed a specialized unit within the College to meet the needs of students seeking a Syracuse University education from anywhere in the world.

Over the past four years, Syracuse University’s Center for Online and Digital Learning (CODL) has been quietly and persistently addressing the mission-critical need for a formalized response to the challenges and opportunities of online education.

“The requirement for a Center has grown increasingly relevant over the past 20 years as online education has moved into a more significant position within the University’s instructional portfolio,” says Dean Frasciello. “With the recent trend in higher education to expand online programs though outsourcing, it became strategically advantageous and necessary for Syracuse University to build out internal capacity to standardize developing, delivering, supporting and assessing high quality, rigorous and differentiated online programs.”

Leading the CODL team in this mission has been Eileen Julian, who has more than 24 years of experience at Syracuse University with positions in curriculum, instruction and program administration. Julian understands the needs of part-time learners well. She earned a master’s degree in higher education from the School of Education and a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies while working full time at the University and raising a family.

To meet the increased demand for online programming offered through Syracuse University, Julian has grown staff at CODL from just three employees in 2017 to 30 in 2021. Since its inception, CODL has developed 157 online courses and another 74 are currently in development for nine colleges within the University system. More than 4,500 videos for courses have been produced and the number of graphics created tops 10,000. The team has also fully developed the online Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program, which is now being offered by the College of Law.

Beyond the immense productivity, Julian is most proud of the quality of work being done by the CODL team for online learners. “The Dean’s charge to us was cutting-edge online instruction,” says Julian. “To realize this goal, we’ve hired not just professionals with online instruction expertise, but also artists and cinematographers to enhance the overall digital learning experience we provide.”

Embracing technological advances has also been a high priority to Julian. The team is currently using virtual reality techniques to develop courses in partnership with faculty members in the art therapy master’s degree program within the College of Visual and Performing Arts. The CODL team further served the University community by helping to move 3,000 courses online in just five days during the spring 2020 semester, as the COVID-19 pandemic affected on-campus instruction.

The groundwork and achievements of the Center for Online and Digital Learning bode well for the University as plans for a more well-defined global initiative are unfolding. “The College of Professional Studies has 75 years of a solid commitment to continuous learners,” says Dean Frasciello. “We are now also poised to deliver high quality online educational experiences to those seeking access to the Syracuse University Orange community, wherever they may be.”

New Online Bachelor’s Degree Launched to Meet Demand for Data Analysis Professionals

In this highly digitized world, organizations rely on data insights to react to emerging trends and inform business strategies. To do this successfully, they need employees with data analysis expertise who can collect information and translate it into actionable plans. It’s an in-demand skillset that comes with a competitive salary.

Syracuse University has responded to the need for candidates with data analysis proficiency by launching a new online bachelor’s degree program in applied data and predictive analytics offered through a partnership between the College of Professional Studies and the School of Information Studies (iSchool).

Tying together the fields of computer science, management and business intelligence, the 120-credit part-time undergraduate degree program will prepare budding analysts to derive insights from complex data, create powerful predictions and drive critical business decisions with measurable performance.

The online program’s dynamic learning environment is built with a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning. Much of the coursework is designed for students to complete on their own time throughout the week. A weekly interactive live class gives students the opportunity to learn and engage with instructors and classmates in a virtual classroom that can be accessed from anywhere in the world.

Online part-time programs at Syracuse University represent the various pathways students can take to earn a degree or certificate at the university. Part-time students who are enrolled in an online degree program are fully supported by the Online Student Success (OSS) team at the College of Professional Studies. OSS Advisors help make the transition to online learning seamless by helping to identify program requirements, monitoring academic progress and promptly responding to questions.

Applications are now open with financial assistance available. Students can apply to enroll in any of the six session starts throughout the year. For more information, contact the College of Professional Studies Admissions Office at 315.443.9378, toll free at 1.866.498.9378 or email parttime@syr.edu.

Tyler Bell Appointed to Director of Diversity and Inclusivity Excellence and Assistant Teaching Professor in the College of Professional Studies

Tyler Bell portraitSyracuse University’s College of Professional Studies announces the appointment of Tyler Bell, M.S., as director of diversity and inclusivity excellence and assistant teaching professor.

In this new role, Bell will lead, develop and implement strategies to align the College of Professional Studies’ mission with DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion and access) initiatives with the University’s strategic planning processes and academic programs. He will also consult and partner with University departments to advance efforts across the college to provide a welcoming and affirming environment for all part-time Syracuse University students.

“The College of Professional Studies is committed to leading, developing and implementing equity, diversity, inclusion and access in everything we do,” says Dean Michael Frasciello. “Tyler plays a critical role in how we collectively address and facilitate community engagement and education on matters of diversity, inclusion and social justice for all faculty, staff and students.

Additionally, as part of his appointment, Bell will lead and coordinate the curriculum and teaching of two new courses that all part-time Syracuse University students are now required to take, beginning in the Fall 2021 semester. These courses are designed to provide an educational and cultural foundation for the successful transition to university-level studies.

“As an emerging scholar in cultural foundations, Tyler is uniquely trained to champion the importance and value of diverse and inclusive work and learning environments. He is deeply committed to higher education, particularly in creating opportunities for access to learning for post-traditional students,” says Dean Frasciello.Bell has been a part of the Syracuse University community since 2007 when he began his undergraduate studies. A native of Brooklyn, Bell followed in the footsteps of his older sister who attended the University as an undergrad and is a College of Law alumna. He earned a bachelor of arts in history, with a minor in Chinese studies, in May 2011, followed by the completion of a master’s of science in social studies education in 2012.

From 2012 to 2017, Bell served as a social studies teacher and department chair at two high schools in New York City. His work there was highlighted by entertainment personality Steve Harvey during a segment on The Meredith Viera Show on NBC.

In 2017, Bell returned to the Syracuse University campus to pursue his doctoral degree in cultural foundations of education with an expected completion in 2022. He worked as a part-time student employee at the College of Professional Studies for four years. The highlights of his experience include serving as an adjunct professor, a teaching assistant and a mentor for students in the School of Education. He also collaborated with the Office of Pre-College Programs to mentor students from marginalized communities in Syracuse, Boston and New York City.

According to Bell, his life and educational journey have led him to his new position at Syracuse University. With a focus on DEIA, he is a firm believer in educational access. “Access is what creates opportunities for students, especially for post-traditional students,” says Bell. “Equity, diversity and inclusion allow us all to thrive.”

Dean Frasciello concurs, observing that Bell is, “well-known throughout the college and the university as an innovative thought leader and emerging scholar in the areas of cultural awareness, education, equity and social justice. Tyler provides the insightful leadership required as we purposefully embed equity, diversity, inclusivity and accessibility throughout and across the College of Professional Studies.”

Coming Back Together 2021

Four graduates of Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies can confirm the adage “You never know where life will take you”. As each of their educational and professional journeys demonstrate, if you’re willing to work hard and commit to success, life can be whatever you choose.

Angela Gunn ’19, Patricia (Katie) McBride ’18, Tim Bryant ’15 and Aisha Huntley ’05 will return to campus for Coming Back Together (CBT), an event started in 1983 that brings Black and Latino/a Syracuse University alumni back to campus to celebrate their achievements, meet current students and remain connected to the University.

The graduates will be panelists at  the College’s first alumni lunch and panel conversation, which will focus on access and creating opportunity. The event will take place on Friday, Sept. 10, from noon to 2 p.m as part of CBT’s weekend activities.

“I have tremendous admiration for what Angela, Katie, Tim and Aisha have achieved, both at Syracuse University and in their chosen careers,” says College of Professional Studies Dean Michael Frasciello. “We understand the sacrifices many students make while pursuing a degree as an adult. Those of us in the College who’ve walked that road also know the deep sense of pride and accomplishment that can be attained.”

Tim Bryant thought college was beyond his capability after a series of traumatic events caused him to drop out of high school. Yet, he earned a GED and was working as a massage therapist when one of his clients, a Syracuse University professor, suggested he might want to explore the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) at the college. Bryant enrolled in 2009.

“I was surprised to discover a passion for learning I never knew existed within me,” says Bryant.

He graduated with honors as an Alumni Scholar in 2015 and was inducted into Alpha Sigma Lambda, the honor society for nontraditional students. Bryant and three classmates were presented with the Chancellor’s Award for Public and Community Service (one of the highest honors Syracuse University bestows on students) for a smoking cessation program they designed and implemented at the Syracuse Community Health Center. He is now enrolled in the masters in public health (MPH) program at Syracuse University’s Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics and expects to graduate in 2022.

Katie McBride is another College of Professional Studies alum who says she “continues to reimagine myself and advance in the midst of adversity, doing it afraid and yet soaring by any means necessary.” Becoming a mother while in her teens, McBride became determined to further her education, which she pursued part time while working full time. She earned an associate degree in accounting early in her career; completed a bachelor’s degree in professional studies at Syracuse University; and anticipates graduating from the University this fall with a master’s degree in human development and family science from Syracuse University’s Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics.

Aisha Huntley is proof-positive that a personal vision and determination will take you far as a non-traditional adult learner enrolled through the College. She earned an associate degree from Onondaga Community College; a bachelor’s degree in information management and technology from Syracuse University; a master’s degree in education from Le Moyne College; and is currently completing coursework in educational leadership from Syracuse University’s School of Education. A full-time working mother, Aisha became Dr. Huntley upon earning a doctoral degree in May 2020 from St. John Fisher College.

Angela Gunn earned two associate degrees from Onondaga Community College: one in human services/social work and a second in art, reflecting her passion for drawing and painting. The mother of four earned her bachelor’s degree in political science through the College in 2019.

The Director of Diversity and Inclusivity Excellence at The College of Professional Studies, Tyler Bell, ’11, G’12, will moderate the Coming Back Together panel. He says, “Our four alumni returning for the Fall 2021 CBT are exceptional role models, exemplifying what’s possible through the College of Professional Studies.”

To register for the alumni lunch and panel, please visit: https://parttime.syr.edu/2021/08/16/coming-back-together-2021/

Coming Back Together 2021: Alumni Lunch & Panel

Alumni Lunch and Panel: A Conversation about Access and Creating Opportunity

Coming back together 2021

Coming Back Together (CBT) began in 1983, with the first reunion of Black and Latinx alumni returning to campus to celebrate achievements, meet current students and remain connected to the University. The College of Professional Studies will host its first alumni lunch and panel conversation on Friday, Sept. 10, from noon to 2 p.m.

Four alumni — Angela Gunn ’19; Patricia McBride ’18; Tim Bryant ’15; and Aisha Huntley ’05 — will discuss the access and opportunities earning their degrees as non-traditional students have presented. Director of Diversity and Inclusivity Excellence at the College of Professional Studies, Tyler Bell, ’11, G’12, will moderate the panel.

Register Now

About the Event:

Date:
Friday, September 10, 12-2 p.m.

Location:
Peter Graham Room
Bird Library, Room 114
222 Waverly Avenue
Syracuse NY 13244

Panelists:

Timothy Bryant PortraitAngela Gunn PortraitAisha Huntley PortraitPatricia McBride Portrait
Timothy BryantAngela GunnAisha HuntleyPatricia McBride

Timothy Bryant – Falk ’15
MPH ’22 Student

Angela Gunn – A&S, Maxwell ’19
New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF)

Aisha Huntley – IST ’05
Syracuse City School District
Frazer School, Special Education Teacher

Patricia McBride – UC ’18
Deputy City Clerk, City of Syracuse

Moderator:

Tyler Bell Portrait

Tyler Bell, ’11, G ’12, ’21
Director of Diversity and Inclusivity Excellence, College of Professional Studies
Tyler Bell is the current College of Professional Studies Director of Diversity & Inclusivity Excellence and Assistant Teaching Professor. Being one of the first students to graduate from the School of Education under it’s five-year model. Tyler earned a bachelor’s degree in History and master’s degree from the School of Education in Social Studies Education which set the foundation for the career he loves, being a lifelong learner and educator. Tyler has held many roles within education teaching in a public and charter high schools for five years while serving as a department chair and instructional coach. The culmination of Tyler’s career came at the beginning of the 2015-2016 school year when he was profiled on NBC’s Meredith Vieria daytime talk show and meeting his inspiration becoming a teacher, Steve Harvey. Currently, Tyler is a Ph.D candidate in the School of Education Cultural Foundations of Education program. Tyler’s research interests include analyzing the role of African American museums throughout the United States in the past and present and how they can be models of representation and engagement of social justice education in classrooms and communities. Courses that Tyler has taught/facilitated at Syracuse University include: EDU 310 (The American School), CAS 102 (SummerStart Seminar), BPS 100 (Orange Immersion), and EDU 470 (Selected Studies Internship). When Tyler is not teaching his interests include reading, traveling to different cities and watching sports.