Syracuse University is enhancing its commitment to lifelong learning with digital badges, a tool that recognizes and authenticates the completion of microcredentials. The badges aim to support learners in their professional and personal development by showcasing achievements in short, focused learning experiences.
Digital badges will be awarded for various microcredential programs offered by the University’s College of Professional Studies. Learners can earn digital badges in industries regarding business and management, cannabis, healthcare, IT,project management, and much more. These badges signify specific competencies, skillsets, and levels of achievement that can be shared across digital platforms, making them easily visible to potential employers.
“With the launch of our comprehensive microcredentials catalog, we’re excited to unlock new opportunities and advance professional journeys in high-demand career areas,” says Arthur Thomas, executive director of the Office of Microcredentials.
Syracuse University’s Office of Microcredentials, established in 2021, is leading the charge in expanding the University’s portfolio of non-degree credentials. The comprehensive catalog of microcredential offerings lists a variety of courses that can equip learners with in-demand skills through accessible, online learning. Microcredentials is also collaborating with several schools and administrative units across the University to develop additional offerings tailored to their subject areas and available in a variety of formats.
For participants, digital badges represent a personalized learning journey. With badges issued at varying levels, foundational, intermediate, and advanced, participants can customize their professional development path. By “stacking,” or combining, these badges, learners can build a compelling portfolio that highlights their unique qualifications and expertise.
It’s a late evening in Asheville, North Carolina. The power is out, and the wind howls outside as Hurricane Helene tears through the region. Amid candles and a Starlink setup, determined Army veteran now student, Jonathan Milkovich ’25, logs into class, committed not to let the natural disaster derail his journey to graduation.
With the power out, many would have understandably postponed their coursework, but not Milkovich. That moment, equal parts grit, resilience, and resourcefulness, perfectly captures who Milkovich is. Although his professors understood and allowed Milkovich to complete his coursework on his own timeline, Milkovich persevered through the storm because it was his online program that fueled the optimism for his future.
“The transition from military life to academia was tough,” Milkovich says. “Even after serving only five years, transitioning back to civilian life presented numerous challenges. One of my blessings was finding Syracuse and transitioning from an in-person university to an online one with other veterans and adult learners.”
From Service Member to Student: A New Mission Begins
After serving in the military, Milkovich found himself at a crossroads. Like many veterans, the transition to civilian life came with uncertainty, emotional strain, and a new set of challenges.
“Before entering the military, I did not consider higher education a future option. Through service, I realized that the best future for myself, my family, and others was to continue learning and bettering myself through higher education,” he says. That realization led him to enroll into the online Business Management program at Syracuse University.
The shift to academia was anything but easy. Navigating lectures, assignments, and deadlines while juggling a full-time job and family life required a new kind of discipline. Still, Milkovich credits his wife and parents with creating the space, both emotional and logistical, that allowed him to thrive.
“Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, for my future and my family, was something that always allowed me to balance what needed to be done and what could wait,” Milkovich says. “The ability to balance full-time work and online studies is something I owe to my wife, who was always picking up what I couldn’t get done at home.”
Left to right: Christy Milkovich, Jonathan Milkovich, Sabrina Shoaff, and Chris MilkovichLeft to right: Mirza Tihic, Scott Smith, Jonathan Milkovich | Center: Susan Conklin Jonathan Milkovich ’25 and Scott Smith ’25
Syracuse’s veteran-friendly online program and support played a crucial role in his transition. Designed to accommodate the unique needs of those who’ve served, the program helped Milkovich feel less like a number and more like a valued member of a community. Surprisingly, some of the most meaningful relationships Milkovich developed happened virtually. It was proof that connections don’t require proximity.
“At graduation, I had the opportunity to meet and develop the relationships we had built through online classes and meetings even more,” Milkovich says. “These people I met are the ones I will work with, pursue veteran initiatives with, and form relationships that I will cherish for a very long time.”
Syracuse has earned top honors among private universities, ranking No. 3 in Best for Veterans in Online Bachelor’s Programs, No. 7 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs, and No. 1 for Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs. These distinctions underscore Syracuse’s strong reputation as a leading choice for military-connected students and veterans.
From the moment they express interest to the day they graduate; students enrolled in the College of Professional Studies’ online programs are supported every step of the way through the College’s dedicated Online Student Success services.
“Our primary goal is to create conditions for our students to be successful,” says Liz Green, executive director of the student experience. “Our team is trained to support our military-connected students through an individualized approach that honors their experiences, commitment to service, and their mission-driven perspectives. We’re privileged to provide accessible educational pathways for military students like Jonathan.”
Operation WarriorFit: Building a Legacy of Service
Graduation isn’t the end of Milkovich’s journey, it’s a launching point for the foundation of his nonprofit organization, Operation WarriorFit.
When Milkovich left the military, he didn’t just hang up his uniform; he left behind the team, the structure, and the purpose that had shaped his life. Operation WarriorFit is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders through fitness focused events. Born from personal experience after losing a friend in service to mental health struggles, and facing his own challenges transitioning to civilian life, Milkovich recognized the difficulties many veterans, service members, and first responders encounter.
“Operation WarriorFit’s mission is to offer something after service, to provide the ability to compete, to have something to look forward to,” Milkovich says. “When you go to an event and see someone in OWF gear, you know that you’re in a similar company and back around the people that you miss from service. There is someone out there who went through the exact same thing; you are not alone and never will be.”
Jonathan Milkovich and his wife, Sabrina Shoaff, after completing the Biltmore 15k in Asheville, NC.
Armed with the knowledge and skills gained through his online Business Management program, the graduate is seamlessly transitioning from student to founder, using his education as a foundation to build and launch his nonprofit organization.
The course content had immediate relevance to his professional life. Leadership theories were integrated into his logistics work, while communication strategies served as essential tools for engaging effectively with his colleagues. Along the way, he sharpened key skills like virtual presentation and learning to “read the room” even when the room is a screen.
“One of the biggest things that kept me motivated throughout these classes was not only the apparent fact of bettering myself, but also all the material that was taught throughout the program was always very applicable,” Milkovich says. “I would learn something then go into work the next day and be able to apply the material.”
Milkovich’s journey is a testament to the power of education as a catalyst for transformation. His online degree didn’t just equip him with practical skills; it fueled his ability to turn a vision into reality. The lessons he learned became the building blocks of Operation WarriorFit and his journey has redefined his definition of success.
For Milkovich, success is no longer just about personal achievement; it’s about ensuring that others have the support and resources they need to navigate their own transitions. His ability to turn obstacles into opportunities is what defines his journey, and his nonprofit stands as proof that education isn’t just about earning a diploma; it’s about unlocking doors to new opportunities.
At the College of Professional Studies at Syracuse University, we understand that learning happens everywhere. If you’ve built a career, served in the military, earned certifications, or gained valuable life experience, you may already be closer to your degree than you realize.
Many adult learners are surprised to learn how much of their professional experience can translate into academic credit. Organizations like CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning) provide helpful insights into how prior learning assessments work and why they matter in higher education.
Every credit you earn through prior learning is a step closer to graduation. We can help you save time, reduce tuition costs, and avoid repeating what you already know. Our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process helps you:
Save thousands in tuition by earning credit for your experience
Graduate faster and move forward with your goals
Focus on new learning instead of repeating old material
Get recognized for your real-world knowledge and skills
Whether you are transferring from another college, transitioning from the military, or returning to school after time in the workforce, our advisors will work with you to evaluate your experience and maximize your credit potential.
The more credit you bring in, the fewer courses you need to take. That means you can finish your degree sooner and start applying it to your career goals.
Our flexible, career-focused degree programs are designed for working professionals. With online options, personalized advising, and a commitment to recognizing your achievements, we make it easier to earn your degree on your terms.
Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies celebrated the class of 2025 on Thursday, May 8, at its 77th annual Convocation Ceremony. In total, 182 students were recognized for completing their program of study in 2025, representing seven schools and colleges within the University.
Dean Michael Frasciello congratulated the graduating class and honored the families earning their degrees and certificates. Hand in hand with their children, graduates walked across the stage. A powerful and uplifting moment that reminded the audience that no obstacle is too great and that with determination and heart, anything is possible.
B.P.S. graduate Catherine Ancillotti, motivated the class of 2025 and reflected on her ten-year journey during her student speech.
“I stand before you, having attended three colleges, completed 50 courses, attended over 200 live Zoom sessions, and spent thousands of hours studying. I finally made it to the end,” Ancillotti said. “No matter what the future holds for you, persevere through the tough times and believe in yourself. You’ve got this!”
College and career paths aren’t always straightforward, but good guidance makes all the difference. In this Q&A session, Professor Susan Conklin, a professor of management, organizational development, and cultural studies, offers guidance on life after graduation.
From managing career choices to dealing with burnout and imposter syndrome, Professor Conklin offers thoughtful, practical advice drawn from years of experience in and beyond the classroom.
How can I leverage my new degree to change careers or move up?
First, recognize and acknowledge the valuable skills that you’ve accumulated getting to this point. Focus on the combination of your work experience and new credentials. Create a tailored résumé highlighting transferable skills, accomplishments, and how your education adds value. Consider your technical skills as well as your durable, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Network and use platforms like LinkedIn to tell your story – why you pursued your degree and what your goals are.
What are some strategies for staying motivated and productive after graduation, especially when the next steps aren’t clear?
Big life changes can leave us feeling unbalanced or disoriented. Keep your ultimate goals in mind. Set small milestones each day to consistently keep yourself moving forward. Completing your degree took motivation, courage, and hard work, so you know you can do it. Use those same skills to create momentum and remember to celebrate wins along the way!
How can I continue to learn and grow after graduation, even if I don’t go to grad school?
Many students are life-long learners and continue their education simply because they love to learn. Grad school is one option, but there are many other opportunities to continue to learn and grow. Microcredentials and certificate programs are great options to continue your development; they focus on specific skills that earn credentials and are often stackable, serving as an intermediate path to a degree. You can choose options based on personal or professional interests, and they take less time to complete than a degree program. Employers are increasingly seeing value in these types of credentials.
How do I deal with imposter syndrome?
We are often our own worst critics. Acknowledge your achievements and what you’ve already accomplished. Balancing school, work, family and community obligations is no small feat. Seek out support from peers, mentors, support groups, professional organizations, or formal mentorship programs to remind yourself you’re not alone. Ask for feedback from trusted individuals to see yourself more objectively and be open to constructive criticism – see it as a gift and an opportunity to improve and grow.
What should I focus on in my first year after graduation to set myself up for long-term career success?
Focus on setting goals and identifying the small steps you need to take to create the life you’ve imagined. Establish new productive habits that you may not have had time for as a student. Stay open and take advantage of opportunities, even unexpected ones, that may lead you in a new direction. Keep the momentum going!
Is it okay not to know exactly what you want to do after graduation?
Certainly! Many of us have taken the proverbial “long and winding road” to find our true calling or our ultimate career. You can learn and take something of value from every experience you have (good and bad). Learn all you can from those experiences and let them guide you to the next step on your path forward.
How important is networking after college?
Building and maintaining relationships is important, both personally and professionally. You likely spent extensive time and built friendships with some of your classmates, and you’ve shared many of the same challenges and experiences. Take opportunities to stay connected with the friends (and even faculty) you’ve met during your academic experience. You may serve as a resource and provide opportunities for each other, and you may ultimately become colleagues and coworkers.
What’s one piece of advice you wish every student could take with them after graduating?
Student life can be complex. Many of you are non-traditional students who returned to the classroom while raising children, working full-time jobs, caring for aging parents, or navigating chapters of life that others never see. You have already demonstrated more resilience and self-discipline than many give you credit for. That’s not just impressive, it’s transformational.
Trust that the same strength that brought you through college will serve you in everything you do next. Whether you’re stepping into a new career, seeking a promotion, launching a business, or simply embracing the satisfaction of having finished what you started, know that your capacity to learn, adapt, and grow is now a permanent part of you. The world may not always recognize the invisible mountains you’ve climbed, but don’t let that make you small; let it make you fierce. Let it remind you that you can always begin again, even when the path looks uncertain.
Congratulations on your accomplishments. You didn’t just earn a degree; you redefined what it means to show up for your future. Best wishes for your continued success!
