News

College of Professional Studies Announces New Assistant Teaching Professor Appointments

July 3, 2025

The College of Professional Studies at Syracuse University announces the appointments of Elizabeth (Liz) M. Green and Andrea J. Willis as assistant teaching professors, effective for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Both appointments represent strategic investments in the College’s mission to serve non-traditional and military-connected students through innovative online education, and a commitment to hiring faculty with deep expertise in professional competency education, particularly in transformational leadership and organizational development. Green and Willis bring extensive experience working directly with the non-traditional student populations the College serves.

“These appointments represent a significant step forward in our ability to deliver world-class professional competency education to our students,” said Michael J. Frasciello, Dean of the College of Professional Studies. “Liz and Andrea bring the unique combination of practical leadership experience and educational expertise that our non-traditional students need to succeed in today’s complex professional landscape.”

Green joins the faculty while serving as executive director of Student Experience, where she has increased military-connected student enrollment by over 100% in three years. As an assistant teaching professor, she will teach both undergraduate and graduate courses in the College’s signature Professional Competencies Core, the Bachelor of Professional Studies in Organizational Development & Leadership Program, and across the College’s undergraduate and graduate Project Management curriculum.

Green’s qualifications include over 15 years of progressively responsible experience in higher education administration and current service as a Public Affairs Officer in the United States Air Force, currently serving in the New York Air National Guard. She is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and PhD candidate in Higher Education Administration. Her pioneering work in establishing Syracuse University’s first Office of Online Student Success demonstrates her innovative approach to supporting non-traditional learners.

“Liz’s dual expertise as both a military officer and a recognized leader in non-traditional education provides her with an authentic understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing military students pursuing higher education,” said Frasciello. “Her ability to transform organizational structures and create new pathways for student advancement exemplifies the transformational leadership principles she will teach.”

Willis joins the faculty while serving as director of Academic Programs, where she has expanded program offerings from 7 to 24 between 2018 and 2024. She will teach courses in the Professional Competencies Core, the Bachelor of Professional Studies in Healthcare Administration, the Bachelor of Professional Studies Organizational Development & Leadership, and across the Project Management curriculum.

Willis’ educational background includes a Master’s degree in Instructional Design, Development and Evaluation from Syracuse University and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Conflict Resolution. She has extensive experience in online course development and has already created and taught foundational courses for the College’s undergraduate programs.

“Andrea’s proven success in creating engaging virtual learning environments for non-traditional students, combined with her expertise in supporting military-connected students, makes her exceptionally qualified to serve this unique population,” said Ryan O. Williams, Senior Associate Dean of the College of Professional Studies.

Both appointments reflect the College’s strategic commitment to strengthening its academic offerings through a focus on professional competency education in areas such as Transformational Leadership, Change Management, Practical Financial Management, Assertiveness in the Workplace for Professional Studies, Creative and Design Thinking, Conflict in Business and Management, Leading Cooperative Negotiations, and Digital and Business Communications.

Green and Willis will contribute to course development, program assessment, and accreditation processes while maintaining the College’s strong focus on accessibility and student success. Their work will involve creating new online courses that address emerging trends in leadership and organizational development, as well as redesigning existing courses to incorporate current research and industry practices.

“These appointments demonstrate our commitment to hiring faculty who don’t just teach about leadership and professional development – they live it,” said Williams. “Liz and Andrea have demonstrated the ability to transform organizations, develop innovative programs, and create meaningful pathways for student success.”

Syracuse University Empowers Learners with Personalized Microcredentials and Stackable Badges

July 1, 2025

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.

To learn more about microcredential programs and digital badges, visit professionalstudies.syracuse.edu/microcredentials.

How an Online Degree Fueled a Veteran’s Mission to Empower Others

June 17, 2025

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 Milkovich

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.

By Hope Alvarez

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies Honors Class of 2025

May 12, 2025

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!”

To view the live streamed convocation ceremony, visit go.syr.edu/uc/convocation2025.

College Marshal

Robert Louis Salvato

Student Speaker

Catherine Ancillotti

Student Recognition

Nancy C. Gelling Award

Recognition of the Part-time commuter student with the highest grade point average

Samantha Anne Bonocora

Diane M. Malikow

Alumni Scholars

Members of the Class of 2025 with the highest grade point averages

Kathleen Brody

Alexander Lee Cook

Guy Mitchell George

Jvne Melendez

Samantha Marie Mills

Matthew Joseph Pallotta

Jennette Lee Peters

Troy Charles Quinn

Robert Louis Salvato

Eric Tremblay

College of Professional Studies Service Awards

Service awards were presented to those who serve as academic pillars in the Syracuse University community.

Dean’s Excellence Award

Anne Collins

Senior Functional Business Analyst | Bursar & Registration

Faculty Excellence Award

Karen deJarnette

Bachelor of Professional Studies Instructor

Crafting a Purposeful Life: One Veteran’s Path Through Service, Art, and Leadership

May 7, 2025

As the College of Professional Studies student marshal, Robert Salvato embodies the spirit of dedication and leadership. A veteran, artist, and leader, Salvato’s path has been anything but ordinary. Yet throughout his diverse journey, Salvato has remained grounded in two constants: a deep passion for meaningful work and a commitment to purpose-driven living.

In this Q&A, Salvato reflects on the experiences that have shaped him, the values that connect each chapter of his life, and how earning a B.P.S. in project management is guiding his next steps.

Your journey has been incredibly diverse, from military service to interactive sculpting, farming, museum management, and now project management. What has been the common thread tying all these experiences together?

The common threads have been twofold. First, following what I love to do and what inspires me. My love for service and adventure led me to join the Navy, and my passion for creativity and expression led me to the museum and then to creating my own artwork.

Wood carved and bound. Art by Robert Salvato.

Second was dedicating myself to connecting with a place and allowing things to unfold. When my wife and I purchased an abandoned farm with a dilapidated old farmhouse twenty-plus years ago, I determined that I would interact with the resources on the property and let them and my imagination guide me. The native trees contained tonal qualities on par with exotic imported woods, perfect for musical instrument making. Some trees are considered “invasive” but are rot-resistant and sinuously curvy, naturally sculptural and inviting. The soil had failed the previous generations because it wasn’t receptive to conventional farming techniques, but it became abundant and fertile with a patient and organic approach.

What drives your dedication to academic excellence, and how has your life journey, service in the U.S. Navy and your time at Syracuse University shaped you as a leader?

Robert Salvato reads the biography of a WW2 U.S. soldier. The event was in honor of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Florence and held at the Florence American Cemetery.

In the Navy, I learned the importance of attention to detail and how rewarding it is to give all of yourself and your very best to a mission. I try to apply those concepts to all of my endeavors. Academic excellence comes from following directions, organizing an approach, and giving the best effort possible.

My time in the U.S. Navy exposed me to many leadership styles, which shaped me as a leader. I observed others in leadership roles, assessed their effectiveness, and eventually tried out my own. My diverse background allows me to connect with people from many different walks of life, and empathy guides my leadership decisions. My time at Syracuse has shaped my leadership style through the level of professionalism I have experienced in my classmates and instructors. I learned how to define the different leadership styles and be intentional in deciding how to lead. The classes in Coaching for Leaders introduced me to new methodologies and resources that I can reference in the future. The study abroad in Florence put me in a unique situation as a “non-traditional” student. Being substantially older than my classmates, I felt obligated to set an example and offer leadership to the other students where appropriate.

As someone who has successfully balanced entrepreneurship, education, and service, what advice would you give to students who are looking to carve out their own unique career paths?

The advice I would offer students who are looking to carve out their own unique career paths is to:

Trust in yourself to do great things. You are capable of much more than you give yourself credit for. Allow yourself to succeed.

Create an environment that allows you to block out negativity and take risks (minimize debt, control your social media, surround yourself with positive colleagues or partners).

Volunteer! It’s a great way to engage with people and organizations that inspire you.

Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your vision.

Utilize the power of networking outside your normal circle; everyone has an interesting story, something to teach, and something in common. This has led me to many synergistic opportunities.

Looking ahead, how do you see your skills in project management, leadership, and creativity shaping your future? Are there any exciting projects or goals on the horizon?

I always have several projects in process and on the horizon.

I was recently accepted into Syracuse’s Instructional Design, Development, and Evaluation graduate program. I hope to gain the tools that will allow me to utilize my unique talents to create inspiring and engaging content that supports diverse learners and drives meaningful change in educational settings.

Looking ahead, I see my project management skills helping me to plan, organize, and execute complex initiatives effectively, while my leadership abilities will enable me to engage teams with empathy and vision. My creativity will continue to be a driving force in developing innovative learning experiences. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work on immersive learning technologies and cross-cultural design projects that make education more accessible and impactful. Teaching in higher education has also been a latent goal.