SUNY Oswego’s Division of Extended Learning recently received the UPCEA 2024 Excellence in Enrollment Management Award for outstanding work in academic advisement and support for adult learners enrolled in its main campus, Syracuse Campus and online programs.

Previously known as the University Professional and Continuing Education Association, UPCEA’s membership includes leaders in online and professional continuing education. This award is affiliated with the UPCEA Marketing, Enrollment and Student Success Network. This award reflects the dedication and innovative strategies implemented by the university’s Academic Planning Team supporting students who balance education, work and family commitments.

“In the last 40 years, enrollment management has evolved from a theoretical concept in undergraduate education to a highly sophisticated framework for attracting, retaining and graduating students,” Dean of Extended Learning Jill Pippin said. “The UPCEA Excellence in Enrollment Management Award recognizes an outstanding online and professional continuing education organization (unit or individual) that models best practices and combines process excellence with superior results,”

The team, led by Assistant Dean Greg Ketcham, includes Melissa M. Semione, Sarah Wehrle, Karen Archibee, Nora M. Covington and Lisa Brancato. Their work exemplifies SUNY Oswego’s mission to create accessible, inclusive and student-centered educational experiences that enable adult learners to thrive academically and personally, Pippin said.

The Academic Planning Team’s concierge-style approach to student support ensures every learner receives individualized guidance throughout their educational journey. From admission to graduation, Academic Planning Coordinators (APCs) serve as advocates, mentors and cheerleaders for their students.

The team’s mission is to empower adult learners to overcome barriers to education, Pippin noted. “We provide tailored support that addresses their unique circumstances — whether they are working full-time, raising families, or transitioning careers. It’s all about helping them achieve their goals with confidence and resilience,” she said.

Holistic support

The team’s efforts span a wide range of responsibilities, including:

  • Personalized advisement: Collaborating with students to develop academic plans aligned with their schedules and commitments.
  • Academic monitoring: Conducting degree audits, course planning and intervention strategies to keep students on track.
  • Emotional and practical guidance: Supporting students through personal challenges with empathetic listening and actionable solutions.
  • Community building: Fostering connections through virtual workshops, peer mentoring, and inclusive campus activities.

These comprehensive services are critical for SUNY Oswego’s diverse adult learner population, which includes working professionals, caregivers, military-connected students and career changers.

The Division of Extended Learning has launched several impactful initiatives to support its students, including:

  • Adult Student Assistance Program (ASAP): This program provides tailored sessions on financial aid, academic resources and more to support adult students, with input from a cross-departmental workgroup.
  • Care package initiative: The APCs created and distributed packages and encouragement notes to students to enhance well-being and motivation.
  • Customized orientation: The team designed a specialized online orientation to prepare students for virtual learning and university life.
  • Virtual mental health services: The university partnered with BetterMynd to provide 24/7 teletherapy and workshops, to ensure accessible mental health support for this student population.

These programs have yielded measurable results, organizers said, with high participation rates, increased student engagement and glowing feedback from participants.

The APC team goes beyond traditional advising by instilling a growth mindset and self-efficacy in their students. Through success coaching, they help students master time management, build confidence, and navigate challenges. Every milestone — big or small — is celebrated to reinforce progress and motivation. It represents more than just advising: It’s about creating an environment where adult learners feel supported, valued and capable of achieving their dreams.

This award underscores SUNY Oswego’s leadership in adult education and online learning, Pippin said. It celebrates the university’s commitment to transforming lives by making higher education accessible for non-traditional students.

“This recognition reaffirms our dedication to fostering innovation and inclusivity,” Pippin. “It inspires us to continue raising the bar in how we empower adult learners.”

For more information about SUNY Oswego’s programs and support services for adult learners, email onlineprograms@oswego.edu or visit oswego.edu/extended-learning.