UPCEA Updates

UPCEA is pleased to announce the 2024 cohort of Bethaida “Bea” González Diversity in Leadership Scholars. 

Representative and diverse leadership is a cornerstone of UPCEA’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusive Excellence. The goal of the Diversity Scholars program is to equip diverse professionals at any stage of their career with the skills and knowledge needed to move into leadership positions on campus, in the field of online and professional continuing education, and in UPCEA.

“We are inspired by the caliber of this year’s applicants, whose commitment to advancing diversity and inclusive excellence at their institutions is truly commendable. The 2024 González Scholars exemplify the spirit of innovation and leadership in our profession, and we are eager to witness their continued growth and impact as future leaders and change agents,” said Mili Maldonado Agusty, Executive Director, School of Professional Studies at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón and co-chair of UPCEA’s Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Committee.

The Diversity in Leadership Scholars program is named for Bethaida “Bea” González, 2014-15 UPCEA President and longtime leader at Syracuse University’s University College. 

“We are incredibly proud to recognize this year’s González Scholars,” said UPCEA CEO Bob Hansen. “You represent the future of inclusive leadership, embodying the values of diversity and excellence that Bea championed throughout her career.” 

The 2024 Diversity in Leadership Scholars are: 

• Lauren Slemenda, Western Nevada College
• Hilen Flores, NC State University
• Tinsley Jones, Virginia Commonwealth University
• Jane Sanchez Swain, Montclair State University
• Amber Anderson, Wichita State University

Each Diversity in Leadership Scholar is receiving a full scholarship for the Professional, Continuing and Online (PCO) Education Professional Certificate or the Professional, Continuing and Online (PCO) Education Leader Certificate (both certificates consist of five courses). 

We look forward to these five individuals joining our learning community as they pursue the courses in their certificate program. 

The 2024 Gonzalez Scholarship review committee is Cheryl Murphy, University of Arkansas; Fatimah Wirth, Georgia Institute of Technology; Tiffany Townsend, Purdue University Global; and Nilajah Nyausma Sims, Morgan State University.

Learn more about UPCEA’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusive Excellence.

Learn more about UPCEA’s online professional development program.