Washington, D.C. – April 7, 2025 – UPCEA, the leading association for online and professional education, today announced the upcoming retirement of Jim Fong, its founding Chief Research Officer, after years of transformative leadership in the field of higher education research and consulting. 

Fong first became involved with UPCEA as a volunteer leader while at Penn State’s World Campus, where he helped elevate the role of data-informed marketing, enrollment management, and new program development in online and professional education. 

Since establishing UPCEA Research and Consulting (URC), Fong has been instrumental in developing data-driven insights, pioneering new research methodologies, and fostering strategic partnerships that have elevated UPCEA’s role as a thought leader in online and professional education. His contributions have positioned URC as a trusted resource for institutions navigating the complexities of higher education. 

He also helped define UPCEA’s business model for actionable research—offering association-wide studies and affordable custom consulting that has been used by roughly one-third of member institutions. 

In recognition of his lasting impact, Fong will be honored with the title of Chief Advisor for Research, Strategy, and Innovation, reflecting his ongoing connection to UPCEA. While he steps back from his day-to-day role, Fong will remain engaged in an advisory capacity, offering insights and contributing to special projects. 

“Jim’s visionary leadership has shaped not only UPCEA but the entire landscape of higher education research,” said Bob Hansen, CEO of UPCEA. “His work has strengthened our field, and we are proud to honor his legacy while ensuring a seamless transition for the future of UPCEA Research and Consulting.” 

The strength of URC remains steadfast, with a team of experienced professionals—Stacy Chiaramonte, Bruce Etter, Emily West, Scott Hinty, Matt Norsworthy, and additional research assistants—leading its ongoing success. Alongside external subject matter experts, this team will continue to deliver top-tier research and consulting services to support UPCEA members and the broader higher education community. 

Fong’s thoughtful succession planning and mentoring of the URC team have ensured a smooth transition and sustained success, empowering the next generation of research leaders within UPCEA. His transition was not only intentional—it’s been effective. Over the past two years, as Jim shifted to a reduced schedule, UPCEA Research and Consulting experienced record growth, with more institutions turning to URC than ever before. This upward trajectory underscores the depth of expertise and readiness of the team he helped build. 

For more information about UPCEA Research and Consulting and how it can support your institution, visit upcea.edu/research. 

About UPCEA 

UPCEA is the online and professional education association. Our members continuously reinvent higher education, positively impacting millions of lives. We proudly lead and support them through cutting edge research, professional development, networking and mentorship, conferences and seminars, and stakeholder advocacy. Our collaborative, entrepreneurial community brings together decision makers and influencers in education, industry, research, and policy interested in improving educational access and outcomes. 

Media Contact: 
Molly Nelson 
VP of Communications 
[email protected]