I’m heading back to work today after spending two great days in DC with 29 other incredible IPEDS Educator colleagues. This was my 11th IIE, and true to form, it didn't disappoint. Here We Go Again! As I shift my focus back to my daily responsibilities...
I have been working in higher education for nearly 20 years. This year marks my 11th year as an IPEDS trainer (Yay!!). Time and again, people ask me: "What is a 'good' graduation rate?". And time and again, I'm reminded that I don't exactly have...
If you’ve worked in or with an Institutional Research office for any length of time, you have surely seen the staff wear a variety of “hats.” IR professionals act as analysts, interpreters, advocates, among other things. When it comes to using data to get things done on campus,...
Conferences, especially big conferences, can be overwhelming for anyone. The AIR Forum 2019 certainly qualifies as a big conference. And it can DEFINITELY be overwhelming. Over the years, I've gained some perspective and tips that help me maximize my time at the Forum and avoid...
This year's Association for Institutional Research Annual Forum is finally almost here! It took me f.o.r.e.v.e.r. to build my agenda because the program is so packed with great learning and networking opportunities. I am so looking forward to networking with old and new colleagues,...
Perhaps you're new to Institutional Research. Or maybe you've been swimming along since you started your position, but have a nagging feeling you're missing something. Or it could be that you're trying to guide your colleagues to resources to help understand your work. If you've...
Benchmarking, both formal and informal, is pretty common in higher education. We take a look at what other colleges and universities are doing and compare our efforts and outcomes. Analyze whether or not our performance is on par. Look for opportunities for improvement. Dig deep...
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)'s annual Academic Resource Conference (2019) kicks off today. I'm heading there tomorrow and am looking forward to a packed schedule! On Thursday, I'll be presenting an exciting conversation on benchmarking strategies and...
Data skills are a must for IR professionals at every level. Today’s institutions use increasingly complex data tools, including advanced predictive analytics, big data, and business intelligence systems. Certainly, that calls for hiring individuals with advanced data skills. However, data skills alone do not necessarily...
We all love a good story. It hooks us from the very beginning. The scene and characters come alive in our minds. Before we know it, we’re hanging on every word. We get so wrapped up in the story, we lose track of time. We’re...
