Last updated on October 9, 2019
Recently, the DCCCD Board of Trustees moved “employee success” to the top of the list of DCCCD strategic priorities followed by student success, community engagement and institutional effectiveness. The board did this in recognition of the fact that when DCCCD employees succeed, students do, too.
To support employees in reaching their personal and professional goals, this spring the colleges of DCCCD will gather at North Lake College for the first-ever Employee Advancement Fair on Monday, Jan. 11. The fair will feature educational institutions with programs at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree levels.
“We want employees to think about their careers here,” explains Dr. Sharon Blackman, strategic learning constultant. “And in order to do that, sometimes you need an advanced degree.”
Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorates, Oh My!
A wide range of program opportunities will be presented at the Employee Advancement Fair, including cohort options with classes once a month, discounted, 100 percent online and hybrid programs. These include (but are not limited to): master’s and doctoral degrees in Higher Education Leadership, Student Services, Organizational Technology and Instructional Technology, as well as discipline-specific programs. Information on bachelor’s degree programs will be available as well.
“I would highly recommend people go the fair and learn more,” says Blackman. “Sometimes you think you know about a program, but actually talking to specific representatives from that program … say, the educational leadership program … can tell you more about what to expect, what their specific goals are for graduates and why they decided to offer that program. Employees need to be informed.” And the more informed they are, the better equipped they are to make the right decision for their career path.
Employee Benefits of Higher Education
As employees of DCCCD, the benefits of higher education are already top-of-mind: a greater lifetime earning potential, advanced skill sets and levels of expertise, more self-confidence and more. Earning a higher education credential can be truly life changing.
Nevertheless, there are other benefits to consider as well. For employees interested in staying in the district and qualifying for other types of positions, the Employee Advancement Fair is especially advantageous. Talent Central is also looking at ways to ensure DCCCD has strong career pathways for employees, and talent development is key.
What Should I Bring With Me to the Employee Advancement Fair?
Employees interested in attending the Employee Advancement Fair are encouraged to register online before the fair, although prior registration is not required. For specific programs, writing down questions in advance is a great, easy way to ensure efficiency and allow you to visit with as many college representatives as possible.
Pertinent questions might include:
- How many credit hours is the program?
- What is the cost per credit hour?
- What faculty teach the classes? What are their qualifications?
- What is the weekly time commitment?
- Are scholarships or partnership discounts available? (Certain educational institutions offer special discounts to DCCCD employees. When in doubt: ask!)
- Does the university accept experience for credit? (competency based)
Which Colleges and Universities Will Be at the Fair?
The following colleges and universities will be present:
- Abilene Christian University
- Amberton University
- Argosy University
- Ashford University
- Capella University
- Dallas Baptist University
- Grand Canyon University
- Kaplan University
- Lamar University
- National American University
- Northwood University
- Sam Houston State University
- Southern Methodist University
- Strayer University
- Texas A&M University – Commerce
- Texas Tech University
- University of North Texas
- University of Phoenix
- University of Texas at Arlington
- Walden University
- West Coast University
- Western Governor’s University – Texas
… and many more!
When and Where?
DCCCD Employee Advancement Fair
Monday, Jan. 11, 2016
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
North Lake College
Register to Attend the Employee Advancement Fair