Standard 1: Candidates who complete the program are competent and knowledgeable

educational leaders who can define and demonstrate the theoretical and practical
foundational basis of informed, ethical leadership behavior in diverse and complex postsecondary institutions.
As a current staff member and future administrator in higher education I understand the
importance of policy and ethical compliance. In my role as a future administrator not only is it
necessary to keep myself updated on the changing policy and procedures but also to understand
and comply by all legal standards in higher education. My learning experiences in the Higher
Education Administration course as well as in Higher Education Law has helped me to develop a
better understanding of the political and legal environment of higher education.
Standard 2: Candidates who complete the program are competent and knowledgeable
educational leaders who facilitate positive and effective instructional programs
incorporating the rights and the varied needs of all students in diverse and complex postsecondary institutions.
As an advisor I have the experience of teaching orientation courses to freshman each semester.
Each student is different in their strengths, abilities and cultural/socioeconomic background. As
an educator I understand the importance of understanding each students difference as their
strength and being able to communicate with each student based on that strength. Multicultural
Education is a course that helped me understand the importance of included lesson plans based
on acceptance of diversity.
Standard 3: Candidates who complete the program are competent and knowledgeable
educational leaders who can develop and implement policies that promote research,
scholarship, professional development, and technology utilization as appropriate in diverse
and complex post-secondary institutions.
I am quick to admit that Educational Research was the most difficult course for me in this entire
program. Research in higher education is crucial for professional development. Even as an
advisor I realize the importance of research. NACADA, the National Academic Advising
Association gives advisors the opportunity to present at their national conference each year.
Research is a very important function is this. Even though Educational Research was a difficult
course for me I have a much better understanding of higher education research now and am
better equipped to present at national conferences.

Standard 4: Candidates who complete the program are competent and knowledgeable
educational leaders who have the skills and ability to effectively communicate in both
written and verbal formats and collaborate with the institutions constituents, and
stakeholders, to respond to community needs and interests as appropriate in diverse and
complex post-secondary institutions.
Communication is a crucial part of an advisors day to day responsibility. A good advisor is an
equally good communicator and listener. As an advisor I feel that verbal and written
communication has always been one of my strengths however a course in Instructional
Technology has made me a more creative communicator. Before this course I was unaware of
the multiples tools and creative options educators have to communicate to their students and
coworkers.
Standard 5: Candidates who complete the program are competent and knowledgeable
educational leaders who have the ability to manage the organization, resources, and
operations for the efficiency and effectiveness of diverse and complex post-secondary
institutions.
Before starting this graduate program I had very little knowledge of managing a higher education
organization. Higher Education Governance and Higher Education Finance are two courses that
have provided me with the foundation I need to grow as a manager at any higher education
institution. I have a much better understanding of how a university is organized and how each
department plays a role in the overall leadership hierarchy.