The University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) has established the Bethaida “Bea” González Diversity in Leadership Scholars program with the goal of equipping diverse professionals at any stage of their career with the skills and knowledge needed to move into leadership positions on campus.
Bethaida “Bea” González
In an effort to professionalize and elevate the field of professional, continuing and online education (PCO), UPCEA is launching a series of online professional development programs that will address the challenges of the profession and the importance of representative and diverse leadership—a cornerstone of UPCEA’s commitment to diversity and inclusive excellence.
González, vice president for community engagement and former dean of University College, retired this month after 36 years of service at Syracuse University. She served UPCEA in many capacities, including as president-elect in 2013-14 and president in 2014-15. During her tenure as UPCEA president, González facilitated discussions about the needs of adult students and collaborated with UPCEA officers and members to provide services and access to higher education students.
“This is the most significant move we have ever made in the area of diversity and inclusive excellence, and I am deeply grateful to the great Bea González for lending us her name and reputation for leadership in this critical area,” says Robert J. Hansen, chief executive officer of UPCEA.
Individuals who are in the field of higher education and identify as a member of one or more diverse groups are encouraged to apply. The deadline is Friday, Aug. 7.
Founded in 1915, UPCEA serves more than 350 institutions, including most of the leading public and private colleges and universities in North America. The association serves its members with innovative conferences and specialty seminars, research and benchmarking information, professional networking opportunities and timely publications. Based in Washington, D.C., UPCEA builds greater awareness of the vital link between adult learners and public policy issues.
