The 2024 - 2025 cohort of the ASCEND Leadership Development Program begins their leadership journey this month, and we're excited to introduce this year's members. ASCEND is a cornerstone of AACRAO’s Leaders in Enrollment Advancing Diversity (LEAD) initiative,
dedicated to fostering diverse leadership within higher education enrollment management.
Throughout this year-long program, ASCEND participants engage in a comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics such as SEM plan development,
change management, data analysis, and the integration of technology in higher education. The program culminates with each participant crafting a strategic enrollment management plan, which serves as their capstone project.
The ASCEND program is designed to equip higher education professionals with the critical competencies necessary for advancing into leadership roles within enrollment management. Its structure includes self-paced modules, personalized coaching, and interactive
discussions, ensuring a robust learning experience tailored to the field's complexities.
Key objectives of AACRAO's ASCEND program include:
- Career Advancement: Empowering participants through significant professional development opportunities.
- Leadership Pipeline: Cultivating a talented and diverse pool of leaders capable of driving innovation across institutions and regions.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Providing support, access, and leadership opportunities to individuals from historically underrepresented groups within the AACRAO community. This includes professionals from smaller and under-resourced
institutions, as well as individuals who identify as people of color, LGBTQ+, persons with disabilities, and others.
By fostering a supportive environment and offering targeted resources, AACRAO aims to nurture a “deep pool” of leaders who reflect the diverse fabric of the higher education landscape. The ASCEND program stands as a testament to
AACRAO’s commitment to equity, access, and excellence in enrollment management leadership.
Meet the 2024-2025 Cohort
- Luis Alarcon
Director of Recruitment & Admissions, Lincoln Land Community College - Dr. Johnnie Johnson
Program Director, COAST and ECAP&O, Prince George's Community College - Bridget Jones
Director, Admissions and Recruitment, Portland Community College - Leslie King
Director of Financial Aid, Hostos Community College - Rebekah Lawhorn
Interim Registrar / Director of Student Success Strategies and Operations, University of Dayton - Araceli Moreno
Associate Director of Financial Aid, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso - Del Murray
Assistant Director, Academic Services, Tulane University Law School - Aimee Vitangcol Regoso
Registrar & Assistant Provost for Systems & Operations, Andrews University - Briana Roades
Associate Director, UF Online Enrollment Services, University of Florida - Kristina Rosales
Deputy Registrar, CUNY Brooklyn College
Experienced faculty members deeply versed in enrollment management serve as course facilitators and coaches for ASCEND participants. Each participant is paired with a dedicated coach who offers mentorship, support, and guidance. These coaches not only assist participants in fulfilling program requirements but also provide invaluable insights for career planning and fostering professional growth and development.
Visit AACRAO's LEAD Initiative page and join the list for ASCEND and LEAD updates.