School of Professional & Continuing Education News

Melissa Lubin

Our work in the School of Professional & Continuing Education spans a broad spectrum of initiatives, projects, networks, and teams—and could not be accomplished without the leadership, support and encouragement from partners like you! Our team-based, collaborative approach opens up opportunities for us to connect with colleagues across the Commonwealth, the nation, and the world. Together, we can share promising practices, glean new ideas, and gain inspiration from others to: educate post-traditional, youth, and lifelong learners; engage our localities in achieving a thriving economy; and represent JMU on a national level. We look forward to the new partnerships, experiences, and adventures that await us on the horizon.

Onward,

Melissa M. Lubin, Ph.D.
Dean, School of Professional & Continuing Education and
Chief Economic Engagement Officer

A New Kind of Organizational Consultant
Madison Community Consultants is a new program giving students hands-on experience while assisting local businesses and nonprofit organizations. Funded through Madison Trust and piloting Spring 2022.
Embracing the Anchor Institution Role
We are proud to announce SPCE Assistant Dean, Carol Fleming, was selected for the Anchor Institution Task Force's fellowship program as we continue to embrace JMU's role in our community.
Dynamic Insights on Adult Learning
Two of our own presented at this unique conference in Denver, CO. Insights EDU is specifically focused on adult learners and online education.
A Lifelong Anniversary 25-Years in the Making
Their commitment to deepening our understanding of existing knowledge is inspiring. That tells us that they find fulfillment here and enjoy the opportunities we provide...
The Geospatial Semester
To date, more than 5,000 students have earned credit through the GSS and many have come to JMU, helping to grow our Geographic Science program to be one of the largest on the East Coast.
Fostering the Friendly City in SPCE
Many displaced people have sought refuge in the United States; however, only 150,000 refugees are actually admitted to the U.S. in a fiscal year.
Regional Economic Recovery Series
This initiative will aid the Shenandoah Valley’s economic growth and the community’s quality of life for years to come and continue to help make us a national model of prosperity, equity, and potential.
Nicklas Phillips - Boys & Girls Club (Harrisonburg) Graduate Assistant
“I most love the mixture of a small city feeling with a well defined downtown area and the wide open vistas of a more remote location.”
Samantha Conner - Adult Degree Program Intern
"Last semester, I participated in a X-Labs course centered around the changing nature of higher education and a further need for accessibility and individualization, which led me to the Adult Degree Program."
Stephen Robinson - Economic Development Graduate Assistant
“What I love most about JMU is the community. The people here are all so kind and welcoming. Even though there are over 20,000 students at the school, it really does feel like a tight-knit family.”
Olivia Beach - Marketing & Communications Graduate Assistant
“I love the friendliness of JMU. From faculty and staff members to students, everyone is very welcoming. Being new to JMU, I was nervous to be in a different environment. But now, I consider JMU my second home.”
Chris Davidson - Economic & Community Development Engagement Fellow
“The importance that professors and staff place on getting involved outside the classroom. Whether that's work related to your major, volunteering downtown, or joining a club, there's a lot to be learned at college..."
Anica Steen - Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Graduate Assistant
“The people are really what make this place so amazing. I have met the most incredible people here, and I couldn't have done it without JMU!”
Robert Lohr - Economic Development Graduate Assistant
“I love the atmosphere of JMU. It is not too small but not too big. I rarely go on campus without seeing someone I know. However, I still have the opportunity to meet new people and make new connections.”
Juno Wild - Academic Programs Graduate Assistant
“The thing I love the most about JMU is its location. There's plenty of things to do in Shenandoah, and it's nice that we're only a short drive away from some good hiking spots.”
Dustin Norton - O&E Graduate Assistant
“I love the people the most. Everywhere you go, there will always be someone who will genuinely look out for you and be there for you.”
Back Together Again!
We are offering more scholarships than ever before through a partnership with CISE, funds awarded us through an IDEA grant, and Giving Day donations.
Corporate Training: How Leaders Can Partner with JMU PCE
How can JMU help leaders focus on a training and development strategy for their organization?
Continuing Our Education: From White Fragility to White Allyship and Beyond
The most helpful exercises were those that explored cultural baggage and affinity bias. We all have these. It's important to know how they affect your decisions, interactions, and the way you present yourself.
Set for Success: The RN-BSN Co-Enrollment Program
To provide students with a competitive edge when seeking employment, the RN-BSN co-enrollment program was created.
Jumping Back In
Alaska is such a beautiful place, so I'm very grateful to be able to live a life of wild adventure and still get to be a part of the JMU community I love.
Happy Anniversary, Lifelong Learning Institute!
Curiosity and a love of learning are the only admission requirements.
Faculty Spotlight: Greg Corder
If I had to pick a "favorite" aspect of teaching in the Adult Degree Program, it is the learning opportunity available for non-traditional learners.
Lean Into the Learning Experience
It is not an overwhelming workload, however, you get a wealth of information consisting of JMU course material, (online) modules, and knowledge of your instructor
Keys to a Happy, Healthy, and Fulfilling Retirement
Interaction, dialogue, and sharing are part of the learning process.
Influential Experiences with Youth Programs
After attending and having such a fantastic experience she went on to apply and be accepted to attend JMU and the Honors College.
Katherine Chiu - An Unexpected Engagement
My approach to my career and life, in general, has changed dramatically.
Addison Boyer - Collaboration on the Half Shell
I am so grateful that I have had this opportunity in the ADP to grow professionally and gain experience in a field that I am passionate about!
Jacob Weinheimer - An Internship of Economic Proportions
I have grown to become more independent in a professional field, especially during a virtual internship.
Jordan Hays - Fulfilling Her Public Passion
In my time as a GA, I have learned how to collaborate as part of a team.