Traci Lee

Traci Lee

About me

I currently serve as the Vice President of Business Solutions for Bridgepoint Education. In my present role, I provide guidance to the company's ground based and online colleges to optimize their operations while staying within regulatory guidelines.

I have over 22 years of experience in the education industry. My experience encompasses virtually all aspects of the education business, including admissions, financial aid, academics, career services, and management of multi-campus operations. I’ve held senior level management positions at Career Education Corporation, MedVance Institute and the University of Phoenix (Apollo Group) as well as providing consulting services to a multitude of colleges and universities during my tenure with Campus Management Corporation.

My focus has been on campus start ups, regulatory compliance, process improvement, and operational oversight of multiple campus colleges, including international campuses. I recognize the challenges of working in a highly regulated environment that has grown more complex as companies have expanded operations, either organically or through acquisition, to include multiple regulatory bodies and governing oversight entities.

I hold a B.S. degree in Business from Arizona State University and an M.A. degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix. I have completed the Apollo Group's Executive Development Program and the Career College Association's (now APSCU) Leadership Institute.

Activity

Michele - You are correct about the importance of compliant marketing. There has been increased emphasis on misrepresentation evidenced by the focus on this topic during the recent regulatory cycle. It is important for all to review the latest regulations related to this important topic.
Discussion Comment
Excellent insight, Michael. Communication is the answer to so many issues - including creating a compliant culture.
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Elyse - There are also some lists provided in the Additional Resources section for your reference.
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I have heard both perspectives on this "chicken and egg" debate on if regulations are impacted by media or if media reports are a result of enforced regulations. Regardless, it seems as though, like any industry, the public perception can be influenced by what they hear/see in the media which may only paint a picture of the "news worthy" items vs. the full scope of what the industry does that includes positive, but often less news-worthy activities/benefits.
Discussion Comment
Karen - I completely agree that it's important to keep internal audit going proactively instead of reacting to problems.
Discussion Comment
Check lists are certainly useful. I prefer some means of "electronic" checklists to identify what is missing without having to open a file to review the checklist. I'm not sure if you are referring to a physical checklist in a file or an electronic tracking mechanism. Regardless, both have value as long as the files are complete prior to any audit.
Discussion Comment
Agreed that it would be great to see more media pieces on the "good news". I encourage all to engage with the media by providing positive news pieces. Even if they are not always utilized, don't give up! Sometimes they don't make the cut just because of the volume of "hot news" for the day but on another day, it may make it! Graduation, spotlights on students/graduates, and employers hiring graduates all make for positive news. Community services and other initiatives can also be a good way to share some good news.
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Cathy - I think this is a great example of using the daily processes to do the "cross checks" as each department can "audit" the file to ensure the prior department completed the necessary documents/processes with these checklists.
Melanie - Institutions do have varying policies on what info should be shared between departments. It sounds like yours has gone beyond the FERPA guidelines to restrict information from the admissions department. I have typically seen other contact numbers shared between departments but, references I have sometimes seen restricted for certain departments/purposes. I will have to review the FERPA guidelines for specifics as I want to ensure what I post is current.
Discussion Comment
Jennifer - I agree with you - Internal audits should be welcomed versus resisted as it should produce better external audits.

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