Anthology Works to Strengthen Network for HBCUs
Earlier this year, Anthology launched the second cohort of its HBCU Data and Analytics Credential, which is an eight-part online course designed for individuals with an interest in institutional research and effectiveness. Covering everything from how enrollment practices shape student success to creating meaningful intercampus partnerships, the program consists of webinars, assignments, assessments and access to tailored resources. The current program will run through July.
In conjunction with UNCF, Kelli S. Rainey, Ed.D., Anthology’s Senior Director for Analytics to Innovate Services, along with Will Miller, Ph.D., Executive Director of Institutional Analytics, Effectiveness, and Strategic Planning at Jacksonville University, developed the HBCU Data and Analytics credential to fill the gap of trained professionals within the Institutional Research field, particularly for those who focus their work on HBCUs. Having worked in this capacity for many years, Rainey knew there was an ever-growing need for training focused on institutional data and analytics, and more importantly, a lack of pipeline where HBCUs could identify qualified candidates to fill these roles.
“In this day and age, it’s not enough for an institution to have the data, they also need a staff with an understanding of how best to harness that data,” said Rainey. “With this in mind, I thought ‘why don’t we train people who want to do this work?’ Predictive data is in such high demand and will only become more so—why not create a network of trained professionals who would know how to do the work on day one.”
With the intention of creating an online curriculum with real value and useful information, each lesson not only consists of a presentation led by Anthology, but also includes group conversations, collaborative assignments that have on-campus applications, and professional feedback. Additionally, participants can add value to their online career profiles by earning display badges for participation, completion and high achievement. The badges are awarded via Anthology Milestone, Anthology's skills and achievement platform.
Thus far, the credential has been wildly popular, exceeding even Rainey’s expectations. “We assumed the responders would be mostly institutional research professionals, but during the first cohort there was a wide variety of participants—from grad students looking to write research papers, to administrative professionals seeking professional development,” she explained. “I’m glad people are curious about the topic and even more excited to be on the way toward building a resource network of professionals with the skills, know-how and desire to study HBCU data in a meaningful way.”
Learn more about Anthology’s HBCU Data and Analytics Credential.