Q & A for Authentic Triton Open House

Q: How can the library partner with you? We certainly have some ideas and are excited to collaborate!
A: There are a number of ways the library is already collaborating with CE.  For example, the library connects CE’s Center for Business & Professional Development with public libraries in the community, where we are able to provide customized trainings and services to library employees and/or patrons.  The library also provides a variety of academic learning opportunities for the preschool children enrolled in the Child Development Center as well as children enrolled in CE summer youth camps.  The possibility of expanding such collaborations to reach an even greater audience through new program development is exciting and we welcome an enhanced partnership!   

Q: Why is it called "continuing" education?
A: The opportunity to learn something new is ongoing.  There is always something new to explore and learn about.  “Continuing Education” brings experiences, knowledge, and thoughts to the community through its passion to embrace lifelong learning and explore new hobbies. Unlike traditional education, which typically occurs during childhood and early adulthood, continuing education takes place throughout one's life, enabling individuals to update their skills, expand their knowledge, and stay current in their field.  Our motto is, “today’s the day to learn something new!”

Q: How can student support services (ie - CAAS) help best support continuing education students? What are the various programs available through CE?
A: The Center for Access and Accommodations (CAAS) can best support continuing education students by implementing a range of services and strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of adult learners. Here are some ways the CAAS can provide effective support through accessibility services and individualized support. Personalized support services such as academic coaching, tutoring, and counseling to address the diverse needs of continuing education students. This can help students navigate challenges, manage their workload, and stay motivated to achieve their educational goals.

Q: What does each representative of the CE area do in the Department?
A: Please see our CE Team Diagram and Umbrella Chart.

Q: How can employees from various departments participate in or contribute to the development of communication strategies and initiatives within the organization?
A: Our Continuing Education team enjoys the opportunity to explore Cross-Departmental Collaborations. This could involve forming cross-functional teams to brainstorm ideas, share insights, and develop comprehensive communication plans that consider the perspectives and expertise of individuals from diverse areas of the organization.

Q: Are there any upcoming workshops, seminars, or training sessions focused on improving communication skills or fostering cross-departmental conversations?
A: Typically, workshops, seminars, and training sessions presented by CE are custom developed to meet the specific needs of external clients and audiences from the health and business sectors.  Workshops, seminars, and training sessions focusing on our internal college needs, such as cross-departmental conversations and communications, have historically been presented by the PDC.

Q: Will the CE dept provide more CPR certification trainings soon?
A: The Center for Health Professionals will hold CPR courses throughout the semester. Interested students can register in CE or contact Michael Doligosa our Center for CECHP to inquire about course offerings.

Q: Could you implement class visits so you can monitor the quality of the instruction given to students?
A: Classes within CE’s Facility Engineering Technology (FET) credit program undergo the same evaluation process as all other credit programs at the college.  This evaluation process includes routine classroom visits in which faculty are observed to ensure the quality of the instruction and validity of the curriculum.  Faculty are provided a written report with commentary and suggestions for improvement.

Q: Is there a list available with the classes offered through CE that are covered under our employee tuition benefit?
A: Yes! Our Continuing Education staff works closely with Human Resources each semester or curate a list of courses that are available for the employee tuition waiver. We have the course list on hand so when you are ready to register for a course, please contact us and we are happy to inform you if the class is covered/not covered.

Q: What are the most rewarding aspects of work in the School of Continuing Education?
A: Being part of a team dedicated to helping people expand their knowledge, improve their skills, and develop their futures is very rewarding.  It is joyful to provide a foundation and a service to move folks forward in their lives.

Q: How connected do you feel to the larger Triton Community?
A: We're fortunate to have an excellent chance to collaborate with colleagues from various departments across our campus to develop innovative programming for the community. Engaging with independent contractors, adjuncts, and full-time faculty members enables us to collaborate across multiple divisions and gain deeper insights into the breadth of offerings available at our college. However, we often find that many individuals are unaware of the courses and services offered through Continuing Education (CE). For instance, our Facilities Engineering and Technology Program (FET), based in the Center for Business area, is a prime example. This program, which constitutes over 9% of Triton College's student population, is offered for college credit, yet many employees are unaware of this opportunity. CE serves as a dynamic bridge connecting the community college to the community by providing accessible education. 

Q: If a Triton employee wants to take a CE course, what is the process for enrollment?
A: To register for our continuing education courses, you have two convenient options. You can call our department at extension 3500, where our staff will assist you with the registration process. Alternatively, if you prefer to register online, you can visit our website and fill out the Online Registration Form.

Q: Which current employee of the School of Continuing Education office has worked for this department the longest?
A: Within our Continuing Education (CE) department, we have a wealth of experienced staff members. Lydia Skorus, from the CDC, celebrated her impressive 33rd year with Triton College this past March. Charlotte Wiley and Azucena Corral, also part of the CDC, have contributed over 16 years each to our institution. We're also excited to honor Minerva McLaren, who will be commemorating her 25th anniversary with Triton College this August. Minerva plays a vital role as our esteemed Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Coordinator, bringing invaluable experience to our team. Furthermore, Eric Morton, serving as our CE Program Coordinator, marks his 12th year at the college, while Katie Rullo, our Associate Dean of CE, is approaching her 11th anniversary this summer. With the addition of many new team members, we're presented with a unique opportunity to blend our established practices with fresh, innovative approaches.

Q: Can you clarify the differences between credit and non-credit courses that are offered through CE, especially those related to the medical field?
A: In the simplistic response, credit courses mean you are earning college credit for a course you have completed and non-credit means you receive a pass/fail on your transcript rather than a college credit. Our Continuing Education area works with vocational programs which are at times confused with credit courses. Vocational trainings provide short term certificate opportunities that focus on preparing individuals for specific occupations or trades. Vocational training programs are typically targeted towards individuals who seek entry into a particular industry, profession, or skilled trade. This may include high school students exploring career pathways, adults seeking career changes or retraining, and individuals transitioning from unemployment to the workforce. Continuing Education programs are able to be more flexible in their structure and duration.  Our Healthcare Programs will meet the requirements of state guidelines and accreditation boards to prepare students for a career. Typically, our CE healthcare programs are covered over one semester and prepare students to sit for a credentialing exam.

Q: What do you wish more people knew about you?
A: CE is deeply imbedded in the community!  We offer a variety of life enrichment courses located at seven different extension sites.  We develop and conduct customized apprenticeships and workforce trainings at business locations throughout the district.  We provide youth tutoring services Mondays-Thursdays at a local community recreation center during the academic school year.  We foster strong partnerships with local school districts and community-based organizations to give 4^th-12^th grade children the opportunity to partake in career exploration and college readiness programming.  We believe in not only bringing students to Triton’s campus, but also going out into the community in an effort to expand our reach.