christopher m. reber · 2018. 3. 22. · christopher m. reber - 3 - ccbc recently celebrated its...

Curriculum Vitae

CHRISTOPHER M. REBER EDUCATION Postdoctoral Certificate Institute for Educational Management Management Development Program Certificate Harvard University, Graduate School of Education, Boston, MA Ph.D., Education University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA Emphasis: Higher Education Cumulative G.P.A.: 4.0/4.00 M.A., College Student Personnel Administration Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH Emphasis: Student Development Cumulative G.P.A.: 4.0/4.00 "Graduate Student of the Year," B.A., Latin Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA Minor in History Cumulative G.P.A.: 3.89/4.00 Summa Cum Laude/Phi Beta Kappa Honors Semester Abroad: Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies Stanford University Program Rome, Italy

Christopher M. Reber - 2 - EXPERIENCE 2014 – Present: Community College of Beaver County, Monaca, PA Founded in 1966, Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) is a growing, comprehensive, independent, public community college enrolling more than 6,000 students in credit and noncredit programs annually. Located 12 miles northwest of the Pittsburgh International Airport, CCBC offers more than 75 certificate and associate degree programs and a wide range of continuing education and workforce development programs. CCBC is an Achieving the Dream Leader College and has achieved regional, statewide, and, increasingly, national recognition for its distinctive programs in Aviation Sciences; Nursing and Allied Health; Business, Arts, Sciences and Technology; and High School Academies. In 2017 the Aspen Institute named CCBC one of the Top 150 community colleges nationally in recognition of the college’s achievements in promoting student success. CCBC’s School of Aviation Sciences is nationally recognized with highly successful associate degree programs in Air Traffic Control, Professional Piloting, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and Aerospace Management. CCBC aviation alumni serve the aviation industry throughout the United States and the world. The college’s School of Nursing and Allied Health offers the top-ranked Practical Nursing Program in Pennsylvania, with 100% NCLEX pass rates in 11 out of the last 12 years, and a Phlebotomy Program with 100% Registry Exam pass rates annually since the program’s inception twenty years ago. CCBC has partnered with the Heritage Valley Health System, the community’s largest hospital, to continue to grow and develop the college’s Associate Degree in Nursing (AND) and various allied health programs that are leading educational preparation programs for the region’s health care system. CCBC’s ADN program currently enjoys an NCLEX pass rate of 94%. CCBC is focused on partnerships to create educational and career ladders from middle school through four-year and graduate degrees. CCBC has partnered with 40 regional school districts to educate high school students in STEM fields through college-based high school academies that provide high-impact, active learning opportunities in state-of-the-art College learning environments. The CCBC Academies were recently nominated for the national Bellwether Award for Community College Excellence by the Community College Futures Assembly. CCBC is one of 44 two- and four-year colleges nationwide, and the only community college in Pennsylvania to be selected by the United States Department of Education to provide federal Pell funding for high school students in the college’s High School Academy programs. CCBC is a workforce development leader in partnership with the regional advanced manufacturing industry, including programs to educate the region’s workforce for a rapidly expanding workforce bolstered by a $6 billion advanced manufacturing facility currently under construction two miles from the campus. Pennsylvania Business Central recently named CCBC one of the 100 leading organizations in Pennsylvania for the college’s contributions to community and economic development.

Christopher M. Reber - 3 -

CCBC recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in service to students and communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. The college’s 2016-2021 strategic plan, Partnerships and Pathways for Progress, focuses on a vision “to lead, educate, innovate and inspire;” a mission “to transform lives through personalized education, dynamic partnerships and high impact practices;” and four strategic priorities: “Leadership and Service,” “Partnerships and Preparation,” “Expansion and Innovation,” and “Connections and Engagement.”

President (2014 – Present) Reporting to the nine-person Community College of Beaver County Board of Trustees, I serve as the college’s Chief Executive Officer with full responsibility for all of the college’s programs and operations. CCBC has an annual operating budget of $30 million and employs approximately 350 full- and part-time faculty and staff. The college is growing in enrollment, financial strength, program development, geographic reach, partnerships, and models of excellence. CCBC operates a comprehensive main campus in Monaca, PA; an Aviation Sciences Center at the Beaver County Airport; an Aviation Academy at the Parkway West Career and Technology Center near the Pittsburgh International Airport in Allegheny County, PA; and a new nursing bridge program at the Western Area Career and Technology Center in Washington County, PA. The College will begin a new Criminal Justice Academy at Waynesburg University (PA) in fall 2018. At the request of their communities, the college is currently exploring the offering of additional programs in Greene County, PA, Ellwood City and Lawrence County, PA, and Venango County, PA. Selected Accomplishments:

• Led an 18-month process of strategic planning and community engagement, culminating in a new five-year strategic plan that was approved by the College’s Board of Trustees in fall 2016. Partnerships and Pathways for Progress: The CCBC Plan focuses on CCBC’s collective vision, mission and priorities as a high-achieving, comprehensive community college that offers a personal atmosphere for learning and student success.

• Led and supported college-wide efforts to further develop and grow a sustainable

college culture of planning, assessment and improvement. Created a new Office of Planning, Assessment and Improvement that reports to the College President. Oversaw and supported the continued growth and engagement of CCBC in Achieving the Dream, a national community college reform movement focused on student success and degree completion.


• Provided leadership and support for enhanced diversity awareness, education and appreciation throughout the CCBC community. Created the CCBC Presidential Advisory Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to lead college-wide efforts and advise the President in areas related to the recruitment and retention of a more diverse faculty, staff and study body; and educational and cultural initiatives to celebrate diversity, enhance awareness, and facilitate discussion about issues of importance to our region, nation, and the global community. Led and supported initiatives to develop partnerships with regional organizations that foster increased engagement and support for members of traditionally underrepresented groups and underserved communities. Provided leadership to grow the enrollment of returning adult students, including additional online, evening and weekend course offerings.

• Developed and chaired the Quality Education Council (QEC) of the Beaver County

Partnership for Community and Economic Growth. QEC membership is comprised of over 40 school district superintendents; college presidents and other postsecondary education staff; business, industry, government, human services and economic development leaders; early childhood education professionals; and other community members. The QEC meets monthly at CCBC and has developed K-12 and postsecondary education committees that have championed a vision for a future Beaver County K-12 educational system that would integrate high school and community college degree completion; create centers of excellence in state-of-the-art high school facilities; and contribute to the development of K-16 educational and career pathways throughout Western Pennsylvania.

• Led and supported the development of the Beaver Area Higher Education

Consortium, recently renamed Bridges and Pathways College Partnership, which is comprised of CCBC, Penn State Beaver, Geneva College and Robert Morris University. Consortium members are planning and developing a joint speaker and cultural series, additional articulations and collaborations among the consortium postsecondary educational partners, a future shared scholarship bank, a future innovation hub, and other collaborative efforts. Supported the development of more than 100 articulation agreements with regional colleges and universities, bringing the total number of CCBC articulation agreements to four-year institutions to over 600 nationally.


• Led and supported the growth and development of CCBC’s High School Academies, including an Aviation Academy at the Beaver County Airport and a new location in Allegheny County near the Pittsburgh International Airport; a Health Academy at the Monaca campus; a STEM Academy that began in fall 2017; a Criminal Justice Academy that will launch in fall 2018; and planning for future academies in construction, business and entrepreneurship, fine and performing arts, and an online academy. Provided leadership to secure a $1.5 million corporate gift, the largest in the college’s history, to endow a scholarship for academy students and provide seed funding for additional academy development. To date, 100% of CCBC High School Academy graduates have completed high school and continued on for postsecondary education, with over three-quarters of the graduating students matriculating to CCBC full-time to complete their associate degree, and, in many cases, pursue baccalaureate and graduate degree programs developed through partnerships with four-year institutions throughout the region and nation.

• Led the continued development and growth of partnerships with Shell Chemicals

and the regional petrochemicals industry. Developed and sponsored a regional Cracker Plant Expo attended by more than 1,000 community members including educational, apprenticeship, advanced manufacturing, business, government, and human services partners. Secured gifts from Royal Dutch Shell, Allegheny Foundation, Nova Chemicals, C.J. Betters Enterprises, Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, Equipment and Controls, Inc., BASF and others to support CCBC’s position as the advanced manufacturing workforce leader for the region. Developed and submitted more than $20 million in grant proposals to support CCBC workforce and economic development efforts, including a planned $4.5 million expansion of CCBC’s Process Technology Lab. Worked with Allegheny Conference, Chevron, Catalyst Connection, Benedum Foundation, Richard King Mellon Foundation, and others to create a Tristate Energy and Advanced Manufacturing (TEAM) Consortium that is led by CCBC.

• Hosted and led the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC)

Industry-Informed Infrastructure (I-3) Initiative, a year-long collaborative project to create and advance partnerships for economic development and workforce growth in Pennsylvania and Ohio. CCBC was chosen as the lead and host site for this project due to the College’s recognized leadership for workforce development throughout the tristate region of Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. Funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission and supported by AACC and the Community Colleges of Appalachia (CCA), the project engaged a wide range of community college leaders and industry partners from Chevron, IBM, Lincoln Electric, National Energy Technology Laboratory, SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority, Snap-On, and Work America, among others.

• Led and supported efforts to host over 650 middle school students and their families


annually on campus through the Beaver County Energy and Advanced Manufacturing Partnership in which CCBC plays a leadership role in collaboration with the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce and other organizations. Over 40 regional manufacturing and industrial organizations offer hands-on active learning demonstrations in Career Days in the Dome, including panel presentations that discuss emerging career opportunities and engage students in lively interaction.

• Encouraged the further engagement of CCBC faculty, staff and students in service

to community organizations and causes. Supported the development of a survey of employee community engagement to ascertain the current involvement of CCBC members in community activities and identify strategic areas for additional involvement. Attempted to lead by example. Led and supported focused college awareness and events to promote giving to the Beaver County United Way, resulting in record college support. Chaired the Beaver County March for Babies for the past two years, a year-long campaign to bring visibility and increased funding support to the March of Dimes in Beaver County, and hosted the annual March of Dimes Walkathon at CCBC. Chaired the 2015 regional campaign for Junior Achievement, among other charitable causes.

• Led and supported efforts to further develop an environment of transparency,

inclusion, respect, trust and open communication that encourages the broad involvement and engagement of students, faculty, staff, trustees and community members and engenders positive college-wide morale. Developed and continue to lead CCBC Forum, a monthly meeting for all faculty, staff and students to share information broadly and celebrate the contributions and successes of many members of the college and surrounding communities. Met monthly with leadership of Society of Faculty and Educational Support Personnel Association to discuss challenges and opportunities and facilitate open communication. Hosted monthly Pizza with the President lunch meetings to which all CCBC students are invited. Communicated regularly with the entire CCBC community through open fora, college meetings and events, e-mail, bi-weekly newsletters, and informal interaction on sidewalks and in buildings in order to be transparent, share information, seek input and broad participation in planning and problem-solving, build trust, and continue to develop a culture of inclusion, respect and openness.

• Led and supported the creation and improvement of programs designed to

recognize, thank, and inspire students, faculty, staff and community members. These included the Night of Excellence, a celebration of the academic and service


accomplishments of students; a new Employee Recognition Luncheon at which employees celebrating milestone anniversaries are honored; a new Health Professions Pinning Ceremony that combines previous ceremonies for nursing and radiologic technology graduates; a reorganized annual Commencement ceremony with increased emphasis on celebrating the success of students and their families; an annual High School Student Celebration honoring more than 400 high school students who participate in the CCBC Aviation Academy, Health Academy, College in High School and Dual Enrollment Programs; and a 50 Shining Stars Golden Gala Dinner and Celebration of CCBC’s 50th Anniversary.

• Provided leadership to develop a comprehensive, systemic and sustainable college-

wide process for enrollment management that facilitates planned enrollment growth through new program development; refines when, where and how programs are offered to reach an expanded population of students; and integrates marketing, recruitment and retention strategies. Reversed a five-year trend of enrollment decline to begin an upward trend of enrollment growth starting in 2016. Achieved 1% FTE growth in fall 2016; 2.6% growth in spring 2017; over 3.5% growth in summer 2017; over 13% growth in College in High School enrollment in 2016-17; and continued growth in fall 2017 and spring 2018 enrollment, placing CCBC at or near the top of Pennsylvania’s 14 community colleges with respect to enrollment growth.

• Developed a task force to fully explore and research the efficacy of developing

student apartment housing on campus. The CCBC Board of Trustees and CCBC Foundation Board have approved recommendations to proceed with project planning, which is currently underway for projected fall 2019 occupancy. CCBC will be only the second community college in Pennsylvania to provide student apartment housing, which will be organized to provide distinctive Living/Learning Communities that are focused on student engagement and success.

• Led and oversaw activities and processes to enhance the college’s financial

strength, including the development and implementation of a college-wide budget planning process that more effectively utilizes data in planning. Achieved 2016-17 revenue growth of nearly $2 million over the previous year; growth of the college’s


net position and reserve fund over the past two years; and development of a five-year plan to achieve national benchmarks in these areas. Led a multiple-year and ongoing process to reduce college expenditures and enhance efficiency where possible while investing in new initiatives designed to grow enrollment and revenue long term. Recently completed a multi-million-dollar campus transformation project that included land acquisition for future college development, parking lot repaving, and campus-wide landscaping and signage programs, while limiting the college’s 2017-18 tuition and fee increase to 1.55%, the second lowest increase of the 14 Pennsylvania community colleges and lowest at CCBC in many years.

• Led the engagement of the CCBC and surrounding communities in the College’s year-long 50th Anniversary Celebration and launch of the college’s first-ever, five-year, $12 million capital campaign that is positioning CCBC to achieve new levels of excellence and distinction in its student success initiatives, and enhanced leadership and service for the economic revitalization and transformation of the community and region. Led the recruitment of additional CCBC Foundation Board members and the development of a culture of philanthropy that is gaining rapid momentum.

• Supported the development of new credentials and program offerings that address high-priority workforce needs, promote regional economic development, and have potential for excellence. These include new and prospective programs in Process Technology; Allied Health; Data Analytics; Certified Flight Instructor Ground School; Aviation International Studies Curriculum; Investigation and Protection; Sports, Arts and Entertainment; Software Development; Apprenticeship Readiness Training; Early Learning and Development; Welding; and others.

• Led and supported the development of new and/or expanded partnerships to

encourage the education of court-adjudicated and other at-risk youth; the engagement and success of individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups and underserved communities; expanded opportunities for regional workforce development; increased engagement with Greater Pittsburgh and other regional leaders in areas of common workforce and educational interest; educational pathways to four-year and graduate degree programs for CCBC students; and others.

• Encouraged and supported focused efforts to refine the New Student Orientation and Onboarding processes; supported the development and offering of new processes for orienting trustees and part-time faculty; and supported the review and improvement of developmental courses and services to improve student retention, success and degree completion.


• Led and supported the growth and development of the CCBC Athletics Program

that focuses on academics first and provides academic and personal support for student athletes. Supported the continued growth of academic excellence among CCBC student athletes and celebrated the collective 3.13 cumulative GPA of all student athletes in 2016-17, a marked increase consistent with an upward trend in student athlete academic performance over the past three years. Supported the addition of new sports in women’s basketball, and men’s and women’s cross-country, in order to enhance CCBC’s opportunities for student engagement and further promote student success in athletics and college-wide.

• Led and supported efforts to advance CCBC community member awareness and training for emergency preparedness. Appointed an Emergency Planning Task Force to provide ongoing leadership to enhance the safety and security of all members of the CCBC community, including periodic training, educational programs, facilities upgrades, and planning for response to emergencies.

• Developed and co-led the first-ever Western Pennsylvania Community College Leadership Institute, a year-long program for teams of faculty and staff from CCBC, Butler County Community College, and Westmoreland County Community College. Supported CCBC’s team of faculty and staff throughout their experience, including CCBC’s group project focused on strategies to support the academic and personal success of CCBC High School Academy students.

• Met on multiple occasions with elected officials, in both political parties and at all

levels of government, to continue to develop a strong and respectful relationship, discuss county, regional, statewide and national priorities, and gain input into and advice regarding CCBC’s vision and goals in the areas of workforce need, economic development, and quality of life. Met regularly with a wide range of elected officials to promote educational priorities including the Beaver County Commissioners; all members of the regional state legislative delegation; PA Governor Tom Wolf; PA Secretary of Education Pedro Rivera; U.S. Senator Robert Casey; U.S. Senator Pat Toomey; U.S. Congressman Keith Rothfus; and others.

• Gained approval from the Beaver County Board of Commissioners for a 20-year

extension of CCBC’s sponsorship agreement, and a 50% increase in the annual college sponsorship budget request ceiling.

• Participated in, and, where appropriate, assumed leadership roles in community

organizations, including Board of Directors of Beaver County Chamber of Commerce; Chair of Chamber Governmental Affairs Committee; Chair of 2015-16 and 2016-17 Beaver County March of Dimes March for Babies; Chair of Quality Education Council of Beaver County Partnership for Community and Economic Growth; Board of Directors of Beaver County Educational Trust; Board


of Directors of Beaver Inclusion, Diversity and Awareness Council; and Member, Beaver Rotary, among others. Attended periodic meetings of Beaver County Superintendents, United Way, and other organizations.

• Attended national meetings of the Association of Community College Trustees; American Association of Community Colleges; Achieving the Dream; Strategic Horizons Community College Network; Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Community College Futures Assembly; American Association of Colleges and Universities; and many statewide meetings of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, among others. Participated in multiple presentations at national conferences, in national association publications, and at statewide and regional meetings.

• Led and supported the development of a new employee classification system. Oversaw a performance planning and review process for Administrative and Confidential employees that includes the development of annual goals, professional development plans, and employee and supervisory outcomes and performance reviews.

• Commissioned Kansas State University to conduct their IDEA survey of college

leaders at CCBC. Invited full-time CCBC faculty and full-time and part-time CCBC staff to complete the survey in 2015 and 2016 in order to gain insight into my leadership and suggestions for how I can become a better leader. Shared and discussed full and unedited results with the entire college community.

• Promoted CCBC throughout Beaver County, the surrounding region, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the nation as an institution committed to partnerships, programs and activities that support students, workforce and economic development, and quality of life for the region’s people and organizations. Oversaw the development of nearly 100 news releases and news conferences annually, and expanded digital marketing, resulting in significant increases of print, electronic and social media coverage of the college.

2002 – 2014: Venango College of Clarion University, Oil City, PA Founded in 1867, Clarion University of Pennsylvania is a multi-purpose public university offering a wide variety of associate, baccalaureate, and graduate programs. One of fourteen universities in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, Clarion University is a system leader in


program accreditation, on-line education, and a highly respected participant in regional economic development. The University served approximately 7,000 students and had a budget in excess of $100 million during the period of my service there. Established in 1961, Clarion University–Venango Campus, later renamed Venango College of Clarion University under my leadership, is the oldest regional campus in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. At the time of its founding, the campus was considered to be Pennsylvania’s first community college, and throughout its history has had a core focus on offering community college programming within a public university, eventually adding stackable credentials at the baccalaureate and graduate levels under my leadership. Venango College, now Clarion’s College of Health and Human Services, is one of Clarion’s three academic colleges. During the period of my service the college offered associate degrees, baccalaureate degrees, a Master of Science in Nursing degree and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in addition to a wide range of academic concentrations, certificates and continuing education programs. The College’s academic programs were organized into a School of Nursing and Allied Health, and a School of Humanities, Sciences and Technology, both of which housed departments that were considered state-wide leaders in partnerships and collaboration. Led the development of a new School of Health Sciences that housed additional bachelor and graduate programs at the Clarion campus, including nursing, rehabilitative sciences, communication science disorders, athletic training, sports management, wellness, and health/physical education. Bolstered by the support of the community, college enrollments grew steadily during my service at Clarion University. Venango College became one of three academic colleges at Clarion University under my leadership, offering programs at the Venango and Clarion campuses, at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, and on-line.

Executive Dean, Venango College of Clarion University (2002 – 2014) I served as the chief executive officer and academic dean of Venango College, one of three colleges of Clarion University and a separate location in Oil City with additional off-campus sites and online programs. Responsible for and supervised all aspects of the college’s operations, including academic affairs, academic support services, advancement, marketing and university relations, admissions and financial aid, continuing education, career services, student affairs, finance and administration, physical plant and maintenance, and others. Chaired the Venango Dean’s Advisory Council and served on the University’s executive management team as one of six members of the President’s Cabinet. Selected Accomplishments:

• Led major growth at Venango College, including unprecedented enrollment growth and the development of new programs designed to address community and regional needs.

• Led and supported the development of a new Department of Allied Health and an


expanded School of Nursing and Allied Health, which offered nationally accredited associate, baccalaureate, master’s degrees and a doctoral degree, comprising one of the largest nursing and allied health enrollments in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and the most comprehensive ladder of nursing credentials in PASSHE. The School of Nursing and Allied Health had a state-wide reputation for partnerships, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, offering traditional and extended programs utilizing a variety of educational modalities.

• Led the development of a new Department of Applied Technology and a School of Humanities, Sciences and Technology. Applied technology workforce development concentrations were offered in partnership with accredited, certified, licensed, and/or otherwise approved technical education organizations. An associate of applied science in industrial technology degree became a ground-breaking credential in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education through its dynamic partnership structure, and over 23 industrial concentrations were offered in collaboration with six technical education partners. A new bachelor of applied science in technology leadership degree was developed under my leadership to provide continuing upward career and educational mobility with courses offered entirely online in the junior and senior years.

• Provided leadership and support for the development of several new certificate

programs including massage therapy and medical office assistant, an associate of applied science in industrial technology degree, an associate of science in criminal justice degree, an associate of science in respiratory care degree, an associate of applied science in administration technology degree, a bachelor of science in allied health leadership degree, a bachelor of applied science in technology leadership degree, a traditional bachelor of science in nursing degree, a forensic nursing post-baccalaureate certificate, and a doctor of nursing practice degree. I also worked with colleagues to develop a new online bachelor’s degree completion program in criminal justice administration.

• Led a planning process to develop an Honors Program at Venango College, and

supported the growth and development of the program in collaboration with university and community colleagues.

• Working closely with the Clarion University Foundation, Inc., raised over $12

million in private support for the campus including support for five named student apartment buildings, a named and endowed research center in the campus’ Charles L. Suhr Library, a $1 million renovation of the West End Pond, a $1.5 million Nursing and Allied Health Simulation Lab, and additional support for programs and endowed scholarships. Solicited the largest donation from a single donor in Clarion University history.

• In partnership with the Clarion University Foundation, Inc., developed a vision and


plan to add apartment-style housing at the campus; collaborated with Foundation colleagues to oversee construction and opening of the first two fully-funded buildings in fall 2004, a third building in fall 2006, and two additional buildings in fall 2009. Supported the development of a site plan for a seven-building complex.

• Developed a new Venango Office of Marketing and University Relations and created a dynamic marketing and advertising program that significantly enhanced the campus’ image and visibility in the region.

• Worked closely with all elected public officials and community leaders to further

develop the campus’ potential to serve the region; consistently advocated support for the campus and its mission.

• Led planning and development of enhanced student life and diversity programs and

services, including residence life services, speakers, club sports and intramurals, and other social and cultural events to promote an appreciation for diversity and multi-cultural perspectives, support student apartment residents and a growing student population.

• Led two strategic planning processes for Venango College involving all university

constituencies and community leaders.

• Working with university, college, and community constituents and advisory committees, oversaw major facilities enhancements including five new student apartment facilities, a renovated campus pond with community amenities, a state-of-the-art nursing and allied health simulation lab, an expanded and renovated Robert W. Rhoades Student Center, a reconfigured campus entrance road and storm water management system, new parking lots and a new maintenance building.

• Provided leadership for continuous quality improvement and growth, including a

significantly enhanced infrastructure, improved campus processes, and an evolving shared vision for the campus’ future development as a center of excellence in the University and region.

• Hired faculty and staff with skills and experience appropriate for contributing to

and leading the campus’ vision and growth.

• Working with community and university leaders, supported and oversaw the creation of the Venango Vision Regional Leadership Institute, a year-long leadership series for youth, emerging leaders, and seasoned leaders of the community. Housed at Venango College, the Institute focused on the challenges confronting the community over the next twenty years and was made possible through community funding support.


• Provided community leadership through active involvement in a wide range of community boards, projects, and initiatives (see “Community Leadership” section below). Maintained a high community profile to advance the University’s mission in the region.

• Oversaw a year-long 50th Anniversary Celebration that engaged large numbers of

university and community constituents and culminated in the announcement of the creation of Venango College of Clarion University in April 2012.

1987 – 2002: The Pennsylvania State University at Erie, The Behrend College Penn State Behrend is a dynamic, comprehensive undergraduate and graduate college of Penn State serving northwestern Pennsylvania and the tristate region. Penn State Behrend is Erie’s only research and outreach university and serves undergraduate and graduate students in a wide range of programs. Behrend is a highly successful institution that has achieved significant and unprecedented growth while focusing on quality. The College’s advancement program is aggressive and highly successful and has been integral to the College’s success. Penn State completed a $1.3 billion capital campaign in 2003. Behrend College’s campaign goal was $50 million, and over $52 million was raised during the college campaign that I led.

Associate Provost for Advancement and University Relations (1998 – 2002) At the request of the College’s Provost and Dean (chief executive officer) and the Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations (university-wide advancement officer), I served as Penn State Behrend’s chief advancement officer during the College’s highly successful $50 million capital campaign. Responsible for all of the College’s fund raising activities during a comprehensive, University-wide capital campaign, including major gifts, planned giving and endowments, annual fund, corporate and foundation relations, and alumni relations. Also responsible for University Relations including all media interface, College publications and the web site; special events; Logan House (athenaeum) programming; and WPSE, a commercially-licensed business news and information radio station serving the region’s professional and business community. Developed fund-raising goals in collaboration with University colleagues, reorganized unit processes and procedures to maximize efficiency and ensure a coordinated development effort, and worked with community volunteers and University leadership to advocate and plan a corporate capital campaign and a faculty and staff campaign. Provided leadership and support for the College’s 50th anniversary celebration. Selected Accomplishments:

• Achieved record receipts and campaign commitments each year during my service as the College’s chief advancement officer, leading to a decision to increase Behrend’s campaign goal by 139% during the public phase.


• Developed more than 80 proposals requesting $168 million in support of the

campaign.

• Played a leadership role in the successful completion of a $7 million gift to build a multi-faith chapel and carillon at Behrend that has achieved national distinction.

• Developed and implemented a corporate campaign sponsored by the Erie

Conference on Community Development. Recruited 30 CEO’s to solicit more than 200 organizations during the corporate campaign’s six-month window. Raised more than $6 million in corporate gifts to the College.

• Developed and implemented a five-year Faculty Staff Campaign. Recruited 75

faculty and staff volunteers. Working with the Faculty Staff Campaign Committee, developed a new Faculty Staff Scholarship Endowment and achieved a 140% increase in faculty and staff participation and a record 226% increase in dollars raised, exceeding $200,000 from 140 faculty and staff.

• Organized a first-ever All-Class Reunion that was highly successful and became an

annual college event.

• Reorganized the College’s advancement unit, upgrading positions, reengineering processes, and recruiting new staff to maximize the unit’s success. Developed a University Relations office that was organized to support the College’s fund-raising and alumni participation goals.

• Oversaw a full schedule of special events at Logan House, the College’s athenaeum

for which I had responsibility and which was featured in the Washington Post and American Airlines Magazine. Developed a systematic plan to cultivate and steward donors, and a program for faculty and student dinners and out-of-class activities that included optional etiquette programming to teach business protocol and prepare students for the career search process.

• Provided leadership to develop an Entrepreneurship Advisory Board of 25

corporate CEO’s that advised students in a senior entrepreneurship course and advised the College’s academic leadership in a long-term project to create entrepreneurship offerings throughout the undergraduate and graduate curriculum.

• Provided leadership to support the development of Behrend’s Institute on the American Dream funded by a benefactor and advised by 20 community leaders who were donors and prospective donors.


• Worked closely with a Capital Campaign Committee led by the University’s chairperson of the Board of Trustees and comprised of 14 corporate and community CEO’s.

• Developed an annual black tie recognition dinner for major benefactors, and a new Behrend Medallion Scholarship Endowment Dinner that recognized a community leader each year in whose name a scholarship endowment was created at the College.

• Working with a professional radio staff, oversaw WPSE’s growth and

development. This radio station was one of only five in the nation owned by a university and having a commercial license from the FCC at the time of my service to Penn State Erie. Supported the development of WPSE Partners for Business featuring more than 150 business and community leaders whose interviews aired regularly and whose financial sponsorship of the station made it a self-supporting program. WPSE attracted prospective donors to the life of the College while serving a community need that was closely matched with Behrend’s mission and strengths. WPSE’s programming aired 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and included exclusive coverage of CBS Radio and Business Radio Network programming.

Dean of Student Affairs and Affiliate Assistant Professor of Education (1987 – 1998) Responsible to the Provost and Dean (Penn State Erie’s Chief Executive Officer) for all Student Affairs programs and services including student activities, student union, leadership development, Greek life, residential life, judicial affairs, personal counseling, career development and placement services, internships, health and wellness services, intramural and recreational programs, educational equity programs, new student orientation, religious affairs, commuter student programs and services, services for physically-challenged and learning-disabled students, Veterans affairs, child care services, a commercial radio station, and others. Served as an advocate for students and advised College and University leadership as appropriate. Supervised a staff of 40. Oversaw a new


graduate student personnel option at Penn State Erie for second-year students enrolled in the College of Education's master's degree program in student personnel and taught courses in that program. Promoted to position of Associate Provost for Advancement and University Relations (Chief Advancement Officer) in April 1998. Selected Accomplishments:

• Developed a two-time, national award-winning Speaker Series featuring speakers of national and international prominence.

• Led development of a three-credit freshman seminar taught by a team of faculty

and staff. Taught many offerings of the course.

• Organized and chaired the Diversity and Educational Equity Committee, an all-college committee responsible for developing and implementing the College's strategic plan for diversity. Provided leadership to develop human relations and multicultural programming for the Penn State Behrend and Greater Erie communities.

• Upgraded a week-long new student orientation program to a year-long program

involving a wide variety of faculty and staff. Developed and oversaw an annual Academic Convocation to open the academic year.

• Developed program statements for three renovations of the Reed Student Union

that provided a new comprehensive counseling center, an integrated student activities office, quiet study space and meeting facilities, student organization office space, a commercially-licensed radio station, an upscale café/eatery and nightclub, a multi-purpose commons, and a college information center.

• Developed a program statement for a new residence hall housing the College's

Honors program. Provided leadership and support for expanded developmental and social programs in the residence halls involving faculty, staff, and guests of the College. Over 200 such programs were offered each year.

• Led and supported the creation and development of Behrend College’s Chapter of

Omicron Delta Kappa, a prominent national honorary and service fraternity.

• Oversaw the development of a career and life planning course designed for underclassmen, and a job placement course for juniors and seniors.

• Developed and filled two full-time staff psychologist positions, significantly

enhancing personal counseling services and resources.

• Supported and oversaw the development of campus-wide wellness services. Hired


a full-time certified registered nurse practitioner to redesign Health Services with an emphasis on wellness and preventive care. Developed program statement for the renovation of a comprehensive on-campus wellness center.

• Designed and directed a two-year, campus-wide alcohol awareness program with funding support from the United States Department of Education, Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE). Oversaw the development of a comprehensive drug, alcohol, and wellness program.

• Supported the enhancement of an intramurals program that involved over 2,000

students in 35 recreational categories each year.

• Developed a five-year strategic plan for student activities focusing on the increased and creative integration of the curriculum and co-curriculum.

• Implemented a year-long student leadership development program comprised of workshops, a course, and weekend retreats involving students, faculty, and staff.

• Provided leadership to establish a Greek Life program that supported the academic

and student life missions of the College. Worked closely with students and Faculty Council to develop standards for a system of 10 national fraternities and sororities.

• Developed a Center for Service Leadership that encouraged philanthropic

involvement of Greek and other student organizations, and advocated and developed a full-time director of Greek Life and Service Leadership Activities position.

• Oversaw development and implementation of a comprehensive Student Affairs

self-study to assess student needs, interests, and perceptions of program and service effectiveness. Established and chaired a Student Life Task Force to implement continuous quality improvement initiatives.

• Provided leadership to enhance religious affairs programs. Worked closely with the

Diocese of Erie, United Ministries in Higher Education, and the regional Jewish community to organize a Catholic Campus Ministry Board, a Protestant Campus Ministry Board, a Jewish Student Organization and a Religious Affairs Council.

• Provided leadership to establish a self-supporting, 1000-watt commercial radio

station serving a metropolitan population of 300,000 and providing educational opportunities for over 100 students.

• Oversaw start-up and development of a University-operated, self-supporting child

care center offering quality part-time and full-time child care services for the University and the community, and serving 80 children. The Center is accredited


by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

• Provided leadership to advocate and secure a student activities fee at all Penn State locations.

• Chaired Penn State’s University-wide Council of Chief Student Affairs Officers

and developed standards for Student Affairs at all University locations. 1984 – 1987: Lakeland Community College, Mentor, Ohio

Director, Human Resource Development Division (1985 – 1987) Responsible for line direction and supervision of a new academic division encompassing business and industrial functions. Oversaw programs enrolling in excess of 6,000 students annually in credit and noncredit courses. Supervised a staff of twelve with responsibility for continuing education, community service programs, Center for Business and Industry, cooperative education, technology transfer, business incubation, and Leadership Lake County. Directly responsible for curriculum innovation resulting in more than 100 new courses including a management/development institute, professional licensing courses, and a two-year program in air traffic control. Coordinated and implemented marketing strategies for the division. Wrote and coordinated grant proposals to appropriate funding sources to support division activities; grants received included awards from the Ohio Board of Regents, Cleveland Foundation, and United States Department of Education. Reported to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and served on President's Cabinet. Selected Accomplishments:

• Created Lakeland Center for Business and Industry through which customized training for regional business and industry was marketed, implemented, and evaluated. Hired director and support staff. More than 1,200 employees at 30 regional organizations were trained during first year of operation.

• Developed a new comprehensive cooperative education program. Wrote and

coordinated grant proposals in excess of $1 million to support the program. Hired three professional and two support staff. Coordinated and facilitated faculty and administrative efforts to design cooperative education curricula. More than 125 students were placed at 60 area business, industrial, governmental, and human


service organizations during first year of operation.

• Facilitated conversion to credit of more than 40 noncredit course offerings generating enrollment of more than 700 students.

• Representing the President, coordinated efforts to establish and implement

Leadership Lake County, a nonprofit, year-long program for aspiring community leaders. Facilitated formation of a Board of Directors comprised of 15 Greater Cleveland chief executive officers representing business, industrial, education, government, and labor organizations. Facilitated identification and hiring of an executive director who was housed at the College.

• Provided leadership to design and implement a wide variety of conferences and

institutes.

• Developed numerous workshops and seminars focusing on human development theory and applications for managers.

• Provided leadership to integrate activities of Ohio Technology Transfer

Organization (OTTO) into mainstream of academic leadership at the College.

• Proposed, organized, and supervised a new academic division to respond to business, industrial, and community needs.

• Established and guided advisory committees for the Human Resource Development

Division, Cooperative Education, and Lifelong Learning. Director of Lifelong Learning (1984 – 1985)

Responsible for the administration of the Lifelong Learning Division, encompassing all noncredit continuing education and community service activities including more than 600 noncredit courses, seminars, workshops, and conferences enrolling in excess of 5,000 students annually. Hired and supervised more than 100 part-time instructors annually. Established and maintained division record-keeping and computerized registration systems. Interacted with business/industry, human services, and community leaders to develop and promote appropriate educational programs. Developed innovative courses to meet the training/development and personal enrichment needs of the College's service area. Implemented ongoing programs designed for special populations. Evaluated courses and


instructors annually. Developed quarterly schedule of credit-free educational programs. Promoted to position of Director, Human Resource Development Division, in September 1985.

1981 – 1984: The Pennsylvania State University at Erie, The Behrend College

Assistant Dean of Student Affairs Responsible for the creation and supervision of the College student activities program, management of the Reed Student Union facilities and programs, cultural programming, new student orientation, and a variety of general Student Affairs functions. Advised more than 40 student organizations and oversaw the implementation of their goals. Supervised a full cultural, social, and recreational program of co-curricular activities. Taught two leadership development courses, a course for nontraditional students, and guest lectured in numerous courses. Managed a student check-cashing service, a snack and information center, student union and student activities facilities, and student government fiscal operations. Responsible for stimulating and coordinating all faculty, staff, student, and University efforts to realize the program's educational objectives.

1980 – 1981: Firelands College of Bowling Green State University, Huron, Ohio

Coordinator of Student Activities (Full-time Graduate Assistantship) Developed and supervised all aspects of the co-curricular activities program and calendar in cooperation with campus organizations and departments. Served as student government administrative advisor. Conducted research studies focusing on student involvement and implications for student retention. Provided academic advising for business and undeclared majors.

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS “The CCBC and Shell Chemicals Partnership: Leading Workforce Development for the Region’s Future.” Invited Panelist at Western PA Financial Industries Network Quarterly Meeting, Pittsburgh, PA, February 2018. “Energy Innovations: Regional and Scalable Solutions Driven by Industry.” Invited Panelist at American Association of Community Colleges Workforce Development Institute, New Orleans, LA, January 2018. “Filling the Gap: Will We Be Ready?” Invited Panelist at Pittsburgh Business Times Regional


Symposium on Workforce and Economic Development Challenges and Opportunities, Pittsburgh, PA, December 2017. “Tri-State Blueprint for Petrochemicals Workforce Development. Invited Panel Presentation Chair at Tri-State Shale Coalition Annual Conference, Canton, OH, November 2017. “Readying the Next Generation for Careers in Advanced Manufacturing & Petrochemicals.”

Invited Panelist, 2017 Northeast U.S. Petrochemical Construction Conference, Pittsburgh, PA, June 2017.

“Preparing the Workforce for Shell’s Ethane Cracker Plant.” Panel Presentation at Allegheny Conference Regional Investors’ Council Member Meeting, Pittsburgh, PA, April 2017. “How Did I Come Out to My Kids? My Journey to Truth and Happiness.” Contributing Author in Go Ask Your Dad: Questions, Answers and Stories About Fathers, Fatherhood and Parenting. Domasky, Dominick and Lauffer, Doug. Middletown, DE: Motivation Champs Publishing, 2016, pp. 39-43. “My First Day: A New President Tackles MSCHE Warning Status.” Presentation at Middle

States Commission on Higher Education Annual Conference, Philadelphia, PA, December 2016.

“Leadership for Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development.” Invited Panelist at Shale

Insight Conference, Pittsburgh, PA, September 2016. “Beaver County’s Progress, Opportunities and Emerging Workforce.” Invited Panelist

at Pittsburgh Business Times “Corridors of Opportunity,” Aliquippa, PA, April 2016. “CCBC’s High School Academies: Changing the Landscape of Education in Western Pennsylvania.” Invited Presentation for National Bellwether Award Competition at Community College Futures Assembly, Orlando, FL, February 2016. “Pathways and Partnerships.” Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Trustee Quarterly, fall 2015, pp. 36-37. “Pennsylvania’s Community Colleges: Key Partners in Workforce Development and Training.” Bowls Rice, LLP, Views & Vision, fall 2015, pp. 28-29. “Designing Academic Pathways: CCBC’s High School Academies.” Presentation at ACCT Leadership Congress, San Diego, CA, October 2015. “A Texas-Based Partnership to Address the Needs of the Petrochemicals Industry.” Presentation at American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) National Convention, San Antonio, TX, April 2015.


“Creating Contrails: Partnerships and Pathways for Enabling Student Success.” Presentation at American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) National Convention, San Antonio, TX, April 2015. “Lessons Learned from An Undergraduate Faculty Hero.” Remarks to Inductees and Members of Clarion University’s Phi Kappa Phi Chapter, Clarion, PA, April 2011. “Partnerships in the Curriculum to Address Workforce Needs and Create Educational and Career Ladders.” Presentation to Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) Board of Governors, Harrisburg, PA, November 2009. “A Call to Civic Engagement.” Presentation to Oil City High School Honors Assembly, May 2009. “Seize the Moment: Thoughts About Leadership and Responsibility.” Presentation to Clarion

University Phi Theta Kappa members and inductees, Franklin, PA, March 2003. “The New Majority: Celebrating Adult Learners on Campus.” Keynote Address at Annual Conference of the Adult Learners on Campus (ALOC) Consortium, Oil City, PA, October 2002. “Goal Setting Perspectives from a Senior Campus College Advancement Officer.” Presentation to Penn State Senior Advancement Officers, University Park, PA, April 2000. “Dr. Bob Mehalso’s Gift to Penn State Behrend: Mehalso Observatory and Scholarship Endowment.” Case Study Presentation to Penn State Senior Advancement Officers,

University Park, PA, December 1999. “Effective Stewardship and the Fund-Raising Life Cycle.” Panel Presentation at Senior Advancement Officers’ Retreat, Seven Springs Resort, PA, February 1999. "In Search of Community." Paper presented to Continuing and Distance Education Faculty, Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, Erie, PA, August 1996. “Perspectives from a Senior Student Affairs Professional.” Panel Presentation at Pennsylvania College Personnel Association Workshop, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, October 1995. “A Sexual Harassment Case Study.” Paper Presented at Annual Meeting of Penn State Sexual Harassment Resource Persons and Counselors, University Park, PA, November 1994. “The First-Year Experience Course: The Small College Approach.” Paper Presented at Annual Conference of the Pennsylvania College Personnel Association (PCPA), Lancaster, PA,


March 1991. “The First-Year Experience Course: The Penn State Behrend Approach.” Paper Presented at University-wide Conference on the Freshman Seminar, University Park, PA, November 1989. Student Development/Student Affairs Programs and Services for Noncredit Continuing Education Populations in Comprehensive American Community Colleges. Doctoral Dissertation, University of Pittsburgh, Dissertation Abstracts International, Number 8808254, 1988. “Sexual Harassment: Perspectives from the Field.” Paper Presented at Penn State

University-wide Conference for Sexual Harassment Counselors, University Park, PA, November 1988. “Developing Community in the Residence Halls.” Paper Presented at Annual Penn State University-wide Student Leadership Conference, Hazleton, PA, August 1987. “Leadership Breakfasts for Supervisors and Middle Managers: A Highly Successful Case Study Utilizing a Business/Industry Training Firm.” Paper Presented at Ohio Continuing Higher Education Association (OCHEA) Annual Conference, Columbus, OH, July 1985. “Development of Nontraditional Student Organizations,” Programming, April 1984, pp. 40-43. Reprinted in November 1984 issue of the United States Association of Evening Students (AES) Newsletter. “Implementation of Student Development Theories,” Programming, March 1983, pp. 42-45. “A Student Leadership Development Program Model for Small Campuses.” Paper Presented at National Association for Campus Activities Annual Convention, Baltimore, MD, February 1983. “The Non-Traditional Student Organization: A Key to Integration.” Paper presented at Annual Meetings of the National Association for Campus Activities (Baltimore, MD, February 1983) and the Pennsylvania Association of Student Personnel Administrators (Carlisle, PA, October 1982). HONORS AND AWARDS Paul Harris Fellow. Presented Twice by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International “In Appreciation of Tangible and Significant Assistance Given for the Furtherance of Better Understanding and Friendly Relations Among Peoples of the World” (September 2017 and March


2008). Top 100 Person. Presented by Pennsylvania Business Central to “Top 100 People in Central Pennsylvania Business and Economic Development in Recognition of Outstanding Leadership of their Organizations and Communities” (February 2017). Partner in Business Award. Presented by the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce in Recognition of Exemplary Leadership in Developing Partnerships with the Venango Area Business Community (April 2010). Phi Kappa Phi. Inducted as a Founding Faculty/Staff Member into Clarion University’s Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi, “The Nation’s Oldest, Largest and Most Selective Collegiate Honor Society for All Academic Disciplines” (April 2003). Adult Learners on Campus (ALOC) Award of Appreciation. Presented by ALOC Executive Board at Annual ALOC Conference (October 2002). Student Affairs Award of Appreciation. Presented by Penn State Erie Student Affairs Colleagues at the College’s Annual Honors and Awards Convocation (May 1999). Benjamin A. Lane Award for Outstanding Service to the College. Awarded Annually by Faculty Council of Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, “To a Faculty or Staff Member in Recognition of Outstanding Service to the College Community” (May 1992). The Pennsylvania State University Kudos Award. Awarded by university-wide Student Affairs colleagues “For Developing Inspiring and Energizing Programs and Activities for University Students” (June 1989). Omicron Delta Kappa "Unsung Hero" Award. Awarded annually by the Omicron Delta Kappa Society at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College “To That administrator Whose Commitment to Student and Institutional Excellence Warrants Commendation and Recognition” (June 1984). 1981 Graduate Student of the Year. Awarded by the Department of College Student Personnel at Bowling Green State University “In Recognition of Academic Excellence, Contribution to the Graduate Student Community, and Potential as a Professional Student Development Educator” (June 1981). Summa Cum Laude Honors. Dickinson College (May 1980). Mervin Grant Filler Memorial Prize. Awarded at Dickinson College for Excellence in the Classical Languages (May 1980). Omicron Delta Kappa. National Leadership Society for Seniors of Outstanding Scholastic and Leadership Abilities (February 1980).


Phi Beta Kappa. (September 1979). Eta Sigma Phi. National Honor Society Recognizing Scholarship in Classical Studies (April 1979). Charles A. Dana Scholar. Awarded at Dickinson College for “Superior Academic Achievement and Demonstrated Leadership in the College Community" (September 1978). COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND INVOLVEMENT Selected List of Past and Present Community Organization Memberships At Community College of Beaver County:

• Allegheny Conference on Community Development • Ambridge Chamber of Commerce • Beaver County Chamber of Commerce (Board) • Beaver County Partnership for Community and Economic Growth (Founding Board) • Beaver County Quality Education Council (Chair) • Beaver County Educational Trust (Board) • Beaver Area Higher Education Consortium (Founding and Current Board) • Beaver County Junior Achievement Campaign (Chair) • Beaver County March for Babies Campaign (Chair) • Beaver Inclusion, Diversity, and Awareness Council • Beaver Rotary (Paul Harris Fellow) • Community College of Beaver County Foundation (Board) • Pittsburgh North Chamber of Commerce

At Venango College of Clarion University:

• Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry, and Tourism (Founding Board) • Oil City YMCA (Trustee, Board Member, Chair of Long-Range Planning Committee) • Venango County Industry-Community Advisory Panel (I-CAP) • UPMC Northwest Foundation Corporation • Oil 150 Steering Committee • Oil City Main Street Steering Committee • Venango County United Way (Board) • Venango Area Community Foundation (Board) • Venango Area Chamber of Commerce (Board) • Oil City Youth Alternatives (Board)


• Franklin Rotary (Paul Harris Fellow) • Keystone Community Education Council • Barbara Morgan Harvey Center for the Study of Oil Heritage (Board) • Venango Vision Regional Leadership Institute (Board and Executive Committee)

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

• American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) • AACC Commission on Diversity, Inclusion and Equity (Commissioner) • Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) • Achieving the Dream, Inc. (ATD) • American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) • American Council on Education (ACE) • Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) • Community College Futures Assembly • LGBTQ Presidents in Higher Education • National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) • Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges (Board and Council of Presidents) • Phi Theta Kappa International • Strategic Horizon Community College Network

PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES

• Available Upon Request

christopher m. reber · 2018. 3. 22. · christopher m. reber - 3 - ccbc recently celebrated its...

Documents