Tammy Zybell

Dean

Excelsior University

Albany, NY

12.2023 - Current

Resolved accreditation concerns for New Jersey and Pennsylvania leading to student licensure.
Increased student enrollment from 1400 to 1600.
Increased first time NCLEX pass rates from 67% to 83%.
Increased student persistence rates from 81% to 85%.
Improved student 3 year completion rates from 41% to 53%.
Established new chapter of Nursing Honor society.
Developed student handbook, faculty handbook, clinical handbook.
Lead and contributor to attainment of NYSED approval (BSN), full ACEN approval of post-licensure program.
Development of New Jersey simulation experience to resolve accreditation issues.
Curriculum modification to align with accreditation requirements-implementation of simulation for specialty area requirements.
Lead and motivate a diverse group of 125+ remote and onsite, full and part time academic and operations colleagues.
Implementation of technologies-Go React, Castle Branch, Project Concert.
Consolidated existing programs and launched new academic programs that addressed emerging trends and market demands, ensuring continued relevance for graduates entering the workforce.
Established collaborations with industry partners to provide students with real-world experiences and networking opportunities.
Led teams in strategic planning sessions to outline future growth paths and initiatives.
Facilitated data-driven decision making by utilizing assessment tools such as Power BI to evaluate program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
Managed budgetary responsibilities effectively, ensuring proper allocation of funds to support essential operations and growth opportunities.
Prepared and administered budget of $6 Million for campus with 1600 students.
Design and buildout of skills and simulation labs, including ordering, procurement, identifying and engaging subject matter expertise (SME's).
Negotiated with vendors for better rates, enhancing budget efficiency without compromising on educational resources.
Served as an advocate for departmental needs by effectively communicating with upper-level administration, securing resources necessary for continuous growth and improvement.
Oversaw accreditation processes, maintaining compliance with institutional standards and ensuring continuous improvement of academic offerings.
Reposition Excelsior School of Nursing as quality academic provider among regulators, accreditation and nursing professional organizations through transparency and relationship building (ACEN, NYSED, FL, OADN, NLN, State Boards of Nursing, NCSBN).
Recruited, hired and trained academic faculty and staff members.
Devised programs to promote diversity and inclusion among staff, faculty and students. Adding diversity as a strategic goal.
Enhanced campus diversity and inclusion with implementation of comprehensive policies and programs.
Advanced diversity initiatives by prioritizing inclusive hiring practices, fostering an equitable learning environment, and promoting cultural competence among staff members.
Improved faculty performance and job satisfaction through introduction of continuous professional development programs. All full time faculty provided certified nurse examination course.
Streamlined administrative processes for increased efficiency, resulting in reduced workload for faculty members.
Promoted a culture of excellence within the department through regular recognition of outstanding achievements by faculty members. Implementation of the Daisy Awards.
Implemented initiatives to drive curriculum quality and target learning outcomes.
Implemented strategies to increase student recruiting, engagement and retention by implementing comprehensive academic advising services and support systems.
Established mentorship program that paired senior students with freshmen, boosting academic success and retention rates.
Led the development of interdisciplinary programs, connecting various departments and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Developed strong relationships with alumni networks to create ongoing opportunities for collaboration and career placement assistance for graduates.
Chair for the School of Nursing Advisory Board.
Enhanced student life and campus culture with introduction of new student organizations and mentoring activities.
Spearheaded technology initiatives to support student learning and academic excellence. Implementation of ATI and Go React.