Epilogue

 

My career in higher education has ended. Looking back over the past 35-plus years, I realize I how truly blessed I am to have made this journey. It was 1989 when I took a job in a financial aid office at a private college in Massachusetts. It is there that I learned the basics of file review, cost of attendance, and financial aid awards. My time at the college lead me to become a director at a small career school in Boston, followed by consulting. It was during my time as a consultant that I fell in love with regulations, the law, and compliance.

I finally found my calling when I took a part-time job at a local community college. The work combined my experience, my knowledge, and my love of students. More importantly, it confirmed my strong commitment to work at an institution that provides open access to anyone who wishes to pursue an education. My years there expanded my experience beyond financial aid to include student accounts, veterans’ benefits, orientation, and registration.

I also had the privilege of working at a community college in central Massachusetts, where I worked with amazing colleagues that I knew through our professional organizations.

The last 15 years of my career were spent at a local community college just 10 miles from my home. It was there that I spent my hours doing the work that I love: regulatory compliance. I wrote policies and procedures. I researched regulations. I expanded into institutional compliance, involving Title IX, affirmative action, student conduct and grievances, the Clery Act, and more. I had the opportunity to work across divisions and get to know colleagues in academic affairs, public safety, IT, and much more. I was part of compliance teams that shaped institutional policy. Together we faced the challenges of current regulatory changes and reporting requirements. All of it to benefit the institution so that it can continue to provide access to education.  

When I look back over the final years of my career, I can genuinely say that I was blessed to be able to do the work that I love. Yes, higher education is full of challenges and leaving is hard. Change is always an adjustment. I will hold onto the fond memories of working with colleagues who became friends, and I know my years there will shape my future endeavors.