Chancellor University

Linda Goodwin: Valedictorian, Graduation 2013

Thu, 23 May 2013 15:11:00 +0100

Linda Goodwin is a mother, a wife and a Chancellor employee. She is also Valedictorian for Chancellor University’s 165th graduating class.

As the Manager of Human Resources, Linda has been with Chancellor for more than four years. Being around so many students who were pursuing an education made her want to go back herself.

“I started out working toward my associate degree,” she said. “Once I completed that, it was just a natural transition to the next level.”

The next level, of course, was a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Applied Management.

“I wanted to go outside of the HR box,” said Linda. “I like the business side of HR and I’ve always worked in a business environment.”

Even though the majority of Linda’s experience has been in a business setting, like a lot of students at Chancellor, she didn’t take a traditional route to get there.

In her graduation speech she said, “… instead of going to college after graduating from high school, like my brother and sister, I took a long break and now I stand before you as a college graduate. Like many of my classmates, life happened and we postponed our education and our dreams.”

While working, balancing motherhood, marriage and school presented its fair share of challenges to achieving those dreams, Linda refused to accept anything less than her personal best. She fine-tuned her time management skills to fit in everything.

“I wanted to do the best that I could if I went back,” she said. “Doing it with Chancellor, where I work, was a good opportunity for me to take advantage of the education we offer.”

She added, “I really enjoyed the online classes. I don’t think I would have wanted ground classes. Online classes were just so convenient for me.”

And though the convenience certainly helped her to be the best she could, Linda had other influences to push her through the hard times.

“My mom really inspired me. She always said you can do anything you want,” she said. “And I have given that same advice to my sons. There’s so much to learn. Just because you’re working doesn’t mean you can’t do it. You just have to learn to balance everything.”

She added, “Juggling life, work, families and homework is hard. There’s so much going on that if you really want to go back to school, you just have to find a way to fit it in.”

When asked about being valedictorian, Linda said, “It’s pretty cool! I’m proud and it’s nice that the work I invested has paid off.”

Meet the Staff: Joe Jackson

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:03:00 +0100

Joe Jackson is Chancellor University’s Senior Manager of College and University Partners. Chances are if you are a transfer student from one our 27 formal community college partners, Joe has played a role in helping you get started at CU.

“My favorite thing about working with students is just seeing their excitement about furthering their degrees and their education,” said Joe. “I just enjoy getting to help these students all the time.”

As part of Joe’s job, he works with community colleges that offer a limited number of degrees (typically associate or bachelor’s degrees) to provide more options for students looking to further their education with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

“If a student wants a bachelor’s degree, but can only go as far as an associate degree at their school, that’s where we come in,” he said. “We have a number of programs set up at our partner schools to make the transfer process easier on students.”

In fact, Joe can personally take credit for helping 27 schools partner with Chancellor University in the last year and a half.

“Formalized partnerships are extremely important for Chancellor students,” Joe said. “Not just in the short-term, but over the long-term, we are able to help so many students by offering them an opportunity to continue to pursue their education at Chancellor.”

“Watching the students I’ve worked with walk across the stage at graduation is a major reward for what I do,” he added. “Education is always going to be an important and difficult process, but helping make that dream a reality, that’s huge.”

When asked what advice he offers to incoming students, Joe said simply this:

“Keep focus on what your goals and dreams are. When things get difficult, those are the things you need to remember that will get you through the tough times.”

For more information about Chancellor University’s Community College Partnerships, please visit: http://chancelloru.edu/college-and-university-partnerships.aspx or contact CUAdmissions@ChancellorU.edu.

A Message from the President: The Future of Online Education

Thu, 02 May 2013 23:16:00 +0100

By Robert Daugherty
President, Chancellor University

Earlier this week, the faculty at Duke University voted down a proposal to join a group of elite colleges to offer for-credit online courses. This vote provides a glimpse into the challenges faced in online education and the evolving role of for-profit organizations.

The group of colleges that Duke had considered joining, under the name of SemesterOnline, was being organized by a commercial online education services provider, 2U. Each school was to supply at least one course and have 2U help develop and deliver the courses. The schools would then provide credit to their own students for all of the offered courses. Duke faculty said no.

So what were the reasons the Duke faculty voted it down? And more importantly, what does it mean for the future of online education?

The reasons cited by the Duke faculty for rejecting the proposal included: (a) not a good idea to give “Duke credit” to a presumed inferior, non-Duke course; (b) why should Duke provide instruction to non-Duke students?; and (c) having non-Duke students in the classroom would create an “inferior classroom environment.”

Aside from Duke’s high opinion of its own faculty, students and curriculum, what does this all mean?

It reveals a number things. First is the persistent reluctance by mainstream academia to embrace online education. A German language professor at Duke who voted down the plan expressed high skepticism about the role of online education. He seems, however, to have missed the many advances in adaptive learning technologies in language instruction that are delivered online. Rosetta Stone, for example, has transformed language instruction, while entrenched faculty at traditional universities have fought “diente e una.” Be sure to look this translation up via one of dozens of language translators on the web or ... wait for office hours to visit a language professor.

For-profit higher education providers are pioneering innovative, competency-based approaches to adaptive learning. These are radical ideas compared to traditional academia. The rub is that these ideas have demonstrated equal-to or better learning outcomes, while at the same time reducing instruction time and lowering costs for students.

For-profit institutions are also far more accepting of transfer credits. At present, the majority of college graduates finish with credits from more than one institution – making this inclusive approach the far more practical one. Additionally, most intro-level courses for undergraduates are commoditized courses, even at elite schools. They are traditionally taught in large auditoriums with graduate assistants doing the “real teaching” in smaller breakout groups.

But attitudes like those of the Duke faculty – who are resisting granting of credit from outside courses – are making the transfer of credits more difficult and the whole degree more expensive.

There is a coming wave of low cost credits offered by MOOCs, Straighterline (a Chancellor University partner) and others that is going to aggressively challenge these assumptions. The acceptance of these credits is a very good path to lowering the cost and improving the quality of higher education. My sense is that even a basketball school like Duke may someday appreciate that idea.

Sales Management MBA – Is It Right For You?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:45:00 +0100

Why Sales Management? And Why Now?
It takes a special skill set to be successful in sales. Not everyone can do it and not everyone wants to. But for those who can, the rewards are there for the taking.

Equally unique is the skill set needed to effectively manage a sales team. Successful sales managers don’t have to be top sellers. But they do need a comprehensive understanding of all the ingredients that go into motivating and coaching a successful team.

“Sales people have to be in a very positive and motivated place,” said Adam Griffith, MBA, and Graduate Admissions Director at Chancellor. “They need a positive leader as a sales manager.”

Indeed, for sales managers, not only is a positive motivational style a must, they must also have an in-depth knowledge of business practices as a whole. More importantly, they must possess a deep understanding of the psychology behind the sale, something most MBA focused programs – like marketing – can’t teach.

That is why Chancellor University is pleased to be part of a small but cutting-edge group of schools that recognize that sales management has its own special needs, and therefore requires a master’s level focus in its own right. At Chancellor, aspiring sales leaders can complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Management (MM) in Sales Management and learn the skills they need to succeed in less than one year.

“It’s a needed degree,” said Griffith. “We’re extremely excited to offer it to our students, especially in an online format.”

How do you know when the time is right to pursue your sales management degree?
There is no perfect time to go back to school. Depending who you ask, different opinions abound.

“The best time to start school is when you know that management is right for your career and you’re ready to make the transition into management,” said Kevan Ford, former sales account executive and current Senior Direct of Admissions and Development at Chancellor University. “A sales management MBA can give you an advantage over some of the people who are talented sales people, have industry knowledge, but lack the education to see the overall picture.”

He added, “Ten years from now these positions are going to need a master’s degree, they’re going to demand it. You need to be ready before the demand arrives to be marketable.”

Adam Griffith, who also earned his MBA from Chancellor, said, “I don’t know if there’s ever a right time to go back to school. When you have that gut feeling, I think that’s the right time.”

What both men agree on: It’s never too late to get started, no matter how long you’ve waited.

What Will You Learn?
One of the most important aspects of managing a sales team involves knowing the right strategies to position the company into growth mode. An MBA can help professionals become better leaders by exposing them to the entire gamut of business from the leadership perspective – something that can help them in more ways than one.

“One of the biggest benefits of pursuing your MBA, especially as a sales person, is to be able to talk shop with executives,” said Ford. “Understanding the application of business strategies shows the CEO you are knowledgeable and valuable.”

Mentoring and coaching are two more critical aspects of managing a sales team. Sales representatives tend to naturally be charismatic, but managerial skills within the sales division require more understanding.

“You may know how to sell, but not how to manage people,” said Griffith. “This program is designed to provide you with a tool kit you can use to more effectively mentor your team. The psychology of the sale, in regard to the people, the culture of sales, buyer behavior – you have to be an expert in these areas to be a good sales manager.”

Bottom Line – Is It Worth It?
Chancellor’s Sales Management program allows students to immediately apply this multifaceted approach to their careers – what students learn in the classroom, they take to work with them the next day.

“It’s an investment in money and time,” said Griffith. “You have to ask yourself ‘What’s the payoff and what’s the reward?’”

“Going back to school is hard but attainable. You have to look at it as a small investment of time for the bigger picture,” added Ford. “If you want to advance into management, own your own company or expand your expertise, you have to take that time. For the person who says, ‘I can’t afford the time,” I say, ‘You can’t afford not to.’”

For more information about Chancellor University’s Master of Business Administration Sales Management focus, please visit www.ChancellorU.edu/MBA-MM-Sales-Management.aspx or contact an admissions representative by emailing CUAdmissions@ChancellorU.edu or calling (888) 316-9377.

Criminal Justice Perspectives: The Boston Marathon Bombings

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 15:49:00 +0100

By Gretchen Fleming
Center for Law & Justice
Chancellor University

As we mourn the tragic events that plagued the Boston Marathon Monday we are reminded of the selfless and relentless work of those in law enforcement and public safety. I am currently teaching a course on legal investigation and fact finding that ironically will be discussing terrorism and homeland security next week. We have seen several examples of domestic and foreign terrorism in this Country over the last 10 years and we have a new awareness of the differences and what to look for around us. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Officials know more now than ever about preventing and solving these cases. We learn from every event and become more knowledgeable and stronger. It is a sad commentary on society that I have a current event to use in discussions on the topic. It is, however, critical as law enforcement is sifting through pictures, videos, and witness statements that we remember that investigations have a process and we need to let the officials do their work to ensure that the process is followed and those responsible can be brought to justice for their offenses. We as American’s should be vigilant but not allow this event to stop, slow or cause paranoia as that only allows those responsible to win. In the meantime, be supportive and patient with those working the case, mourn the victims, and have faith in the criminal justice system.

Kim West - A Scholarly Opportunity & A Lifelong Dream

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:24:00 +0100

“I always wanted to get my degree, but never had the opportunity.”

Have you ever found yourself uttering these words? Kim West has. Until recently, Kim, a Human Resources Administrator at Kroger, thought her long standing dream to go back to college seemed like a long shot.

Thanks to Chancellor University’s corporate partnership with Kroger, however, she has finally been given a chance to pursue that dream. As part of Kroger’s initiative to provide educational advancement to associates, Kim received a full-ride scholarship to attend Chancellor University and is currently enrolled in the College of Business studying finance.

“Going back to school was something I always wanted to do,” she said. “When this opportunity came along, it was the perfect time to do it and it is great!”

After more than 30 years away from a classroom, however, Kim was a bit concerned her skills would be rusty.

“It’s hard to go back to school when you haven’t had any formal education in 30 years,” she said. “All of the sudden you have to start studying again. It’s a ‘wow’ moment. The brain is challenged!”

Fortunately, Chancellor University’s highly trained staff was able to address Kim’s fears and help her get reacquainted with academic life.

“If I have trouble, need tutoring or just need a little help to understand, I have support everywhere,” said Kim.

Indeed, during two very trying periods of her life, Kim was able to continue on with her schooling while attending to the needs of her family.

“When my husband was in the hospital, the people at Chancellor were so understanding,” she said. “I had to drop back to one class, but the instructors and advisors were so supportive. It made all the difference in the world.”

Being able to take classes online helped, too.

“I spent about 10 days last February doing homework outside the ICU,” said Kim. “I didn’t have to physically go somewhere to do the classwork. The flexibility was priceless.”

In addition to flexibility, being able to utilize discussion boards helped Kim connect to the work when she otherwise might have had a more difficult time.

“I like being able to discuss class topics on the discussion boards. We get some pretty lively chats going on and I do feel really connected.”

That online connection has proven even more helpful than she anticipated. One of her favorite professors, Dr. John Chappo, has gone above and beyond to make himself available to her and fellow students.

“He has an open door policy,” said Kim. “Just because the class is over, doesn’t mean the connection with him is.”

“You’d better have a sharp pencil when you go into one of his classes,” she added. “He is absolutely going to challenge you.”

With each challenge so far, Kim has risen to the occasion – Something she said would not have been possible without her at-home support system.

“My best friend of over 15 years has been my number one cheerleader,” she said. “My husband, who has been so excited for me to do this, my brother and my Vice President at Kroger have all been incredibly supportive as well.”

Kim added, “This is one of the most incredibly fulfilling things I’ve ever done, personally and professionally. It’s going to be such a personal accomplishment to finish this degree and I just want people to know that it’s never too late to start.”

Meet the Staff: Kevan Ford

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:42:00 +0100

Kevan Ford’s work has always revolved around making a lasting impression. On a daily basis, he ensures students at Chancellor are getting what they need to better themselves and their lives.

“I take pride in the fact that we help students get a better job or a promotion,” he said. “That’s the biggest reward for me, knowing that we’ve assisted students in earning their degrees and achieving their long-term goals.”

As the Senior Director of Admissions, Development and Academic Advising at Chancellor University, Kevan plays a vital role in the student achievement process. He oversees the entire admissions and academic advising staff.

“Our staff has a special compassion for students. They want to see them do well,” he said. “We come together for one common goal and that’s to make students successful. We play different parts in that, but on graduation day, when a student walks across that stage and fulfills their dreams, we share that pride.”

Kevan knows firsthand how life-changing a degree can be. He describes earning his Master of Business Administration (MBA) as a milestone career accomplishment.

“I think it’s one of the most rewarding things to get an advanced degree,” Kevan said. “It helped my career grow from a sales associate’s role to an executive role.”

He added, “My experience with my own MBA program put me in a unique position. I was in sales and loved it. But none of the MBA programs I researched had sales focuses. When I came to CU, I wanted to introduce that, because sales is my passion.”

And Kevan did. Chancellor’s newest MBA focus – Sales Management – is his own brain child.

“The thing about sales is you control your own destiny. You determine your success by your efforts,” said Kevan. “As a sales person you already know that every company needs a sales department. And knowing that the pressure is on your shoulders to help that company grow – I love that pressure.”

Kevan’s work ethic is one of the hallmarks of his career and he attributes his drive and motivation, as well as his desire to help others, to his mother.

“My mother had a huge influence on me. She taught me about hard work and doing things that are worthwhile,” he said. “She taught school for 34 years. The impact she had on her students left a lasting impression on me. That was the kind of stamp I wanted to leave on someone else’s life.”

During one of Chancellor University’s annual commencement ceremonies, Kevan got a chance to experience that impact first-hand.

“I watched a student that we’d worked with walk across the stage to accept her diploma and as she got up, her little girl yelled out from the crowd ‘We love you mommy! Congratulations!’” he recalled. “It’s those types of moments that you know what you’re doing is worthwhile and makes a difference in people’s lives.”

Kevan added, “When you have a chance to do something special, or to do something to affect others positively you should go for it. Set goals, achieve them and live life to the fullest because you only get one shot.”

UPDATE: Florida v. Jardines (U.S. Supreme Court Case)

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:50:00 +0100

We published an article about upcoming Supreme Court cases affecting law enforcement last fall, and the Supreme Court has now ruled on one of those cases on March 26. The facts of the Jardines case are as follows:

Officers from the Miami-Dade Police Department, acting on an unverified tip that marijuana was being grown at a residence, set up a surveillance of the home about a month later. After seeing no activity at the home, an officer and his trained narcotics dog approached; the dog positively alerted to the presence of drugs. Officers used this alert (and some other factors) to apply for, and obtain, a search warrant for the residence. When the warrant was executed later that day the owner attempted to flee and was arrested. Marijuana plants were found inside. At his trial he moved to suppress the plants and the motion was granted. The Appellate Court over turned that and then the Florida Supreme Court quashed the Appellate court’s decision, holding that the use of the drug dog was a 4th amendment search, unsupported by probable cause. The U.S. Supreme Court decided to hear the case.

In a 5-4 opinion the Court held that the officers and the dog clearly intruded upon the property. The Court distinguished this from the situation where an officer walks up to a residence (without a warrant) and knocks. The Court held “We have accordingly recognized that the knocker on the front door is treated as an invitation or license to attempt an entry, justifying ingress to the home by solicitors, hawkers, and peddlers of all kinds. But introducing a trained police dog to explore the area around the home in hopes of discovering incriminating evidence is something else.” The Court held that the “government’s use of trained police dogs to investigate the home and its immediate surroundings is a ‘search’ within the meaning of the Fourth Amendment.” This affirms the decision of the Florida Supreme Court.

If officers are entering the premises for any reason other than to ask a question or seek information, this is what they will now face. This opinion leaves open many questions about how law enforcement can now approach homes without a warrant. This opinion was written by the same Justice (Justice Scalia) who wrote the opinion in the Jones case last year holding that tracking an automobile’s whereabouts using a GPS device place on the subject’s vehicle is a Fourth Amendment search.

The Busiest & Brightest – How Laura Combs is blazing a trail to the top in record time

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:01:00 +0100

Laura Combs is down to earth, easy to talk to and a constant reminder that anything’s possible – especially with enough determination and dedication.

For the past two years, she has been serving full time as a police officer in northeast Ohio, planning a wedding, juggling social obligations and working toward her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chancellor University – often taking more classes than the standard full-time load.

“I’m trying to get my bachelor’s degree done quicker so I can work toward furthering my career in Law Enforcement," she said.

To get to the next level, Laura knew she would need a bachelor’s degree– even though she already had quite a list of credentials.

“I have three associate degrees from Tri-Ci [Cuyahoga Community College] including one in law enforcement, one in law enforcement with the police academy and another other one in corrections,” she said. “The police tuition incentive with Chancellor was great and I’m considering going for the master’s program after this.”

Laura added, “The best part is teachers at Chancellor have experience in the field. They’re actually police officers and attorneys. They have worked in the field and relate to the job and program.”

The added flexibility of online classes made life easier too. As a permanent night shift officer, her work hours were often at odds with class schedules.

“The professors understand that there’s a life outside of school,” Laura said. “People have work and other obligations to adhere to. It can be challenging for people who are working.”

So how does Laura get through her busy life with work and school?

“Lots of coffee and energy drinks,” she said with a laugh. “When I tell teachers I have one or two days off a month, I’m not lying.”

Ultimately, though, Laura believes the payoff will be worth it.

“I’ve always had a willingness to help other people,” she said. “As a police officer it’s my way to give back to the people in the community. I want to continue doing that.”

She added with determination, “The only thing I really stick to is that the sky’s the limit. It’s like Audrey Hepburn said, Nothing is impossible – the word itself says I’m Possible.”

Meet the Staff: Adam Griffith, Associate Graduate Admissions Director

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 12:39:00 +0100

The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.

“That Vince Lombardi quote is one of my favorites,” said Adam Griffith. “I think it rings especially true in education. You can have all of the knowledge about a process and all the strength in the world, but if you’re not willing to take that first step and work toward your degree, it won’t do you any good. You have to have that will.”

As the Associate Director of Graduate Admissions at Chancellor University, Adam oversees the entire graduate program department and speaks with students on an almost constant basis.

“It’s a pleasure to speak with students on a daily basis to find out what their goals and aspirations are, what makes them tick,” he said. “The most rewarding thing is to know that I’m directly responsible for helping them take the next step in their academic lives.”

That next step can be the one that dramatically changes the trajectory of their careers and professional lives.

According to the Pathways to Graduate School & Into Careers Report done last year, the number of jobs requiring a master’s degree will increase by about 22% before 2020. Having that advanced credential now gives students a game-changing edge.

“A graduate degree is something that can help students long-term. They’ll have that for the rest of their lives,” Adam said. “It helps with job security – even if they’re in the process of earning the degree, they can have it on their resume, showing that they’re proactive, taking initiative to better themselves and their education. It says a lot to employers and speaks to the value of the employee.”

Adam knows firsthand the importance of a graduate degree and those that lessons carry over into the workplace. He himself is a graduate of the Chancellor University MBA program.

“Earning my master’s degree was a big accomplishment,” he said. “I learned so much. It was a lot of work, time and effort, but the final payoff was nice and because of it I can better assist new students, too.”

He added, “Helping people is the name of the game. I grew up with my mom trying to instill that in me. She was teaching me to help others and to give more than I receive. I try to do those things when I’m recruiting. I want to help students and see them grow as individuals and get where they need to be to achieve their goals.”

For more information about the Chancellor University graduate program, contact our admissions staff at 888.316.9377 or CUAdmissions@ChancellorU.edu.

Back to School Burnout – How to Avoid It & Turn It Into Positive Energy

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:38:00 +0100

Welcome back for week two of Spring II term! We’re gearing up for another rapid-fire round of learning, improvement and challenges. It seemed like Spring I just ended two weeks ago, doesn’t it?

Oh wait, it did.

When I was in college, my favorite part of the quarter was when it was over. After 10 weeks of hard work and mental anguish, I could take a week off, kick back and sleep . Finally.

Unlike traditional colleges, however, Chancellor University students face a back-to-back eight week schedule that allows them to finish their degrees in an accelerated amount of time. And while the fast pace of the Chancellor programs is convenient, it can sometimes challenge students with its lack of downtime between terms.

Fortunately, there are a lot of great ways to channel that stress, alleviate it and even turn it into a powerful way to push forward with your education and long-term goals.

Over the years I’m sure we have all found numerous ways to help us deal with stress. Some of them are more healthy than others.

Below are some of the top ways that students, professors and employees at Chancellor University handle their stress.

1.   Exercise – Physical activity is one of the quickest ways to allow your body to reset and process stress in a healthy manner. Exercise increases endorphins, which are neurotransmitters in the brain that cause pleasure and enjoyment – AKA an instant stress reliever.

Most of us with busy schedules, however, find ourselves saying silly things like “I don’t have time,” or “I am too out of shape to start.” The good news is, yes you do have time and no, it’s never too late to start. In my own personal experience, I’ve found that scheduling a time of day and sticking to it (like it’s a class, a doctor’s appointment or a job interview) will keep you from coming up with reasons not to follow through. Making a commitment to that time of day – even calling it “me time” – will end up helping you de-stress, improve health, sleep better and think more clearly.

2.   Personal Pampering – A massage, facial or stint in the sauna is relaxing. Studies have even shown that a good massage can help reduce anxiety, headaches, soft tissue strains and even digestive disorders. But not everyone can afford the spa treatment on a regular basis. What is affordable and proven to relax is a hot shower, a few candles and some much-needed time to regroup. Everyone showers, so make yours just a little more enjoyable – take a few extra minutes to marinate in the warm water & relax your muscles. Try a bubble bath. Give yourself a foot massage. Test out an aromatherapy candle. Even if it’s temporary, it can’t hurt and you will feel better.

3.   Things You Love – When you’re working a full-time job, studying and balancing other obligations, sometimes it’s really easy to forget about the rest of the things you love to do. Next time you’re feeling like the world is about to cave in and all of your obligations are looming over your head, stop for five minutes, put on some music and dance, knit a scarf, watch football, meditate, play with your dog, sing a song. Whatever it is that you love to do, do it. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle the next big item on your ever growing To-Do List.

These are just a few of the many suggestions you will find out there and the three things that Chancellor faculty and staff mentioned most when asked “What do you do to relax?”

We hope you find this list helpful as you work through some of the tough courses here at Chancellor this session. Be sure to check back on the blog as we progress to learn more about how you can make the most of your CU experience!

A Message from the President: What Does A College Degree Mean?

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:21:00 +0100

By Bob Daugherty
President, Chancellor University

What does it mean to have a University or College degree? There are as many answers as there are Universities and Colleges – truly thousands. For many graduates, however, especially those students who earned their degree well into adulthood, it is a symbol of a remarkable achievement. Returning to school after being away for many years is not easy. It requires self-reliance and a willingness to try new things. Adult students often have full-time jobs and/or responsibilities at home as a parent or caretaker. To say it takes discipline and time management skills is an understatement. More importantly, to sustain this effort over the course of entire associate, bachelor or master’s program is truly outstanding.

But what should a University graduate know? Over the last couple of years, public policy makers have advocated for a common definition of what students should be able to do. They argue that without a common definition, the quality of higher education will be diminished. This push to set a common standard at the national level has been met with skepticism by some faculty and administrators. As a result, there is no generally accepted standard of what represents quality in American higher education. This is changing and depending on the subject matter, this change has some positives.

For employers, they deserve to know before hiring someone what the graduate knows. For government officials who are spending tax dollars to support student loans, they deserve to know what kind of return they can expect on the education students receive and most importantly, for the students themselves, they deserve to know what value a specific University or College provides. Value being defined as a meaningful indicator that the degree earned is proof the students is competent or a master of her subject.

Student Spotlight: Amy Dehnert, Master of Management, Public Safety Administration

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 13:23:00 +0100

Amy Dehnert is a 20-year U.S. Army veteran who works for Portland Police Department.

She is also a master of management student at Chancellor University in the public safety program.

“I started a master’s degree back in the military but never finished,” she said. “When Dom [Apodaca] came to Portland PD, he told us about Chancellor and I thought to myself, ‘This is a great fit.’”

For Amy, that fit meant something that was both flexible to her work schedule and valuable to the advancement of her career.

“I wanted to better myself as an officer,” she said. “Making yourself marketable is key to seeking new positions or advancements. Not a high percentage of officers go for grad level education and I think it will make me more marketable.”

“We’re starting a new unit,” she added. “Having this education and background is already helping me in that process.”

The unit Amy is helping to develop is a groundbreaking new focus designed to help those with frequent police contact due to mental illness – something that is being implemented in cities across the country.

“We’re working on a lot of management level projects and pulling resources,” Amy said. “So far this education has been directly applicable as we go about it.”

But Chancellor University is helping in more ways than just Amy’s direct career goals, too.

“The program flexibility and balance with my work has been great. I have time to get things done when I need to get them done,” she said. “And the direct feedback and discussion forms really add to lessons too.”

Amy added, “Bryan McElyea, my professor in the leadership class, was really great at facilitating discussions. He made sure to give open-ended questions and helped us make connections.

Combining her work and education experiences, Amy now has more tools to achieve her future goals than she thought possible.

“I want to work up within the bureau,” Amy said. “My ultimate goal though, besides retirement, is to work with the Red Cross in emergency management response.”

Amy’s deep-rooted desire to reach out to others and provide help is a lifelong mission she believes is heavily inspired by her mother.

“I’ve always grown up with the influence to look outside of myself to see what I could do to help everyone else,” she said. “It’s been a passion of my mom’s even though she mostly did volunteer work. I just found a way to make a career of it.”

All in the Family – The Maria Rapitis Approach to Academic Advising & Admissions

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:46:00 +0100

“I can name all of my students. Every one I’ve ever had I remember.”

An impressive feat for an equally impressive member of the Chancellor University team, Maria Rapitis, who has worked for the school for almost nine years in the Admissions and Advising departments.

“Working here, we’re like family. You get to know and love your students,” said Maria. “It’s a proud moment to see them walk across the stage at graduation – like watching your own family.”

Family is a theme that runs throughout our conversation. Maria works diligently to forge strong connections to everyone here, particularly her students.

“It’s a great joy sharing our lives with our students and getting to be a part of their success,” she said. “When they succeed, we succeed. When I came to Chancellor, I loved it from day one. I picked up on everything fast and it became my baby and the students became my family.”

She added, “Students here are different. They’re very motivated and dedicated. They have obstacles that younger students fresh out of high school often don’t – they’re adults with families, jobs and limited time. They make the time and that’s not always easy to do.”

Maria, who is an avid arts fan and travel lover, speaks from a particular point of authority in the matter of time.

“Do what you really want to do now, because you don’t know what the future holds. Take opportunity when it arises.”

She herself has taken that mantra to heart, spending her free time traveling and immersing herself in the art world, while simultaneously working through traditional brick-and-mortar college and eventually obtaining a second degree online here at Chancellor, too.

Maria’s motivation to improve and help others do the same comes from a place close to her heart – her own family.

“I learned to do what I do from my mom. She had so many struggles and she could have been bitter but she wasn’t,” Maria said. “She taught me to help myself become better and stronger. Have confidence and stand taller. No one else can do it for you.”

Student Spotlight: MBA Student Tierney Grayson

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 18:28:00 +0100

When confronted with an opportunity to improve, there are two choices. Keep doing what you’re doing and hope for the best, or take a chance, better yourself and move forward with your goals and dreams.

Tierney Grayson is taking the latter. As a Master of Business Administration (MBA) student at Chancellor University in the Leadership in a Rapidly Changing World track, she knows it’s critical to put her best foot forward to achieve her career vision. To her, that means furthering her education in a meaningful and useful way.

“In today’s job search, the candidate pool is more diverse than it has ever been,” she said. “In the career fish tank, you’re not just competing against goldfish; there are all kinds of sharks and barracudas out there.”

In order to arm herself against tougher and more seasoned candidates, Tierney decided it was time to enroll in an MBA program, a degree she believes is going to help shape her into the leader she is striving to become.

“I’d like to find myself in the mid- to upper management level within the next few years and ultimately I want a director’s position.” she said. “But you have to pay your dues first. When I first started thinking about going back to school, it was too new, too recent. Now I’m more of a seasoned professional, I’m more prepared to tackle the program to get where I want to be.”

Getting where she wants to be includes working as an insurance and financial services agent full-time at New York Life, an affiliate with Chancellor University and how she initially found out about the school.

“I was intrigued when I first heard about the partnership,” said Tierney. “I talked to Adam Griffith in admissions and he told me a little bit about the MBA program and some of the benefits through New York Life, including the waived application fee. I was sold!”

She added, “I started gathering my stuff together to apply that day and everything came together really quickly. It was awesome!”

Tierney’s positive experience didn’t stop in the admissions department, either.

“The program is really interesting so far. I’m already thinking like a manager,” she said. “It’s a nice balance to help you gain real competency and understand the principles behind the best and worst practices in the industry.”

Despite just starting at Chancellor, it’s hard not to wonder ‘what’s next?’ for someone as ambitious as Tierney.

“I’m taking my time and giving my education my full attention right now. But after that? Possibilities. Lots of them.”

Meet the Faculty: Gretchen Fleming

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:44:00 +0100

Gretchen Fleming is a passionate person and always has been. She’s lucky enough to have been driven and focused from an early age. But like all truly generous and great educators, Gretchen knows that passion doesn’t always spark right away.

“Chancellor students are non-traditional. They’re older; they have jobs and often families and are discovering their true passions later in life,” she said. “They’re focused on where they want to go and receptive to help.”

As the Director of the Center for Law and Justice, Chair of the Legal Studies Program and associate professor at Chancellor University, Gretchen is proud to be able to provide the support students need to pursue their goals. From personal experience, it’s a position she believes is critical to student success.

“When I was an undergraduate, the business dean of my college, Dr. Mary Fox, was one of my biggest mentors,” said Gretchen. “She challenged me, supported me, and encouraged me when I needed it most and is still a cheerleader for me to this day.”

Because of the positive experiences she had in school, Gretchen insists on maintaining a similarly high level of support for her own students. Engagement and interaction are ultimately what propel students to the finish line. She even took it upon herself to dive into the student experience by enrolling in the MBA program here at CU.

“The curriculum is challenging and the faculty are engaging and supportive. It has been an eye-opening experience balancing a full-time job, five children, and taking classes. It’s been really challenging. But it’s been a good experience, especially for me as an instructor,” said Gretchen. “I’m a better teacher having been on the receiving end of it; I have more empathy and understand even more how important my interactions with students really are.”

Gretchen also believes that fostering student achievement should start at the beginning of their academic careers. To help make that happen for students in northeast Ohio, she and several other colleagues took part in a Chancellor University-sponsored inner city tutoring program to help students improve their learning as well as demonstrate the importance of education for success – an experience she says faculty and staff at Chancellor have carried well beyond those weeks and back to their own students.

“One of the best things about Chancellor is that the faculty and leadership are truly committed to the belief that we are here to make sure that our students succeed” Gretchen said. “Every session, the University President, program chairs, student services team and admissions associates come together in to discuss each student’s progress. Our goal is to map out and discuss each student’s needs in all areas from class schedule, to tutoring, to internships, and ultimately graduation, to ensure educational and professional success.”

And as part of that passion Gretchen has for her program and her students, she encourages anyone she meets who doesn’t have a job they love to find the motivation to pursue something different.

“Find the drive to get an education. Get involved in a job you love, whatever it takes,” she said.

She added, “My favorite part about what I do is when students come back and tell me they found a job in the field they are passionate about.”

A Message from the President: A Revolution in Higher Ed

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 18:14:00 +0100

By Bob Daugherty
President, Chancellor University

“You say you want a revolution,” wrote John Lennon in 1968.

Performed by the Beatles in the song “Revolution” on the famous White Album, it was inspired by political protests. The lyrics expressed doubt about some of the tactics used by the protestors.

Just like Lennon, we have our doubts; doubts about those who are trying to reform higher education using the bully pulpit of the politician’s chair. Instead of focusing precious time and energy on fixing the U.S. K-12 educational system (which is non-competitive, insolvent and stagnated by unions,) the last four years have seen a lot of political focus on post-secondary education reform in the U.S. But no matter, our aspiration remains the same – to reinvent the future of higher education using innovative, high quality curriculum and technology – and we believe America and the world will be the better for it.

Change is coming and it is coming fast. Like revolutions – whether social or political – a sudden, complete and marked change in higher education is coming. Education technology and the innovative use of content, curriculum, and expert faculty, will be leading us to this brighter future. At the end of this revolution will be a civilization where most all of the world’s population will have access to abundant opportunities – to learn, work and contribute.

Who is leading this revolution? The students, of course, and they’re doing it by how they are choosing to interact.

Digital communication is taking more of our time and is replacing face-to-face contact. In a series of surveys conducted by Pew Internet & American Life Project and Elon University School of Communications between 2004 and 2010, researchers found that one in four people (2008) prefer to communicate through email rather than face-to-face conversation. They suspect that by 2020, this number will rise to three in four. In 2011, American adults spent 167 minutes a day (2.8 hours) on average online, 22% higher than in 2008. When you add in mobile communications, American adults spent 232 minutes a day (3.9 hours) online and using mobile technologies, compared to 169 minutes a day (2.8 hours) in 2008. This is a 37% increase in only two years.

The trend is online, the trend is digital. Talking about a revolution, just not in person.

Chancellor University Joins LIRN (Library and Information Resources Network)

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 14:05:00 +0100

By Richard Brhel
Associate Director of Student Knowledge Resources
Chancellor University

Time is a premium for all students and finding up-to-date, valid and relevant information to enhance learning beyond standard course materials (like textbooks and lectures) can be challenging and time consuming. Fortunately, Chancellor University and its Library and Students Services staff are here to help.

Beginning in fall 2012, Chancellor University joined the Library and Information Resources Network (LIRN), a virtual consortium of educational institutions that share access to information resources. Through LIRN students, faculty and staff have access to millions of peer-reviewed and full-text journal, magazine and newspaper articles as well as e-books, podcasts and audio and video resources from publishers and database suppliers such as Gale Cengage, ProQuest, CREDO Reference and eLibrary. In addition to our LIRN databases, the CU Library subscribes directly to specialized databases such as Hoover’s and LexisNexis Academic which contain business and legal information.

So, how do students access these amazing resources?

Luckily, logging in to all CU Library databases is a breeze once you know your student ID number, which is a 10-digit number that all students receive at the beginning of each term. To log in, visit the CU Library Articles / Databases page, select any database and enter your last name as the username and your ID number as the password.

In addition to helping you access information, we are here assist you in developing the skills you need to understand where to find the best information sources, evaluate information critically and use it effectively. Developing these skills will not only save you time as a student but will benefit you in your career as well.

For assistance with the LIRN, please visit our Ask the Librarian page to contact CU Library staff, or log in to KnowItNow for library reference assistance 24/7 through live chat.

Student Spotlight: Peter Greene

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:45:00 +0100

Peter Greene grew up with a desire to serve others. As a long-time law enforcement officer, Peter had plenty of opportunities to do so. But he wanted more.

“Everyone always says they want to become a cop to help people,” he said. “I wanted to be even more helpful.”

After much consideration and more than 17 years out of school, Peter decided to return to college to earn his bachelor’s degree in public administration.

“I heard about Chancellor from a few people I work with who had gone there,” he said. “I thought I would try it. Online classes have been a challenge, but I’m learning.”

And going from in-classroom to online instruction does have perks.

“Online really fits my schedule better,” said Peter, who has a wife and three children to keep him occupied when not in school.

“But,” he adds, “anyone who says that taking classes online is easier is mistaken. I’ve found them all to be very challenging and well developed.”

Peter has been more than willing to put in extra time and hard work, especially for something he says has been a life-long passion.

“I have two uncles who were firefighters. I think I’ve always shared their sense of concern and desire to serve.”

He added, “I want to use my degree to get into Emergency Management, which deals with situations where people really need help.”

With Chancellor University and its many career resources, Peter will not only graduate this spring, but has obtained an Emergency Management internship that has led to even more long-term career opportunities.

“The school has really opened me up to other aspects of the field, too,” Peter said. “Things like human resources, budgeting, inventory – it’s still a business and an important perspective to have.”

Chancellor University Hosts SME/BizCon Meeting

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:33:00 +0100

By Adam Griffith
Associate Director of Graduate Admissions
Chancellor University

On Wednesday, January 30th, Chancellor University successfully hosted an SME BizCon networking session and special presentation. The session was led by the current president of SME Cleveland, Greg McBride. Those in attendance for the presentation included members of the downtown Cleveland and western suburb BizCon chapters. The presentation was conducted by successful sales coach, Marvin Montgomery. Marvin provided a detailed blueprint for a successful customer approach in acquiring new business. We thank Marvin for his extremely insightful presentation!

Among the many insightful topics Marvin introduced to the audience this morning, was the topic of successful sales tactics, a hallmark saying being “People buy from people who they know, like and trust!” Marvin also discussed how to be a better active and engaged listener. Listening is the key to asking intelligent questions that will build stronger relationship with your customers.

Moving forward throughout 2013, Chancellor University and BizCon are excited about their collaborative effort in assisting others to improve upon their professional lives. Both Chancellor and BizCon strive to develop the skills and talents belonging to individuals that are local to the Cleveland area and beyond. You can learn more about the Cleveland chapters of SME and BizCon at the following link:

http://www.smecleveland.com/

Meet the Staff: Rhea Isla

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 14:45:00 +0100

Almost everyone knows that in college, students learn from professors. But did you know that professors have teachers, too?

Meet Rhea Isla, Manager of Faculty Training and Development and adjunct professor at Chancellor. Rhea’s job is to develop and teach the faculty at Chancellor the best methods for connecting students with the subject matter they’re teaching.

“What I really do is train new faculty and teach them about our mission, values and best practices for what makes a really good online instructor,” she said. “I want to make sure faculty can get to the next level of connection.”

In an online environment it can sometimes be tough to make that connection. However, Rhea believes that it’s not as tough as one might think; she herself resides in Germany and “commutes” digitally every day.

“I’ve always been a virtual employee and I really don’t feel like I’m disconnected from anything,” she said. “Virtual is a powerhouse – you don’t have to waste time, money or energy commuting and setting yourself up each day. It’s already in front of you.”

As a military spouse, Rhea has spent a lot of time staying connected – whether she’s relocating to a new country or maintaining relationships, both professional and personal, she has always found a way to adapt.

“I’m very flexible and focused because of it,” she said. “I’ve worked and lived in many cultures. There is a constant sense that you have to change, which is something that has helped me professionally.”

She adds, “What I want faculty to take away from my training is, if I can make you feel connected from halfway across the world, you can make your students feel connected, too.”

In addition to teaching faculty how to utilize the best online resources for connecting with students, Rhea serves quality control to ensure that students are getting a top-notch education they can count on.

“We use a review process to measure the quality of our classrooms and how well faculty adhere to expectations, posting, feeding and timely participation,” she said. “I spend a lot of time looking into classrooms, doing spot-checks and conducting weekly and yearly reviews.”

“What is so great about my job,” she adds, “is that I get to be creative. I write content and curriculum and I get to be investigative and personable.”

So what is the next step Rhea is taking to ensure students stay connected and continue to feel at home at Chancellor?

“We’re going to start really leveraging Blackboard chat and posting videos,” said Rhea. “We want to have faculty names and faces all over Blackboard. I would like to see at least half our faculty using videos by summer.”

And while working hard to push the University into the future of online communication, Rhea says that it would simply not be possible without the hard work of everyone at Chancellor.

“At the end of the day I’m thankful for our students, staff and faculty and for their passion and commitment. We’re all committed to making this work,” she said. “It’s cliché, but ‘It takes a village’ and it really does!”

Student Spotlight: Jacqueline Dupree

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 20:49:00 +0100

Jacqueline Dupree has experienced hardships in her life. But that hasn’t stopped her from wanting to help others in need too.

“I’m a giving person and I hate to see people want for things,” she said. “I get more joy out of giving.”

After having spent almost 14 years outside the workforce due to a lung disease, Jacqueline finally decided to go back to school.

“I started to feel a little better because of a new medication I am now taking and I decided I didn’t want to be at home for the rest of my life,” she said. “I needed to make an effort to go back to school and make my life something. I didn’t want to give in to my disability. Everyone needs to find their self-worth.”

In her first attempt at returning to school, Jacqueline tried to attend an on-the-ground community college. However, she soon became physically exhausted from the long walk to and from campus each day.

“I was actually driving home from Tri-C when I first saw Chancellor,” said Jacqueline. “I went in to see what they were about and went from there.”

As Jacqueline’s education progressed, she decided that she needed to put her compassion to work – she wanted to enter the nonprofit sector.

“Seeing other people go through more than what I’ve been through made me want to do nonprofit,” said Jacqueline. “I’m a giving person and I hate to see people want – especially children – and I will do what I can for them if I have it to give.”

After speaking with her adviser, she determined that a major in public administration coupled with some hard work, would be the best track to attain her goals.

“I spent a lot of time with the tutors at CU,” she said. “I love Paul and Ray. I don’t know what I would do without them. I’m really grateful for the tutoring staff.”

And with hard work, came opportunity. In her senior year, Jacqueline received an internship that ultimately led to a job offer – her first in more than ten years.

“My education at Chancellor has given me a much better insight into the business world; how business may run, how to come up with different ideas, and to sit back and listen,” she said. “It also prepared me to still learn even once you get a job.It’s still a learning process.”

She adds, “Everything I have worked so hard has been to give back. I just feel that if you come within my vicinity, I’m supposed to do what I can to make you happy. I like to see people smile and I want my career to be about that, too.”

Chancellor Tutorial & Career Services

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 17:12:00 +0100

By Paul Strachan
Manager, Career & Tutorial Services
Chancellor University

The Tutorial and Career Services departments at Chancellor University are two valuable resources available for students no matter what level of academic achievement and work experience they may have. These services are personalized to build upon each student’s unique needs and strengths and help them reach their personal goals and objectives.

On any given day I work with students and graduates who are progressing through all the various stages of their academic and career paths. This includes new students who are just starting courses and getting into the swing of college and university studies, students who are completing courses and programs and then beginning new careers and employment, all the way to masters/graduate level students and alumni with significant experience who are advancing to the next level in their careers. Each individual has their own unique background, circumstances and set of goals, objectives, strengths, skills, needs, challenges, achievements and plans that they bring to their course of study and their career field of interest.

Through tutoring, students are able improve their academic performance and skills with brief phone calls, e-mails or regular one-hour appointments held remotely, in person on campus. Tutors work with all students upon request and services are available six days a week. Tutors at Chancellor have a record of significant past experience and expertise.

In addition, students have 24-hour access to the online Academic Support Center (ASC) in Blackboard that provides many subject resources including a Writing Center to help students develop their writing assignments and papers. Comprehensive resources on APA format and style are also available in the ASC. In Blackboard there are two ways to access the ASC. First, after logging into Blackboard, simply click the tab at the top right corner that says ‘Academic Support Center’ and then click on the blue navigation.

Career Services provides students, graduates and alumni with gainful employment opportunities and a variety programs in their field of study to help them gain valuable experience. The U.S. Federal Work-Study program is available to some qualified students who wish to work part-time while attending school. Internships are a terrific way to gain experience and get your foot in the door with a career. I have seen students transition to full-time jobs as the result of successful internships.

Career Services also provides personalized career planning, support and coaching in a comprehensive program called, ‘Essentials of 21st Century Career Campaigns’ to start new careers or advance in existing careers with regular employment. Conducting a proper career campaign requires sustained effort and support so students and alumni need not go it alone.

To sign up for career services and begin receiving regular job leads, students can go to the Chancellor website login page, click through the button for ‘My Career Planning’ and create an account on the e-Recruiting website and employment database. Hundreds of employer organizations and contacts are included there that recruit Chancellor students.

Among the Student Services and support team at Chancellor, I enjoy my role as the Manager of the Career Services and Tutorial Services departments. One of the most rewarding things in my position is working with students, recent graduates and alumni to provide support and then see them go on to achieve their academic, educational and career goals through their Chancellor experience.

During my past three years at Chancellor, I have seen many students and alumni meet challenges and achieve their academic and career goals. Over the short- and long-term the Chancellor experience has helped change and improve students’ lives for the better. I am fortunate to have worked with many students and to have played a part in each of their success stories.

For contact information and assistance call 216-432-8948 or 216-432-8942, send an email to pstrachan@chancelloru.edu, or click on the ‘Student Services’ pull down menu and then double click on ‘Tutoring’ and/or ‘Career Services’ on the Chancellor University website home page,

Meet the Staff: Donna Mauer

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:29:00 +0100

Donna Mauer doesn’t need to look far to find inspiration. Whether she’s working with potential new students to better their lives or practicing yoga and zip lining to enhance her own, her strong sense of purpose and motivation stem from a very personal place – her family.

“My family came to America from Yugoslavia with nothing,” she said. “They didn’t know English and had to work hard for their success. They didn’t complain.”

Watching her family – Donna’s grandmother, widowed at age 22; her parents, building a successful bakery from the ground up; and her uncle, learning English and working his way through college – shaped the way she perceived success for the rest of her life and allowed her to provide empathetic and insightful advice and encouragement to many of the students at Chancellor University today.

As a senior area development manager, Donna spends the majority of her time talking to students and learning their interests, why they want to change careers or go back to school and what they want to do with their lives.

“When I talk to a student and they enroll in school to pursue their degree, it’s a wonderful feeling, because I believe in them and have confidence in their dreams,” she said.

She adds, “You can do anything as long as you have drive and passion. Work hard and want it because anything is possible.”

Donna’s no stranger to hard work herself. As a first generation student, she has earned her marketing degree from University of Florida, started her own telecommunications business, worked as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, run highly successful internet press rooms for the Sony Ericsson tennis tournament and traveled all over the country helping students to find their dreams at Chancellor University.

“I’m lucky. Whatever I’ve set out to do in life, I’ve done,” she said. “I’m not afraid to take chances. Every day is an accomplishment. Be aware and be present. Don’t be blinded by time constraints.”

And while she’s helping students realize their career and education goals, Donna is pursuing her own at the same time; she’s a master’s degree student at Chancellor, too.

“I’m a busy person. And when someone says ‘I don’t have time,’ I don’t get that,” she said. “If you really want something, you’ll make the time.”

She added, “Some people make the excuse, ‘I’m too old.’ I don’t feel that way at all. You’re never too old to start new and that’s what I try to impart to the people I meet.”

The Secret to Her Success: How Ondrea Saffo went from the mailroom to the classroom

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 06:53:00 +0100

“Focus on your potential instead of your limitations” - Allen Loy McGuiness.

When Ondrea Saffo started out in the mailroom at a law firm over 10 years ago, she had no idea that her own raw potential and motivation would eventually lead her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in legal studies from Chancellor University.

“I started working in the mail room four hours a day at a firm with well over 300 attorneys,” she said. “The secretarial administrator got to know me and said ‘You’re a quick learner, we want to put you on our switch board.’ I did that for a while and then I was introduced into light clerical work.”

Over time, Ondrea’s hard work caught the attention of many who believed in her and she was next promoted into a legal secretary training program.

“I started working with my first attorney who was in intellectual property,” said Ondrea. “I’ve been working in that area ever since.”

When Ondrea decided to make the move to the Eaton Corporation, she was determined to become a paralegal. After a few years working with intellectual property lawyers at Eaton, she was again promoted, this time into a paralegal position.

“I just love the challenges of being a paralegal, especially in intellectual property,” she said. “And it’s not just one thing. There is a variety of things I like. The diversity – everything I do is on the international level. I’m looking at an email right now with correspondents from Japan, Canada and Korea!”

So, why, after all of the hard work, did Ondrea decide it was time to return to school?

“I’m hoping to advance to the next level of paralegal here at Eaton,” she said. “One of the paralegals here graduated from Chancellor and she’d been very successful in her career. The school came to me very highly recommended.”

She added, “CU and my job work hand in hand together. I have a great support system at work and there’s an open door policy at Chancellor. The one key factor is success – they want to see me succeed in my career.”

Ondrea’s belief in her own potential has helped her to move personal and professional barriers for years and she hopes to continue her growth, long after she earns her degree.

“I always thought I had more potential. I wanted to use my brain, I wanted something challenging,” she said. “I’ve always been the underdog and I just believe the sky is the limit.”

A Cranial Fitness Routine for 2013

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 13:43:00 +0100

By Michele Yurcich
Senior Director, Marketing & Development
Chancellor University

As is my Sunday morning ritual, I sit down with the Akron Beacon Journal and pop out the USA Weekend section of the paper. The article that caught my attention this week was called “Solutions for 4 common fitness ‘mistakes’.” A bright photo of a woman walking in winter gear was accompanied by the statement “10,000 steps per day is an achievable goal” was just enough to make me stop and take a look at the short article.

As I took in the details, I started to realize that fitness mistakes (as the story described them) aren’t much different that the mistakes we make in other areas of our lives. In fact, I found myself thinking the same thing about my own experiences with going back to college after 20 years. Let’s take a look at the arguments:

Fitness Mistake #1: Viewing regimen as temporary. “Many people think that when they achieve their goal, they won’t have to work out or diet anymore.” Really our brains work the same ways our muscles do, and if we settle with getting just enough information to get by, then we’re cheating ourselves out of continuing to grow intellectually. It’s easy to say “Look, I finished high school (or got my associate degree, or my bachelor’s degree) and I don’t need to do anymore.” However, pushing yourself beyond what is expected is making your brain healthy, and building that “brain muscle” by asking it to do more, think more, and learn more. The moral really is Never Stop Learning. Do something every day.

Fitness Mistake #2: Focusing on the negative. “If you go into a new fitness regime wanted to lose weight or be more attractive, you’re focusing on the negative and not how to improve your life.” The decision to do something you’ve never done before, such as pursuing an education or investing in new learning opportunities, can be wrought with the wrong ideas about WHY we want to do something. The bottom line is: learn something because YOU WANT TO, not because someone else expects it of you. Be in control of what goes in your brain and then decide what you can do with it.

Fitness Mistake #3: Dwelling on failure. “When you’ve made six attempts that have failed, trying again can be a challenge.” For the adult learner who is coming back to school after umpteen years like me, we sometimes are surrounded with doubts of “I can’t do this. I’m too old, I’ll never figure it out, I have too many responsibilities, I have to get the kids to …” and so on and so forth; so really we talk ourselves out of trying by making the assumption that it’s not worth our while. But really, how can we change if we don’t allow our brains to be challenged? How can we learn what we’re capable of? Think instead of the successes you’ll have, including the ones that others call failures, because really they are opportunities to reflect and learn what steps we need to make to hit goals.

Fitness Mistake #4: Discounting walking. “Over time, if you’re taking more steps, then you’re making progress. Every step counts.” This is the one that hit me the hardest. I think as part of our culture we all expect instant results, and we don’t take time to appreciate the steps it actually takes to get to where we want to go. Haven’t we all made a habit of running through the drive thru or heating up dinner in the microwave because it’s quicker than planning and preparing a healthy meal? When it comes to learning, your cranial fitness becomes more apparent with each chapter you read, each week you commit, and each class you complete. By taking the steps you need to reach milestones, you have to appreciate what you’ve accomplished. In the long run, the time, the effort, and the dedication is what’s going to make it all worthwhile.

So what do you say? I think it’s time to start an all-out Cranial Fitness Routine.

A Message to the Chancellor University Community

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:42:00 +0100

To the Chancellor University Community,

Every month, the staff and faculty of Chancellor University get together to conduct what we call a University-Wide meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to bring everyone together as a team dedicated to education, keep everyone aware of the progress that Chancellor has made, and tackle challenges and opportunities.

This month, we had one of our best University-Wide meetings to date as we took several hours to put ourselves in our students’ shoes and walk through the entire student life cycle - from the first time they hear about Chancellor to their first week of class. As Dr. Steve Kerr shared, the best part of a workout session is that everyone comes to the meeting focused on generating positive ideas and solutions.

There were a large number of good ideas that emerged including recommendations on process changes, program modifications and policies we should adopt.

As a result, after the New Year every member of the staff and full-time faculty (myself and Dr. Kerr included) will join small teams to work on a specific area for improvement. Working together to evaluate the challenge and make a recommendation, the teams will present their findings and course for action at the February University-Wide meeting.

It goes without saying that there is not an organization in the world that cannot improve upon something. What Chancellor was doing ten months ago or even ten weeks ago to serve students can be improved upon. The fun and rewarding part is coming up with the solution, implementing it and then seeing the results.

Our University-Wide meetings demonstrate what a highly talented and passionate team we have. A team with integrity, energy and a commitment to serving our students… nothing in life is as rewarding as helping something one else achieve their dreams. For all of us, we have the privilege of helping people change their lives forever by earning a college degree.

I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday… here is to peace and prosperity in 2013!

Kind regards,

Bob

Can I Go To DSW Now?

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 16:51:00 +0100

By Michele Yurcich

Senior Manager of Marketing & Development

Chancellor University

More than 15 years ago when my husband and I started dating, I set a ground rule: He was in charge of all electronics. I insisted on this as the entire maze of what was then state-of-the-art gadgets was just too boring for me to want to dive in to or learn about.

Back in the day when our VCR died, it was his responsibility to replace it. Unfortunately, being the person that he is, he would try to include me on the decision making. It went something like this:

Him: Well, there are several options, but do you think you’ll need SP, EP (SLP) or LP … or do you want a combination of the above so you can record different ways?

Me: (Deer in headlights look)

Him: You probably want 4-head, don’t you? I mean, you could get away with 2-head, but …

Me: (Deer in headlights look)

Him: But don’t forget, if I get a Super VHS version then we’ll get significantly sharper image resolution. A standard VCR provides about 240 lines of sharpness (resolution) while a Super VHS provides over 400 lines.

Me (coming out of confused state): Look, I just need something that will record “Days of Our Lives” so I can watch it after work.

Men think women are so difficult. Really, we’re very easy to please.

So imagine my complete and utter sense of bewilderment when I went to look for a TV for him for Christmas this year. Walking into Best Buy was like walking into a foreign country where I didn’t know the language. And then it hit me: I now knew what it was like for my husband to go into DSW with me (for those not familiar, DSW is the mecca of shoes, a place where sandals and pumps and flats and mules and boots and more all come to live in harmony. It’s Girl Heaven).

Anyway, suddenly I was inundated with terms like LED, LCD, HDTV, Hz, LMNOP, XYZ. There’s 24”, 32”, 39”, 40”, 42” … really, is there that big of a difference in 1”-2”? … 50”, 60”, 70” … who needs something this big?! There were brand names I’ve never heard of, but the ones I did know were unexplainably more expensive. I was in sticker-price shock.

So with a headful of letters and numbers and still no idea what I should buy, I did what I thought would be the next best step in my quest: I asked my co-worker what I should do. Little did I know that I was treading on sacred ground. Here’s how that conversation went:

Me: I’m looking at TVs for my husband, but really I have no idea what I’m looking for. Can you help? I found a nice looking 32” …

Kevan (shock and despair in his voice): 32”?! Don’t you DARE give that man a 32” TV!

Me: But it looks like it’s nice and …

Kevan: Do not do that to him. That’s just wrong. The TV in my bedroom is bigger than that! No!

Me: But it’s on sale!

Kevan: (look of incredulity)

Me: (exasperated sigh)

Two days before Christmas I went back out to Best Buy. Once again, I stood in the middle of aforementioned inexplicable letters and sizes, closed my eyes, and pointed at one that looked like it would work, and would meet Kevan’s requirements. I won’t say what I got, but suffice to say that the 32” did not make it home. And I got a gift receipt.

Meet the Staff: Vasil Hadji Jordanov

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:53:00 +0100

When Vasil Hadji Jordanov was charged with putting the Chancellor University Information Technology department at the top of its game, not only did he rise to the challenge, he called upon the rest of the University faculty and staff to follow his unique vision into the future of IT for higher ed.

Drawing on his experience working in higher education as well as his military service and diverse education in electrical engineering, information technology management and international business, Vasil was able to change the course of IT at Chancellor in less than one year.

“We’re light years ahead of where we were a year ago,” he said. “We will always have more to do though.”

As Vice President of Information Technology and adjunct professor at Chancellor University, Vasil is part of a team that is currently investigating innovative learning management solutions to better suit the growing and changing needs of our student body. He spends the majority of his time working with vendors and contractors to determine industry trends that will keep Chancellor ahead of the curve and convenient for our hundreds of remote students.

“It’s all about what we can bring to the table, what we can accomplish for students.” Vasil said.

And while Vasil has big plans for Chancellor’s IT department, he also knows that part of his job is being able to adapt to an ever-changing schedule.

“The advantage of this job is that a lot of tasks are not prepared or planned,” he said. “I jump from one thing to the next and no day is like the previous.”

That kind of workplace agility encourages freedom to explore creative solutions to new problem, something Vasil greatly enjoys and credits to his time in the military, where he worked as the IT Administrator for the Ministry of Defense in Macedonia.

“It [the military] affects your mindset forever,” he said. “You learn to filter every decision through this lens, consciously or subconsciously and you gain a love of freedom from being deprived of it in other ways.”

A Response to Sandy Hook: When did we stop protecting the Constitution?

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 15:45:00 +0100

By Gretchen Fleming, JD, MS
Director, Center for Law & Justice,
Chair of Legal Studies, Co-Chair of Criminal Justice, Chancellor University

As we mourn for the families and the community surrounding the tragic Sandy Hook shooting, I find that I am at a loss for words, and those who know me know that this in and of itself an anomaly. I was asked to create a blog regarding this shooting. As a mother of five children, three of which are kindergarten age, I cannot even think about Friday's events without tears and terror. I feel for those families, I praise those teachers, and I beg society to see this as a call for help.

As an educator, I wonder where are we going wrong (although I suspect I know the answer)? Where is the simple respect and value for human life that our forefathers envisioned in the Constitution? The Declaration of Independence speaks in terms of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and our Constitution works to enforce those values - when did we stop protecting that? So many in Washington are viewing this tragedy as an opportunity to call for action for arms control - the guns did not kill those children and teachers, a disturbed young man did with a weapon as a tool. I don't want to debate gun control; my point instead is that we have become a society of blame rather than one of accountability. Taking ownership for our actions is not what we are being taught and certainly not what our role models in Washington are demonstrating. As a society, we blame all of our woes on someone else, from the President, down to the banks and their buy-outs, to Adam Lanza. Instead of blaming the gun look at what would drive a young man to go into an elementary school with such hatred in his heart.

We seem to have a generation of parentless children. So many parents treat their children as friends. Children need parents to help them find their way. They need guidance and support. We need to look at the mass school shootings of the last 10 years and ask ourselves what is really going to help children succeed. Research time and time again demonstrates that children live up to teacher and parental expectation - use that power and challenge a child! If you don't have one take a few minutes and mentor a child, reach out and help! During this time of mourning take action, challenge yourself to volunteer at a library, or your alma mater. There are always children and college students in need of guidance. What do you have to give?

Sometime in the last 25 years we decided as a society that we need to protect children's feelings and make them feel good. I agree, but that does not mean we do not hold them accountable and it does not mean we pass them through regardless of skill. Instead, take the extra time, nurture, and develop skills, build self-confidence through actual competence and not celebrate mediocrity. We are a highly educated country that must see that we are not doing these kids any favors. Instead they are frustrated because they can't survive in a demanding world where everything is not done for them. We need to be real and show we care by giving guidance and support and raising the bar of expectations.

Understanding the mysteries for writing a successful business plan: Guidelines for students

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 14:10:00 +0100

By Kevin S. Chen, Ph.D., CMC
Chancellor University Adjunct Faculty Member, College of Business

Writing a business plan can be such a daunting process to many students. There seem to be countless ways to write a business plan. As a certified management consultant providing business plan services to clients for over 25 years and teaching concepts of business plans for over 10 years, I have seen a basic and common theme to writing a successful business plan.

Undoubtedly, it starts with basic details. In Microsoft Word, students should create the blank sections with the headings as follows: Executive Summary, Mission Statement, Company, Product/Services, Marketing, Operations, Management, and Financials.

Okay… now that that is done, what is next? Students should type in short statements of information in each appropriate section. Note: Choose a business with products/services that you have a passion for and keep in mind that your business plan will be unique for your own situation and not be the same as sample business plans that you can find in the Internet.

However, there are some useful sites that can provide some valuable guidelines for your business plan such as www.bplans.com, www.entrepreneur.com and www.sba.gov. Do not think that your business plan needs to include everything that the sample plans have. The sample business plans will be based upon market, management and financial circumstances that differ from your business plan.

What should your short statements comprise of in each section? Bullet points can help you organize your statements.

Executive Summary: This is a summary of your business plan and is the first section that appears in the business plan. Often interested readers (potential investors) will only read this section of your business plan. It is best to complete this section after completing all the other sections of the business plan.

Mission Statement: This is what you tell others about what your business is all about and what you want to do.

Company: This is about your business legal structure and company history. Your business strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats should be listed. Major competitors and competitive position are often mentioned as well as potential target markets and customers.

Product/Services: This is all about your product and services. How does your product and/or service benefit consumers and how unique is it compared to the competition?

Marketing: This is about the Market Analysis (segmentation and target market) and the Marketing Plan (marketing strategies, pricing structure and policies, advertising and promotions, etc.).

Operations: This is all about the operating details to run the business.

Management: This is about the key personnel that will operate the business now and in the projected future. Included is the organizational structure and managerial philosophies.

Financials: This is about financial statements that include cash flow, budgeting, income projections, etc.

After all your details are listed, revisit each one to determine if additional details need to be added or removed. If you think you are missing an important detail, take a look at sample business plans. The sample plans will help you organize your business plan sections. See how the business plans are written. You don’t need to re-invent the wheel but you must remember that your business plan is to be unique for your particular situation (market, management, and financials will likely differ).

Successful business plans will undergo modifications as the business adapts and overcomes challenges. Economic and competitive environments will constantly change. Anticipating and preparing for these changes will help increase the success of your business.

As you can see, there is really no mystery to writing a business plan. However, the success of it depends on the specific details that you provide to prepare for growth and challenges that your business will encounter.

Tech Success How Gretchen Freeman-Cromar got out of her comfort zones & into the Chancellor MBA program

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 17:31:00 +0100

Comfort zones. We all have them. Some of us would like to get out of them. Some of us already have.

Gretchen Freeman-Cromar, a soon-to-be Chancellor University MBA alumna, doesn’t like to stay in hers long. After spending more than 10 years working in the accounting industry, Gretchen decided to step out of her career comfort zone and try her hand in the world of technology.

“Over the years I had just gone through two or three or seven software changes as an accountant and had always been on the learning end,” she said. “I liked having a trainer and I always thought being a software trainer would be really cool. I made a deliberate choice to change careers.”

During the six years since she left her position as an auditor, Gretchen has worked her way from project manager to vice president of client services. Today, she is a Services Practice Manager for a Microsoft Dynamics partner, where she manages 17 project managers and developers who deliver business solutions for small to mid-sized businesses.

Even with such tremendous success, Gretchen still felt the need to expand her horizons, and push herself further outside her comfort zone.

“I’m in the software industry and work with Microsoft accounting packages,” said Freeman-Cromar. “It’s competitive. People are really smart. If you just sit around and do the same thing and not learn, you’re going to get passed over.”

Chancellor University’s MBA program provided Gretchen with an opportunity to expand her business credentials, while also giving her the flexibility to work, travel and learn at a pace that suited her needs.

Additionally, Gretchen wanted a program that was well-rounded and could better prepare her in areas where she lacked knowledge previously.

“The MBA program content at Chancellor included people skills, soft skills, analytical skills and entrepreneurial coursework,” she said. “What I love about it is that it forces you out of comfort zone to evaluate a business more completely.”

In particular, Gretchen cites her Strategy and Analytical Statistics classes as those that challenged her the most positively.

“I learned the most in these classes abut topics and areas that I never work in,” she said. “The course work was tough but rewarding.”

Gretchen also experienced the finer points of collaboration with fellow MBA students in the program.

“It’s a diverse range of students and the same material is being applied in completely different ways, with people in different industries,” she said. “It really forces you to develop collaborative skills and find common ground, which is invaluable.”

Perhaps the most valuable lesson Gretchen has taken away from her studies at Chancellor is this:

“My experience at CU has taught me that the most detrimental factor to a person’s career is allowing yourself to be pigeon-holed into one thing. The CU MBA offers a solution to approaching your career with a more open mind and a broader skill set than if you just stay in your specialized area of expertise.”

So exactly how does a successful, soon-to-be graduate from the Chancellor University MBA program plan to spend her post-MBA time?

“I’m going to have a big party to celebrate. I intend to work on my tennis game, read a lot of books, possibly get a puppy,” she said. “And of course, apply what I have worked hard to learn in the program to doing my very best work at the office.”

For more information about the Chancellor University MBA programs, please contact CUAdmissions@ChancellorU.edu or call 888.316.9377 to speak to an admissions representative directly.

Chancellor University & The Men Who Built America

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:04:00 +0100

By Richard Brhel
Associate Director of Student knowledge Resources
Chancellor University

The Men Who Built America is a new four part History Channel series on the great American industrial leaders Cornelius Vanderbilt, John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, J. P. Morgan and Henry Ford. These men made it look easy and learning their stories makes one wonder if destiny played a role in what they accomplished. Perhaps they were able to build these great companies because they
were destined to do so and they simply chose to fulfill their destiny?

Whether destiny played a role or not, each made significant contributions that resulted in an improved standard of living for America and the world. Rockefeller created order in the chaotic oil industry of the mid-19th century. His company became the world’s main supplier of kerosene. Before the kerosene lamp, people relied on whale oil and candles as their primary source of light.

Now, as Paul Harvey would say, here’s “the rest of the story”. Before Rockefeller entered the oil business and just before getting his first job as a clerk at a produce shipping company, he took a three month course in basic accounting and book keeping at Chancellor University (at that time we were Folsom’s Mercantile College). Since 1848 Chancellor University has been educating students for careers in business. Harvey Firestone and Stella Walsh also attended along with thousands of other students under our previous names which include Myers University, Dyke College and Spencerian College.

Today, as Chancellor University prepares to celebrate its 165th anniversary, we continue to educate students in business to meet current and future challenges and we take equal pride in the accomplishments of all of our graduates. However, today the world is much different than it was in 1848. We face different challenges, there are new problems to be solved and new inventions to be made and the education landscape has changed as well. So after 165 years, why study business at Chancellor University? From an Alumni Relations perspective I would like to propose two reasons:

First, as a student and graduate of Chancellor University, you will take pride in knowing that you are following in the footsteps of so many accomplished business leaders.

Second, as a member of the Chancellor University family, you will join a great network of current students and alumni. Men and women employed at various levels from CEOs to entry level positions, in a wide variety of industries all over the world. Current and perspective students are invited to join the Chancellor University Alumni Association LinkedIn Group.

To find out more about upcoming speakers for the Chancellor University Alumni Association, please contact RBrhel@chancelloru.edu or visit the Chancellor University Alumni Association LinkedIn group.

It's Not Me It's You

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:51:00 +0100

By Michele Yurcich
Senior Director of Marketing & Development
Chancellor University

Yesterday in USA Weekend, I found an interesting article called “How to make yourself the workplace MVP". The concepts were truly simple, but it’s those little things that we can do every day in our jobs that can and will propel us.

Deliver on demand: Be ready to deliver whatever is being asked of you, when it’s asked of you
More skills equals greater value: Become more valuable to the company by continually learning and furthering your education
Standing out means taking risks and doing things differently: If you never take a risk, you will never distinguish yourself from the crowd

Sounds good, right? But granted, sometimes The Fates have other ideas for us. We try and try but don’t get the recognition we deserve while others may be rushing past us up the ladder. However, it’s ultimately in our own hands if we don’t see the results we feel we deserve.

As an individual, you could easily do all the things (and more) that are suggested in this article – and the book referenced, “Admired: 21 Ways to Double Your Value” – and yet see no movement in your career. That’s when it’s time to rethink your strategy to find someone and someplace that will appreciate your skills, your personality, and all that you have to offer.

Let’s face it: your relationship with your employer is no different than your relationship with your spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend. When in an unsatisfying personal relationship, most people make a decision to leave and search for that special someone that makes them feel all warm-and-fuzzy inside. Rainbows and butterflies, hearts and kisses, long walks and wine by the fire … you get the picture.

But some of us stay in a bad relationship because we’re not sure we can do any better. We justify it to ourselves by thinking “It’ll get better! Really he loves me! I just have to stick it out!” Well folks, we all know that’s not always true, even when it comes to our career. And the faster we come to that realization, then the quicker we can continue to move along until we find the perfect, mutually respectful, challenging, and fun work environment.

I’ve been at Chancellor University now for four-and-a-half-months. I love coming to work. I love my co-workers and the students I’ve gotten to meet. I love watching the progress we are making as a team dedicated to continually bettering the school.

So I guess maybe I found the one for me.

Getting Twittery

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:44:00 +0100

Yesterday Chancellor University admissions and communications team members had an exciting opportunity to attend the Smart Business Midwest Social Media Summit in Cleveland.

Not only did almost a dozen of Chancellor’s team members attend, we also had the exciting opportunity to act as sponsors for the second year in a row! Additionally, Bob Daugherty, president of Chancellor University, reinforced CU’s commitment to social media by offering everyone in attendance a $200 discount on our 3-week certificate program during his introduction speech for the day’s keynote speaker.

Beyond Chancellor’s participation, the MWSMS was a unique event in a multitude of ways. Having the opportunity to discuss and learn about such new marketing concepts and get a glimpse into how so many innovators are utilizing them in different ways was inspiring. The invigorating panels, audience questions and live Twitter feed posting real-time updates from the crowd left very little room for anything like a dull moment.

What was truly the most exciting aspect of sponsoring such a unique, fun, and yes – very social – event, was having the opportunity to meet a broad spectrum of social media players. From beginners and casual users to social media mavericks, we rubbed elbows with them all while gaining even more insight into this budding industry. We look forward to coming back next year for more fun, learning and socializing.

Did you attend the Midwest Social Media Summit? Tell us about your experience in the comment section below!

Supreme Court Case Update

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 14:13:00 +0100

At a recent Webinar about the Criminal Justice program we briefly discussed a couple of recent U.S. Supreme Court cases of interest to both Criminal Justice majors and law enforcement officers. Maybe you have some comments or opinions about the cases and a prediction as to how the Supreme Court will rule.

U.S. Supreme Court Update
Two cases of interest to criminal justice students and the law enforcement community were recently argued to the U.S. Court. A third is set for argument in January, 2013. A summary of the facts and arguments are set forth below.

U.S. v. Jardines (argued Oct. 31, 2012)

Facts: A detective with the Miami-Dade Police Department received an unverified crime stoppers tip that he home of J. Jardines was being used to grow marijuana. Approximately one month later he and a partner and the partner’s drug detecting dog approached the residence at 7AM. They watched the home for 15 minutes; they saw no vehicles in the driveway, the blinds were closed and there appeared to be no activity within the house. They walked up to the front porch (with the dog) and the dog almost immediately gave a positive alert for drugs. The detective then smelled marijuana himself. He also noticed that the air conditioning unit had been constantly running for about 15 minutes without shutting off. This gave him reason to believe that a lot of heat was being generated from within the house. Based on these facts the detectives obtained a search warrant. They entered the residence and seized marijuana. They then arrested Jardines. The evidence was suppressed at the trial court level and that suppression as upheld by the Florida Supreme Court . The case was appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Arguments: The State argued that the Supreme Court had ruled in the past that the use of a drug sniffing dog is not a search and the positive alert merely indicates the presence of drugs. Questions from the Justices concerned going on the property: “………….That the police then are to go into a neighborhood that’s known to be a drug dealing neighborhood go into—go down the street, have the dog sniff in front of every door, or go into an apartment building?” The State answered by saying that it is permissible for “people, visitors, salesmen, Girl Scouts, Trick or Treaters, to come up to your house and knock on the door.”   One of the Justices countered by saying that the same would not be true for a drug sniffing dog and his handler. The defense here argued simply that what the detectives did (through the use of the dog) was conduct a warrantless search as the homeowner had a reasonable expectation of privacy. The Chief Justice asked what if the officers were going up to the door to deliver “policeman’s ball tickets” and sniffed at the door and detected marijuana. Is that OK? The defendant’s attorney answered that is not a search and is different. The arguments continued for over 70+ pages and it appears from the questioning that this case will be a “close call” and could be decided either way. The decision will probably be issued in the spring.

Bailey v. U.S. (argued Nov. 1, 2012)

Facts: Detectives in New York obtained a search warrant for an apartment. The apartment was said to be occupied by an individual known as “Polo”, a heavy set black male. Officers surveilled the apartment before entering and watched two males exit and enter a black Lexus parked in the driveway.   Both individuals matched Polo’s description. After the vehicle had driven about one mile from the apartment (and about 5 minutes had elapsed) the officers stopped the vehicle. They ordered both occupants out and patted them down. They were placed in handcuffs but told they were not under arrest. They were then transported back to the apartment where a search was under way. A gun and drugs were found and both were then arrested. Both argued that their detentions were in violation of the Fourth Amendment. The U.S. District Court ruled that the authority to detain a person incident to a search was “not strictly confined to the physical premises of the apartment so long as the detention occurred as soon as practicable after the defendant departed the apartment.” The Court also held the detention was lawful under Terry v. Ohio   The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit agreed and the defendant appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Arguments: The line of questioning to both sides of this argument focused on what is the “immediate vicinity” and how far should such a stop occur. An earlier Supreme Court case (Michigan v. Summers) had allowed for this although the persons in that case were at the premises and had not departed. Arguments in this case also exceeded 70+ pages. It will be interesting to seen which way the Court rules. This will also probably be decided in Spring, 2013.

Missouri v. McNeely ( to be argued January, 2013)

Facts: A Missouri highway patrolman stopped the defendant for speeding at about 2AM. In his opinion the driver was under the influence. He performed field sobriety tests which the defendant failed; he then placed him under arrest and then asked him for consent to perform a breath test and the defendant refused. The officer then transported him to a nearby hospital to have his blood tested. Against his will, the defendant’s blood was drawn (about 30 minutes after the initial stop). His blood alcohol level was well above the legal limit. He moved to suppress the evidence as a violation of his Fourth Amendment rights. The trial court refused to suppress the evidence but the Supreme Court of Missouri disagreed and suppressed it. The State appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Issue to be decided: The issue before the Court is whether a law enforcement officer may obtain a non-consensual and warrantless blood sample from a drunk driver under the exigent circumstances exception to the Fourth Amendment warrant requirement based upon the natural dissipation of alcohol in the bloodstream.   Arguments are set for January 9, 2013.

Please stay tuned to this site for more updates and the rulings by the Court.

Career In Focus: Dr. Navran on CU's Partnership with the Career Transition Center

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 13:47:00 +0100

By Dr. Darius Navran
Dean of the College of Professional Studies; Associate Provost

Like every metropolitan city, Cleveland is fortunate to have numerous great nonprofits who focus on advancing common good and public interests. Career Transition Center (CTC) is relatively a new nonprofit organization that assists displaced workers in transitioning to new jobs. Its aim is to catapult the success of area workers and businesses. I recently had an opportunity to meet Ann B. Hunter, Executive Director of CTC and was quite impressed to learn how a small organization with limited resources is embarked on doing big things for its community. Enabling people to get back into employment in today's hard economic times is indeed an admirable goal.

Ann, who has a vast background on career counseling, is a visionary and compassionate individual. Her office, which is located at Shaker Heights Public Library, is quite modest and unpretentious. Ann spends her time coaching job seekers, planning workshops, reaching out to employers and fundraising. Given the magnitude of the challenges that CTC faces in assisting its clients with career transition and job search, it naturally can benefit from the assistance of other organizations that can create a synergistic collaboration.

When Rich Brhel, Chancellor University Librarian, and I met Ann in her office, we discussed areas that Chancellor can provide its faculty and staff expertise to enable CTC to better achieve its mission. The two organizations have agreed that the university can assist CTC with grant writing application and certain workshops where Chancellor's faculty would provide their knowledge and skills to job-seeking participants. Also, the Chancellor University Career Services Office has added the CTC to its list of local resources for CU students and alumni seeking career assistance. I believe the scope of collaboration can expand as we get to learn more about the different needs that CTC fulfills in fostering talent advancement and strengthening the local economy.

For more information about the Career Transition Center, please visit their website at www.careertc.org.

Introducing: Chancellor's Newest Alumni Board Members

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 20:21:00 +0100

As newly-elected board members of the Chancellor University Alumni Association, each of our distinguished alumni has a success story that accompanies the degrees they have earned with our long-standing institution. Take a quick look below at some of the exciting things our board members are doing with their education:

Michael Tyler – President
Michael Tyler’s business experience began after he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Myers University in 2004. Shortly thereafter he was promoted to Operations Manager of a small firm in the automotive industry and obtained his MBA, which he completed in just 11 months. In 2005, his capacity changed to Vice President of Human Resources and Vice President of Operations for two different manufacturing corporations. Michael enjoys using logistics to strategizing business methods for solutions, implementing business security, creating win-win business scenarios for profit, and mentoring managers for future career success. Currently, Michael works with Nationwide Insurance and in his free time enjoys playing keyboards with his band and taking his classic car for rides around town.

Anthony Bateman – Vice President
Anthony Bateman graduated from Chancellor/Myers University in 2006 with a Master of Business Administration and is a first generation college student. Anthony holds 29 years of combined education and experience in the business field. He has spent time working as an independent contractor, entrepreneur and research analyst. His education spans a variety of subject matters, including computer aided drafting, business, management and strategic intelligence. When Anthony is not working, he enjoys dancing and singing, cooking and the outdoors.

Harvey Justmann – Treasurer
Harvey Justmann is a seasoned international businessperson who has made more than 70 trips to the Far East. As a Management Consultant to small businesses, Harvey is able to utilize his organizational skills and abilities to reduce manufacturing costs for business owners by as much as 50%. Harvey served on the Executive Board of his Synagogue’s Board of Trustees, having held positions as Treasurer and Fundraising chairperson. Harvey has attended several schools of higher learning, including Myers University, and is currently enrolled as a senior at Chancellor University, working toward his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. For relaxation, Harvey enjoys music, watching sporting events, movies and spending time with family and friends.

Kelli Jackson – Secretary
Kelli Jackson is a native of Cleveland and works at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation's Access to Care facility. Kelli has held various administrative and finance positions as a civil servant for the federal government. In her previous position, she worked for the Department of Consular Affairs at the State Department as an Adjudicator. Kelli is also a licensed realtor. Kelli earned her BSBA from Myers University in 2005, and completed her MBA at Chancellor University in 2011. In her community, Kelli volunteers for the Cleveland branch of the American Heart Association (AHA) and participates in the AHA's Annual HeartWalk. Kelli likes to discover new and exciting places with her husband, son and cocker spaniel, Bella.

A Degree in Paralegal Studies with a Dose of Medical Field Experience

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 14:19:00 +0100

By Libby Brandt

Paralegal studies degrees allow virtually anyone who has a passion for law an opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. The projected employment growth rate stands at 18%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For those with a medical background –nurses, EMTs, physicians and others – it can be even more rewarding.

According to Gretchen Fleming, Director of the Center for Law & Justice and Legal Studies Program Chair at Chancellor University, the demand for paralegal professionals with a background in the medical field is at an all-time high and projected to continue its growth at an unprecedented rate.

“Every firm I visit asks, ‘Do you have anyone with medical background? Send them to us, we want them,’” said Fleming. “The demand for law professionals with a medical background is exceptionally high.”

As demand skyrockets for individuals with this type of knowledge, one might ponder why a paralegal would ever benefit from experience in the medical field.

In fact, a multitude of litigation now requires specific medical knowledge, including medical malpractice, social security disability and personal injury suits, to name just a few. Each of these cases requires a medical expert familiar with both medical and legal terminology and procedures to determine whether the actions taken leading up to the suits were reasonable or negligent with respect to the details of each specific case.

“We don’t want medical professionals to think of the opportunity to work in a law firm as a career change or a switch,” said Fleming. “We see it as a way to use the expertise they already have in a new and exciting way.”

Plus, working in a law firm is a great opportunity for hard working medical personnel to finally get off of their feet while still utilizing years of experience in an important way. Truly ambitious individuals may even decide they don’t need to leave their current jobs to pursue a medical paralegal career, and can put their education to use as paralegal consultants or work on a part-time basis.

So what do you need to do to take your medical background to the next level and become a medical paralegal? Chancellor University’s post-baccalaureate paralegal studies certificate allows interested medical professionals to accelerate their education by eliminating additional courses and focusing only on the paralegal curriculum to reduce the time it takes to earn your degree to a single year.

Once student have completed the required courses, they can begin a new and rewarding facet of their medical career.

Want to find out more about our Legal Studies program? Check out this program overview video or visit the Legal Studies program homepage.

For more information about the Chancellor University' paralegal education certificate, or to find out how you can put your experience in the medical field to new use, contact CUAdmissions@ChancellorU.edu or call 216.391.6937.

Meet the Faculty: Scott Brantley

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 14:57:00 +0100

Scott Brantley didn’t always envision himself as teacher, but instead, began his impressive career by attending law school. At the end of his first year, he was drafted into the army where he served for two and a half years before returning to finish his law degree.

Scott is Chancellor University’s Criminal Justice program chair and one of the school’s longest standing professors. He’s also a retired FBI agent who works hard to impart his years of field knowledge to students here at CU.

When he was recruited for the FBI in 1976, Scott was introduced to the world of officer training. He spent many years working with officers of all levels, including police chiefs, patrol officers and more, to provide them with fundamental on-the-job training, something that would one day inspire him to pursue teaching criminal justice full-time.

Another major inspiration in Scott’s life is his father, who once gave him a piece of advice that changed the courses of his career path from mediocre student to former FBI agent and successful college professor he is today.

“My father convinced me while I was in college and struggling to shape up or I would get drafted into the army and probably not finish school,” said Scott. “I took his advice. He did not graduate from college and spoke from experience.”

Like his father, Scott also speaks from experience, one of the many reasons why students enjoy his classes so much and remain in contact with him long after graduating from Chancellor University.

“I had a student several years ago who switched his major from business to criminal justice. I taught him several CJ classes and stayed on him, convincing him he had to do well in the criminal justice core if he wanted a career in law enforcement. He did and it was enjoyable to watch him bear down and mature. He graduated from here, entered and graduated from a police academy, and went to work part-time at two police departments. Since then, he has had numerous job offers and is currently working full-time with a suburban police department, a job he calls his ‘dream job.’ He regularly contacts me and updates me on his career and I can sense the excitement and enthusiasm in his voice. I suggested to him over a year ago that he should continue his education and he will be receiving his master’s in criminal justice this December.”

Stories and experiences like this are what make teaching such a satisfying experience for Scott. “Hearing those things is really rewarding,” he said. “I enjoy teaching and then hearing back from students saying ‘I enjoyed our topic this week’ or ‘I never really knew that,’ too.”

When Scott isn’t busy working with students to help improve their lives and knowledge of criminal justice, he enjoys exercising, playing golf, reading non-fiction books and watching any and all sporting events.

A Paralegal's Story

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:03:00 +0100

By Libby Brandt
Social Media & Communications Manager, Chancellor University

Shelly Bender is a paralegal who loves her job. She’s also a single parent who never thought she’d have the opportunity to fulfill her dream of pursuing her bachelor’s degree in legal studies.

But thanks to Chancellor University and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), Shelly will begin working toward her degree this October at Chancellor with a full ride scholarship under her belt.

“I found out about the scholarship opportunity through my NFPA,” said Shelly, who is also vice president and NFPA primary representative for Central Connecticut Paralegal Association (CCPA). “I thought it was just wonderful and I sent out an email blast to get everyone to apply for it. I never even considered it for myself.”

And while she was championing the opportunity to others, a good friend and attorney she works with convinced her that she should take a chance and submit an application with what would become her winning essay.

“They didn’t tell me in advance that I had won,” said Shelly. “I was at the NFPA Convention in Alaska and I heard them call my name. I couldn’t believe it.”

The scholarship, which covers the entire cost of Shelly’s education at Chancellor University, is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to the legal field, which began as a small child watching the television show Perry Mason.

Shelly’s passion for her career is infectious, and her thirst for more knowledge about anything paralegal has led her to join dozens of committees and play an active role in CCPA for more than eight years, serving on the board of directors and holding numerous offices within CCPA.

It’s hard to imagine, then, how such a busy person can juggle work, multiple committees, family, friends and school. But for Shelly, this is an opportunity she has waited a lifetime to see through. In her essay she writes:

There are times when I think I am too old to go back to school. On reflection, I realize I have a choice. This time next year, I will be one year older regardless of what I do today. However, if I start this new journey today, I will be one year closer to my goal than simply being only one year older.

“It’s going to be an adjustment, particularly getting used to studying again. But I am so looking forward to it,” said Shelly.

Like a lot of Chancellor students, the biggest adjustment may just come in the form of online classes.

“This is my first online course,” Shelly said. “I’ve done a lot of continuing education and pod casts, but this is totally new.”

Fortunately, the staff at Chancellor has been hard at work easing her transition. Even before classes began, she and her fellow classmates were required to take the CU 101 Chancellor Student Success course, which helps acclimate new students to various tools featured in Chancellor’s online learning arsenal.

“It was impressive how they set it up and how much effort they put into making me feel comfortable in this environment.” Shelly added. “I even started reading the text ahead of time.”

That kind of passion and zeal for learning, so evident when speaking to her and in reading her essay, has served as motivation to continuously push forward over the years and will only help her along the way to earning her bachelor’s degree.

On the profession she loves so much, Shelly says, “I love what I do. And the more you educate yourself in this field, the more you enjoy it and the better you’ll be at your job.”

Shelly’s inspiring essay can be read in the upcoming issue of the National Paralegal Reporter, available this November.

For more information about Chancellor University's paralegal program, please contact CUadmissions@ChancellorU.edu. To find out about our financial aid and scholarship opportunities, please email FinancialAid@ChancellorU.edu.

A Lesson in Going Back to School

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 12:33:00 +0100

By Victor Serna
GICS Area Development Manager, Chancellor University

Having been out of school for a few years, working in banking and as an entrepreneur leading an international company, I thought spending time getting my MBA was not necessary. So this year I decided that I would apply myself and get my MBA done.

Like a lot of people, at first I was a little nervous to go back. It had been a long time since I had done something like this. I had to make some adjustments and put some things on hold to make room for my education plans. Even my time needed to be reorganized. I had to figure out how to manage time better at home.

But I am so elated I chose to pursue my MBA because all my professional and practical experiences are coming together and my classes provide me with the tools to shape me into a fantastic leader.

As a stock broker and an entrepreneur I always had shortcomings. Our simulation class is forcing me to tackle these head on instead of hiring someone with those capabilities to do it for me. In our simulation environment we actually get to run an entire enterprise and shift leadership roles with real outcomes in our Profit and Loss reports.

I have also been challenged to work with people from different backgrounds, cultures, personalities and professions. My class has helped me developed skills that I thought I had but never had a chance to exercise. I am excited to learn more and can’t wait for my next class to start!

The Admissions Journey: From Application to Enrollment & Beyond

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:59:00 +0100

By Libby Brandt, Social Media & Communications Manager, Chancellor University

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Chinese Philosopher Lao Tsu said it best. Chancellor University Admissions is working to make that step easier than ever.

When a student makes the decision to start or return to school after a long absence, it can be a life-changing and stressful process. Chancellor’s Admissions department operates as a facilitator to students from the first moment of interest through the enrollment process and beyond.

“We’re here to make it ok for you to start,” said Antoinette Daniels, Program Development Manager and Admissions Representative at Chancellor University. “Students rely on us. If I can help them in any way, I do.”

Antoinette has been working in the Chancellor University Admissions department for more than a year and a half. Like a lot of admissions reps, she goes above and beyond to get students the help they need to start on the right foot. Unlike a lot of admissions reps, Antoinette has gone through the entire process herself – she’s an MBA student at CU.

“I’ve been there. I know how it works from the inside out and I use that knowledge to help them,” she said.

Whether that means assisting with the initial application process, clarifying requirements for different majors or clearing up outstanding financial balances, Antoinette is there to provide answers and support.

“I hadn’t been to school in six years,” said Nathan Boone, a current Chancellor University graduate student. “It was like having a friend on the inside who genuinely cared about me starting out the best at Chancellor.”

Antoinette and the Admissions team at CU work regularly with each student to clear the path to class. When a problem arises with an application, as was the case with Nathan, the team makes a point to call the student to pinpoint errors and troubleshoot.

“If it hadn’t been for Antoinette, I wouldn’t be in school this semester,” he said. “She was very proactive in getting information over to the people I needed at CU.”

Accepted students can also rely on their admissions advisors to work with them to schedule the right classes and provide insight about how online education really works.

“A lot of students are nervous about learning ‘online,’” Antoinette said. “We go through it with them, make sure they understand the functions of the online community and how to get the most out of it.”
Building confidence in the online process allows new students to begin their educational journey at Chancellor University with a foundation of confidence. The CU admissions team makes themselves available to students for walkthroughs at work, online, through phone, even on weekends.

The mentorship and guidance don’t stop just because class begins, either. Admissions representatives maintain contact with students throughout their careers at Chancellor to ensure they’re keeping on track personally and academically. This unique approach allows students to feelconnected in a nontraditional setting that can otherwise feel a little challenging.

“At other schools, the onus is on the applicant. If you don’t get it done or follow up, you don’t get in,” Nathan adds. “That’s what makes Chancellor great. Taking care of people and making sure they’re getting what they need.”

For more information about Chancellor’s Admissions Department or to apply to Chancellor University, please visit: https://www.chancelloru.edu/admissions.aspx.

Thoughts On the Recent Attempted Federal Reserve Attack

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:15:00 +0100

By Gretchen Fleming, Director for the Center of Law & Justice, Chair of Legal Studies, Criminal Justice Program Co-Chair, Associate Professor; and Scott Brantley, Criminal Justice Program Co-Chair, Assistant Professor

Once again we find New York City a target for terrorist attacks. The attempted attack on the Federal Reserve yesterday was the fifteenth plot averted by the authorities since September 11, 2001. In this country we have a tendency to take our freedom and safety for granted. If not for the vigilance of the FBI and NYPD we would be watching a very different story on the news.

What are your thoughts? Do you think that terrorism is as big a threat today as it was five years ago? How safe do you feel we are as a Nation from terrorist attacks?

What defense do you think this person will raise once changed? From what you have read, do you believe that entrapment might be a defense? If so, will it be successful?

Please post your thoughts and comments in the blog comment section below.

Entrapment

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 13:30:00 +0100

By Scott Brantley, Criminal Justice Program Co-Chair, Associate Professor

The word entrapment has been in the news lately. Here in Cleveland (home of Chancellor University), five (5) individuals were recently arrested and charged in federal court with conspiring to detonate a bomb(s) to destroy a bridge which handles a large amount of traffic and commuters each day. One lawyer has openly professed his belief that his client was entrapped by the government to commit this offense. Let’s discuss this defense and look at what the legal definition of entrapment is.

If a person is ready and willing to break the law and the Government agents (police) merely provide an opportunity for the crime, there is no entrapment. It is not entrapment for an undercover agent to offer to engage in an illegal activity with the person. A person is not a victim of entrapment if he was ready, willing and able to commit the crime charged, if an opportunity presented itself, as long as law enforcement did no more than offer an opportunity. You often see this defense in prostitution cases where the defendant (the “john”) alleges that he was tricked, trapped or induced into the criminal activity by the undercover police officer posing as a prostitute. That is why officers are schooled in what to say and what not to say when approached.

A successful entrapment is a complete defense to a criminal charge because "Government agents may not originate a criminal design, implant in an innocent person's mind the disposition to commit a criminal act, and then induce commission of the crime so that the Government may prosecute." Jacobson v. United States, 503 U.S. 540, 548 (1992). It is a defense that is rarely successful. To present a valid entrapment defense the defense attorney must prove two elements: (1) that the government induced the crime, and (2) that the defendant lacked the predisposition to engage in the criminal conduct. Mathews v. United States, 485 U.S. 58, 63 (1988). What exactly are inducement and predisposition?

Inducement is the first threshold issue in the entrapment defense. The government's use of artifice, stratagem, pretense, or deceit does not establish inducement. A D.C. Circuit opinion in 1984 stated that inducement is shown only if the government's behavior was such that "a law-abiding citizen's will to obey the law could have been overborne". A Fifth Circuit case, United States v. Johnson, 872 F.2d 612, 620 (5th Cir. 1989) held that inducement is shown if the government created "a substantial risk that an offense would be committed by a person other than one ready to commit it". As you can see inducement is not that easy to prove.

Secondly, even if inducement has been shown, a finding of predisposition is fatal to an entrapment defense. The predisposition inquiry focuses upon whether the defendant "was an unwary innocent or, instead, an unwary criminal who readily availed himself of the opportunity to perpetrate the crime." Also, predisposition may exist even in the absence of prior criminal involvement: "the ready commission of the criminal act," such as where a defendant promptly accepts an undercover agent's offer of an opportunity to buy or sell drugs, may itself establish predisposition. Jacobson, 503 U.S. at 550.

Now, knowing what you do about the entrapment defense, do you think (from what you have read or heard) that it will be successful in the Cleveland case mentioned above? In conclusion, the entrapment defense is one that is often alleged or claimed but one that is difficult to actually prove.

What Are the “Stand Your Ground” and “Castle Law” Doctrines? Are They the Same Thing?

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 13:28:00 +0100

By Scott Brantley, Criminal Justice Program Co-Chair, Assistant Professor

Stand Your Ground
This type of defense was first enacted in 2005 (in Florida) at the behest of the National Rifle Association (NRA). This law has recently come to light there in the Trayvon Martin case where George Zimmerman has been charged with second degree murder of Martin. His defense is that he used deadly force because the “stand your ground” law in Florida allowed for that. Since Florida’s passage of this type of law, almost two dozen other states have followed. The pertinent part of Florida’s statute (Section 776.012 of Title 46) states as follows: “Use of force in defense of person.—A person is justified in using force, except deadly force, against another when and to the extent that the person reasonably believes that such conduct is necessary to defend himself or herself or another against the other’s imminent use of unlawful force. However, a person is justified in the use of deadly force and does not have a duty to retreat if: (1) He or she reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to himself or herself or another or to prevent the imminent commission of a forcible felony.”

Many argue that this law is really unnecessary as the U.S. Supreme Court has actually held that if a person believes he/she is in imminent danger of death or bodily harm they have no duty to retreat and may use deadly force in self-defense. (see Brown v. United States, 1921). It may be that states that have these laws will find them more difficult than dealing with the self defense common law that has been in effect for years.

Castle Law Doctrine

In 2008 Ohio passed a crime bill (SB 184) which included a castle doctrine defense. Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Sec 2901.05 (B)(1) states in part that “a person is presumed to have acted in self defense or defense of another when using defensive force that is intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm to another if the person against whom the defensive force is used is in the process of unlawfully and without privilege to do so entering, or has unlawfully and without privilege to do so entered, the residence or vehicle occupied by the person using the defensive force. “ Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Sec. 2901.09. (B) states that “For purposes of any section of the Revised Code that sets forth a criminal offense, a person who lawfully is in that person's residence has no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense, defense of another, or defense of that person's residence, and a person who lawfully is an occupant of that person's vehicle or who lawfully is an occupant in a vehicle owned by an immediate family member of the person has no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense or defense of another.”

I think in simpler language the above means that a homeowner who uses deadly force against an (uninvited) intruder is presumed innocent. In other words the burden is on the prosecution to prove otherwise. That is a complete reversal of prior law where the homeowner had an affirmative duty to prove self defense.

There are approximately thirty (30) states with similar laws. Florida also has its own version of the castle law doctrine (See Section 776.013 of Title 46). Virginia recently introduced legislation but it was defeated after extensive lobbying by pro gun rights’ activists. The Virginia law required that the homeowner prove some “overt act” on the part of the intruder. It is important to clearly understand the law in your state.