“From Oil Spill to Civic Voice: Lessons from Santa Barbara” - Environmental Justice Keynote with Richard Appelbaum, PhD
2026-05-05 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual via Zoom
As democracy faces growing pressure worldwide, how can our pursuit of environmental justice and democratic engagement be renewed where it matters most—at the community level? Excelsior University, the Center for Social Justice, and the Civic Engagement and Environmental Justice Rope Teams are pleased to welcome Richard Appelbaum, PhD, Fielding Graduate University faculty emeritus, for the environmental justice keynote “From Oil Spill to Civic Voice: Lessons from Santa Barbara” as part of the Democratic Engagement Dialogue Series. In this live discussion, Appelbaum will explore how environmental justice and democracy are practiced, sustained, and lived locally.
Drawing on the pivotal 1969 offshore oil spill in Santa Barbara, California—then the largest environmental disaster in U.S. history—Appelbaum will examine how crisis sparked civic transformation. The disaster helped launch the first Earth Day, galvanized the modern environmental movement, and reshaped citizen participation in local politics. Through this case, he will illustrate how engagement across differences and collective action can strengthen environmental justice and democratic life. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussion after the keynote.
A distinguished sociologist and sustainability scholar, Appelbaum is faculty emeritus at Fielding Graduate University, former MacArthur Foundation Chair at UC Santa Barbara, an American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow, and a longtime leader in community-based social justice work.
Join us for this timely and inspiring conversation on how local action can renew environmental justice and democracy—starting where we live, learn, and lead.
Register Here.

Lifting Every Voice: Democratic Engagement Dialogue Session
2026-04-16 15:00 - 16:00
How do we lift every voice? Let’s explore together the meaning of democracy and ways to engage with others when we have different ways of thinking. Join us for a conversation hosted by Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice, the Civic Engagement Rope Team, the Underground Railroad Education Center, the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, and the No Hate Capital Region Council.
In this session, the conversation will focus on our collective exploration of the meaning and power of democracy as a way of thinking and a lifestyle; strategies to create and engage in dialogue that transcends disagreement, promotes inclusion, leverages our diversity, and strengthens democracy; and concrete actions we could pursue to participate and promote democracy in our daily environments.
Register here.

State of the University 2026
2026-04-14 19:00 - 20:00
Join Excelsior’s annual State of the University event on Tuesday, April 14, at 7 p.m. ET as President David Schejbal and Provost Chris Cassirer reflect on a transformative year for the University and discuss the vision for the future ahead. The event takes place during Charter Week, the anniversary celebration of Excelsior’s charter to operate as an independent institution.
President Schejbal and Provost Cassirer will detail innovative new degree programs, Excelsior’s first hands-on learning site, and exciting institutional partnerships.
The State of the University presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

For inquiries, contact communications@excelsior.edu.

Register here.

Summer in the Adirondacks: The One Health Course Experience with Paul Smith’s College
2026-04-13 12:00 - 13:00
Looking for a meaningful and memorable way to spend part of your summer? Join us to learn more about Humans, Health and the Environment: A One Health Approach, a three-week summer course that includes online learning and a residential component at Paul Smith’s College in New York’s Adirondack Mountains. The 3-credit course explores the connections between human, animal, and environmental health, making it relevant for careers that require collaboration across health, science, and the environment. Bring your questions and get ready to discover more about this unique course designed for Excelsior students as well as non-students looking for enrichment.
Register here.

Info Session: Bachelor of Science in Business Program
2026-03-24 12:00 - 13:00
Learn about our BS in Business program and the fixed-rate tuition option designed to help you plan your education with confidence. During this online session, you’ll hear from program experts and have the chance to ask questions about curriculum, admissions, and financial options. The session will be led by Leah Sciabarrasi, PhD, associate dean of the School of Business, whose expert knowledge and experience will give you clear insight into the exciting things that await you in our IACBE-accredited BS in Business program. Our information session also includes an overview of the admissions process and time for a Q&A.
Register today.

Lifting Every Voice: Democratic Engagement Dialogue Session
2026-03-19 15:00 - 16:00
How do we lift every voice? Let’s explore together the meaning of democracy and ways to engage with others when we have different ways of thinking. Join us for a conversation hosted by Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice, the Civic Engagement Rope Team, the Underground Railroad Education Center, and the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region.
In this session, the conversation will focus on our collective exploration of the meaning and power of democracy as a way of thinking and a lifestyle; strategies to create and engage in dialogue that transcends disagreement, promotes inclusion, leverages our diversity, and strengthens democracy; and concrete actions we could pursue to participate and promote democracy in our daily environments.
Register here.

Info Session: Summer at Excelsior
2026-03-18 12:00 - 13:00
Summer at Excelsior is your chance to discover and experience new learning opportunities. Whether you are an Excelsior student or a non-student looking for enrichment, join our info session to learn how you can make this your best summer ever at Excelsior University. Explore study abroad in Rome, a course with one week in the Adirondack Mountains, and other exciting options.
Register here.

Nuclear Power as a Solution to AI Power Needs
2026-03-12 18:00 - 19:00
Artificial intelligence continues to transform the technology industry. Richard Cole, a faculty member in Excelsior University’s School of Technology, discusses how nuclear power can meet the needs of AI and explores how Excelsior’s degree programs in engineering technologies equip students with essential knowledge and practice-ready skills. This session includes an overview of the admissions process and time for a Q&A.
Register Here

AI-Powered Cyber Threats and Defenses
2026-03-09 18:00 - 19:00
Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping cybersecurity and the broader technology landscape, and how Excelsior’s computer technology programs prepare students to not only use AI tools but also lead responsibly in an AI-enabled environment. James Tippey, associate dean of the School of Technology, discusses the shift from AI as a technical feature to a system that influences decisions, accountability, and trust. After hearing about the ethical and societal implications of AI-driven security, learn how AI-driven threats, AI-enabled defense, systems thinking, and ethical responsibility are embedded in Excelsior’s workforce-aligned degree programs.
Register here.

Industry Insights: A Conversation with Kelly Ferneau of American Electric Power
2026-02-24 20:00 - 21:00
Excelsior’s American Nuclear Society Student Section hosts a conversation with Kelly Ferneau, executive vice president and chief nuclear officer of American Electric Power. Ferneau has more than 30 years of experience in the nuclear industry and in her current role has oversight of the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant in Bridgman, Michigan. She will share her vision for the future of the industry and opportunities for women in this growing field, and answer questions from attendees. This online event is open to anyone interested in the nuclear industry. Register today for this insightful conversation.

Lifting Every Voice Black History Month Conversation: Democratic Engagement Dialogue Session
2026-02-19 15:00 - 16:00
How do we lift every voice? Let’s explore together the meaning of democracy and ways to engage with others when we have different ways of thinking. Join us for a conversation hosted by Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice, the Civic Engagement Rope Team, the Underground Railroad Education Center, the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, and the St. Petersburg, Florida, Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Center.
In this session, the conversation will focus on our collective exploration of the meaning and power of democracy as a way of thinking and a lifestyle; strategies to create and engage in dialogue that transcends disagreement, promotes inclusion, leverages our diversity, and strengthens democracy; and concrete actions we could pursue to participate and promote democracy in our daily environments.
Register here.

Online Information Session: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2026-02-18 12:30 - 13:00
Are you, or someone you know, ready to take the next step toward becoming a registered nurse? Our prelicensure BS in Nursing program (for Florida residents only) could be the perfect fit. The program provides students from all backgrounds and experience levels with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on training they need to start—and advance—a career as a registered nurse.
Register here.

Panel Discussion: Celebrating Black Entrepreneurship in Our Community
2026-02-17 13:30 - 14:30
In honor of Black History Month, the Excelsior University Center for Social Justice and Race & Ethnicity Rope Team are shining a light on Black entrepreneurship with a virtual panel discussion featuring local leaders, educators, and business owners. Join us on February 17 from 1:30–2:30 p.m. ET for an insightful conversation about investing in dreams, overcoming challenges, and building community.
The panel conversation will be moderated by Tamika Goode-Otis, founder and CEO of KABOD Consulting Group LLC.
Panelists include Santarvis Brown, management and leadership faculty for Excelsior University’s School of Business; Marie Campell, owner and floral designer of Blooms by Marie; Starletta Smith, CEO of the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region; and Renel Turner, owner of Nelly’s Treats.
This event is free and open to the public.
Register here
You will be provided with the Zoom webinar link upon your registration.

Info Session: Explore Excelsior’s Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
2026-01-27 12:30 - 13:30
This information session is your opportunity to learn more about Excelsior University’s BS in Health Sciences program. Known for its flexibility, the program provides students opportunities to customize their academic experience for alignment with their professional goals. During this online session, discover how you can transfer in credit, choose from expanded course options, and tailor this program to your interests.
Register today.

Lifting Every Voice Martin Luther King Jr. Day Conversation: Democratic Engagement Dialogue Session
2026-01-15 15:00 - 16:00
How do we lift every voice? Let’s explore together the meaning of democracy and ways to engage with others when we have different ways of thinking. Join us for a conversation hosted by Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice, the Civic Engagement Rope Team, the Underground Railroad Education Center, the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, and the St. Petersburg, Florida, Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Center as part of our celebration of the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day and our co-facilitation of the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing.
In this session, the conversation will focus on our collective exploration of the meaning and power of democracy as a way of thinking and a lifestyle; strategies to create and engage in dialogue that transcends disagreement, promotes inclusion, leverages our diversity, and strengthens democracy; and concrete actions we could pursue to participate and promote democracy in our daily environments.
Register here.

Kick Off to the 2026 Democratic Engagement Dialogue Series with David Schejbal
2026-01-14 14:00 - 15:00
The Excelsior University Center for Social Justice and Civic Engagement Rope Team are proud to launch this year’s Democratic Engagement Dialogue Series with a thought-provoking keynote by David Schejbal, PhD, president of Excelsior University.
Why Democracy?
Democracy isn’t always the fastest or most efficient system for driving progress—so why do we value it so deeply? President Schejbal will explore the philosophical foundations of democracy and its role in shaping a just and equitable society.
As a nationally recognized leader in adult and nontraditional higher education, Schejbal has dedicated his career to making education accessible, affordable, and flexible for all learners. His insights have been featured in Forbes, Inside Higher Ed, and other leading publications.
Register here.

Info Session: Explore Excelsior’s Bachelor of Science in Business
2025-12-02 18:00 - 19:00
Learn more about our BS in Business program and the fixed-rate tuition option designed to help you plan your education with confidence. During this online session, you’ll hear from program experts and have the chance to ask questions about curriculum, admissions, and financial options. The event will be led by Leah Sciabarrasi, PhD, associate dean of the School of Business, whose expert knowledge and experience will give you clear insight into the exciting things that await you in our IACBE-accredited BS in Business program.
Register today.

Info Session: Options for an Engineering Technology Degree
2025-11-21 12:00 - 13:00
Find out how a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology, nuclear engineering technology, or mechanical engineering technology can shape your future. Join our information session about Excelsior’s degree programs in engineering technology, and determine which program is best for you and your career. Anveeksh Koneru, the department chair of engineering technology, will discuss each program, highlighting what makes each unique and how they will prepare you for a new or continuing career. He will also talk about the new hybrid option for our BS in Electrical Engineering Technology program that combines online study with in-person engagement at Excelsior’s site in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Register here.

Info Session: Options for a Computer Technology Degree
2025-11-18 18:00 - 19:00
Thinking about how to advance in your technology career? Join us for an information session about our bachelor’s degree programs in computer technology that include fully online and hybrid options. Learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, and the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, and find out which program is best for you and your career. Jim Tippey, associate dean of the School of Technology, will discuss each program, highlighting what makes each unique and how they will prepare you for a new or continuing career in technology. He will also talk about the new hybrid option for our BS in Cybersecurity program that combines online study with in-person engagement at Excelsior’s site in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Register Here

Lifting Every Voice: A Conversation on Democratic Engagement
2025-10-30 15:00 - 16:00
How do we lift every voice? Let’s explore together the meaning of democracy and ways to engage with others when we all have different ways of thinking. Join us for a conversation hosted by Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice and the Civic Engagement Rope Team.
In this session, the conversation will focus on our collective exploration of the meaning and power of democracy as a way of thinking and a lifestyle; strategies to create and engage in dialogue that transcends disagreement, promotes inclusion, leverages our diversity, and strengthens democracy; and concrete actions we could pursue to participate and promote democracy in our daily environments.
Register Here.
