Smriti Sharma

Organization charts vary by school, but common job roles are fairly standard. Mission changes usually require staffing adjustments. Advisory boards provide valuable advice, publicity, and community connections—not tax write-offs. Libraries are required (not optional) for vocational programs, and physical space must be planned proactively, not reactively.

A five-year plan is essential—it shows long-term commitment, creates orderly development, and involves stakeholders. Planning must be collaborative (not just the owner’s job), and the data supports business/marketing plans. Program planning is ongoing and necessary, student services are not optional, and students need both employment skills training and job-placement help.

I have learned that effective performance measurement starts with clear critical success factors and KPIs that align to strategy, using a mix of leading/lagging and objective/subjective metrics, then setting realistic target ranges and reviewing trends rather than reacting to every fluctuation.

I’ll apply this by defining a few focused process and customer-satisfaction KPIs for my team, tracking them regularly, and investigating root causes before adjusting targets or processes.

Through this module I learned that Title IV compliance is an institutional responsibility requiring a well-chosen cross-functional team. The CEO/President’s best role is assisting the Financial Aid Director in selecting members rather than running meetings or serving as the Capable Individual (who must have already demonstrated success in the role). Faculty should be included so they understand their impact on SAP through grades and attendance, and they are expected to follow the school’s written attendance policy. Typical members include the Registrar, Academic Deans, and Director of Public Safety, while roles like the media library director are usually not needed. I… >>>

I learned that protecting student privacy, maintaining accurate records, and providing required disclosures are important responsibilities under FERPA and other regulations. I will apply this knowledge by ensuring that faculty and staff understand student privacy requirements and that student information is shared only with authorized individuals. I will also ensure our program provides students with accurate information about policies, resources, and their rights. This module reinforced the importance of maintaining confidentiality while supporting transparency and student success.

I learned the importance of financial aid compliance, proper handling of FSA funds, timely disbursements, and clear communication between departments. I intend to apply this knowledge by working closely with Financial Aid, Student Accounts, and Payroll to ensure our students receive accurate information and appropriate support. This module reminded me that strong collaboration and accountability are essential to protecting students and maintaining compliance within the college.

I learned the importance of accreditation, satisfactory academic progress, and proper Leave of Absence policies. I will apply this knowledge by ensuring our program follows all required standards, monitoring student progress, and providing clear guidance to students. This will help support student success while maintaining compliance and high-quality nursing education.

In this module, I learned the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between Admissions and Financial Aid and ensuring students receive accurate information. I will apply this knowledge by referring students to the appropriate office for financial aid and enrollment questions while supporting ethical, transparent, and compliant practices in our nursing program.

This module taught me the importance of listening carefully, taking notes, and asking questions during an exit interview. As an LVN Nursing Program Director, I will apply this by preparing my team for onsite visits, responding professionally to findings, and using feedback as an opportunity to improve our program and support student success.

Staff should practice interviewing, answer questions completely but concisely, and communicate politely and respectfully. I will apply this by providing interview training and ensuring important documents are organized and available for review.