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Sarah Caggiano

Executive Director, Continuing Education at Rhode Island School of Design

Professional Background

Sarah Caggiano is a seasoned leader in the field of enrollment and student affairs, boasting over two decades of extensive experience. Her career is distinguished by a focus on continuing education, where she has honed her skills as a builder of successful programs and a fixer of complex challenges. As the Executive Director of Continuing Education at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Sarah has effectively implemented strategies that enhance educational access and success for non-traditional and adult learners. Her role as an expert change-management strategist has allowed her to drive initiatives that facilitate seamless collaboration across various institutional divisions, positioning RISD as a leader in educational innovation.

Throughout her career, Sarah has held several key positions at RISD, including Special Assistant to the COO and Director of Title IX Compliance, as well as Associate Dean of Students and Assistant Dean of Students. In these roles, she demonstrated her ability to build meaningful relationships with diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty members, administrators, and parents. This talent for establishing rapport has proven invaluable in fostering a supportive and inclusive educational environment.

Prior to her tenure at RISD, Sarah served as the Director of Student Affairs at Wellsville Campus, part of Alfred State College, where she focused on enhancing student engagement and wellbeing. Additionally, she held the position of Director of Educational Support Services at St. Joseph's College, successfully overseeing programs designed to empower students and facilitate their academic success. Sarah’s passion for education and her commitment to student advocacy have been hallmarks of her career, making her a respected figure in the higher education community.

Education and Achievements

Sarah Caggiano's educational journey equipped her with a robust foundation in both counseling and management, vital for her extensive career in student affairs. She earned her Master of Science in College Student Personnel from Miami University, where she gained essential insights into student development and support services. This advanced degree has proved advantageous, allowing her to apply effective counseling techniques and best practices within her subsequent roles in higher education.

Before this, Sarah completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Western New England University. Her understanding of sociological principles has enriched her approach to student engagement, enabling her to effectively address the diverse backgrounds and needs of students in an academic setting. Additionally, she pursued a Master of Business Administration (MMBA) in Business Administration and Management at Miami University, enhancing her strategic thinking and operational management skills crucial for leadership roles. Through this combination of social science and business education, Sarah empowers institutions to thrive while supporting student interests.

Achievements

Throughout her extensive career, Sarah Caggiano has made notable contributions to various educational institutions. At the Rhode Island School of Design, she is recognized for her leadership in creating a vibrant continuing education program that champions accessibility and inclusivity. Her efforts to bridge the gap between traditional academic pathways and the needs of working professionals have positioned the institution at the forefront of evolving educational demands.

Under her guidance, important initiatives have emerged, further enhancing RISD's support structures for non-traditional learners. Sarah has been instrumental in orchestrating change management processes, allowing various departments to work together efficiently, aiming for cohesive and comprehensive educational offerings. Often referred to as a “builder” and “fixer,” Sarah's ability to inspire collaboration and boost morale among teams has been a crucial factor in her success.

In her role as the Special Assistant to the COO, Sarah established protocols that enhanced Title IX compliance, ensuring that all students have access to a safe and supportive learning environment. Her dedication to fostering a culture of respect and equality has resonated throughout RISD, creating a positive atmosphere for students and faculty alike.

Sarah's tenure has not only been characterized by strategic management but also by a heartfelt commitment to student advocacy. She consistently prioritizes students' voices in decision-making processes, paving the way for tailored support services that respond to the unique challenges faced by today's learners. Whether she’s running workshops, organizing mentorship programs, or developing outreach initiatives, Sarah remains steadfast in her mission to promote the success and well-being of the students she serves.

As a dynamic force in enrollment and student affairs, Sarah Caggiano continues to inspire colleagues and students with her empathetic approach and dedication to educational excellence. She is not just an administrator; she is a community leader who bridges gaps, advocates for students, and cultivates educational opportunities for all.

tags':['enrollment management','student affairs','continuing education','higher education leadership','change management expert','title IX compliance','relationship building','student advocacy','education administration','business management'],

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Sarah Caggiano
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Location

Providence, Rhode Island