Episode #354: Building More Responsive Workforce Pathways

What happens when a university partners directly with government and community stakeholders to build education around an urgent workforce need? Hugo Villar and Dixie Schexnaildre of UC San Diego’s Division of Extended Studies discuss the ASCEND program , a fully online, self-paced pathway preparing Californians for careers as substance use disorder counselors. They explore how the program came together rapidly in response to new state requirements, how technology and AI supported curriculum development and delivery, and why accessibility, affordability, flexibility, and direct workforce alignment are increasingly important to continuing education. The conversation also looks at a broader shift toward a more “permeable” university—one that partners with communities to continually help people develop the skills they need as work changes.

Guest Names:
Dr. Hugo Villar - Dean at UC San Diego Extended Studies
Dr. Dixie Schexnaildre - ASCEND Instructor at UC San Diego Extended Studies

Guest Socials: 
Hugo's LinkedIn
Dixie's LinkedIn

Guest Bios: 
Dr. Hugo Villar - As Dean of the University of California (UC) San Diego Division of Extended Studies, Hugo Villar, Ph.D oversees educational programs for non-matriculated students in areas as diverse as Arts and Languages, Engineering, Healthcare, Applied Math, Life Sciences, and Business. In addition, his office supports various service areas, including Corporate and Custom Programs, Innovation and Institutional Research, Instructional and Student Services, International and Precollegiate programs, and UCTV. 

Dr. Dixie Schexnaildre - Dixie Schexnaildre is one of the Instructors for the ASCEND program at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies. She holds a Doctor of Health Science degree (DHSc) and a Master’s degree in Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH) with a focus in Integrative Addiction Therapies, each from Drexel University’s College of Nursing and Health Professions (CNHP), plus a Graduate Certificate in Mind, Brain & Learning from Drexel University’s School of Education. 

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

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