AALHE Member Spotlight

Cecelia Martin
Clark College, Vancouver, Washinton

Years in Assessment: 16

Leadership Roles Held in AALHE: Vice Chair and Chair of Member Engagement

I was working as an institutional research analyst when the director of assessment position became available. Given my background in applied social science research, my supervisor encouraged me to apply. And, 16 years later…

One of the challenges we often discuss in member engagement is the isolation that comes with working as the sole assessment professional at many institutions. Personally, I've found that connecting with other assessment professionals has been a lifeline. It's been incredibly beneficial to have a network to turn to for support and guidance. I've also been fortunate to develop some wonderful friendships with these kind and patient colleagues.

My approach to assessment has significantly evolved over the past 16 years, with a growing emphasis on reflection. I envision a future where assessment continues to prioritize the student experience with an emphasis on manageable and meaningful processes for all stakeholders, and effective communication of the story of our students, faculty, staff, and programs and the institution as a whole. I love this quote from Dr. Jankowski about assessment as storytelling.

The story involves giving an account of the assessment process and how an institution knows students are learning by outlining the assumptions and argued causal linkages for why things are done in a particular way—by sharing the meaning made from the data. These are not (just) stories of data, but stories of processes and practices and the argued impact of those processes and practices on people. (Jankowski, 2021, p.9)

Jankowski, N. (2021, January). Evidence-based storytelling in assessment. (Occasional Paper No. 50). Urbana, IL: University of Illinois and Indiana University, National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment.

These are some of the things that I have learned over the course of my career and would suggest.

• Actively build a strong network within the assessment community.
• Celebrate your accomplishments and champion the value of assessment for student success.
• Cultivate empathy and active listening into your practice.
• Sprinkle in some humor to keep things engaging.

Complying with all the reporting requirements related to assessment can be a significant challenge. I believe a major contributing factor is a lack of understanding among stakeholders about the purpose and value of the assessment process.

I enjoy daily walks, hikes, reading, and spending time with my 4 favorite people – my 2 sons, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter and my chihuahuas, Henry, Ruby, and Chester.

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