University at Albany and Broadview Federal Credit Union to Pilot Educational Programs for Businesses

UAlbany President Havidán Rodríguez (r) and Broadview CEO Michael J. Castellana (l) sign agreement offering a set of three certificate programs beginning this fall

By Amy Geduldig

ALBANY, N. Y. (Sept. 17, 2025) — The University at Albany and Broadview Federal Credit Union have teamed up to offer a series of non-credit educational programs for Broadview employees. The unique partnership is intended to serve as a model for future collaborations with industry leaders, strengthening Capital District businesses with courses designed for today’s professionals.  

“Broadview has been a tremendous and longstanding partner to the University at Albany, and I am thrilled that we are expanding our partnership with this new agreement. Through our Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE) program, Broadview’s employees will have access to UAlbany courses and faculty that will help them take their careers to the next level. This agreement will serve as a blueprint for future collaborations with industry, as UAlbany continues to expand our impact across the Capital Region,” said Havidán Rodríguez, President of the University at Albany.  

“Partnering with UAlbany enables us to bring world-class educational programming directly to our employees and leadership team- empowering them with the skills and knowledge to innovate, adapt and lead in a rapidly changing financial landscape. This collaboration isn’t just about preparing for change; it’s about shaping it. By fostering continuous learning and innovation within our organization, we are creating a ripple effect that strengthens local businesses, drives economic opportunity and inspires progress across our region,” said Michael J. Castellana, CEO at Broadview FCU.

At a signing held on Sept. 17 in the Campus Center Board Room at the University's Uptown Campus, UAlbany President Havidán Rodríguez and Broadview CEO Michael J. Castellana formally agreed to a set of three certificate programs to begin this fall:  

  • AI for Business: a series of courses about the core concepts of artificial intelligence and how it can be used to make business processes more efficient.
  • Advanced Techniques in Leadership and Management: professionals will gain deeper insight into leadership styles and learn how to apply strengths to drive meaningful results.
  • Business Writing and Communications: students will learn how to craft clear, concise, and persuasive messages tailored for a variety of business contexts.

The courses will be held throughout the fall and winter terms and are expected to continue into spring and summer next year.  

New Initiative for Professional and Continuing Education

The University’s partnership with Broadview reflects a shared focus on workforce development. To expand the University’s commitment in this area, UAlbany has created Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE). PaCE will offer community partners access to flexible, career-focused learning for working professionals, organizations and lifelong learners. The initiative will build on the work formerly conducted by the University’s Professional, Adult & Continuing Knowledge (PACK) initiative.  

The first series of programs, which will be open to all learners, is expected to launch this spring, with an emphasis on business leadership and nonprofit management. The courses will help professionals:

  • Earn industry-recognized credentials including micro credentials and other short-term credentials
  • Develop leadership and strategic skills
  • Explore pathways to additional certificates or degrees

Updates about available programs and registration will be posted to its website.

Jennifer Miller Named Executive Director

Reporting to University Provost Carol Kim, UAlbany alum Jennifer Miller has been named Executive Director of PaCE. Miller was brought on to expand UAlbany's efforts to meet workforce demands and support a wide range of students. She will lead the development and delivery of innovative classes and credential programs in partnership with regional businesses and community organizations.

The Troy native has deep connections across the Capital Region through her work with the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District and the Center for Economic Growth.  

Prior to joining the University, Miller was assistant vice chancellor for community college support at the State University of New York (SUNY) System Administration Office and the executive director of the New York Success Center. In her role at SUNY, she led several major, multi-partner initiatives focused on leadership development, developmental education and curriculum pathway reforms, strategic enrollment management, support for adult learners and workforce development and training programs.

Miller holds a bachelor's degree in marketing and management from Siena College, a master's degree in organizational communication from the UAlbany and a doctorate in educational leadership from Manhattanville University.