SPAIR | Lehman College

Welcome to the Office of Strategic Planning, Assessment, and Data Analytics

The Office of Strategic Planning, Assessment, and Data Analytics (SPAIR) is at the heart of the college’s efforts to foster a data-driven, forward-thinking educational environment. Our team works to empower every part of the college community by providing actionable insights that guide decisions, enhance the student experience, and drive institutional excellence. With a strong commitment to data-informed decision-making, we support the college’s mission of delivering high-quality education and ensuring student success.

SPAIR

CONTACT

Strategic Planning, Assessment & Institutional Research (SPAIR)
Email
718-960-7193
Shuster Hall, Room 308-A

Office Hours
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Donald Sutherland
Assessment & Institutional Effectiveness Manager
Email
718-960-7193

Our Mission

We are dedicated to advancing the college’s mission through strategic planning, comprehensive assessment, and advanced data analytics. By leveraging data-driven insights, we foster an educational environment where informed decision-making, goal-oriented assessments, and a culture of continuous improvement remain at the heart of our work.

Our services ensure that every aspect of the college's academic, administrative, or student-focused operations is aligned with institutional goals, providing a solid foundation for long-term success.

What We Do

Our office plays a crucial role in strengthening the college’s decision-making processes through the following key functions:

Strategic Planning

❏ Develop and implement data-driven strategies that align with the college’s mission, vision, and long-term goals.

❏ Facilitate strategic planning processes that involve key stakeholders, ensuring a unified approach to achieving the college’s objectives.

❏ Monitor progress and adjust plans to respond to changing needs and external factors, ensuring that strategic goals are continually met.

Comprehensive Assessment

❏ Conduct program-level assessments that measure effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.

❏ Provide the framework and tools for departments to assess student learning outcomes and program success.

❏ Analyze data from assessments to identify trends, make evidence-based improvements, and ensure that all academic and student services are aligned with institutional priorities.

High-level Data Analytics

❏ Collect, analyze, and interpret data from various sources to provide a clear picture of institutional performance.

❏ Utilize cutting-edge data analytics tools to uncover trends, track progress, and predict future outcomes.

❏ Provide key insights to leadership and faculty, empowering them to make informed decisions that improve student outcomes and operational effectiveness.

Our Vision

We envision a college where every individual - whether a student, faculty member, or staff - has access to the tools and knowledge necessary to contribute to achieving institutional goals. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, we create an environment that is agile, adaptive, and capable of responding to the ever-changing landscape of higher education.

Why It Matters

In an age where data is central to decision-making, our work is vital to ensuring that the college remains an institution of excellence. By embedding data analytics and assessment into every facet of the college’s operations, we:

❏ Enhance Student Success: By analyzing student data and outcomes, we identify areas for improvement, enhance academic programs, and create support systems that maximize student achievement.

❏ Improve Institutional Effectiveness: Our strategic planning processes help the college use resources efficiently, align programs with institutional priorities, and adapt to external challenges.

❏ Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Data-driven decision-making ensures that we always assess, refine, and improve—ultimately driving a cycle of excellence across the institution.

How We Collaborate

We work alongside academic departments, student affairs, administrative units, and institutional leadership to create an environment of collaboration, transparency, and data-sharing. We provide:

❏ Training and Support: We offer workshops, training sessions, and resources to help faculty and staff use data effectively in their decision-making processes.

❏ Consultation Services: Our office offers one-on-one consultations to help departments develop strategic plans, conduct assessments, and analyze data to drive improvements.

❏ Reporting and Dashboards: We provide easy-to-understand dashboards and regular reports that communicate key performance indicators, helping stakeholders make informed decisions.

Key Accomplishments

Over the years, the Office of Strategic Planning, Assessment, and Data Analytics has contributed to several key initiatives:

❏ Enhanced Data Reporting Systems: Implemented new reporting systems that allow faculty and staff to access real-time data on student outcomes, program effectiveness, and institutional performance.

❏ Institution-Wide Strategic Planning Process: Led a comprehensive, college-wide strategic planning initiative that aligns all departments with the institution’s long-term goals.

❏ Successful Accreditation Support: Assisted in preparing for and securing accreditation by providing evidence of institutional effectiveness through data and assessment reports.

❏ Improved Student Retention and Success: By analyzing student data, we developed targeted interventions that have helped improve retention rates and student performance.

Get Involved

We encourage all college community members to engage with our office actively. Here are some ways you can get involved:

Attend a Workshop

Collaborate on a Project or Provide Feedback

CONTACT

Strategic Planning, Assessment & Institutional Research (SPAIR)
Email
718-960-7193
Shuster Hall, Room 308-A

Office Hours
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Donald Sutherland
Assessment & Institutional Effectiveness Manager
Email
718-960-7193
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