The Student-Centered Case for Compliance
When most people think about higher education compliance, they picture regulations, audits, or government mandates. But as Bookmark member, Timothy Stevens, Deputy Provost at Yeshiva University, reminded us in our recent conversation, compliance is not just about satisfying regulators—it’s about protecting students and their futures.
A Real-Life Story: When Licensure Blocks the Door
Timothy shared the story of a student who graduated, moved to a new state with her family, and then applied for a license—only to discover that her program didn’t qualify her for licensure in that state. For most institutions, this kind of situation can be heartbreaking and stressful.
But because Yeshiva had invested in NC-SARA participation and was leveraging The Bookmark’s state-by-state licensure data, Timothy’s team was able to respond quickly. They explained the situation clearly, offered insights into neighboring state requirements, and continued counseling the student through her options.
What could have been a devastating dead end became a moment of guidance and support.
Compliance as Student Advocacy
This example highlights something too often overlooked: compliance is an extension of student advocacy. It’s about:
Clarity: Helping students understand where their degree qualifies them for licensure.
Protection: Preventing students from investing time and money in a program that won’t serve their career goals.
Support: Giving students timely, accurate information when their plans change.
When compliance staff and faculty work hand-in-hand, they’re not just checking boxes—they’re safeguarding student outcomes.
Why It Matters
Students are making life-changing decisions when they enroll. They’re putting trust in their institution to prepare them not only academically, but professionally. By prioritizing compliance as a student-centered practice, universities can:
Reduce frustration and confusion at graduation and beyond.
Build trust with students and their families.
Demonstrate a competitive advantage by showing prospective students that “we’ve done the homework” on licensure requirements across states.
From Compliance to Confidence
Yeshiva’s story demonstrates that strong compliance systems, clear communication, and reliable tools like The Bookmark create more than peace of mind for administrators—they create confidence for students.
Compliance isn’t about avoiding penalties; it’s about ensuring that every student has the best possible chance to achieve their career goals, no matter where life takes them.
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