Academic Partnerships (Now Risepoint)
Company Overview
Academic Partnerships, now operating under the name Risepoint, focuses on empowering regional public universities and small colleges by helping to launch, sustain, and expand accelerated online programs. These initiatives aim to provide accessible, high-quality, affordable, and workforce-relevant online degree courses. The company's mission supports nontraditional students while catering to the needs of employers and communities. Founded in 2007 by entrepreneur Randy Best, Risepoint is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and holds a strong reputation as a leader in the educational technology sector, enabling access to transformative education through technology and student recruitment.
Recent Developments
On November 15, 2023, Academic Partnerships announced the acquisition of Wiley University Services for $150 million. This transaction is projected to finalize in early 2024 and is expected to enhance their offerings in the online education segment. Risepoint has also expanded partnerships with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Emporia State University, and the University of Illinois Springfield to broaden their educational reach.
Financials and Workforce
- Estimated Annual Revenue: $251.6 million
- Number of Employees: 1,089
- Revenue per Employee: $231,000
- Employee Growth: 9% increase last year
Organizational Culture and Achievements
Risepoint prides itself on its mission-driven culture characterized by collaboration, empowerment, and dedication to student success. It has been honored as one of Comparably's "Best Places to Work," specifically lauded for Best Leadership and Employee Happiness. The leadership team emphasizes values of integrity, teamwork, diversity, and inclusion, which contribute to Risepoint's vibrant and dynamic workplace environment.
Leadership Team
- Fernando Bleichmar, CEO, leverages his experience at Cengage Group to amplify the company’s educational impact.
- Tim Cleary, Chief Strategy Officer, directs long-term strategic planning and company initiative execution.
- Ron Collins, Chief Financial Officer, manages the financial strategies and operations.
- Katelynn Dugan, Chief Communications Officer, oversees internal and external communication strategies.
- Susan Dukes, Senior VP of University Partnerships, offers over 20 years of expertise in the educational sector.
- Jay Hatcher, President, New University Partnerships, focuses on building strategic university collaborations.
- Adriana Bokel Herde, Chief People Officer, aims to build transformative HR experiences and people-focused talent programs.
- Fernando Lau, Chief Operating Officer, ensures operational efficiency and strategic growth.
- Dee Raineri, President, International & Market Innovation, advances global educational strategies for career success.
Contact Information
Academic Partnerships (Risepoint)
700 North Pearl St., Suite 600,
Dallas, TX 75201
Email: info@academicpartnerships.com
Phone: 214-210-7300
Competitor Profile
Key Competitors
Academic Partnerships faces substantial competition from entities that offer similar online educational services. These competitors include:
- Bisk Education: Offers enhanced learning solutions, primarily for continuing education.
- 2U Inc.: A global leader in educational technology offering comprehensive online degree programs.
- Elsmere Education: Specializes in online program management for universities.
- MIT Media Lab: Though an academic institution, it indirectly competes through educational technology innovation.
- University of Alberta and Drexel University: Provide extensive online programs that rival those developed by Risepoint.
Other Notable Competitors
1. Tutor Pace: Specializes in online tutoring, with estimated revenue of $1.5 million and a workforce of 15.
2. STEMuli: Provides AI-powered educational gaming platforms focused on workforce development.
3. Borger Independent School District: A localized institution with traditional education methods, increasing digital platform involvement.
4. Ignite! Learning: Provides comprehensive digital learning platforms for motivating classroom solutions.
5. Simucase: Offers simulation-based learning platforms for enhancing clinical competence, especially in healthcare education.
Risepoint remains competitive by forming strong partnerships with universities, which facilitate comprehensive online program offerings. Its robust leadership team and strategic objectives ensure a sustained presence in the education industry, focusing on growing its workforce and expanding access to online education through innovative solutions.
