Anyone who has ever used financial aid or transferred credits at Front Range Community College can likely trace that work back in some way to Jennifer Sheaman, FRCC’s director of assessment and accreditation.
Jennifer, who also serves as FRCC’s accreditation liaison officer, helps ensure the college stays accredited through the Higher Learning Commission, a process that keeps the lights on in more ways than one.
“Accreditation for Front Range is really our currency in higher education,” Jennifer says. (Being officially recognized for meeting certain quality standards is how the college proves its value and earns trust from students, their future employers and other institutions.)
But her path to this pivotal role wasn’t exactly linear.
A Winding Path to Leadership
Jennifer started at Front Range in 2002 as a temp while raising a two-year-old as a single parent.
What was meant to last for “a bit” turned into a 23-year journey through multiple roles at FRCC, spanning administrative assistant, academic counselor, student navigator, grant manager and project manager before growing into her current leadership position.
“I’d say it was a ‘swirly’ career path,” she laughs. “But it probably mirrors the path that a lot of people have taken.”
Forging New Paths
Jennifer’s willingness to say “yes”—and at times then working things out along the way—has defined her career.
In Jennifer’s words, “Often somebody says, ‘Do you want to try this thing that we haven’t done before?’ And I say, ‘Okay, I’ll figure it out.’”
Jennifer’s creative, can-do attitude is corroborated by Rebecca Woulfe, FRCC’s provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Jen Sheaman is not only an amazing long-term employee, she is also a joy to work with.”
“Jen is one of those individuals who responds with ‘yes’ even if there are challenges to overcome. She truly centers our students and our employees.”
Compassion, Humor and… Zombies
Her colleagues echo this sentiment.
“Jen’s adaptability, coaching strengths and deep commitment to students shine through in every role she plays,” says Andria Simons, director of strategic planning & college initiatives.
“Her creativity and humor infuse her work. Who could forget the zombie‑themed Assessapalooza?,” Andria jokes.
And she says, Jennifer’s “blend of common sense and compassion (with a dash of good humor) turn even the hairiest processes into something manageable, helping colleagues feel supported through her leadership and behind‑the‑scenes efforts.”
How Do You Measure Learning?
While assessment and accreditation may sound like “a dry little biscuit,” as Jennifer says, she is quick to explain that the work goes far beyond paperwork.
“My work is helping us all to look at what we’re doing and see where we’re excelling, what we can do better and how we will know it’s better.”
Her role helps the college measure student learning beyond the content that’s taught in the classroom—by assessing skills like critical thinking, communication and quantitative reasoning. Jennifer also manages FRCC’s accreditation cycle, which will include an upcoming comprehensive review in 2027.
In short, she ensures the college is “really doing what we say we’re doing.”
Untangling Complex Problems
“Within the Division of Strategy & Innovation, Jen’s focus is on supporting college-wide assessment—which improves equitable teaching and learning and student goal attainment—and on accreditation, ensuring FRCC maintains and improves its academic and institutional standards,” says Andria.
“If you’re tangled in a complex knot of a problem related to assessment or struggling to understand a process at FRCC, Jen’s expertise and common sense is a boon,” Andria adds. “I’m continuously impressed by her institutional knowledge and how her work is grounded by her commitment to students reaching their goals and providing collaborative leadership.”
Rooted in the Mission
When asked about what she loves about Front Range, Jennifer says working at a community college has always been about purpose over prestige.
“I really believe in the mission of community colleges,” Jennifer shares. “We are not in it for the money or the fame. We are here because of that student-centered focus on success.”
FRCC’s mission statement: As a vibrant center of discovery, we provide a high-quality, future-ready learning environment leading to student success and upward mobility.
And she credits the people as much as the mission.
“One of the best things about my job is the colleagues I have. You see people every day who care deeply about the work they’re doing.”
A Point of Pride
When asked about a standout moment from her career at Front Range, Jennifer remembers a time from her advising days launching FRCC’s very first CSU Transfer Fair, which brought dozens of CSU representatives directly to campus.
“At the time, that was pretty unique,” she says.
What started as a bold experiment turned into a lasting model that reduced student anxiety about where to go next and strengthened institutional relationships.
“I’ve always felt proud about finding creative solutions for pervasive problems,” Jennifer says.
A Rock-Hounding Introvert
Outside of work, Jennifer has fully embraced a particular passion: rock hounding, which is the hobby of searching for, collecting and learning about rocks, minerals and fossils.
What started with childhood memories has become a meaningful way to reconnect with family and nature. Jennifer also self-identifies as a “cleverly disguised introvert,” who enjoys reading and the outdoors, along with spending time with her husband and dog.
Advice for Students
As someone with a lot of experience in different aspects of higher education, Jennifer’s advice to students is practical and reassuring.
“Community college is the best deal around,” she states matter of factly.
She encourages students to start with a goal but stay flexible, emphasizing that they shouldn’t be afraid to change their minds and pursue new paths if that’s what it takes to find their passion.
As Jennifer puts it: “This is your life. Don’t be afraid to be bold.”
