Have you ever found yourself asking, “Isn’t there a better way?” While many projects begin with simple spreadsheets, the iterative nature of analytic research often leads to repetitive manual work and avoidable errors. Join us as we introduce R and Python, two of today’s most powerful, free, and open-source data science platforms, by walking through a side?by?side analysis of the same education dataset. No prior coding experience is required: we start with the basics of data import, cleaning, and simple analysis before gradually expanding into a couple of advanced techniques that can be difficult or impossible in Excel. By the end of the session, participants will see how these tools support both approachable first steps and scalable, reproducible workflows.
Senior Institutional Research Analyst, Belmont University
Brian Joy is a Senior Institutional Research Analyst at Belmont University who focuses on integrating data into strategic decision-making across the institution. He collaborates with administrators, faculty, and staff to turn complex data into actionable insights. Brian is passionate... Read More →
Director of Institutional Research, Nashville State Community College
Derrick Dupuis is the Director of Institutional Research at Nashville State Community College, where he leads institutional reporting, analytics, and data strategy in support of student-centered policy and planning. His work focuses on student success, data governance, assessment... Read More →
Wednesday August 5, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT Mississippi BallroomEmbassy Suites by Hilton - Nashville Airport
This will be an interactive walkthrough of the IPEDS Access tables. I have planned a few exercises and discussions that highlight a few potential pitfalls in the application of this data. We will also address a few ways in which Tech uses this data in our office (identifying benchmark institutions, Program Elevations/Letters of Notifications). It would help to have some familiarity with the content of the IPEDS Surveys and some SQL experience, but those with intermediate/advanced skills should also benefit from this workshop.
This is a fun networking opportunity. Meet us at the venue at approximately 6:15. The game will start at 6:30. This event does include an extra cost:$33.99 plus tax (group rate). Please be sure to add this item to your schedule to indicate your interest and help us gather a count by completing this form: Trapped Escape Game Interest – Fill out form
