about us
At Blue Pen we are committed to providing actionable advice tailored for your specific needs. Our methods are designed to collect information from all levels of the organization to identify root causes, systemic barriers, and other roadblocks to success.
We utilize one-on-one meetings with key staff, structured interviews, surveys, and process assessments to develop a clear picture of your situation. Our recommendations are informed by your goals and priorities, by proven practice, and by our research. We are solutions-oriented and people-centric, focused on you and your teams, seeking opportunities to improve processes, procedures, and work instructions.
Sample Process
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Discovery meeting with leadership
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Analysis of existing data
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Survey implementation (as necessary)
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Group meetings*
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Structured interviews*
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Process mapping/review*
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Facilities tours*
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Information review and research
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Preliminary reporting review with leadership
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Final Reporting*
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* in person
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our philosophy
our team
Mike Acosta, Ph.D.
Executive Consultant
Mike has over 25 years of experience in higher education. He specializes in strategic enrollment management, student affairs, retention and completion. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas at El Paso, a Master in Public Service and Administration from Texas A&M University, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Texas at Austin.
Jesse Silva, Ed.D.
Senior Consultant
Jesse is a higher education professional with over 17 years of experience in higher education.
His expertise includes student affairs, inclusive excellence, and student success. He received a Bachelor of Science in Applied Sociology and Master of Arts in Sociology from Texas State University. He completed a Doctor of Education degree from the Executive EdD in Higher Education Leadership program at The University of Texas at Austin.
Steven Zumarán, Ed.D.
Senior Consultant
Steven is a seasoned development professional with experience in local political fundraising, as well as private and public higher education development. He holds a Bachelors of Arts from Our Lady of the Lake University, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Texas at Austin.
Mary Helen Acosta, M.Ed.
Senior K-12 Consultant
Mary Helen has spent over 10 years in K-12 classroom and admininstrative roles. She specializes in curricular review and literacy best practice. Mary Helen earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rice University, a Master of Public Service and Administration from Texas A&M University, and a Master in Education from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Blue Pen was founded in 2024 after
the loss of our remarkable friend and
leader, Gilberto "G.B." Becerra, and the
subsequent closing of Becerra Partners consulting.
All of us who knew Gil remember fondly his caring spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and his phenomenal sense of humor. Those of us lucky enough to work with him will miss his expertise, his intense focus on the student, and deep knowledge of all things higher ed.
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​We continue to be inspired by our time with Gil and we hope to continue his legacy of service and friendship.
our legacy
