Higher Education Academy

The Higher Education Academy (HEA) is designed to explore the inner workings of higher education and ground participants in WSU’s unique values and traditions. Whether you’re new to higher education or a seasoned veteran, HEA offers insights into this complex and ever-changing system. All faculty and staff are invited to attend. Class size is limited to 25, and registration opens in mid-to-late July.

The Academy is held every fall starting in September and consists of nine sessions. Sessions are held primarily in the Shepherd Union Building for the duration of the 9 weeks.

The Academy ends with a graduation luncheon for the entire class to celebrate and recognize participants who complete all 9 classes.

REGISTRATION OPENED AUGUST 1, 2025

Schedule of Topics

History and Philosophy

L. Jackson Newell, PhD, Professor Emeritus, University of Utah

What Constitutes an Educated Person?

Wendy Holliday, PhD, Dean of the Stewart Library
Dr. Laine Berghout, Interim Dean of the College of Science

Student Success

Jessica Oyler, PhD, Vice-President of Student Access & Success
Ali Threet, PhD, Dean of Students

Accreditation & Accountability

Gail Niklason, EdD, Executive Director for Office of Institutional Effectiveness
Ivana Fredotovic, PhD, Chief Data Officer for Office of the Provost

Governance

Betsy Mennell, PhD, Vice-President for University Advancement

Finance for Higher Education

Norm Tarbox, PhD, Former Vice-President for Administrative Services

Information Technology

Ty Naylor, IT Marketing and Training Manager
Oliver Snow, PhD(c), Executive Director of WSU Online

Ethics in Higher Education

Stephanie Hollist, Weber State University General Counsel

Leading Change in Higher Education

Brad Mortensen, PhD, President of Weber State University

Contact Employee Engagement for more information.

"Upon the subject of education, I can only say that I view it as the most important subject which we as a people may be engaged in."
- President Abraham Lincoln