Top 50 voices to follow in higher education for 2025

Higher Education

Ben Waugh
by Ben Waugh
Top 50 voices to follow in higher education for 2025
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The world of higher education (HE) is constantly changing and having to keep up with the times is a challenge. Be that new policies, technology, targets to offering value to the overall student experience at an institution. There's a lot moving parts and functions to make everything work!

It's therefore important for educators and those working in the higher education sector to keep up-to-date with relevant news and advice from leaders in the industry. As such we've created a list of higher education thought leaders that stand out, not just for their innovative ideas, but for their capacity to influence change and spark dialogue amongst the community.

Higher Education Top Voice 
Check out the list of top voices in HE here and find their profiles to follow below. Have we missed anyone obvious on this list? Let us know on LinkedIn @vevox

1. Anant Agarwal
2Dr. Bridget Burns
3. Dr. Cathy N. Davidson
4. Dr. Mamie Voight
5. Michael Sorrell
6. Dr. Vijay Govindarajan
7. Dr. Tressie McMillan Cottom
8. Dr. Michael Crow
9. Dr. Daphne Koller
10. Dr. Shaun Harper
11. Jennifer Mathes
12. Dr. Michelle Weise
13. Erika H. James
14. John O'Brien
15. Bonni Stackowiak
16. James Wilson
17. Laura Jenkins 
18. Brokk Toggerson
19. Dean Whitcombe
20. Christina Stanley
21. Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek
22. Dr. Bridget Terry Long
23. Dr Lindsey Gaston
24. Dr Bruce Wight 
25. Madeline Pumariega
26. Willow Bay
27. Dr. Stella Flores
28. Dr. Adrianna Kezar
29. Jeff Selingo
30. Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker
31. Katie Drummond
32. Vince Kellen
33. Dr. Laura Perna
34. Tom Andriola
35. Ben Nelson
36. Anna Mills
37. Enilda Romera-Hall
38. George Veletsianos
39. Scott Pulsipher
40. Katie Conrad 
41. Torrey Trust
42. Viji Sathy
43. Rob Moore
44. Peggy Semingson
45. Joshua Kim
46. Mike Richichi 
47. Erin Maher-Moran
48. Julie Schell 
49. Jesse Stommel
50. Daniel Greenstein

Unveiling the top voices: 50 key influencers in HE

Our list of top voices covers a different types of thought leaders from Ed Tech specialists to policy makers driving change to visionaries and experts invoking important discussions in the world of higher education. 

These champions are driving a more accessible, inclusive and interactive learning experience for students so they can be heard, valued, and represented. 

From University Presidents, Deans, Professors and all Teaching Staff... this list is to celebrate all of you who are not only shaping your institutions but are also influencing higher education to drive positive student experiences. 

  1. Anant Agarwal 

    Edx Founder

    Role:  Founder of edX and a Professor at MIT, a pioneer in online learning platforms.

    Thought leadership topics: Future of online learning, blending technology with pedagogy to enhance education accessibility, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning on a global scale.
    Why Follow? Anant Agarwal's leadership in pioneering online education, particularly his founding of edX, which has attracted over 100 million learners worldwide and partnered with more than 150 institutions, underscores his major influence on global education, making him a vital source of insights on leveraging technology to expand access to quality education for all.
     

     FOLLOW ANANT FOR UPDATES

     

  2. Dr. Bridget Burns

    Bridget burns education
    Role: 
    CEO of the University Innovation Alliance

    Thought leadership topics: Collaborative innovation, student success initiatives. 
    Why Follow? Follow Dr. Bridget Burns to gain cutting-edge insights into higher education innovation and leadership, drawing from her acclaimed work with the University Innovation Alliance, which has significantly advanced student success and accessibility in universities nationwide.
     

     FOLLOW DR BURNS FOR UPDATES

     

  3. Dr. Cathy N. Davidson

    Top Educator Voice
    Role: Founding Director of the Futures Initiative at CUNY Graduate Center
    Thought leadership topics: Digital learning and the future of education.
    Why follow? Follow Dr. Cathy N. Davidson for her pioneering perspectives on educational reform and digital learning, leveraging her expertise as a distinguished scholar to advocate for more inclusive and innovative approaches to teaching. 

     FOLLOW DR CATHY DAVIDSON
     

  4. Dr. Mamie Voight

    Mamie Voight higher education leader

    Role: President and CEO of the Institute for Higher Education Policy. 
    Thought leadership topics: Higher education policy, equity in education. 
    Why follow? Dr. Voight leads research and advocacy efforts to improve access and success in higher education for underserved populations.

     FOLLOW DR MAMIE VOIGHT
     

  5. Michael Sorrell

    Michael Sorrell
    Role: President of Paul Quinn College
    Thought leadership topics: Social justice in HE, work college model, innovation in teaching
    Why follow? . Follow Michael Sorrell for his transformative approach to higher education, as evidenced by his remarkable leadership of Paul Quinn College, where his visionary policies have not only redefined the institution but also charted new paths for community engagement and social justice within academia.

     FOLLOW DR MICHAEL SORRELL
     

  6. Dr. Vijay Govindarajan

    Innovation in higher education Dr. Vijay Govindarajan

    Role: Professor at Dartmouth's Tuck School of Business
    Thought leadership topics: Innovation, global strategy,  three box solution
    Why follow? Follow Vijay Govindarajan for his insights on strategic innovation and forward-thinking models in higher education, drawing from his deep expertise in business management and his influential concept of the "Three Box Solution," which can be applied to address the evolving challenges within academic institutions.

     FOLLOW DR GOVINDARAJAN 
     

  7. Dr. Tressie McMillan Cottom

    Tressie HE leader

    Role: Associate Professor at UNC-Chapel Hill School of Information & Library Science
    Thought leadership topics: Digital sociology, HE equity, race and gender
    Why follow? Dr. Cottom's research and writing offer critical perspectives on the intersections of race, class, and education. Her expertise as a sociologist unravels the complexities of social inequality and to highlight pathways toward more equitable educational practices.

     FOLLOW DR COTTOM
     

  8. Dr. Michael Crow

    Dr. Michael Crow
    Role: President of Arizona State University
    Thought leadership topics: Innovation in higher education, public university model
    Why follow? Dr. Crow has led ASU's transformation into a "New American University" model focused on access and excellence. He champions the design of inclusive and adaptive learning models that expand access and align with rapidly changing societal needs.

    FOLLOW DR CROW 

     

  9. Dr. Daphne Koller

    Dr. Daphne Koller
    Role: Co-founder of Coursera
    Thought leadership topics: Online learning, AI in education. 
    Why follow? Follow Dr. Daphne Koller for her pioneering work in leveraging AI and machine learning in education through platforms like Coursera, which she co-founded, demonstrating how technology can massively scale quality educational experiences and make higher education more accessible globally.

    FOLLOW DR KOLLER 

     

  10. Dr. Shaun Harper

    Shaun Harper professor
    Role: Provost Professor of Business, Education and Public Policy, USC Race and Equity Center. 
    Thought leadership topics: Racial equity in education and the role of higher education in fostering a more inclusive society.
    Why follow? Follow Dr. Shaun Harper  for his transformative leadership and expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), where his impactful work as a professor at the University of Southern California and his work to drive systemic change across educational institutions and beyond.

    FOLLOW DR SHAUN HARPER 

     

  11. Jennifer Mathes

    Jennifer Mathes

    Role: Jennifer Mathes serves as the Chief Executive Officer at the Online Learning Consortium.
    Thought leadership topics: Online learning practices, fostering equitable higher education opportunities, and exploring the future of educational technology to support student success.
    Why follow? Following Jennifer Mathes offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of online education, including best practices for delivering quality, accessible, and inclusive learning experiences. 

    FOLLOW DR JENNIFER MATHES 

     

  12. Dr. Michelle Weise

    Dr. Michelle Weise


    Role: Author, strategist and CEO of life long learning
    Thought leadership topics:  Future of work, skills-based learning
    Why follow? Dr. Weise's work explores the intersection of higher education and the changing workforce, offering insights on necessary reforms.

    FOLLOW DR MICHELLE WEISE 

     

  13. Erika H. James

    Erika H. James leader in HE
    Role: Erika H. James is the Dean of the Wharton School 
    Thought Leadership Topics: Organizational psychology, crisis leadership, inclusion and diversity. 
    Why Follow? Following Erika James is a masterclass in modern leadership, offering insights into how we can shape the future of the education sector. 

    FOLLOW DR ERIKA JAMES 
     

  14. John O'Brien

    John o brien Educause


    Role: John O'Brien, CEO and President of EDUCAUSE 

    Thought Leadership Topics: He is an authority on utilizing technology for academic advancement, excelling in discussions around change management, and the strategic application of IT in education.

    Why Follow? Following John O'Brien is a gateway to insightful conversations on educational technology trends, and his expertise provides a valuable perspective on shaping the future of higher education institutions.

    FOLLOW JOHN O'BRIEN

     

  15. Bonni Stackowiak
     

    Bonni Stackowiak - higher education leader


    Role: Bonni Stackowiak, Dean of Teaching and Learning at Vanguard University of Southern California and Podcast Creator of Teaching in Higher Ed

    Thought Leadership Topics: She specializes in the integration of technology in education, instructional design, the science and art of effective teaching practices, blended technology, and the cultivation of environments that foster inclusive and impactful learning experiences.

    Why Follow? Following Bonni Stachowiak offers a wealth of insights into the future of higher education, showcasing practical strategies for educators to enhance their teaching and for students to maximize their learning potential. 
     

    FOLLOW BONNI STACKOWIAK


     

  16. James Wilson

    James Wilson lecturer
    Role: James Wilson is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Chichester, recognized for his innovative approaches in mental health education and his background as a registered mental health nurse. 
    Thought Leadership Topics: Creative integration of his nursing experience to design impactful learning experiences in mental health, advocating for advanced educational practices and effective patient care strategies. He also advocates for techniques such as interactive storytelling to increase student engagement. 
    Why Follow? Following James offers insights into mental health education and practice, combining firsthand clinical experience with academic prowess to enhance both student understanding and patient care outcomes. 
     

    FOLLOW JAMES WILSON


     

  17. Laura Jenkins 

    Laura Jenkins
    Role: University Teacher in Psychology at Loughborough University
    Thought Leadership Topics: Dr. Jenkins engages in discussions related to cognitive psychology, educational psychology, and the methods of integrating technology into teaching for increase student success and knowledge retention. 
    Why Follow? Follow Dr. Jenkins to gain insights into the latest psychological research and its applications in education and beyond. Her expertise can provide valuable perspectives and strategies for both academic peers for increasing student success and engagement. 
     

    FOLLOW LAURA JENKINS


     

  18. Brokk Toggerson 

    Brokk Toggerson Lecturer


    Role: Lecturer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst
    Thought Leadership Topics: He is deeply engaged in transforming introductory physics courses using team-based learning and flipped classroom models. Brokk's work also extends into the realm of physics education research, where he continually explores and implements evidence-based instructional strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.
    Why Follow? Following Brokk Toggerson is beneficial for educators and researchers looking for proven methods to engage and educate in the sciences. His unique blend of international research experience and commitment to educational excellence provides valuable insights and inspiration for enhancing physics education both in and beyond the classroom.

     

    FOLLOW BROKK TOGGERSON


     

  19. Dean Whitcombe

    Dean Whitcombe


    Role: Immersive Learning Lead/ Hydra Manager at the University of South Wales
    Thought Leadership Topics: Dr. Whitcombe is a pioneer in immersive learning and simulation in higher education, focusing on creating innovative teaching methodologies and integrating technology, such as virtual reality, to revolutionize learning experiences.
    Why Follow? Dean offers insights into the cutting-edge practices of immersive education and simulation-based learning, making him an invaluable resource for educators, researchers, and professionals interested in the latest educational technologies and methodologies. 

     

    FOLLOW DEAN WHITCOMBE

     

  20. Christina Stanley

    Christina Stanley Lecturer
    Role: Senior Lecturer in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at University of Chester
    Thought Leadership Topics: Christina Stanley is an expert in animal behaviour and welfare, employing social network analysis to understand animal sociality, with applications in animal conservation and captive management. She is also dedicated to advancing research-led teaching and inclusive educational practices in higher education.
    Why Follow? Following Christina offers unique insights into the intersection of animal behavior, welfare, and conservation, enriched by her commitment to innovative and inclusive educational methodologies. She also advocates for the effective use of  integration education technology into teaching for student success. 

     

    FOLLOW CHRISTINA STANLEY
     

  21. Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek

    Kathy hirsh pasek
    Role: Professor of Psychology at Temple University
    Thought Leadership Topics: Learning sciences, playful learning, development psychology. 
    Why follow? Dr. Hirsh-Pasek's work on how children learn offers valuable insights for higher education pedagogy and curriculum design. Her extensive publications and active engagement with media and educational organizations make her a valuable source for those interested in learning development and educational strategies.
     

    FOLLOW DR HIRSH-PASEK


     

  22. Dr. Bridget Terry Long

    Bridget Terry Long
    Role: Professor at Harvard University 
    Thought Leadership Topics: Economics of higher education, student aid policy
    Why follow? Dr. Long's research on college access, inclusivity, student aid, and academic preparation informs crucial policy discussions.

    FOLLOW DR BRIDGET LONG
     

  23. Dr Lindsey Gaston

    Dr Dr Lindsey Gaston
    Role: Senior Lecturer at Liverpool Business School
    Thought Leadership Topics: Public Policy, Diversity and Inclusion, Gender and Sexuality, Representation, Student Engagement. 
    Why follow? Dr. Long's research on college access, inclusivity, student aid, and academic preparation informs crucial policy discussions.

    FOLLOW DR LINDSEY GASTON

     

  24. Bruce Wight 

    Bruce Wight
    Role: Associate Lecturer in Business and Management at Aberystwyth University
    Thought Leadership Topics: Social media marketing, business strategies, fun and engaging educational techniques, interactive EdTech. 
    Why follow? Following Bruce offers access to practical advice on navigating the complexities of social media marketing in academia and business. Bruce also explores the use of interactive techniques and technology to engage students in classes. 

    FOLLOW DR BRUCE WIGHT

     

  25. Madeline Pumariega 

    Madeline Pumariega
    Role: President at Miami Dade College and the institution's first female leader.
    Thought Leadership Topics: She is a visionary in higher education, focusing on innovation, accessibility, and workforce development, ensuring that learning aligns with high-demand job fields and economic mobility.
    Why follow? Following Madeline presents an opportunity to gain insights from her extensive leadership experience in HE, including navigating through change and advocating for educational opportunity as a pathway toward breaking the cycle of poverty.

    FOLLOW MADELINE PUMARIEGA


     

  26. Willow Bay

    Willow Bay
    Role: Dean of the University of Southern California Annenberg
    Thought Leadership Topics: Her expertise spans digital media innovation, journalism, and educational leadership, focusing on integrating technological advancements with media education. Willow is committed to shaping the future of media professionals with a strong emphasis on ethical standards and digital literacy.
    Why follow? Following Willow Bay is valuable for those interested in the evolving landscape of media and communication, providing updates on cutting-edge educational initiatives and insights into the fusion of technology with journalism.

    FOLLOW WILLOW BAY


     

  27. Dr. Stella Flores

    Stella Flores HE speaker
    Role: Associate Professor of Higher Education and Public Policy at the University of Texas at Austin 
    Thought leadership topics: College access and success for underrepresented students and the impact of state and federal policies on educational equity.
    Why follow? By following Dr. Flores, you will gain a deep understanding of educational policy impacts and diversity in higher education from an acclaimed expert. She offers valuable insights into improving access and equity in education, making her an essential follow for educators, policymakers, and social justice advocates.


    FOLLOW DR STELLA FLORES 

     

  28. Dr. Adrianna Kezar

    Dr. Adrianna Kezar


    Role:  Pofessor at the University of Southern California

    Thought leadership topics: Her work primarily focuses on change, governance, and leadership in higher education, addressing how institutions can adapt to better serve students and faculty in a dynamic educational landscape.
    Why follow? Following Adrianna Kezar provides access to cutting-edge research on the transformative processes within higher education, making her an invaluable resource for educators, administrators, and policy-makers looking to foster change and innovation in their institutions. 

    FOLLOW DR ADRIANNA KEZAR  


     

  29. Jeff Selingo

    Jeff Selingo Education Leader

    Role: Author and Higher Education Strategist
    Thought leadership topics: Future of higher education, college admissions
    Why follow? Selingo's books and articles offer deep insights into the changing landscape of higher education and what it means for students and institutions. He explores trends reshaping education and career preparedness, making him a valuable resource for navigating the future of academia and employment.

    FOLLOW JEFF SELINGO 

     

  30. Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker

    Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker
    Role: President of Colorado State University Global. 
    Thought leadership topics: Online education, adult learners, career advancement.
    Why follow? Dr. Takeda-Tinker's leadership in online education for working adults offers important perspectives on this growing sector. She offers a window into innovative approaches to online higher education that prioritize accessibility, scalability, and relevance to the modern workforce.

    FOLLOW DR BECKY TAKEDA-TINKER  

     

     

  31. Katie Drummond

    Katie Drummond
    Role: Global Editorial Director at WIRED. 
    Thought leadership topics: Her expertise extends to education innovation, technology and trends in the education world. 
    Why follow? Following Katie Drummond offers insights . Her leadership and initiatives at WIRED and previous roles exemplify how to drive award-winning coverage and digital excellence, making her a valuable resource for professionals in media and content strategy.

    FOLLOW KATIE DRUMMOND  

     

     

  32. Vince Kellen

    VInce Kellen
    Role: Chief Information Officer for the University of California 
    Thought leadership topics: Dr. Kellen is recognized for his expertise in Experience Management, business/IT strategy, and innovation in educational technology. His thought leadership extends to analytics, CRM, enterprise architecture, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within IT operations. 
    Why follow? Follow Vince Kellen for insights into how information technology can drive transformation in higher education and for thought-provoking discussions on utilizing data analytics and CRMs in complex organizations. 

    FOLLOW VINCE KELLEN  
     

  33. Dr. Laura Perna

    Laura Perna
    Role: Laura Perna serves as the Vice Provost for Faculty at the University of Pennsylvania and holds the title of GSE Centennial Presidential Professor of Education. 
    Thought leadership topics: Her academic research focuses on college access and success for underrepresented groups, examining educational practices, social structures, and public policies. Currently, she explores the efficacy of college promise programs and strategies for boosting bachelor's degree completion among low-income students.
    Why Follow?: Follow Laura Perna for a deep dive into educational equity and policy analysis, backed by her extensive expertise and leadership in higher education. Her work provides valuable insights into improving educational outcomes and fostering inclusive academic environments.

    FOLLOW DR LAURA PERNA 

     

  34.  Tom Andriola

    Tom Adriola
    Role: Vice Chancellor, Information, Technology and Data & Chief Digital Officer at UC Irvine,
    Thought leadership topics: driving digital transformation, utilizing technology, data, and AI to improve educational, research, healthcare, and innovation missions.
    Why Follow? Follow Tom Andriola for pioneering insights into how digital transformation and innovative technology applications can redefine the landscape of higher education, healthcare, and research. His leadership and vision provide valuable strategies for navigating the complexities of the 21st-century digital environments in education. 

    FOLLOW TOM ADRIOLA 

     

  35. Ben Nelson

    Ben Nelson

    Role:
     Founder & Chancellor of Minerva University and the Chairman & CEO at the Minerva Project
    Thought leadership topics: He focuses on revolutionizing the university experience, emphasizing critical thinking, immersive learning, and global perspective. His endeavors aim at shaping future leaders through a unique pedagogical approach and cutting-edge technology.
    Why follow? Follow Ben Nelson for innovative insights into the future of higher education, particularly in creating a global, rigorous, and accessible learning environment. His leadership in transforming education equips students with the skills needed for the 21st century.

    FOLLOW BEN NELSON 
     

  36. Anna Mills

    Anna Mills HE leader

    Role: English Instructor at Cañada College
    Thought leadership topics: She is dedicated to open educational resources (OER), authoring texts such as "How Arguments Work," and deeply involved in the academic conversation surrounding AI's role in education.
    Why follow? Follow Anna Mills for unique perspectives on integrating AI and technology into teaching methodologies and for her innovative approach to creating and promoting accessible educational resources. Her insights are valuable for educators looking to evolve their practices with technology.

    FOLLOW ANNA MILLS 

     

  37. Enilda Romera-Hall

    Enilda Hall professor

    Role: Associate Professor in the Learning, Design, and Technology program at The University of Tennessee Knoxville
    Thought leadership topics: Interactive multimedia designing, digital literacy for faculty and learners, and the dynamics of networked learning in online social communities. 
    Why follow? Follow Dr. Enilda Romero-Hall for her insightful contributions to enhancing digital literacy and fostering inclusive, technology-enabled learning environments. Her expertise in bridging technology with education theory is invaluable for professionals and scholars in instructional design and educational technology.

    FOLLOW ENILDA 
     

  38. George Veletsianos

    George Veletsianos
    Role: Professor of Learning Technologies at the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. 
    Thought leadership topics: He is renowned for his work on understanding and improving digital learning environments, focusing on online and flexible learning, networked scholarship, and the evolving practices in open education.
    Why follow? Follow George for a rich blend of academic rigor and practical insights into the future of learning technologies and innovative educational practices. His guidance is invaluable for shaping superior learner and faculty experiences in the ever-evolving landscape of digital education.

    FOLLOW GEORGE 
     

  39. Scott Pulsipher

    Scott Pulshifer Professor and Leader in HE
    Role: President of Western Governors University. 
    Thought leadership topics: Scott is a vocal advocate for accessible, affordable, and quality higher education, often discussing the future of online learning, the importance of competency-based education, and how technology can transform traditional educational models to better serve modern students.
    Why follow? Following Scott offers insights into the cutting-edge of higher education reform, especially for those interested in online learning, innovation in education, and the practical application of technology to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. 

    FOLLOW SCOTT PULSIPHER  
     

     

  40.  Katie Conrad 
     


    Role: Professor and Deans Fellow for Humanities at University of Kansas. 
    Thought leadership topics: Her specialties lie in British, Irish, and Northern Irish literature and culture, alongside a deep interest in cultural and visual studies, gender and sexuality, and the intersection of technology with culture. Katie is deeply involved in university teaching methodologies and departmental administration, striving for excellence in higher education.
    Why follow? Follow Katie Conrad for her insightful explorations into cultural narratives and their profound impact on society, as well as her progressive views on integrating technology with humanities education. Her leadership in academia offers valuable perspectives for educators, students, and cultural studies enthusiasts alike.

    FOLLOW KATIE CONRAD 

     

  41. Torrey Trust

     

    Torrey Trust
    Role: Associate Professor of Learning Technology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. 
    Thought leadership topics: Dr. Trust's research focuses on digital professional learning networks, integrating emerging technologies like 3D printing and augmented reality into learning, and the critical evaluation and application of open educational resources. She is recognized for her insights into how digital tools can transform teaching and empower educators.
    Why follow? Follow Torrey Trust for her pioneering perspectives on the intersection of technology and education, valuable for educators, tech developers, and policy makers aiming to stay at the forefront of educational innovation. 

     

     

    FOLLOW TORREY TRUST 

     

     

  42. Viji Sathy 

     

    Sathi Education Leader
    Role: Associate Professor & Dean in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina. 
    Thought leadership topics: Sathy specializes in innovative teaching practices, diversity and inclusion in education, and the application of psychological principles to improve the learning experience. 
    Why follow? Follow Viji Sathy for insights into inclusive teaching strategies and the integration of psychological insights into education. Her leadership in creating more equitable and effective learning environments makes her a pivotal figure for educators, administrators, and anyone interested in the future of higher education.

     

     

    FOLLOW VIJI SATHY  

     

  43. Rob Moore

     

    Rob Moore
    Role: Research Professor at University of Florida 
    Thought leadership topics: Moore delves into the intricacies of instructional design and the integration of technology in education, utilizing his extensive academic and certification credentials to innovate in the field. His insights often bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in instructional settings.
    Why follow? Following Rob Moore offers access to current and evolving practices in instructional design, especially beneficial for educators, instructional designers, and technology enthusiasts. 

     

    FOLLOW ROB MOORE  
     

     

  44. Peggy Semingson

     

    Peggy Semingson HE leader
    Role: Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Literacy Studies, at the University of Texas at Arlington.
    Thought leadership topics: She is deeply involved in educational technology, online course development, and literacy education, focusing her expertise on adult education and innovative curriculum design. Her academic research emphasizes language and literacy studies, providing insights into effective teaching strategies in these fields.
    Why follow? Following Peggy Semingson is beneficial for educators and instructional designers looking for expert guidance in literacy and online education. Her work offers valuable strategies and insights into effective and engaging online teaching methodologies, essential in the evolving landscape of education. 

     

    FOLLOW PEGGY SEMINGSON

     

  45. Joshua Kim 

     

    Josh Kim
    Role: Assistant Provost for Online Learning Strategy at Dartmouth College.
    Thought leadership topics: He focuses on higher education leadership, online learning, and educational technology, publishing influential works such as "Learning Innovation and the Future of Higher Education." Joshua’s contributions also include scenario planning for universities and exploring the resilience of higher education systems.
    Why follow? Following Joshua Kim is beneficial for educators, administrators, and technology innovators keen on the latest trends and strategic insights in online education. His extensive experience and forward-thinking approaches provide valuable perspectives on adapting and thriving in the evolving educational landscape.

     

    FOLLOW JOSHUA KIM

     

  46. Mike Richichi 

     

    Mike edtech
    Role: Assistant Vice President of Information Technology at Baruch College
    Thought leadership topics: He specializes in higher education information technology, focusing on networking, infrastructure, IT management, and policies. His work emphasizes robust IT service delivery, IT strategy in academic environments, and fostering technology understanding among students.
    Why follow? Following Mike Richichi offers insights into innovative IT practices in higher education, effective leadership in technology management, and strategies for enhancing student tech engagement.

     

    FOLLOW MIKE RICHICHI

     

     

  47. Erin Maher-Moran
Erin lecturerRole:  IT Manager for Classroom Technology at The Johns Hopkins University. 
Thought leadership topics: She specializes in the growth and changes within higher education AV, handling Crestron control systems and leading discussions on audiovisual technology and education at HETMA. Erin's insights cover inclusive higher education environments, technology management, and AV systems integration.
Why follow? Following Erin Maher-Moran is valuable for professionals interested in the intersection of AV technology and classroom innovation in higher education. Her accolades and active contributions to the field present cutting-edge perspectives and highlight industry trends.

FOLLOW ERIN

Julie Schell

Julie Schell EdTech

Role: Assistant Vice Provost of Academic Technology and Director of the Office of Academic Technology at The University of Texas at Austin.

Thought leadership topics: Learning experience design, educational innovation, and the strategic implementation of technology in education. Her work includes transformative online learning, the flipped classroom model, and collaborating with generative AI for educational advancements.
Why follow? Following Julie Schell is invaluable for educators, instructional designers, and technology innovators seeking to expand their understanding of current and future educational practices. 

FOLLOW  JULIE SCHELL



Jesse Stommel

Jesse Stommel

Role: Teaching Faculty at the University of Denver
Thought leadership topics: His expertise is in higher education pedagogy, critical digital pedagogy, and assessment, where he applies innovative teaching methods and champions the critical use of technology in learning. Jesse also explores the impact of digital media on the learning experience and actively promotes unconventional grading methods like ungrading.
Why follow? Jesse is a key thought leader for educators looking to integrate more critical and digital pedagogy into their practices, drawing from over two decades of experience across various educational settings. Following him offers access to pioneering ideas about education reform, especially in how assessments and technology impact teaching and learning.

FOLLOW JESSE STOMMEL



Daniel Greenstein

Daniel Greenstein

Role: Chancellor at Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education. 
Thought leadership topics: He is deeply invested in transforming higher education to increase graduation rates, especially among low-income, first-generation students, students of color, and working adults, utilizing his vast experience from teaching to strategic roles at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Why follow? Following Daniel Greenstein is essential for those interested in the future of public higher education and its role in advancing societal well-being, as he combines innovative strategies with actionable insights to improve education accessibility. 

FOLLOW DANIEL

Driving change in higher education 

These 50 voices represent a diverse array of perspectives and expertise in higher education. From policy makers and researchers to innovators and practitioners, each contributes unique insights to the ongoing dialogue about the future of higher learning.

We hope you find this list of influential voices helpful so you can stay informed about the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in higher education. The landscape of higher education is constantly evolving, and new voices emerge regularly... whilst this list provides a solid starting point, we encourage you to continue exploring and discovering discussions within your specific interests and needs in the HE space.

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