I’ve spent my career working at the intersection of higher education leadership, institutional strategy, and innovation—often with colleges and universities navigating periods of significant change.
Today, I write and podcast about the future of small colleges in America. I’m the producer and co-host of Small College America, a podcast featuring candid conversations with college presidents, senior administrators, policy experts, and innovators. The series explores how small institutions are adapting to demographic shifts, financial pressures, and policy change—while continuing to deliver personalized, high-impact education. I’m also actively researching and writing on the economic and social impact of small colleges in rural communities, with a particular focus on tuition-dependent institutions and their role as anchor institutions.
I am the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Edu Alliance Group, an international higher-education consultancy with U.S. operations based in Bloomington, Indiana, and international operations in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Since founding the firm in 2014, I’ve worked with colleges, universities, and education organizations across the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and North America. My work has included leading feasibility studies for new academic programs and international campuses, advising on institutional strategy and market positioning, supporting international partnerships, and guiding complex cross-border collaborations.
From 2023 to 2025, I served as President and CEO of the American Association of University Administrators (AAUA). During that time, I helped expand the association’s membership and led the launch of its first multi-day national conference, convening more than 150 higher-education leaders focused on leadership, governance, and institutional resilience.
Earlier in my career, I held senior leadership roles at higher-education institutions in the United Arab Emirates, including Khalifa University and the Higher Colleges of Technology. At Khalifa University, I helped secure an $18 million grant to support Ankabut, the UAE’s national research and education network, significantly expanding its reach and sustainability. At the Higher Colleges of Technology, I led marketing and institutional development initiatives across a 16-campus system serving more than 20,000 students.
My professional background also includes entrepreneurship and media leadership. I was a Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Connected Learning Network, an online education services company that partnered with universities and global organizations such as Microsoft and the American Red Cross. Earlier, I spent more than a decade in broadcasting, serving in senior executive roles in television and radio—including President and General Manager positions for public broadcasting organizations in Alaska, Texas, and Connecticut.
I began my career in higher education at Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky, working in admissions and advancement. I’ve since written for publications including U.S. News & World Report, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Al-Fanar Media, Higher Education Digest, and The EvoLLLution, and I regularly speak, write, and podcast on leadership, sustainability, and the evolving role of small colleges.
