Skip to content Skip to Chat

Andrea Burns

Associate Dean and Director of Program Innovation at Western Governors University

With over a decade of dedicated service to education and organizational leadership, Andrea Burns brings a wealth of experience in driving program innovation and student success strategies. Currently serving as the associate dean and director of Program Innovation at Western Governors University, she has spearheaded the identification and development of new degree programs and certificates within the WGU School of Business, fostering partnerships with both internal and external stakeholders. Her tenure at WGU has been marked by a commitment to expanding educational pathways for underserved populations and pioneering new learning and professional opportunities for students. 

Prior to her current role, Burns was the director of Student Success Operations at WGU, where she played an instrumental role in crafting strategic operating plans and leading initiatives to enhance student outcomes. As a seasoned leader, she effectively managed cross-functional teams and collaborated with university stakeholders to drive key initiatives aimed at elevating student success metrics. 

Education:

  • Columbia College Chicago: Bachelor of Arts in English, Creative Writing 
  • Arizona State University: Master of Arts in Education 

Education:

Areas of Expertise: 

  • Program/Product Innovation 
  • Strategic Planning and Execution 
  • Educational Program Design 
  • Certificate Design 
  • Expanding Access to Education 

Education:

  • Columbia College Chicago: Bachelor of Arts in English, Creative Writing 
  • Arizona State University: Master of Arts in Education 

Education:

Areas of Expertise: 

  • Program/Product Innovation 
  • Strategic Planning and Execution 
  • Educational Program Design 
  • Certificate Design 
  • Expanding Access to Education 

WGU Articles