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IgnitED Newsletter January Edition

Jan 20, 2023

Sharing Innovative Approaches to Higher Education

Welcome to the January edition of IgnitED by WGU. This month, we learn more about Dr. Stacey Ludwig Johnson and her plans for the School of Education, how WGU Labs is working to solve higher education’s “wicked” problems, the impact of expanded access to education in Nebraska, and what the future of online higher education may look like.

If you know others who’d welcome insights on these topics, please invite them to subscribe. If you have feedback on this newsletter, feel free to contact us.

Changing Trajectories for Students: A Q&A with School of Education Senior Vice President Stacey Ludwig Johnson

In fall 2022, Dr. Stacey Ludwig Johnson was appointed as the new WGU senior vice president and executive dean of the School of Education. Learn more about Stacey’s strategic focus for the school.

 

WGU Labs Impact Report: Solving Higher Education’s Wicked Problems

WGU Labs released their 2022 impact report covering their work centered around removing barriers to access, redesigning the current learning experience, and strengthening the contemporary learn-to-work cycle. It also includes predictions for 2023.

 

Video: WGU and State of Nebraska Partner to Expand Access in Education

In August, Western Governors University signed a partnership with the state of Nebraska to expand education and workforce development options.

 

News We're Reading

University Business: Looking ahead to 2023: Here’s what’s in store for higher education

From a higher education perspective, colleges and universities will continue to set their sights on career readiness and student outcomes, both academically and emotionally.

Brookings: Going digital: How learning and employment records shape access to quality education and jobs

This report examines how digital credentials and learning and employment records (LERs) are shaping the ways people access education and career opportunities around the world.

WGU Student Story

Jayme Benabides
M.Ed. Learning and Technology (2020)
Pueblo, Colo.

Special education teacher Jayme Benabides saw a need to be met for at-risk kids in her impoverished community of Pueblo, Colorado. With a background in education technology, she created and runs a successful photography program for youth struggling with anxiety and depression. The program has been instrumental in helping provide support and an avenue to those facing mental health challenges.

Jayme's creativity has received rave reviews and comes at a time when more support is needed following the pandemic. The course has led the students to naturally engage in community service as they now focus on environmental preservation initiatives.

Recommended Articles

Take a look at other articles from WGU. Our articles feature information on a wide variety of subjects, written with the help of subject matter experts and researchers who are well-versed in their industries. This allows us to provide articles with interesting, relevant, and accurate information.