Dr. Andrea Backman joined the University in 2013 to oversee the academic functions of the Jack Welch Management Institute. Her previous tenure at Strayer University includes establishing the University’s virtual Center for Teaching and Learning and serving as senior vice provost for faculty affairs. Outside of Strayer University, she has served as chief academic officer at Rasmussen College and director of new program development and academic approvals at the University of Virginia. She has also held leadership positions at DePaul University. Her academic work has been focused on adult learning, online learning and innovation in higher education. Dr. Backman holds a Ph.D. in higher education from the University of Virginia.