Purdue Global’s Jody DeKorte selected to UPCEA’s board of directors

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue Global’s Jody DeKorte, dean of the School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies, was selected to serve on UPCEA’s board of directors. UPCEA is an online and professional education association, dedicated to bringing together decision-makers and influencers in education, industry, research and policy interested in improving educational access and outcomes. DeKorte’s term will begin following the organization’s annual conference in March 2025 and conclude at the end of the 2027 annual conference.

DeKorte, who has served as dean since 2011, has been a key leader in the School of Multidisciplinary and Professional Studies moving forward in a passionate and innovative way. DeKorte is looking forward to serving as an at-large director on the UPCEA board by contributing to strategic discussions, supporting member initiatives and promoting innovative practices to meet the diverse needs of today’s learners.

“I am honored to be selected as an at-large member for UPCEA,” DeKorte said. “This opportunity allows me to collaborate with innovative leaders dedicated to advancing professional, continuing and online education. Being selected to have more of a formal part of such a respected organization is exciting, and I look forward to contributing to its mission.”

DeKorte has been engaged with UPCEA for several years, attending conferences and contributing to initiatives. Over the past three years, she has served as a reviewer for the Phillip E. Frandson Award for Literature Recipients and as a session host at events such as the Summit for Online Leadership Administration + Roundtable and Distance Teaching & Learning conference in Minneapolis in July 2024.

“My passion lies in expanding access to education through innovative approaches in higher education, and UPCEA provides an incredible platform to collaborate with forward-thinking leaders who share this vision,” DeKorte said.

DeKorte said this role isn’t just about representing her professional interests; it’s also about elevating Purdue Global’s commitment to providing a world-class education to working adults. The university’s expertise in helping students earn academic credit through prior learning and commitment to flexibility and accessibility align closely with UPCEA’s mission. DeKorte said she is excited to use this platform to foster collaboration and share transformative practices that can positively impact students.

About Purdue Global

Purdue Global is Purdue’s online university for working adults who have life experience and often some college credits. It offers flexible paths for students to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, based on their work experience, military service and previous college credits, no matter where they are in their life journey. Purdue Global is a nonprofit, public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and backed by Purdue University. For more information, visit https://www.purdueglobal.edu.