UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Lisa Lenze has been named associate dean for undergraduate studies in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), effective Aug. 1. She has served as the college’s director of Teaching, Learning and Assessment since 2019.
In this role, Lenze will focus on developing programs that prepare students for a rapidly evolving and inclusive information society. This includes identifying relevant course content, innovating instruction and course delivery modes and creating an environment that invites all students to engage in the college’s courses.
“Lisa’s proven devotion to student success and learning, deep understanding of higher education and expertise in topics of curriculum, student development, learning and teaching make her perfect for this role,” said Andrea Tapia, dean of the College of IST. “Her leadership will be critical to helping us enhance the quality of instruction and grow and diversify our programs.”
Since joining IST in 2004, Lenze has served in various positions in support of the college’s teaching and learning mission, including roles as the director of Learning Initiatives, Undergraduate Academic Affairs and Graduate and Undergraduate Academic Affairs. She assisted with the creation of the college’s Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations bachelor’s degree program and two integrated undergraduate-graduate programs, assessed learning outcomes for IST’s curricular programs, provided oversight of honors advising, developed learning support programs and promoted student-centered pedagogy.
“What I love about this role is helping to build and innovate the academic programs that will excite and transform our students,” Lenze said. “I’m also looking forward to working with the people who will be my partners — our inspiring faculty, administrators, staff and students.”
As associate dean, Lenze is focused on advancing three priorities: building courses and programs that attract students to the interdisciplinary work of IST, ensuring a clearly articulated curriculum that prepares students for careers within four years, and supporting inclusive and engaging pedagogy that welcomes and encourages all students.
“I have been passionate about undergraduate education since I was an undergraduate student,” Lenze said. “College-level learning changed my self-perception, my goals and my trajectory in life. I feel honored to help today’s students achieve a similar experience.”
Lenze has authored more than 40 publications and presentations and facilitated nearly 50 workshops on pedagogical innovation, maximizing classroom engagement and academic assessments. She earned a bachelor’s degree in speech communication from Penn State and a master’s degree in speech communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She earned her doctorate in education and social policy from Northwestern University.