PHX Reporter

University of Phoenix leaders are set to present at the upcoming 1EdTech Digital Credentials Summit, taking place from March 3-5, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. The summit aims to bring together education and business leaders focused on transforming education with verifiable credentials.

Several key figures from the University of Phoenix will be presenting. Vice Provost of Strategy Marc Booker, Ph.D., Associate Dean for the College of Business and IT Natalie Pratt, MBA, Vice Provost of Colleges, Curriculum, and Assessment Doris Savron, MBA, Director of Learning Innovation and Strategy Mary Elizabeth Smith, M.Ed., Sr. Manager of Provost Initiatives and Academic Program Lifecycle Chelse Thomas, MBA, Dean for the College of Business and IT Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MIP, and Director of Assessment Nick Williams, Ed.D., are among those participating.

Doris Savron stated: "At University of Phoenix, we are committed to pioneering innovative educational strategies that align with the evolving needs of both working adult learners and employers." She emphasized their dedication to advancing digital credentials as a means to empower learners and enhance workforce readiness.

The summit will feature various sessions led by these university leaders. Savron will join a panel discussing employer engagement strategies. Booker is scheduled to speak about lifelong learning supported by digital credentials. Smith will collaborate with Pratt and Uhles on designing pathway credentials that meet employer needs. Additionally, Williams, Thomas, and Smith will delve into using diverse data to elevate microcredentials.

The University’s efforts in digital badging align with a broader shift towards skills-based hiring practices among employers. Since September 2021, they have issued over 600,000 digital badges through Credly for skills obtained across different levels of courses. This approach supports students in acquiring skills rapidly during their studies rather than solely upon graduation.

University leadership frequently shares expertise at national conferences such as the AACRAO Annual Meeting and SXSW EDU Conference. These engagements highlight their commitment to innovation in higher education.