STEERING COMMITTEE
Shaping the next generation of educational strategy
Kathi Kern, Senior Vice Provost of Education, University of Miami
Kathi Kern is the Senior Vice Provost for Educational Innovation at the University of Miami, where she leads initiatives to enhance teaching and learning, supports faculty development through the Platform for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (PETAL), and advises on new academic programs. A historian and award-winning educator, her research focuses on the intersection of politics, gender, and religion in the U.S., with a commitment to diversity and inclusion in higher education. Previously, she was Associate Provost at the University of Kentucky, where she expanded online learning and led faculty development. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and is the author of Mrs. Stanton’s Bible.
Donna Johnson, Ph.DDeputy Chief Innovation Officer, Louisiana Tech University
Dr. Donna Johnson is the Deputy Chief Innovation Officer at Louisiana Tech University, supporting economic development, research, and strategic partnerships. She previously served as Assistant Vice President for Academic Advancement and Partnerships, leading campus expansions, including at Barksdale Air Force Base. An expert in higher education innovation, leadership, and AI applications, she has held teaching roles and managed international partnerships. Dr. Johnson serves on the North Louisiana Economic Partnership board and as an honorary commander at Barksdale AFB. She holds degrees from Wayland Baptist University, Northwestern State University, and Louisiana Tech University.
Zach Lewis, CISO, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis
Zach is an experienced IT executive and cybersecurity leader, serving as AVP IT and CISO at a private higher education institution. He has led transformative initiatives in cybersecurity, risk management, and IT strategy, optimizing budgets and enhancing operational efficiency. A 2X recipient of Cyber Defense Magazine’s Top Global CISOs and a 40 Under 40 Security Leader by CDO Magazine, Zach is also a graduate of the FBI CISO Academy. He frequently shares his expertise as a speaker at conferences, webinars, and universities nationwide.
Trey Conatser, Ph.DAssistant Provost for Teaching & Learning, Director
Dr. Trey Conatser is the Assistant Provost for Teaching and Learning and Director of CELT at the University of Kentucky, leading initiatives in innovative and effective education. He co-chairs the university’s Generative AI Task Force and has expanded CELT’s impact to support evolving instructional needs. Holding a Ph.D. in English from The Ohio State University, his research focuses on technology-enhanced learning, writing pedagogy, and AI in education. A sought-after speaker, he has presented at major conferences and contributed to Forbes, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and Inside Higher Ed.
Vanessa Kenon, Ed.DAssociate Vice President of Technology Compliance and Community Engagement, UTSA
Dr. Vanessa Hammler Kenon is the Associate Vice President of Technology Compliance and Community Engagement at UTSA, overseeing audit, compliance, and risk services while leading community outreach initiatives. She directs the Classroom to Career Student Ambassador and Internship Program and serves as a key liaison for technology and student success efforts. With over 30 years in higher education, including 28 in technology leadership, she also teaches film, media, and technology in the College of Education and Human Development. Dr. Kenon represents UTSA on state and national boards, including TASSCC and EDUCAUSE.
Miloš Topić, Ph.D Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Digital Officer, Grand Valley State University
Miloš Topić is the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Digital Officer at Grand Valley State University, with over 25 years of experience in technology, innovation, and leadership across startups, Fortune 1000 companies, and higher education. He has held roles as CIO, CTO, and Director of Technology Services, specializing in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and business strategy. Holding a Ph.D. in Business Administration, his research focuses on CIO-led innovation in higher education. A frequent speaker and advisor, Milos consults on leadership, high-performing teams, and digital innovation across industries.
Eric Klein, Ph.D Assistant Provost, Doctoral Research and Student Success, American College of Education
Dr. Eric Klein is the Assistant Provost of Doctoral Research and Student Success at the American College of Education (ACE), where he leads initiatives to enhance student retention, academic support, and overall success. With over 15 years of experience in higher education, he is a collaborative leader dedicated to strategic innovation and creating a high-quality learning environment. Holding a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Dr. Klein is passionate about lifelong learning and works closely with stakeholders to develop student-centered initiatives that improve persistence, retention, and graduation rates.