Laura DaVinci has been appointed as the Director of Every Learner Everywhere, a network advocating for equitable outcomes in U.S. higher education through digital learning advancements. WCET and WICHE serve as intermediary organizations for this network.
Russ Poulin, WCET’s Executive Director and WICHE’s Vice President of Technology-enhanced Education, commented on DaVinci's new role: “Laura has been at the heart of Every Learner since shortly after it being founded in 2017, using her expertise and operational skills to assure its position as a leader for equitable digital learning in higher education. She is ready to take the step as the strategic leader bringing partners, institutions, students, and staff together to meet grant needs and forge new directions.”
DaVinci joined Every Learner in June 2018 as Program Manager and has focused her career on improving educational outcomes for first-generation, poverty-affected, and racially minoritized students through innovative approaches. Since 2005, she has worked in higher education and nonprofits supporting education.
Her previous roles include Associate Director, Project Director, Grants Manager, Academic Services Coordinator, and Computer Science Adjunct Faculty. She has experience managing complex projects across various organizations or stakeholders. Her grants portfolio includes collaborations with entities such as the U.S. Department of Education and the Gates Foundation.
DaVinci holds an MBA from Eastern New Mexico University and a bachelor's degree in international business from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University in Romania. She is finalizing her doctoral dissertation at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Expressing her enthusiasm about her new role, DaVinci stated: “I am thrilled to step into the role of Director at Every Learner Everywhere... As we continue to innovate teaching and learning practices, I’m excited to lead our efforts in improving outcomes for college students... Together with our dedicated partners... I look forward to driving our mission forward.”
Every Learner Everywhere was established to unite partners aiming to enhance digital learning at postsecondary institutions with a focus on vulnerable populations. Its partners include Achieving the Dream and EDUCAUSE among others.
Demarée Michelau, WICHE President said: “WICHE is proud of the impact the Every Learner network has had on the digital learning and teaching community... Laura’s vast expertise... will benefit educators and students alike.” WCET supports leadership management of Every Learner Network.
For more information about Every Learner Everywhere's collaborative approach visit everylearnereverywhere.org.