New Director of Office of Online Learning: Stephen P. Balfour, Ph.D.

The Office of Online Learning welcomes Stephen P. Balfour, Ph.D., as its new director. Balfour comes onboard Feb. 1 and will lead Online Learning in continuing to provide high quality graduate and undergraduate classes and degree programs for the University of Georgia. Balfour was chosen after a nationwide search. “Dr. Balfour has been on the forefront of the latest technology and pedagogy in his teaching and research roles at Texas A&M University and therefore has a big picture view of how online learning should connect with today’s students,” said Rahul Shrivastav, Vice President for Instruction. Balfour has held positions at Texas A&M University for 24 years, with experience in project management, strategic planning, and development services for online courses and programs. He is also an experienced consultant for grants and contracts involving technology to enhance distance learning.

“UGA has done excellent work to build online graduate programs, create a pipeline for undergraduates to get a BBA, and help undergraduates complete their degrees more quickly with online courses and programs,” said Balfour. “Building on UGA’s strengths, I’m looking forward to working collaboratively with the talented team in the Office of Online Learning and with UGA schools and colleges. Together, we can help elevate student learning, engagement, and research in online courses, as well as increase graduate enrollments and enhance workforce development.”

Full article by Tracy Coley can be found on the UGA Office of Instruction website.