Karen Pedersen joining university as dean of K-State Global Campus
Monday, Dec. 4, 2017
MANHATTAN — Following a national search, Kansas State University has named an expert in online learning for higher education as its new dean of the university's Global Campus.
Karen Pedersen will provide strategic vision, oversight, leadership and management in all aspects of Global Campus operations, including program development, workforce and professional development programming, faculty and staff development, and conferences.
"I am excited to welcome Dr. Pedersen as the next dean of Kansas State University's Global Campus," said April Mason, provost and senior vice president. "She brings significant experience leading distance and online learning initiatives that reflects a focus on global engagement and international outreach. Her experiences demonstrate innovative and visionary leadership and she will help K-State continue and grow as a leader in Global Campus outreach."
Pedersen is currently the chief knowledge officer for the Online Learning Consortium, a collaborative community of higher education leaders advancing quality digital teaching and learning experiences. She envisioned and leads the consortium's work in five key areas: learning innovation; quality enhancement; community engagement and development; publications, research, and policy; and product development leadership.
Pedersen has extensive experience building and implementing online education programs. She was associate vice president for Extended Campuses at Northern Arizona University; vice president for professional studies at Southwestern College, Winfield; and dean of Upper Iowa University's Extended University. She also was an assistant professor at the University of Nebraska, Kearney.
"I am so impressed by the dedication and commitment of the Global Campus team and am excited to be joining K-State," Pedersen said. "I look forward to working with all stakeholders to further innovate and take Global Campus to new heights."
Pedersen earned a doctorate in home economics from Oklahoma State University and master's and bachelor's degrees in textiles and apparel from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.
Pedersen will take over as dean on Feb. 1, 2018, reporting directly to Mason and serving on the Academic Council of Deans.
