Howard Payne University recently appointed Dr. Wade Ashby as dean of online education and associate professor and chair of the Department of Computer Information Systems. In his new role as dean of online education, Dr. Ashby will help provide the tools and training for HPU faculty to offer high quality online instruction. He will advocate, facilitate and lead HPU in offering quality, flexible degrees targeted at adult learners who are seeking continuing education or a career change. He will support the academic programs at HPU to develop online programs and courses as needed to fulfill the university’s mission of impactful Christian education.

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Wade Ashby to Howard Payne University,” said Dr. Cory Hines, president. “His vision, strategic thinking, experience and expertise will be extremely valuable as we seek to serve current and future students through online education. He is a proven leader with a track record of tremendous success in helping students reach their educational goals, and I look forward to seeing the impact he will make at HPU.”

Dr. Ashby previously served at Hardin-Simmons University for 20 years, where he taught computer science and directed the online bachelor’s degree in business administration. Prior to that, he was the director of academic technology. Other roles he held included director of online education, Blackboard administrator and desktop support.

In addition to overseeing online education, Dr. Ashby will serve as chair of the Department of Computer Information Systems in HPU’s School of Science and Mathematics. The CIS department prepares students for professional careers in information technology and information systems.

“We are excited to have Dr. Ashby join our team as chair of the Department of Computer Information Systems,” said Dr. Kristen Hutchins, dean of the School of Science and Mathematics and professor of biology. “He brings a wealth of knowledge, extensive experience and a fresh perspective on current areas of interest like cybersecurity and software development. He also lives out the core values of HPU and will be a great addition to our faculty.”

Dr. Ashby completed his Ph.D. from Northcentral University in May. His dissertation was titled “Effectiveness of Machine Learning Algorithms on Predicting Course Level Outcomes from Learning Management System Data.” His research was on how well the algorithms could predict if a student would have a poor outcome in a course using LMS data for the first half of the course. He also holds a Master of Science in Computer Science from Georgia Tech with a focus of interactive intelligence. Prior to that, he completed an M.Div. in pastoral ministry from Logsdon Seminary at HSU.

“Dr. Ashby brings a wealth of experience in working with information technology to serve both administrative and instruction purposes at Christian universities,” said Dr. Donnie Auvenshine, vice president for academic affairs. “He has advanced degrees in both information technology and theology. He is a great fit to help HPU continue to fulfill its mission in 2024 and into the future. We feel very blessed to have him join our HPU team.”

For more information about HPU, visit www.hputx.edu.