Ken Ryalls, PhD
Executive Director/Ex-Officio

Dr. Ken Ryalls is a recognized leader in the realm of higher education, renowned for his unwavering dedication to improving learning outcomes and enhancing the student experience. With a robust background spanning various roles within academia, he has continually championed the cause of educational excellence.

Following his attainment of a PhD in Social Psychology from Indiana University, he embarked on a multifaceted career in higher education. His professional journey encompassed roles as a professor, program director, division chair, dean, and vice president for academic affairs, allowing him to gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of academia.

Dr. Ryalls’ commitment to fostering learning excellence propelled him to the presidency of The IDEA Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing analytics, resources, and advice aimed at improving learning in higher education. Under his leadership, The IDEA Center became a beacon of innovation, offering invaluable support to institutions striving for academic excellence.

Currently, Ken serves as the Executive Director of the IDEA Fund, identifying and managing investment and partnership opportunities directly impacting teaching and learning.

Throughout his career, Ken Ryalls has remained steadfast in his pursuit of quality education, consistently striving to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. His visionary leadership, coupled with a profound passion for educational improvement, continues to shape the landscape of higher education, leaving a lasting impact on students, educators, and institutions alike.