Walden University: A Legacy of Social Change and Notable Alumni
Walden University, a private, for-profit online institution headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has a rich history and a commitment to fostering social change. Offering a range of degree programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels, Walden University has become a significant player in higher education, particularly for adult learners and those seeking to advance their careers while making a positive impact on their communities. This article delves into the university's history, its mission, and highlights some of its notable alumni who are making a difference in various fields.
A History Rooted in Accessibility
Walden University was founded in 1970 by Bernie and Rita Turner, two New York teachers who envisioned a program that would allow working adults and teachers to pursue doctoral degrees without disrupting their careers. The first classes were held in Naples, Florida, in the summer of 1971, focusing on school administrators. This innovative approach allowed students to develop dissertation topics in collaboration with faculty before returning to their jobs to complete their research.
In 1979, the Minnesota Higher Education Coordinating Board authorized Walden to grant PhDs and EdDs within the state, and in 1982, the university moved its headquarters to Minneapolis. Over the years, Walden University has evolved, adapting to the changing needs of students and the evolving landscape of higher education. Jonathan Kaplan served as CEO from 2007 to 2018, and in May 2022, Michael Betz, formerly a partner at McKinsey & Co., was appointed as the president of Walden University.
Accreditation and Recognition
Walden University is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness. In 2020, Walden University’s College of Management and Technology (CMT) and School of Management received a Silver Achievement Award from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), further demonstrating the university's commitment to excellence in business education.
A Commitment to Social Change
Walden University's mission is deeply rooted in social change. The university aims to equip its students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on their communities and the world. This commitment is reflected in its curriculum, its faculty, and its alumni. Walden graduates are encouraged to use their education to address pressing social issues, advocate for marginalized populations, and create a more just and equitable society.
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Notable Alumni: Champions of Change
Walden University boasts a diverse and accomplished alumni network, with graduates making significant contributions in various fields. Here are a few examples of Walden alumni who are leading the way in social change:
Shantay Bolton
Shantay Bolton, a 2010 graduate with a Ph.D. in organizational psychology, has been named executive vice president for administration and finance and chief business officer at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Her expertise in organizational psychology is invaluable in her leadership role.
Deborah Addo
Deborah Addo, a 2011 graduate with a master's degree in public health, has been promoted to president and chief operating officer for the Penn State Health system. Recognized multiple times by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the “50 Great African American Leaders in Healthcare to Know,” Addo's expertise includes financial management, strategic planning, and population health.
Susan Ibanez
Susan Ibanez, a 2016 and 2021 graduate with two graduate degrees from Walden University in healthcare administration and in arts and interdisciplinary studies, has been named CIO of Southeast Georgia Health System. She also holds a doctoral degree in healthcare administration from Walden University.
Mary Simmons
Mary Simmons, a 2011 graduate with a doctorate in public health/community health, is the new dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences at Florida A&M University. Her extensive experience in the field has prepared her to lead the school and inspire future healthcare professionals.
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Bridget Denzik
Bridget Denzik, a 2014 graduate with a doctorate in nursing practice, has been named chief nursing officer (CNO) at Regional Medical Center. She oversees nursing care within the hospital and its affiliated facilities, leading a team of nearly 400 registered nurses.
Michelle Houchin
Michelle S. Houchin, a 2016 graduate with a master’s degree in leadership, has become a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE). Her achievement demonstrates her mastery and expertise in medical practice management.
Brian Montgomery
Brian Montgomery, a 2020 graduate with a PhD in public policy and terrorism, has been promoted to chief scientist at StellarPeak Corp. He provides comprehensive Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Imagery Scientist support to NGA and develops innovative solutions to address complex problems.
Jeffrey Wooden
Jeffrey Wooden, a 2014 graduate, has joined Nashville International Airport as the Director of Emergency Management. His extensive experience with the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) makes him well-suited for this critical role.
Dr. April Jones
Dr. April Jones, a 2014 graduate with a PhD in Psychology and a 2018 graduate with an MS in Instructional Design and Technology, is the 2025 Walden Outstanding Alumni Award recipient. She is the department head of social work and an assistant professor at Tuskegee University College of Arts and Sciences, as well as the founding chair of the university’s online Master of Social Work program. Her work in higher education and as the owner of Visionary Consulting Services, LLC, demonstrates her commitment to positive social change.
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Dr. Elesia Glover
Dr. Elesia Glover, a 2018 graduate with a PhD in Public Policy and Administration, is an advocate for menstrual equity. She founded Posh Pack, an organization that provides feminine hygiene products to middle schools and high schools, addressing the issue of "period poverty."
Dr. Kay Ramsey
Dr. Kay Ramsey, a 2017 graduate with a PhD in Public Policy Administration, is a catalyst for good. Born into the foster care system, she is now executive branch director for Bethany Christian Services of Southern California, providing support and mentorship to marginalized populations.
Dr. Reagan Romali
Dr. Reagan Romali, a 2011 graduate with a PhD in Education, is a change agent in the field of community college leadership. She has dedicated her career to broadening access to higher education in poverty-stricken neighborhoods and closing achievement gaps for people of color.
Dr. Jamar Shaw
Dr. Jamar Shaw, a 2018 graduate with a Master of Public Health (MPH), is an innovator in the field of mental health. He applies nontraditional techniques such as psychosocial rehabilitation to help diverse populations overcome addiction and mental health challenges.
Dr. Denise Angelo Prudencio
Dr. Denise Angelo Prudencio, a 2019 graduate with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), is a visionary nurse educator. He guides staff through critical health crises and mentors nurses, helping them stay healthy and resilient.
Addressing Challenges and Criticisms
Like any institution, Walden University has faced its share of challenges and criticisms. In 2016, Adam Looney and Constantine Yannelis estimated that Walden University student loan debt was the second highest in the US. Additionally, in 2016, the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (MOHE) rejected Walden University's renewal application to participate in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) due to the university not having an institutional federal financial composite score computed by the US Department of Education (DOE).
It is also important to note that Walden University's PhD specializations in Clinical Psychology and Counseling Psychology are not accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and have not received designation by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards/National Register (ASPPB/NR), which are requirements for licensure in some states.
Walden University: A Hub for Research and Publications
Walden University is committed to advancing knowledge and contributing to scholarly discourse. The university publishes several academic journals, providing a platform for faculty, students, and other researchers to share their work. These journals cover a wide range of disciplines, including:
- International Journal of Applied Management and Technology
- Journal of Social Change
- Journal of Social, Behavioral, and Health Sciences
- Journal of Educational Research and Practice
- Journal of Social Work in the Global Community
- Journal of Excellence in Nursing and Healthcare Practice
These publications reflect Walden University's commitment to research and its mission of fostering positive social change.
Walden University: Is It a Good Choice?
Choosing the right university is a significant decision, and it's essential to consider your goals and priorities. Walden University's reputation and the success of its alumni suggest that it can be an excellent choice for adult learners seeking to advance their careers and make a difference in the world.
A 2016 Gallup study of Walden University graduates found that:
- Walden graduate degree alumni are more diverse than other graduate degree holders.
- Seventy percent of Walden graduate degree alumni say their graduate program provided them with the necessary skills and training to advance in their careers.
- Walden graduate degree holders have a significant sense of purpose.
These findings indicate that Walden University is meeting its goals of providing a high-quality education that prepares students for career success and helps them find purpose in their lives.
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