In an important step toward widening its circle of learners, Taylor University announced today that Jeannie Trudel, PhD, will serve as executive director of the Center for Digital & Extended Learning.
“We are so excited to welcome Dr. Trudel to the Taylor community and to this vital role,” said Provost Dr. Jewerl Maxwell. “Jeannie brings a wealth of experience in academia and other capacities that will serve the Center and our students well into the future.”
The Center for Digital & Extended Learning serves learners across a broad spectrum—from Indiana high school students participating in the new Professional Pathways credential to graduate students in programs such as Taylor’s PhD in Leadership. Building on more than two decades of work under the name TU Online, the Center is designed to strengthen and expand Taylor’s digital learning footprint while remaining firmly rooted in its Christ-centered mission.
As executive director, Trudel will provide strategic oversight to ensure the Center’s academic programming reflects Taylor’s commitment to excellence and mission. She will play a key role in developing innovative programs and policies that engage nontraditional learners—including high school students, graduate students, alumni, and adult learners—while extending the University’s distinctly Christian, relational approach to education into new formats and settings.
Trudel was selected from a pool of exceptional candidates following an extensive search. She comes to Taylor from Greenville University, where she served as both vice president of innovative learning and vice president of academic affairs and student development. In her impressive 22-year career in academia, Trudel has served in various roles, including regional multi-campus dean, business school dean, associate vice president of strategic initiatives and faculty, and president of Christian Heritage College (Australia). She holds a PhD in Organizational Development from the University of Louisville, a Master's in Conflict Management and Negotiation from California State University, and a Bachelor of Laws from Monash University in Australia.
“We are fortunate to add someone of Jeannie’s caliber,” continued Maxwell. “Her diverse experiences, skills, knowledge, and connections will help elevate Taylor’s impact on learning and represent Taylor well as we expand our reach.”
By extending its mission into new learning environments, Taylor University continues its commitment to developing servant-leaders—reaching students not only on campus, but across the state, the nation, and the world.
