Christina Arias

Dr. Christina Churchill Arias, Assistant Dean of Academic Programs at UC Berkeley's School of Information, brings a wealth of experience from her extensive career spanning several key areas of technology and educational innovation. With beginnings as an MIS Director and computer programmer, she not only introduced cost-saving technologies but also championed technology-driven educational reforms. Her transition into academia saw her as a pioneer in online education, leveraging her background to enhance learning technologies and instructional design.

Throughout her career, Dr. Arias has been a dedicated educator and published researcher. She focuses on learning technologies, faculty training, and the dynamics of online education. Her work has influenced modern teaching methods, providing key insights into optimizing online learning environments for improved student engagement and success. Her publications address critical aspects of remote teaching and learning analytics, contributing to the field’s body of knowledge.

Dr. Arias continues to drive innovation and quality in academic programming. While at Southern Methodist University, she has developed and led initiatives such as the HyFlex classroom model and LyleAnywhere, setting benchmarks for flexible, inclusive educational practices that accommodate diverse learner needs. Her leadership is characterized by a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that academic programs meet current educational standards and are aligned with future technological advancements and market demands.

Dr. Arias is deeply committed to the success of nontraditional students and passionately works to broaden access to education across diverse populations. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to creating opportunities that empower all students to advance in their life journeys. Her approach enhances academic experiences and ensures that education is a transformative tool, enabling students to achieve personal and professional growth in an ever-evolving world.