Future-facing, mission-driven: Rethinking higher ed for a changing world
What To Expect
In an era of political pressure, economic uncertainty, and rapid cultural shifts, how can institutions adapt and innovate without losing sight of their core values?
Join us for a compelling discussion with higher education leaders as they tackle the biggest challenges facing colleges and universities today.
This panel will explore how senior leaders are:
- Balancing tradition and innovation to meet evolving student expectations and workforce demands.
- Reimagining value and fostering trust amid increased public scrutiny.
- Enabling mission-aligned transformation through strategic partnerships, innovation, and collaborative strategies.
Gain practical insights and a renewed sense of purpose from leaders who are shaping a more responsive, inclusive, and resilient future for higher education.
Panelists:
- Emily Leffler, Executive Director, Academic Affairs, University of Houston-Downtown
- Richard Kopp, Executive Dean of Student Success and Retention, Camden County College
- Dr. Dimetri Horner, Provost & VP of Academic Affairs, Harris-Stowe State University
Moderator: Alex Leader, Chief Customer Officer, Watermark
About the panelists
Emily Leffler
Emily Leffler is responsible for organizing and supervising activities of the Provost Office and provides university-wide coordination for the achievement of strategic direction, goals and initiatives for the Provost. Emily has nearly 25 years of experience working in higher education, and was introduced to Faculty Success in 2016 when assisting with UHD’s AACSB Accreditation efforts. She serves as the UHD Watermark Administrator.
Richard Kopp
Richard Kopp serves as the inaugural Executive Dean of Student Success and Retention at Camden County College, where he leads a newly established division dedicated to fostering a student-centered environment. With over 25 years of experience in higher education, Richard brings a wealth of expertise in student development, retention strategies, and engagement initiatives that empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals. His division focuses on creating a culture of inclusion while implementing innovative support services and programs that enhance students’ sense of belonging and success. Prior to joining Camden County College, Richard most recently served as Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Operations at Community College of Philadelphia, where he provided leadership for student development experiences and campus life programs; Richard also led the Division of Student Development as the Interim Dean of Students for nearly two years during a time of leadership transition at the college. Driven by a belief in the transformative power of education, Richard is dedicated to creating environments where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
Dr. Dimetri Horner
Dr. Dimetri Horner is a distinguished administrator and educator. As the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Harris-Stowe State University, she serves as the Chief Academic Officer, guiding the implementation of the university’s educational mission and providing strategic curricular and administrative leadership. Dr. Horner previously served as Associate Vice Provost of Academics at Strayer University. Her multifaceted roles there included adjunct faculty, full-time English and First-Year Experience instructor, Associate Campus Dean, Dean of Faculty, and Distinguished Professor, exemplifying her dedication to academic excellence and student success. Dr. Horner holds an Ed.D. and Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, an M.S. in Education Innovation and Technology from Capella University, an M.S. in Secondary Education from the University of Southern Mississippi, and a B.A. in English from Southern University in Baton Rouge.
