Leadership and
Knowledge Experts

Few leaders grasp the shifting intersection of policy, private industry, and higher education as clearly as Dr. Millar. Her work consistently anticipates what’s next—positioning institutions not just to adapt, but to lead in an era of accelerated change.

- Dr. Garret Westlake, Vice Provost of Innovation and Strategic Design
Virginia Commonwealth University

Leadership

Heather E. Millar, Ph.D., MBA, brings a unique blend of academic rigor, strategic insight, and practical experience with over twenty years of experience in higher education leadership and nonprofit management.

With a PhD in Public Policy and Administration and a research portfolio focused on higher education trends, policy and macro-level system analysis, Dr. Millar brings extensive expertise in higher education, workforce development, alternative credentials, and strategic planning. Her experience spans both state and university levels, positioning her as a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of modern academia, policy, and workforce development.

Dr. Millar teaches at the university level, publishes scholarly research and is frequently invited to share her expertise with industry associations and higher education stakeholders. Her research and insights can help inform institutional strategy, policy development and cross-sector collaboration.

She currently serves as adjunct faculty at Randolph-Macon College and the VCU Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.

Knowledge experts

  • Elsie Harper Anderson, Ph.D.

    Associate Professor and PhD Director
    Expertise includes: Economic development, workforce development, entrepreneurship, social and economic equity

  • Anne Marie Lauranzon

    Marketing and Communications Executive
    Expertise includes:
    Strategic planning, crisis communications, public relations, and branding

  • Megan McMahon, Ph.D.

    Instructional Designer and UX Specialist
    Expertise includes: Curriculum development, science of learning and memory, assessment, and innovative pedagogy

  • Linda Wilkinson

    Nonprofit Executive
    Expertise includes:
    Resource development, governance, leading programmatic and systems change

  • Lisa O'Mara

    Philanthropic Advisor Executive
    Expertise includes:
    Donor relations, investor relations, impact investing, community impact, and grantmaking