Education

Master of Arts in Learning Technologies, University of Michigan School of Education

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, University of Michigan College of Engineering

Sarah Dysart

Chief Learning Officer

Why I Choose to Work at Academic Innovation

I joined the Center for Academic Innovation because I’m passionate about expanding access to high-quality education and reimagining how learning happens. The Center’s mission aligns deeply with my values—bringing together innovation, research, and collaboration to create meaningful learning experiences for a global community. It’s inspiring to work with a team that’s shaping the future of education with both purpose and impact.

Current Roles/Previous Experience

Sarah currently serves as the Chief Learning Officer at the Center for Academic Innovation at the University of Michigan. In this role, she provides strategic leadership for the Center’s online, hybrid, and blended learning strategy and operations, including the portfolio of learning experiences offered through Michigan Online. She oversees teams within the Online Learning domain and works closely with colleagues across the Center to guide the continued development of the Michigan Online ecosystem. Her work focuses on designing scalable, high-quality learning experiences that support a global community of learners and advance the university’s public mission.

Since joining the Center, Sarah has held key leadership positions that have shaped its growth and direction. She has led cross-functional teams, supported the design and launch of online degree and non-degree programs, and cultivated strategic relationships across academic units and external partners. Her leadership has been instrumental in aligning online learning initiatives with institutional priorities, expanding digital learning infrastructure, and promoting innovation across the Michigan community.

Prior to joining the Center, Sarah held a series of leadership roles in online and digital learning in both public and private higher education institutions. She brings more than 20 years of experience in advancing instructional innovation and learner-centered strategies, grounded in a commitment to equity, access, and academic excellence.

Ask Me to Learn About

  • Online, hybrid, and blended learning strategy
  • S​​caling digital learning ecosystems
  • Building strategic partnerships in higher education
  • Reimagining education for a global audience