What does it actually look like to run a truly digital-first institution? In this episode, Dustin sits down with Erika Orris, Senior Vice President of Operations at American Public University System, to unpack how her team supports a fully online student body. From personalized program pathways to AI-powered outreach, Erika shares the tools, systems, and philosophies that make American Public University a model for adult learner success. If your institution is serious about student-centric innovation, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Guest Name: Erika Orris, Senior VP of Operations, American Public University System

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: Erika Orris is the Senior Vice President of Operations at APUS, overseeing services such as Admissions, Academic and Financial Aid Advising, the Student Support Center, Military Assistance Team, and Student and Alumni Services. She has over 30 years of experience in marketing and enrollment management and joined APUS in October 2022.

Her recent initiatives include straight-line degree plans, a net price calculator for non-traditional students, graduation-focused advising, a streamlined transfer process, and Career Link—an AI-powered career services platform.

Previously, Ms. Orris was Executive Vice President at ThriveDX, where she implemented scalable systems to improve the student journey. She also served as Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at the University of Maryland Global Campus, leading its rebranding and launching the Student Success Coach program.

Earlier roles include Vice President at DeVry University and President of a start-up branch campus. She holds an MBA from UMGC and a B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh.

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Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/

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