GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College is pleased to announce that Kurt Ashley, M.B.A., has been promoted to Vice President for Technology and Marketing, effective October 1. Ashley will continue to lead the Information Technology division, which includes the Office of Communications and Marketing. He is a member of the President’s Cabinet.
Ashley joined the College in 2011 as Chief Information Officer. During his tenure as Chief Information Officer, he oversaw an institutional website redesign, pioneered the first campus-wide portal solution, boosted wireless networking with a 500-plus percent increase in access points, and led a 10-fold increase in internet connectivity. Under his leadership, the Information Technology division completed phone and email system transitions.
In February, his oversight expanded to include the Office of Communications and Marketing. This strategic realignment has resulted in utilizing new digital advertising mediums, an increased online video presence, and additional local and regional media coverage.
“I’m delighted to welcome Kurt into his new role at the College,” said Thiel College President Troy D. VanAken, Ph.D. “I’ve had the pleasure of previously working with Kurt at Albion College and it’s been rewarding to see his professional and personal growth over the years. I’m very proud of the innovations he has accomplished and am excited for what’s next with technology and marketing under his lead.”
Ashley holds a master’s degree in business administration from Cleveland State University and a bachelor’s of business administration in management of information technology from Cleary University. Before arriving at Thiel, Ashley served as Director of Systems & Networking at Albion College, and also held positions in the business and healthcare industries. He resides in Clark, Pa. with his wife, Denise.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.