City & State Pennsylvania recognizes Top 100 Trailblazers in the higher education sector in inaugural 2024 ranking.
St. Davids, PA: Eastern University's Chief of Staff and Vice President for Planning and Effectiveness Dr. Christine Mahan has been selected as one of the most powerful leaders in Pennsylvania’s higher education industry. Dr. Mahan serves as the principal advisor to the President and provides leadership for the University’s strategic planning, institutional research, accreditation, risk management, and institutional effectiveness activities.
City & State Pennsylvania is a multi-media news outlet that dedicates its non-partisan coverage to PA’s state and local government, political, and advocacy news. The Top Trailblazers in Higher Education list is in its inaugural year and aims to honor individuals revolutionizing higher education and leading the charge toward an improved system for future generations.
“I am incredibly humbled to have earned this recognition,” says Dr. Mahan. “To be recognized as an advocate for positive change and seen as a trailblazer in an industry full of esteemed individuals is an honor. I feel fortunate to be part of a community at Eastern University that is so committed to developing innovative pathways to an inclusive and accessible future.”
Dr. Mahan has served in the higher education industry for over 30 years and has been with Eastern for almost 15 years, initially as the Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness in 2010. Prior to Eastern, she served in administrative roles at University of Pennsylvania and University of Maryland. Dr. Mahan earned her Ph.D. in Education Policy from University of Maryland, College Park; M.A. in English from University of Iowa, and B.A. in English and Rhetoric from University of Illinois-Urbana. Her research interests include access issues for first-generation and low-income students, which is also a core focus for Eastern University and is reflected in the University’s commitment to affordability through low tuition rates and accessibility for those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to earn a degree.
The groundbreaking individuals recognized on this list come from a broad spectrum of backgrounds and represent various schools and universities, corporations, advocacy groups, government, and other institutions in higher education. They are recognized for their leadership in their respective fields, achievements, commitment and impact on their institutions and within the state.
View the 2024 Top 100 Trailblazers in Higher Education list!
About Eastern University
Eastern University is a Christian university enrolling approximately 7,500 students in its undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs. The university’s main campus is located in St. Davids, PA, with many programs available online. Eastern’s core values of faith, reason, and justice are woven into all of its educational programs. For more information visit eastern.edu or contact Ally Rosario, Director of Marketing & Communications: ally.rosario@eastern.edu.
