Dr. Maria Willis is an accomplished professional with over 14 years of progressive experience in higher education administration, specializing in strategic planning, data initiatives, and student success. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy, equipping her with a deep understanding of educational systems and policy implementation. In her most recent role as Senior Director of Enrollment Planning and Data Analytics, Dr. Willis served on the leadership team for the Associate Dean’s Office of Students and Academic Programs, where she created and implemented tools, policies, and procedures for course enrollment and student success planning. She led strategic initiatives for course enrollment management and data analytics, presenting complex reports on student success metrics to key stakeholders. Dr. Willis also collaborated with various ASU schools and colleges to resolve course management issues, including cross-college coordination and first-year course block scheduling, and partnered with the Provost’s Office, Admissions, and other teams to develop data tools that support enrollment planning and student success initiatives.
In addition to her administrative role, Dr. Willis manages The College’s analytics site, developing and maintaining self-service reporting tools while leading efforts to assess the impact of courses, degree programs, and engagement initiatives on student success. Her expertise in research analysis and evaluation continues to drive innovative strategies that enhance educational outcomes.
Dr. Willis also teaches UNI 120: Academic Success at University College, a course designed to help students create strategies for academic success by exploring personal and academic strengths, overcoming barriers, utilizing university resources, and developing key skills for achieving their academic goals.