OUR VISION
To create a system of higher education where all students have an equal chance to learn and succeed.
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OUR MISSION
DIA strives to improve student learning and success in higher education by partnering with institutions of higher education to improve cultures, strategies, and practices for understanding and supporting students. Through collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement, we serve as a collaborator, partner, and guide.
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OUR VALUES
Collaboration - DIA is not a consulting organization, but rather one that works collaboratively with colleges, universities, and other systems of higher education to improve practice. Simply identifying a problem is insufficient. We work to identify solutions as well as examine their effectiveness.
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Innovation - DIA’s work with institutions is based on best practices in student learning and success. We strive to remain at the cutting edge of innovative approaches through our work and involvement with the higher education community.
Continuous Improvement - In our work, as well as our collaboration with institutions, DIA continually strives for improvement. This consists of an ongoing process of analyzing data and information, acknowledging when things are not working optimally, and a willingness to explore new ideas and strategies.
OUR PEOPLE
Ross Markle, Ph.D.
Founder, Managing Director
In early 2019, Ross founded DIA to support colleges, universities, and other organizations in higher education as they seek to transition away from a century of student attrition. An established leader, Ross brings extensive expertise in written and oral communication, collaboration, and transforming research into practice.
Charles Trenk, B.A. B.S.
Director of Data and Operations
After a career in electrical engineering, Charles joined DIA in early 2022. With experience in project management and teaching and a passion for student success, he is responsible for finding innovative solutions to help our partners achieve their goals.
Andrea Pope, Ph.D.
Director of Action
With a background in higher education assessment and student affairs, Andrea has dedicated her career to helping educators build, evaluate, and improve curricular and co-curricular interventions. She is excited to bring her passion and experience to DIA, where she will support our partners in using ISSAQ data to promote student success.
Mianna Ada, B.A.
Assistant Director of Data
​As a graduate student and at the inception of her professional career, Mianna (Mia) is committed to supporting the infrastructure and operations of DIA. In line with her passion for the education space, Mia is also an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor.