Arizona Online Expands to Serve More Learners
Arizona Online is expanding to increase educational opportunity for learners to attend the University of Arizona as it deepens its land-grant mission. This expansion integrates Arizona Online’s online degree programs with statewide learning locations, dual enrollment opportunities, and non-credit continuing and professional studies. This integration strengthens the University’s mission to deliver flexible, workforce-aligned, high-quality education that meets learners where they are—geographically, professionally, and personally.
With more than 190 online degrees, certificates, and non-credit offerings, Arizona Online empowers students at every stage of life to achieve their goals. Whether earning a degree, advancing a career, or developing new skills, learners benefit from world-class instruction and personalized support—all within a flexible format designed to fit their busy lives.
“This is about more than expanding programs — it’s about expanding opportunity at the University of Arizona,” said Gary Packard, Ph.D., Interim Senior Vice Provost for Online Initiatives. “By bringing these new offerings into Arizona Online, we are reaffirming our commitment to student success and ensuring learners have the tools they need to build brighter futures. I am inspired by the hard work of our team and thankful for the trust our students and communities place in us.”
As part of the expansion, Arizona Online now oversees statewide academic locations in Chandler, Gilbert, Nogales, and Yuma. These sites are grounded in their communities and provide locally focused programs aligned with regional needs, meeting students where they’re at. Arizona Online also offers dual enrollment opportunities to help high school students earn college credit and prepare for academic success early on. Non-credit programs—including professional certificates, workforce development, and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI-UA) offerings—further support learners of all ages and backgrounds. The University’s Testing Office also now falls under the Arizona Online umbrella.
“This is a pivotal moment in our journey to provide opportunity for all learners and the ability to be part of the University of Arizona community and have world class education no matter their circumstances,” said Caleb Simmons, Ph.D., Vice Provost of Arizona Online. “We are not only expanding our offerings but also expanding the very definition of who belongs in higher education. At Arizona Online, we are building a future where education is mobile, future-focused, and deeply responsive to the needs of our communities.”
Leadership Dedicated to Learner Support and Educational Innovation
The expansion is led by a dedicated leadership team whose collective expertise spans operations, enrollment, academic programs, student support, and employer partnerships:
Dr. Caleb Simmons, Vice Provost, brings extensive experience in academic leadership and innovation. A tenured professor and nationally recognized scholar of digital pedagogy, Simmons is passionate about expanding educational opportunity and transforming how learners engage with Higher Education. As Vice Provost, he oversees more than 10,000 online students, four statewide locations, and non-credit programs aimed at learners of all ages.
Bonnie Taylor, Senior Director of Business Operations, leads the unit’s financial and operational strategy. “My vision is to build strong, sustainable systems that support the growth of Arizona Online while expanding access to high-quality education for all learners,” Taylor said. With nearly 15 years of experience in higher education, Taylor specializes in building sustainable systems that align with institutional goals.
Marqus Dorame, Director of Recruitment and Enrollment, leads a comprehensive team of Enrollment Counselors, Coaches, and Data Communications professionals who support prospective students from inquiry through matriculation. A proud Wildcat and Tucson native, Dorame advanced through Arizona Online since 2016 and now oversees recruitment for Arizona Online. “We are often the first point of contact for prospective students,” said Dorame. “Through strategic communications, technology, and personal touchpoints, we assist hundreds of students a day as they navigate their application and admissions process.”
John Kramkowski, Director of Learning Programs, oversees the design and implementation of Arizona Online’s credit, non-credit, and dual enrollment offerings. “My role focuses on designing inclusive programs that align with student goals and reflect Arizona Online’s mission to make education available to anyone, anywhere,” said Kramkowski. With two decades of experience across K–12, community college, and university systems, he focuses on building inclusive programs that meet both student needs and institutional priorities.
Kara Forney, Executive Director of Corporate Initiatives, builds impactful partnerships with national employers to expand access to degrees and workforce credentials. A seasoned entrepreneur and business development executive, Forney has helped launch education partnerships reaching over one million employees across companies like Walmart, Amazon, and Geico. “By aligning academic excellence with workforce needs, we’re not just offering degrees—we’re removing barriers and opening doors,” Forney said.
A new director of student success will soon join the leadership team, further strengthening Arizona Online’s commitment to holistic support throughout the student journey.
Together, the team’s work reinforces the university’s strategic plan by promoting educational opportunity, driving innovation, and fostering partnerships that benefit individuals, communities, and the workforce across Arizona and beyond.
Arizona Online continues to be recognized nationally for excellence in online education. Its online bachelor’s programs rank in the top 3% nationwide, and its online MBA program is ranked in the top 10, according to U.S. News & World Report.
To learn more about flexible degree, certificate, and professional development options through Arizona Online, visit azo.arizona.edu.