Senior Associate of Partnerships
Doug Heckman
My adult learner story starts with my father. He earned graduate degrees while working full-time while also being a committed husband and father. Those degrees were not easy, but he was clear about why they mattered: they opened doors to advancement and kept him intellectually curious. I later earned a master’s degree myself while working full-time, and two years ago began working towards a nonprofit leadership certificate.
What is your personal adult learner story?
What aspect of adult learning are you most focused on?
Military-connected learners. Helping institutions move beyond surface-level efforts to provide coordinated, holistic support that leads to stronger employment outcomes.
Employer learning and development. Encouraging greater use of education benefits, as well as helping employers leverage credit for prior learning as a practical development tool.
National Military Community of Practice. Establishing a national Military Community of Practice was especially meaningful. It brought together higher education professionals from across the country to share ideas and best practices, while also giving us a way to offer professional development and hands-on technical assistance to institutions that wanted to do better. And honestly, I loved the in-person gatherings.
Favorite project you’ve worked on?
What excites you about the future of adult learning?
I’m encouraged by the way traditional higher education institutions are expanding into certificates and other skill-based training. These schools already have the faculty expertise, equipment, and compliance structures to deliver high-quality learning. I’m also encouraged to see institutions thinking beyond the traditional “dorm and meal plan” student and becoming more intentional about how they support adult learners.
Beach, mountains, or city (vacation site)?
Mountains - no matter the season.