Utah Valley University is pleased to announce the appointment of W. James Jacob, Ph.D., as the new dean of the School of Education, effective June 16, 2025. Jacob brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across higher education, research, private industry, and the nonprofit sector.

Before joining UVU, Jacob held academic and administrative roles at institutions including the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Brigham Young University (BYU), the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Memphis. He has directed several university-based centers of excellence focused on enrollment growth, student success, and community impact.

A champion of collaboration and innovation, Jacob has built a career on forging partnerships across education, government, and industry. He has developed academic programs, led applied research initiatives, and advanced solutions that align with workforce needs. His leadership has resulted in successful collaborations with K–12 school districts, government agencies, higher education institutions, and major companies such as LG Corporation and Union Pacific Railroad.

Jacob holds master’s degrees in organizational behavior and international area studies from BYU and a Ph.D. in education from UCLA. He and his wife, Natalie, enjoy spending time with their three children, embracing cultural traditions, and serving in their community.