Debra Leahy, Ed.D.
Associate VIce PResident for International Programs
Dr. Debra Leahy brings over 25 years of experience with workforce, online, and adult education, regional and global partnership cultivation, and global programming and international recruitment. She has served as Founding Dean of the School of International Engagement at Southern New Hampshire University where she created a One School model for campus-based international services and programs.
Previously, Dr. Leahy served as Provost at Cambridge College Global and Associate Dean of Graduate and Professional Programs at Emmanuel College, and created, with her teams, academic and non-credit programs for adult learners, faculty development, and educational programs for students where they live and work. She brings a strong background in accreditation, assessment, and curriculum development. Dr. Leahy’s research has been on transnational higher education across borders and global partnerships predicated on reciprocity.
During her academic career, Dr. Leahy has also taught English, literature, and multicultural writing and research guidance for global education. She earned her doctorate in International Higher Education from Northeastern University, received an MA in English from Simmons University, and both a Master of Public Management and MS from Suffolk University. She also has a BFA in Creative Writing, Literature and Publishing and is CELTA TEFL and Change Management certified.