Faculty/Staff
May 21, 2025
Derrick Anderson named Vice President for Enterprise Design and Policy
University of Utah Communications
The University of Utah has named Derrick Anderson as Vice President for Enterprise Design and Policy.
Professional Background
Anderson is a national leader in education policy, public service and institutional innovation and comes to the University of Utah from the American Council on Education (ACE), where he designed and oversaw initiatives that engaged hundreds of universities, dozens of industry organizations and millions of learners nationwide in his role as senior vice president of Education Futures.
Presidential Welcome
“We’re thrilled to welcome Derrick Anderson to the University of Utah as our new Vice President for Enterprise Design and Policy and professor,” said University of Utah President Taylor Randall. “Derrick brings a visionary approach to institutional innovation and a deep understanding of how higher education can drive public value. His expertise will be\u2014instrumental as we explore bold opportunities for expansion\u2014across Utah, nationally and around the globe. Derrick will help us chart a future rooted in innovation, impact and interdisciplinary collaboration.”
Role and Responsibilities
As Vice President for Enterprise Design and Policy, Anderson will work strategically from both Washington, D.C. and Utah as he evaluates opportunities for university growth within the state of Utah as well as national and international expansion possibilities. He will also provide thought leadership and establish and manage a scientific and higher education policy advisory board for the university.
“I’m honored to join the University of Utah\u2014one of the nation’s leading public research universities,” said Derrick Anderson. “President Randall’s commitment to creating meaningful, far-reaching benefits for all is both compelling and precisely the kind of leadership our country needs.”
Career Impact and Expertise
Anderson’s years of pioneering work in higher education leadership has contributed significantly to university design and expanded the role of higher education in addressing national challenges. His expertise is sought by federal agencies, lawmakers, industry leaders and academic institutions nationwide.
Additional Professional Affiliations
“After years of public service at the national level, I’m thrilled to return to a campus where I can support the sort of creativity and innovation that transform individuals, families and communities,” said Anderson.
In addition to significant work in public policy, Anderson also serves as advisor to social impact funds and on the board of GED Testing Services, a joint venture between Pearson VUE and ACE, helping expand educational opportunities to nearly 900,000 learners annually.
A recipient of support from major foundations and government agencies such as the Gates Foundation; Lilly Endowment, Inc.; the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation; the U.S. National Science Foundation; U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Agency for International Development, Anderson’s work continues to drive impactful change both domestically and internationally. He is a distinguished public institution and policy design scholar and a tenured professor in Arizona State University’s School of Public Affairs.
Anderson earned a PhD in public policy and management from the University of Georgia and holds a Master of Public Policy in science and technology policy from Arizona State University.
