By Tia Cristy
Dr. Nancy Rohland-Heinrich, a prominent figure in education and community engagement, serves as the Executive Vice President of Community Engagement at National University and holds the prestigious position of Executive Director of the National University Foundation. Over her illustrious career, spanning more than four decades, Nancy has made significant contributions to education, human services, and community development. Her work has not only transformed institutions but also inspired countless individuals to strive for excellence.
Early Life and Educational Background
Before Nancy was known as the ‘Heart’ of National University, she was born and raised just outside of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Nancy’s journey into education and leadership is rooted in her robust academic foundation and an early passion for societal development. Growing up, she demonstrated a keen interest in understanding human behavior and addressing social challenges, which naturally led her to pursue studies in social work and sociology. Her academic career began at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in social work and sociology. This dual focus provided her with a deep understanding of societal dynamics and the tools to make a meaningful impact.
Her educational journey did not stop there. Recognizing the importance of integrating business acumen with her social science background, she pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at National University. This degree equipped her with the strategic and operational expertise necessary to navigate complex organizational landscapes. Later, her desire to influence educational practices on a larger scale led her to earn a Doctorate in Education from the University of California, San Diego. Her doctoral research focused on innovative approaches to education, emphasizing inclusivity and adaptability in learning environments.
California Visitor? …Nope California Girl
Nancy was just a bright-eyed newlywed when she decided to take a four-year planned visit to California. However, that visit went slightly longer than she predicted. Forty-five years, to be exact. Her young hubby had been awarded an incredible scholarship opportunity, and as for Nancy, and her love for learning, she knew there was no question on the predicament of ‘do we stay or do we go?’.
It was there in that move that Nancy took a job at National University. And today, with forty-plus years under her belt, she has held over 20 different positions within the university.
I joyfully asked her to share some of her favorite roles with me.
“Originally, I started as a counselor since that was my background. I liked being in the admission and advising space… I really loved working with students and watching them graduate. Six months in, I took my first leadership role,” she says. “…I had roles that were statewide. I’ve had roles that were for Southern California…”
But whatever role she had been in, her primary focus was on community.
Nancy started at university when it was only eight years old with only a couple of thousand students and graduates combined. Today there are several locations with a total of 50,000 students and 245,000 graduates.
Nancy has had the privilege to work with every president of the university. Or should I say, every president National University has had, has had the honor to work with Dr. Nancy Rohland-Heinrich.
“No one has worked here as long,” she admits. “We were like a startup.”
National University (NU) was established in 1971 by retired U.S. Navy Captain David Chigos. The large military-populated university is a private nonprofit institution headquartered in San Diego, California. As the largest private nonprofit university in San Diego, NU is dedicated to providing accessible, achievable, and market-relevant educational and career development opportunities to lifelong learners.
Mission and Vision
NU’s mission is to deliver accessible, world-class student experiences by providing quality programs and services that ensure student success through meaningful learning. Its vision is to be an inclusive and innovative university serving lifelong learners who contribute to the positive transformation of society.
NU offers a wide range of academic programs through its various colleges and schools, including:
- College of Letters and Sciences
- Sanford College of Education
- College of Business, Engineering, and Technology
- JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences
- School of Health Professions
- College of Law and Public Service
“There are so many programs offered today… You know, before forensics was something people only saw on T.V.; we were one of the first schools to offer a Master of Forensic Sciences in the United States,” she tells me. “And, it was in the 90s, we started putting our courses online.”
The university provides associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as teaching credentials and certificates. Notably, NU offers over 150 academic degree programs completely online, utilizing the latest technology to provide dynamic, interactive learning environments accessible 24/7.
Professional Achievements
Of course, Nancy’s tenure at National University is marked by a series of transformative initiatives and groundbreaking accomplishments. Throughout her career, she has held key leadership roles encompassing external relations, communications, advancement, marketing, student services, and enrollment management. These roles have allowed her to shape the university’s strategic direction and foster an environment that prioritizes student success.
One of her notable achievements includes spearheading efforts to enhance online learning platforms, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have access to high-quality education. Her work in this area has been particularly impactful for military-affiliated students, working professionals, and those in underserved communities. Additionally, she has led initiatives to improve student support services, recognizing that academic success is closely tied to comprehensive, holistic support.
Nancy has also played a pivotal role in forging partnerships with industry leaders and community organizations. These collaborations have resulted in innovative programs that bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application, preparing students to excel in their chosen fields. Her leadership in operational management has further streamlined processes, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness across the university.
Commitment to Community Engagement
Nancy’s impact extends far beyond the walls of academia. She is a passionate advocate for community engagement and has dedicated her time and expertise to numerous civic and non-profit organizations. Her involvement in these initiatives reflects her belief in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change.
Nancy’s impact extends far beyond the walls of academia. She is a passionate advocate for community engagement and has dedicated her time and expertise to numerous civic and non-profit organizations. As the Board Chair of LEAD San Diego, an organization committed to cultivating future community leaders, she has championed programs that empower individuals to take on leadership roles in their communities. Her work with LEAD San Diego underscores her commitment to fostering a culture of leadership, innovation, and civic responsibility.
“I feel I’m a great connector,” she says as we discuss the importance of bringing people together who are capable of making a positive impact.
Nancy’s extensive community involvement includes serving on the boards and advisory councils of prestigious organizations such as the USS Midway Museum, San Diego Regional YMCA, USO San Diego, Junior Achievement, Cal State Games, San Diego Council on Literacy, North County Business Chamber, and Promises2Kids. She has also contributed significantly to the Classroom of the Future Foundation, Sports San Diego, Cal-SOAP, and the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. Through these roles, she has driven initiatives that promote education, literacy, youth development, and support for military families. Her efforts have touched the lives of countless individuals, creating opportunities and fostering a sense of community.
Beyond these commitments, Nancy remains active in many other regional and national organizations. She has served on the board for USO San Diego, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the Advisory Board for Mana de San Diego. As a graduate of Leadership California and LEAD San Diego’s Influence and Impact program, she exemplifies the principles of lifelong learning and community-oriented leadership.
Recognitions and Accolades
From her humble start in the cold winters in Minne, and remaining a diehard Vikings fan, this now, warm-weather-all-year-around, California girl’s exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has received numerous awards and accolades that highlight her impact on education and community development. In December 2024, she was honored with the San Diego Business Journal’s Businesswoman of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award.
Nancy was quoted saying, “That sense of service to the community is in our DNA, and it will always be the core of our mission.”
This prestigious recognition reflects her enduring dedication to excellence and her significant contributions to the San Diego region.
In November 2024, she was named one of the 500 Most Influential People in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal for the third time in a row. This acknowledgment underscores her influence and the respect she commands as a leader in both the educational and business communities. Her accolades serve as a testament to her unwavering commitment to improving lives through education and community engagement.
Vision for the Future
Nancy’s vision for the future is as inspiring as it is ambitious. She is deeply committed to creating educational opportunities that are accessible, inclusive, and forward-thinking. In a rapidly changing world, she recognizes the need for adaptability and lifelong learning. Her efforts focus on integrating advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, into educational practices to enhance learning experiences and outcomes.
Her leadership philosophy is built on the principles of collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. She believes in harnessing the collective strengths of individuals and organizations to address complex challenges and create meaningful solutions. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, she aims to ensure that National University remains a leader in higher education and a model for student-centered learning.
“San Diego is a very friendly area for people moving here,” she tells me.
It’s a great point to make since her vision also extends into further community development in and outside her current role at National University. She is passionate about building stronger, more resilient communities by addressing systemic issues and promoting equitable access to resources. Her work emphasizes the importance of partnerships and connections between educational institutions, businesses, and non-profits in driving social and economic progress.
Personal Impact and Legacy
Not that it even needs to be said, but Nancy is all about her family and community if you haven’t guessed that yet. The mark that she leaves on the communities that she has been a part of stems even back to her Minnesota days of being involved in the community. After she started her family, she was involved in her kids and their friends’ lives. She even tells me a story about how well she has known the head coach of the Vikings since he was a kid hanging out at her house with her child. She said her whole family is huge into sports, which is usually the heart of the community. From her commitments to the university to the boards that she sits on, community is a constant.
“I’m probably at four to five events each week, but my kids are now grown, so that makes it easier. Plus, I have the most patient husband of 25 years, (second husband) who supports my work,” she says with admiration.
Nancy’s legacy is one of profound impact and inspiration. Her contributions to education and community service have left an enduring mark on National University and the broader educational landscape. She has empowered countless individuals to achieve their potential, whether through innovative educational programs, strategic community initiatives, or her mentorship and leadership.
Her ability to inspire others stems from her authenticity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to making a difference. Colleagues, students, and community members alike admire her for her visionary approach and her tireless commitment to creating positive change. Her legacy is a testament to the power of education and leadership to transform lives and communities.
Conclusion
Dr. Nancy Rohland-Heinrich’s remarkable career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to education, leadership, and community development. As the Executive Vice President of Community Engagement at National University, she has transformed countless lives through her innovative approach to education and her dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. Her accolades and achievements reflect her profound impact, and her vision for the future promises continued progress and innovation in education and beyond.
“I meet my students where they are at,” she says with a full heart.
Through her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, Nancy has set a standard of excellence that will inspire generations to come. Her contributions to National University and the broader community exemplify the power of leadership, vision, and commitment to creating a better world. Her story serves as an enduring reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a clear vision, one individual can truly make a difference.
About the Author:
The most important thing about Tia is her way of cutting through the white noise and oversaturation of data to provide the most efficient and trusted information to others. Tia is the Lifestyle Editor for She Talks Magazine. She has been a radio personality for over 20 years, the founder of Tips from Tia, CEO, an International Best-selling author, national speaker, Exclusive Speaking Coach, and TED-recognized TedX alumni. She has humbly earned the title of an Award-Winning Influencer, Personality and Tips Expert in Health, Family, Lifestyle, Home, and Beauty through radio, television, and print.
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