After more than three decades at Penn State, Wayne Smutz, Penn State’s World Campus Executive Director, has been named dean of Continuing Education and Extension at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Originally from California, Smutz is returning to the West Coast to spearhead the expansion of UCLA’s online and blended learning programs, after having success in a similar role at Penn State. In his time in Happy Valley, Smutz oversaw the delivery of credit-based programs for adult learners online through the World Campus and through Continuing Education courses. He was also responsible for the learner-centric approach developed by the World Campus and its focus on fostering student success.

“During his tenure, the World Campus has continued to experience incredible growth. He has played an instrumental role in helping to provide adult learners with the opportunity to pursue their educational goals. We wish him the very best in his new position with UCLA”, said Craig Weidemann, vice president for Penn State Outreach.

Pending approval of the UC Regents, Smutz’s appointment begins October 15^th. Replacing him will be Weidemann, along with a newly created World Campus Executive Team. Their goal is to increase the momentum Smutz generated, moving towards a goal of 45,000 World Campus students.

“Penn State has provided me with incredible opportunities to address educational and societal issues, opportunities you wouldn’t necessarily get elsewhere,” said Smutz. “They didn’t happen on their own. They happened because there are many really great people who are dedicated to Penn State and its mission.”