Aspen Group Named New University President
The leadership change at the Phoenix-based firm accompanies plans to merge its university operations.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you trust that new leadership at your local university will prioritize student success?
Aspen Group has appointed Dr. Jennifer Billingsley as the new President of United States University and Aspen University. The transition followed the resignation of Dr. Scott Burrus.
Why it matters
The change in leadership coincides with a broader strategic plan to merge the two universities into a single entity, marking a significant consolidation for the Phoenix-based educational firm.
Dr. Jennifer Billingsley brings over 20 years of academic leadership experience to the role, having spent the last 8 years as a member of the Aspen Group leadership team. She was appointed to the position after serving as Provost and Chief Academic Officer.
The players
Aspen Group
A Phoenix-based education company that operates and manages higher education institutions.
Dr. Jennifer Billingsley
The new president of United States University and Aspen University with two decades of academic leadership experience.
Dr. Scott Burrus
The former president of United States University and Aspen University who resigned on September 23, 2026.
The details
The appointment elevates the firm's internal leadership, as Dr. Billingsley transitions from her previous roles as Provost and Chief Academic Officer for both institutions. This executive change occurs as the company moves to consolidate its higher education offerings by merging Aspen University into United States University. The board managed the appointment internally to ensure continuity during the integration process.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: Dr. Scott Burrus resigned as president.
September 23, 2026: Dr. Jennifer Billingsley assumed the role of president.
Market Landscape
This leadership shuffle and planned merger follows a documented trend of educational providers seeking operational efficiencies through institutional consolidation. The move mirrors industry-wide efforts to streamline costs and simplify administrative structures in the higher education market.
Operators in the education sector should monitor the integration timeline for the university merger to assess potential changes in administrative compliance. Keep an eye on how this consolidation affects existing institutional accreditation and operational overhead.
The takeaway
The appointment of an internal leader like Dr. Billingsley signals an intent to maintain stability while undergoing a complex organizational merger. Stakeholders should track the forthcoming integration plan to understand how the combined university will navigate regulatory requirements.
Further reading
For more on local professional movements and executive transitions, visit People.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new leadership at your local university will prioritize student success?
