Amelia Manning Named Dean of Tulane University School of Professional Advancement

Amelia Manning, former chief operating officer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), has been named Dean of Tulane University’s School of Professional Advancement (SoPA), effective Aug. 1. Manning brings more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education, including an extensive track record of innovation and student-focused growth. At SNHU, she led strategic efforts that more than doubled student enrollment and implemented advanced systems for student support and retention.

“Amelia’s career has been defined by a clear commitment to understanding what students need to thrive,” Tulane President Michael A. Fitts said. “We are thrilled to welcome her to Tulane, where her leadership will help SoPA reach more students and support them in achieving their academic and professional goals.”

Manning will lead SoPA’s efforts to expand access to high-quality flexible academic programs that serve working adults, military-connected students and lifelong learners. The school offers in-person and online options for bachelor’s degree completion, graduate study and professional certificates across a wide range of applied fields.

During her tenure at SNHU, Manning enhanced student success by developing internal capabilities in predictive analytics, course design and faculty development. She led the implementation of a new student information system. She oversaw the upgrade of customer relationship and learning management platforms, enabling more personalized and data-informed student support that contributed to increased student engagement, higher retention rates and growth in re-enrollment.

Manning will succeed Iliana Kwaske, associate dean for academic affairs and senior professor of practice, who has served as interim dean since January 2024 following the departure of former Dean Suri Duitch.