Capella University Welcomes Karthik Iyappan Gunasekaran to Board of Trustees

Gunasekaran brings over 15 years of robust leadership experience in the realms of educational technology and digital innovation. As a distinguished product management executive, he has a proven track record in harnessing technology to enhance learning platforms. Most recently, he served as Vice President of AI & Software Products at the Project Management Institute, where he played a pivotal role in driving product strategies that align with the evolving demands of education.

Previously, Gunasekaran led product teams at renowned organizations such as Udemy and Kaplan, where he was instrumental in developing cutting-edge educational technologies and AI-driven learning solutions. His initiatives have successfully expanded mobile learning platforms to over 65 million users and introduced AI-powered learning companions that personalize education for students.

Constance St. Germain, President of Capella University, expressed enthusiasm about Gunasekaran's appointment. She stated, “It’s this type of entrepreneurial thinking, along with his extensive higher education experience that will be instrumental in guiding Capella’s strategic technological and education initiatives.” St. Germain emphasized her confidence that Gunasekaran will add tremendous value to the institution, furthering Capella's mission of empowering learners through innovative digital education.

Gunasekaran’s qualifications extend beyond his professional achievements. He has served as a business advisor at Harvard Innovation Labs and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and he has shared his insights as a guest lecturer at Tufts University’s Gordon Institute. His involvement as an executive board member at the University of Pennsylvania further showcases his commitment to higher education and his influential role in shaping educational policies and practices.

His academic credentials are equally impressive, featuring a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, a master’s degree in digital technologies from Johns Hopkins University, and an MBA from the University of Iowa Tippie College of Business.

The Capella University Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in overseeing institutional compliance with regulatory and constituent requirements, ensuring that the university serves its students and stakeholders effectively. The board aims to represent today’s learners, encourage academic success, and promote the public good. Members are selected based on their expertise and alignment with Capella’s institutional mission.

Founded in 1993 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Capella University is dedicated to providing flexible, professionally aligned online degree programs tailored to help working adults advance their careers. The university is known for its commitment to learner success, academic quality, and innovations in online education, including pioneering competency-based direct assessment programs that allow students to learn at their own pace.

As Capella University continues to evolve in the digital education landscape, Gunasekaran’s expertise is poised to enhance its strategic initiatives, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of educational technology and innovation.