Jennifer Stephens, formerly with Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, is the new director of learning outcomes assessment. Thomas Pfundstein, formerly with the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, is the new director of faculty development for APU's distance learning.

"This additional leadership helps ensure our courses, programs and faculty are effective -- and ensures we're helping students attain their educational goals," says Wally Boston, the University System's president and chief executive officer.

"The contributions of Drs. Stephens and Pfundstein will be key as we continue to help prepare students for successful careers," says Phil McNair, vice president for the academic services department. Academic services oversees these programs and others, including distance learning, online student library resources, articulation agreements and academic technology.

Stephens holds a doctorate in educational psychology from Texas A&M University. She will incorporate additional measurements for the learning outcomes program, among other initiatives in their distance learning programs. Previously, she worked with the Accelerated Schools Project at Stanford University. There, she developed a nationwide electronic reporting system of outcomes. She has consulted with school districts, state departments of education and school reform organizations. She has also presented at state and national conferences in the areas of teacher self-efficacy, school reform and educational evaluation.

Pfundstein holds a doctorate in secondary education from the University of Akron. His initiatives will include expanding the faculty evaluation program and enhance communication among faculty. Pfundstein recently instructed administrators and teachers in the University of Akron's college of education. He has expertise in curriculum and faculty development and integrating technology into distance learning initiatives.

The American Public University System is comprised of American Public University, American Military University and American Community College. The distance learning institution delivers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. It prepares students for careers in homeland security, intelligence, criminal justice, emergency management, sports management and more. Visit http://www.apus.edu to learn more.