David Ruda

Background

About David Ruda

Higher education leader with extensive experience building strategic partnerships and developing inclusive teams that can navigate ambiguity. Developed, implemented, and managed student-centered programs and services in both academic and student affairs. This includes co-curricular and curricular experiences that enhance the development of competencies and skills among students. Through strategic partner engagement, I have led teams to build infrastructure and pathways that increased equity, access, and success. I consistently advocate for the use of appropriate frameworks and data-driven decisions within higher education and organizational development. I collaborated with professionals to facilitate growth and development through consulting engagements in the areas of leadership, organizational development, performance coaching, emotional intelligence, team development, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). I earned my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, which provided new opportunities to grow personally and professionally. My clinical experiences challenged me to think more deeply about psychological safety, DEI, and the structural systems that support systemic inequities. As a Counselor and Social Justice Advocate, I am acutely aware of the spaces I occupy and I am driven to increase inclusivity within those spaces. Learning and development can take multiple shapes and forms, but there is one consistent choice. Choosing a learning disposition is not always easy and sometimes, it feels impossible but, taking the time to reflect upon where you are and where your future may lead eases the transitions that will follow. Since I was a child, two things were evident, I loved learning and connecting with people. So, feel free to reach out to me!