University of Calgary appoints Yakut Gazi to lead digital learning strategy
Duke University leader moves to Calgary as institutions continue to scale AI, online learning, and workforce-focused education models.
University of Calgary has appointed Dr. Yakut Gazi as Vice-Provost, Teaching and Learning, effective April 15, 2026, bringing in senior leadership experience from Duke University as universities continue to expand digital learning and AI-driven education strategies.
Dr. Gazi joins from Duke, where she has served as Vice-Provost for Learning Innovation and Digital Education since 2022, leading the Learning Innovation and Lifetime Education unit and overseeing online, professional, and lifelong learning provision. Her appointment signals continued focus on scaling digital and non-degree offerings alongside core teaching.
At Duke, Dr. Gazi led institutional work on pedagogical innovation and co-led initiatives focused on integrating artificial intelligence across teaching, learning, and workforce development.
Her previous roles at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Texas A&M University included developing and scaling online degree programs and distance learning models, alongside supporting faculty delivery of digital education.
The move reflects broader sector priorities, with universities increasingly aligning teaching strategy with digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and alternative credential pathways.
Focus on teaching, access, and future skills
At Calgary, Dr. Gazi will lead strategy across learning innovation and digital education, working with faculties and campus teams to support teaching and learning development.
She positions the role as an opportunity to shape long-term institutional direction, saying the university is at “a remarkable moment, where there is a genuine invitation to build something extraordinary together.”
She adds that the focus will include creating learning environments that are “effective, engaging, inclusive, and future-focused,” with the aim of preparing graduates for “the challenges and opportunities we cannot yet imagine.”
Dr. Gazi brings more than 30 years of experience across higher education systems in multiple countries, spanning faculty, administrative, and senior leadership roles.
Her appointment comes as universities continue to invest in digital learning models, expand access through online and hybrid provision, and respond to growing demand for AI skills and workforce-aligned education.
