Academic Spotlight: Associate Dean of Business Dr. Jolivette Wallace

Before joining Southern New Hampshire University as associate dean of online business programs, Dr. Jolivette Wallace was a successful business owner. She holds an MBA from William Carey University as well as a PhD in Leadership and Organizational Change. Recently she answered questions about her career in education and how she connects with students.

Can you tell us about your professional background?

I started my career as associate dean in marketing with SNHU a little over a year ago. Prior to coming to SNHU, I’ve worked in higher education for more than 17 years, starting my career as an associate professor of marketing. As a professor, I was able to foster my love for adult learners working alongside their academic journey.

What first drew you to higher education?

What first drew me to higher education was the desire to break cycles and create opportunities not only for myself but for those with similar paths. Coming from a background where access to education was not a given, I saw higher education as a powerful tool to bridge the gap between dreams and reality.

As a minority college student, I felt a deep responsibility to define a path for others in my community who might feel the same struggles and doubts I did.

What aspects of your own education have been influential in shaping your career in academia?

My career in academia is inspired by the idea that education could provide not only knowledge but also confidence, self-determination and the ability to uplift others. I wanted to understand the systems that posed a challenge to some and then use that understanding to challenge and change them in ways that would provide equitable access to all.

Higher education became a means to learn, grow, and ultimately serve — especially to mentor others who might feel invisible or unsupported in spaces that seemed out of reach.

What attracted you to this field of study? What keeps you excited about it?

What attracted me to this field of study was its potential to create meaningful change in people’s lives, especially for those from underrepresented or marginalized backgrounds like mine. Facing systemic barriers, I was drawn to a field where I could combine my lived experiences with knowledge and skills to make a difference. Whether it’s through education, policy, community work, or mentoring, I saw my field as a way to address inequities and build opportunities for others to thrive.

What keeps me excited about it is the transformative power this field holds — not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

The ability to continuously learn and adapt within this field also excites me. It’s not static; it evolves with societal needs, and that means I’m constantly growing alongside it. Most importantly, knowing that my work has the power to inspire and uplift others keeps me deeply committed and motivated.

How have you found ways to effectively connect with students?

Basic humanity never fails. I have found that the most effective way to connect with students is by meeting them where they are, both emotionally and intellectually, and showing genuine interest in their experiences and goals.

My experiences have taught me to understand what it feels like to navigate unfamiliar systems, so I focus on creating a space where students feel seen, heard and valued. I connect with students by sharing my own journey — the challenges, setbacks and triumphs.

It’s important to share all facets. This openness helps build trust and shows them that success isn’t a straight path, but one worth pursuing. Listening actively and tailoring my approach to each student’s unique needs has also been key. Whether it’s offering academic guidance, mentoring, or simply being a source of encouragement, I strive to be present and relatable.

Building connections through empathy and respect and celebrating their small and large victories along the way, keeps our relationship authentic and impactful. It’s a privilege to remind them that they’re capable of more than they sometimes believe.

What brings you the greatest joy in your work at SNHU?

Every day I’m reminded that the work I do has the potential to open doors, spark confidence and create pathways for others who may not see a clear way forward. I’m energized by the stories of resilience and success I encounter and the opportunity to contribute to those journeys. There is no greater feeling than witnessing someone’s dream become reality.

What do you feel is unique about the faculty and students you work with?

What I find unique about the faculty and students I work with is their incredible resilience, passion and commitment to creating meaningful change. Both groups bring a richness of perspectives and lived experiences that make the learning environment dynamic and inspiring. As someone who values diversity and growth, I’m constantly amazed by their ability to turn challenges into opportunities and to collaborate in ways that drive innovation and inclusivity.

The faculty are deeply invested not only in their areas of expertise but also in the success of their students. They go beyond traditional teaching roles, serving as mentors, advocates and role models. Their dedication to fostering a supportive, equitable environment is what makes working alongside them so rewarding.

The students, on the other hand, are some of the most determined and resourceful individuals I’ve ever encountered. Many of them are first-generation or come from underrepresented backgrounds. They bring a profound sense of purpose to their education, fueled by the desire to create better opportunities for themselves and their communities. Their stories and aspirations inspire me daily and remind me why this work is so important.

Together, the faculty and students create a vibrant and transformative community that feels uniquely driven by the shared belief in the power of education to shape a brighter future.

What does SNHU’s mission to transform the lives of learners mean to you?

Southern New Hampshire University's mission to transform the lives of learners resonates deeply with me. As a minority, I understand the profound impact that accessible, high-quality education can have on individuals and their communities.

SNHU's commitment to providing affordable and innovative educational pathways aligns with my own dedication to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for others. This mission not only reflects my personal journey but also fuels my passion for assisting others in achieving their educational and professional goals.

This journey is about more than personal success; it’s about creating a legacy of access, equity, and empowerment for others.

Outside of work, what’s something you’re passionate about or really enjoy doing?

I love and enjoy family. As a wife and mother to two beautiful daughters, I am consumed with the nuances of family. We love to travel and make new memories and experiences together.

I am an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and have served as a board member for a home that serves neglected and abused displaced children. Both service and family fuel my passion beyond work.

Joe Cote is a writer and organic marketer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where he has worked since 2016. Previously he spent more than a dozen years as a reporter and editor at weekly and daily newspapers in Vermont and New Hampshire. He lives near SNHU's Manchester, New Hampshire campus with his wife and daughter. Connect with him on LinkedIn.