Veteran architect of digital learning ecosystems to lead Hampton’s global expansion in online education
HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University has appointed Dr. Samantha D. Penney as the Founding Dean of HamptonU Global, the university’s newly expanded digital learning enterprise and successor to HamptonU Online. A nationally respected strategist in online education, Dr. Penney will guide the next phase of Hampton’s global academic reach and lead initiatives that broaden access to the university’s rigorous programs while advancing innovation in digital teaching and learning.
HamptonU Global represents a significant step forward in the university’s commitment to delivering world-class education beyond the physical campus. The initiative creates new pathways for learners across the nation and around the globe to engage with Hampton’s academic excellence.
Dr. Penney brings more than two decades of leadership in curriculum innovation, instructional design, and online program development. Her career has focused on building scalable digital learning ecosystems that expanded opportunities while preserving the intellectual rigor and community that define exceptional universities.
Prior to joining Hampton, Dr. Penney held senior leadership roles at Indiana State University, where she served as Learning Design Manager and Distance Learning Director. During her tenure, she helped lead the expansion of the university’s online portfolio from 14 programs to more than 90 through strategic academic collaboration and forward-thinking program design.
Her leadership also included directing major learning management system transitions, establishing university-wide quality and accessibility standards, and building comprehensive faculty development programs supporting more than 300 instructors annually. These initiatives strengthened both the scale and quality of digital learning across the institution.
“Digital education continues to reshape how universities fulfill their mission in a global society,” said Dr. Betty H. Stewart, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Hampton University. “Dr. Penney is an accomplished and visionary leader whose work has consistently expanded access to high-quality education while elevating academic excellence. Under her leadership, HamptonU Global will play a vital role in extending the reach and impact of Hampton University’s distinguished academic programs.”
Dr. Penney’s scholarship and leadership focus on strengthening engagement and learning outcomes in online environments. She earned her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Media Technology from Indiana State University. Her doctoral research examined faculty and student perceptions of instructor presence in online courses, a critical factor in student success in digital learning environments.
She also holds a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from Austin Peay State University, a Master of Arts in Mass Communication from the University of South Dakota, and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from South Dakota State University.
Beyond her institutional leadership, Dr. Penney has contributed to the national advancement of digital education through presentations at conferences hosted by organizations including the Online Learning Consortium and the United States Distance Learning Association, where she previously served as a board member.
“Hampton University has long stood as a beacon of academic excellence and leadership,” said Dr. Penney. “HamptonU Global represents an extraordinary opportunity to extend that legacy to learners everywhere and to create flexible, innovative pathways that empower students to thrive in an increasingly connected world.”
The establishment of HamptonU Global reflects Hampton University’s continued investment in academic innovation and global engagement. By expanding digital access to its programs, the university strengthens its mission of Education for Life while preparing the next generation of leaders to shape industries, communities, and societies around the world.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution recognized for pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer research, and cybersecurity. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton remains a leading engine of innovation and workforce development.
Founded in 1868, Hampton serves a diverse community of scholars from 44 states and 32 territories. The university is committed to academic excellence, global citizenship, and preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity. Learn more at www.hamptonu.edu
For media inquiries, contact the Office of University Relations at universityrelations@hamptonu.edu
