Gloria Niles was honored as the inaugural recipient of the WICHE Cooperative for Educational Technologies (WCET) Russ Poulin Award for Excellence in Digital Learning Policy. Niles, the director of online learning for the University of Hawaiʻi System, is celebrated for her leadership in advancing systemwide digital learning policies, including a groundbreaking framework on micro-credentials and an innovative policy on the ethical use of AI.
Her work reflects a deep commitment to equity, innovation and collaboration in higher education. Niles’ contributions reflect the spirit of the Russ Poulin Award, named in tribute to a visionary policy expert whose career and advocacy helped shape the digital learning landscape. The Russ Poulin Award was established to honor individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in digital learning policy at the state or federal level, providing policy insight and advocating for educational practices that support student success in the digital age.
An internationally respected leader in neurodivergent and technology-enhanced learning, Niles oversees systemwide planning and execution of the UH’s online learning strategies, including all related institutional strategies for online delivery of instruction. She drives the implementation of policies, procedures and systems necessary to execute the university’s vision and online education strategies across the ten campus system.
The WCET judges were impressed by Niles’ dedication to WCET and her proactive leadership across local, system and statewide issues impacting digital learning and higher education.
“I am deeply honored to receive the inaugural Russ Poulin Award. This recognition reflects not only my work but the collective commitment of the University of Hawaiʻi System to advancing access and innovation in digital learning,” said Niles. “Our goal is to ensure every learner—no matter where they are—has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age.”
Niles will be recognized during the awards ceremony at the upcoming WCET Annual Conference in October.
