Dr. Gary Packard, Jr., Ph.D.

Dr. Gary Packard, Jr., Ph.D., currently serves as the Interim Senior Vice Provost of Online Initiatives at the University of Arizona, where he provides strategic leadership and coordination for the university's online endeavors, overseeing Arizona Online and the University of Arizona Global Campus.

Previously, Dr. Packard held the position of founding dean at the College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) at the University of Arizona, Sierra Vista. In this capacity, he led the university's fastest-growing college, envisioning and implementing a comprehensive strategic vision to expand programs at all levels. Dr. Packard expressed his enthusiasm for CAST, highlighting its growth, innovation, and commitment to preparing students for the future workforce. He commended the faculty and staff for their dedication to excellence in education and their role in facilitating diverse post-traditional students' access to well-paying and impactful careers.

Reflecting on his role, Dr. Packard emphasized the college's commitment to maintaining academic rigor while providing accessible programming, showcasing the transformative impact of the team's integrated curriculum within a unique virtual learning environment. Dr. Packard's leadership at the convergence of human and machine teaming underscores the college's mission to prepare learners for the challenges of the 21st century.

A distinguished retired brigadier general with an impressive career spanning 37 years in the United States Air Force, Dr. Packard served in various capacities, including as a pilot, instructor pilot, evaluator, deployed director of staff, operations officer, and commander. His flying career concluded with over 3,900 hours in military aircraft. Additionally, Dr. Packard contributed nearly two decades of service at the United States Air Force Academy, where he held roles such as instructor, permanent professor, department head, and vice dean.

Notably, Dr. Packard played a key role in the influential 2010 Department of Defense study at the Pentagon, contributing to the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. His academic achievements include a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, with a focus on social network influences on leadership and professional military development for cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy. He holds a master's degree in Counseling from Michigan State University, a master's degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and a bachelor of science degree in Behavioral Science from the United States Air Force Academy. Dr. Packard's diverse background and extensive experience uniquely position him to drive the success of the University of Arizona's online initiatives.