Laura Ortiz

Dr. Laura E. Ortiz serves as Dean for Faculty Development and Engagement (FDAE) at Waubonsee Community College. She is an authentic, bilingual (English/Spanish), comprehensive community college leader, educator, and administrator, who is passionate about education, social justice, and holistic faculty and student success through inclusive teaching and learning excellence.

Dr. Ortiz actively exercises her transformational leadership style to cultivate and nurture relationships, inspire change and growth through shared vision and collaboration, and communicate compassionately and effectively across complex environments to improve teaching, learning, and organizational excellence.

Dr. Ortiz is an intentional diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner who is committed to creating brave spaces for courageous conversations where diverse ideas, perspectives, and lived experiences are heard, welcomed, and valued. She purposefully champions inclusive, equity-minded teaching, learning, and working spaces to foster learning promotes a sense of belonging and well-being, and support holistic success for students, employees, and community members.