The University of Florida Lastinger Center for Learning proudly announces the appointment of Chaohua Ou, Ed.D., as Director of Data & Learning Technologies and Research Scientist. Joining the Center from Georgia Institute of Technology, Dr. Ou brings more than 15 years of experience in learning technology, instructional design, artificial intelligence (AI), and data strategy, with a career dedicated to advancing digital learning innovation across education and research environments.
In her new role, Dr. Ou will lead strategic initiatives focused on delivering transformative educational solutions, managing and securing data systems, and integrating AI-augmented learning applications to meet the evolving needs of educators, learners, and community stakeholders. Her work will foster collaboration across sectors—engaging educators, researchers, policymakers, and partners—to develop cutting-edge strategies that support the Lastinger Center’s mission to scale educational innovations for lifelong learning.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ou to the Lastinger Center,” said Phil Poekert, Director of the UF Lastinger Center for Learning. “Her visionary leadership in AI and learning technology, combined with her deep commitment to data-driven innovations that serve all learners, will accelerate our efforts to create meaningful, scalable solutions across Florida and beyond.”
At the Georgia Institute of Technology, Dr. Ou served as Managing Director of the National AI Institute for Adult Learning and Online Education overseeing a $20 million NSF-funded initiative spanning 10 universities, nonprofits, and industry partners. Her leadership included developing operational and data strategies, managing distributed teams of researchers and technologists, and designing fellowship programs to support educators in integrating AI into teaching and curriculum design. She has led campus-wide learning technology initiatives, supported over 35,000 students and 2,000 faculty, and secured multiple grants to advance instructional innovation.
Dr. Ou earned her Doctorate of Education in Educational/Instructional Technology from Texas Tech University. Her research and publications focus on technology-supported learning, learner engagement, retention, and the intersection of AI and education. She is widely recognized for her ability to lead cross-functional teams, secure funding, and build partnerships that drive sustainable impact.
“I am honored to join the Lastinger Center and contribute to its mission of transforming education through innovation,” said Dr. Ou. “I look forward to collaborating with the talented team and partners to explore how emerging technologies like AI can enhance learning experiences and outcomes for all.”
Dr. Ou will officially begin her role at the UF Lastinger Center in November 2025.
In the words of founders Allen and Delores Lastinger, “The University of Florida Lastinger Center for Learning helps teachers teach and students learn,” and strives to improve the quality of teaching, learning, and childcare across all communities. The addition of Dr. Ou positions the Center well to enact the words of our founders in an era defined by data, learning technologies, and AI.
About the UF Lastinger Center for Learning:
The UF Lastinger Center for Learning helps teachers teach and students learn by building strategic partnerships, advocating for change, and fostering community engagement. We committed collaborators who believe in the power of relationships to drive progress. Our research and data science initiatives support innovation, connect systems, and improve learning outcomes. These efforts have led to impactful professional development programs for educators serving children from birth through 12th grade. With two decades of trusted leadership, we administer two major statewide initiatives, New Worlds Reading and Florida Tutoring Advantage, demonstrating our commitment to supporting learners and educators across Florida.
Data & Learning Technologies at the UF Lastinger Center
The UF Lastinger Center for Learning designs and scales innovative educational solutions using advanced data science and learning technologies. From AI-augmented platforms to secure data systems, the Center develops tools that support educators and learners across diverse contexts. By combining data, research, technology, AI and our commitment to collaboration and partnership, we create data-driven improvements to support quality teaching and learning for all learners.