Dr. Linda Garza Battles is a seasoned higher education executive and policy leader with more than three decades of experience advancing access, affordability, and student success. As Regional Vice President for the South Region at Western Governors University (WGU), she leads strategic initiatives across a five-state region—Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma—focused on expanding educational pathways and strengthening workforce outcomes.

In her role, Dr. Battles oversees regional initiatives that align with WGU’s vision to be the most student-centric university in the world. As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Battles brings both professional expertise and personal passion to her work. Her own educational journey—navigating financial and cultural barriers—continues to inform her commitment to equity and opportunity in higher education for everyone.

Prior to joining WGU, Dr. Battles spent nearly two decades at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. She also served for six years as Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to The Honorable Irma Rangel.

Dr. Battles has received numerous recognitions for her leadership and community impact, including being named a Woman of Distinction by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce, Community and Business Leader Award from the Pflugerville Education Foundation, Mentor of the Year Finalist by Austin Under 40, and Trailblazer by the El Paso in Austin Network. 

An active community leader, Dr. Battles serves on the Board of Austin Voices for Education and Youth, as the Executive Sponsor of the Women of WGU Employee Resource Group, Chair of the Texas Exes Hispanic Alumni Network Membership Committee, and as Chair of WGU’s Emerging HSI Steering Committee. Dr. Battles is a dedicated mentor to emerging leaders everywhere, but especially to doctoral students at UT Austin and WGU’s Talent Accelerator Program