Dr. Linda Battles is the Regional Vice President (South) of Western Governors University. With more than 30 years of experience in higher education, she deeply understands the industry landscape and challenges faced by underrepresented populations in accessing higher education. Battles drives initiatives in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma that align with university’s vision of becoming the most student-centric university globally.

Before joining WGU, Linda served for 20 years in various roles at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, including COO and Deputy Commissioner for Agency Operations and Communications. She served as Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to The Honorable Irma Rangel, Chair of the House Higher Education Committee. 

Linda is a three-time alumna of The University of Texas at Austin, having earned her bachelor's degree in psychology, master's in public affairs, and doctorate in Higher Education Leadership.

Linda has been recognized as a Woman of Distinction by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce and received the Community/Business Leader Award from the Pflugerville Education Foundation. She serves on the Board of Austin Voices for Education and Youth, as the Executive Sponsor of the Women of WGU Employee Resource Group, and as a member of WGU’s Emerging HSI Steering Committee.