Tara M. Hart, Ed.D.
Assistant Director, American Academic Leadership Institute
Dr. Tara M. Hart serves as the Assistant Director of Programs at the Academic American Leadership Institute (AALI). A first-generation college student, Tara discovered her passion for higher education during her undergraduate years, where she took on leadership roles in residence life, Greek life, student involvement, and student recruitment. By her senior year, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in higher education.
With over 20 years of experience in both AASCU and CIC institutions, Tara has worked in enrollment management, student affairs, and as a faculty member. She has served institutions across Nebraska, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kentucky. Her career began in Admissions, where she worked to open the doors of higher education to prospective students, particularly first-generation students. Tara’s journey in higher education led her to senior leadership roles in enrollment management and student affairs at multiple college campuses.
Tara earned her Ed.D. in higher education leadership from Hardin-Simmons University, an M.S. in counseling from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and a B.S. in human service counseling from Wayne State College.
Tara is passionate about learning and frequently engages in exploring, researching, and modeling leadership and mentorship. She advocates for underrepresented populations in higher education, demonstrating this commitment through her professional actions and development. With the evolving landscape of higher education, Tara believes that leadership development is essential for aspiring higher education leaders to effectively serve their campuses and communities. She is dedicated to advancing AALI’s mission and vision of providing professional development for higher education leaders.