The Division of Student Affairs is pleased to announce that Dr. John K. Burk has joined the University of Houston as the new Director of Assessment and Planning. In this role, Dr. Burk will lead division-wide assessment, strategic planning, and continuous improvement efforts that support student success and data-informed decision-making.
Dr. Burk brings a strong background in organizational strategy, assessment, and change management across higher education, nonprofit leadership, and consulting. His work has consistently focused on aligning mission, strategy, and measurable outcomes—an approach that will strengthen the Division of Student Affairs’ commitment to accountability, effectiveness, and continuous learning.
Prior to joining the University of Houston, Dr. Burk served as Director of Strategy and Business Operations for The Change Pros, a change management training company, where he supported organizations through complex transitions and strategic transformation. He also served as Assistant Dean for Strategic Initiatives at Baylor University’s Truett Seminary, where he led the establishment of extension campuses in Houston and San Antonio, in addition to collaborating with the Office of Institutional Effectiveness on assessments and institutional initiatives designed to improve organizational effectiveness and long-term sustainability within his unit.
In addition to his higher education leadership experience, Dr. Burk has served as President of CarePartners, a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals living with memory loss and their family caregivers. His leadership in the nonprofit sector reflects a deep commitment to service, community impact, and mission-driven work. Earlier in his career, he was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Religion at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey.
Dr. Burk holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Baylor University, a master’s degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh. He is also a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) through the Association of Change Management Professionals, further strengthening his expertise in leading institutional change.
“I am very excited to join the Division of Student Affairs at the University of Houston,” Dr. Burk said. “I look forward to partnering with colleagues across the division to strengthen assessment practices, support strategic planning, and ensure that our work continues to advance student learning, development, and success.”
As Director of Assessment and Planning, Dr. Burk will collaborate with departments across the division to enhance assessment frameworks, support accreditation-related efforts, and ensure that data and evidence meaningfully inform planning, resource allocation, and program improvement.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Burk to the Division of Student Affairs,” said Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Paul Kittle. “His depth of experience in assessment, strategy, and change management will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our culture of evidence and advance student success.”
Please join us in welcoming Dr. John K. Burk to the Division of Student Affairs.