Jodi Eastberg, PhD, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design’s new vice president for academic affairs.

Jodi Eastberg, PhD, the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design’s new vice president for academic affairs, knew when she applied for the position that MIAD is poised for transformation and growth.

“I’ve been really impressed with the academic programs here, with what the students are able to do, and how the faculty and staff support them,” said Dr. Eastberg, who began in August 2025. “I also was impressed with MIAD’s 43 percent growth over ten years.”

“I am most excited about our strategic plan,” Dr. Eastberg added. “It will get more people engaged with MIAD, whether through dual enrollment, new majors and minors, or connections with the community, so students have more opportunities for internships and client-based projects, all of the things that help students become work-ready creatives.”

“I’m also excited to work with K-12 teachers and students. I think we have a lot to contribute, and they have a lot to offer to help us understand the next generation of students.”

Most recently, Dr. Eastberg held faculty and leadership positions at Alverno College, including as dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, overseeing programs like studio art, art education, art therapy, music, and business.

“Wisconsin’s creative sector generates $11.9 billion annually according to 2023 data from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA),” Eastberg noted. “According to Create Wisconsin, that is more than Wisconsin’s beer, biotech, or papermaking industries. I’m excited to work with my MIAD colleagues and in the community to bring attention to the importance of art and design through the preparation of truly excellent industry professionals.”

Dr. Eastberg also serves as a trustee of the Higher Learning Commission, vice president and trustee for the Layton Art Collection, Inc., and board member of the Wisconsin Policy Forum.