Author, Entrepreneur Named Associate Dean

REDLANDS>> Dr. Daniel Otter, author, entrepreneur and education advocate, has joined the University of Redlands as its new associate dean of Continuing Studies. Otter was a lecturer in education and curriculum development at the University of New Mexico prior to his position with the University of Redlands. He also has worked as a teacher in elementary and secondary schools in both Albuquerque, New Mexico and Corona, California. “We are excited to have Dan join the School of Continuing Studies team,” said G. Keith Roberts, the interim H. Jess and Donna Colton Senecal Endowed Dean’s Chair in Business. “He has only been here a short time but has already opened up several new opportunities for the School.” Otter is a graduate of San Diego State University with a bachelors in journalism; California State University, Fullerton with a masters of education, and University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, where he received his doctorate in education. “I am excited about the possibilities at the School of Continuing Studies,” Otter said. “I see many opportunities to grow the program, as well as to focus our offerings on areas showing success.” Also a financial literacy educator and advocate, Otter is the creator of the websites 403(b)wise, YourPlan Education Portal and Pollinate, as well as author of several books, most recently the Apple iBook "Financial Literacy. Simplified." In 2012, Money Magazine designated him as a “Money Hero” for his work. The School of Continuing Studies, part of the University of Redlands School of Business, offers certificate programs, general education classes and continuing education workshops on an open enrollment basis, both online and at eight locations around Southern California. The school also partners with companies and a senior center to provide custom educational programming. The school’s certificate programs include human resource management, project management, organizational leadership and accounting. To date, workshops have focused on practical topics such as grant writing and time management, but Otter sees potential for introducing more creative and lifestyle-oriented offerings. One current class in this category focuses on creative photography. “One thought is to start a class on craft brewing,” Otter said. “I’ve received a lot of positive feedback on that idea.”