Leadership Team
The LearnStage leadership team is composed of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in education, technology, and business management. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a shared commitment to leveraging innovative solutions to enhance learning outcomes.
Rod Clarkson, MBA, ED.S.
Chairman & Chief Executive Office
Meet Rod Clarkson, the dynamic and visionary Founder and CEO at the helm of Learn Stage. Rod's journey is a testament to his deep commitment to revolutionizing online education. His rich blend of expertise in business, marketing, and technology has been the cornerstone in establishing Learn Stage as a beacon for high-quality, accredited online educational services.
A trailblazer in the realm of innovative online education technologies, Rod's leadership extends beyond mere management. He is the driving force behind our marketing team and business operations, championing the Learn Stage mission with a passion that's as personal as it is professional. Rod's extensive experience in executive leadership is matched only by his profound dedication to the success and well-being of every student we serve.
Beyond the boardroom, Rod's heart for service shines. He dedicates his time to various community outreach initiatives, always seeking ways to give back. In his downtime, Rod is a connoisseur of life's many adventures. Whether he's engaging in market analysis or spending cherished moments with his two adult children and close friends, Rod embraces every experience with enthusiasm.
An avid aviator, Rod's love for flying is more than just a hobby—it's a journey of exploration. His passion for flying takes him to serene destinations where he enjoys camping and fishing, embracing the tranquility of nature.
Rod's educational background is as impressive as his career. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business, with a focus on Marketing, and a Master of Business, specializing in Management, both from Ashworth College. His pursuit of knowledge didn't stop there. Rod advanced to Northcentral University for his Doctoral-level studies in Educational Leadership, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and leading in education.
At Learn Stage, Rod Clarkson isn't just our CEO; he's the heart and soul of our quest to redefine online education, one student at a time.
Dr. Mark Ulven, M.A., Ed.D.
President & Chief Academic Officer
Meet Mark, the inspiring President and Chief Academic Officer at Learn Stage. A licensed educator with a rich history in the public school system, Mark has shared his passion for math and science with countless students. His enthusiasm for education extends beyond the classroom, deeply embracing the transformative power of online learning.
Mark's educational journey is as diverse as it is impressive. He holds a B.A. in Education from Bemidji State University, a M.Ed from St. Mary's University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Capella University. These academic achievements underpin his profound understanding of the educational landscape and fuel his commitment to fostering a student-centered approach to learning.
Joining the team at EHS, Mark brought with him a wealth of experience and a dedication to continuous quality improvement. His previous role at Capella University showcased his talent in ensuring student success, a skill he continues to cultivate at Learn Stage.
Outside the realm of academia, Mark is a family man, cherishing moments with his spouse and two children. His love for the great outdoors finds him on the golf course, relishing the game's challenges and tranquility. A fervent baseball enthusiast, Mark's passion for the sport mirrors his dedication to education and personal growth.
At Learn Stage, Mark is more than just a leader; he is a mentor, an innovator, and a guiding force, continually striving to elevate our academic standards and enrich the lives of our students.
Dr. Charlie Buehler, B.A., MTS, Ed.D.
Chief Operating Officer
Introducing Dr. Charlie Buehler, Ed.D, the dynamic Chief Operating Officer at Learn Stage.. With a rich tapestry of over 12 years in the educational landscape, Charlie stands as a pillar of expertise in the realm of alternative and innovative learning pathways. His journey in education is nothing short of comprehensive, encompassing a wide array of roles from admissions to technology, each contributing to his profound understanding of the student journey.
At the core of Charlie's success is his unique blend of keen business insight and extensive educational experience. This powerful combination enables him to shape and steer the strategic direction of our organization, ensuring that every element of our operations resonates with our mission and vision.
Charlie's academic credentials are as impressive as his professional achievements. He began his journey at Augustana College (now University) in Sioux Falls, SD, earning a B.A., followed by a Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) from the prestigious Harvard University. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to Arizona State University, where he earned his Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation.
A true advocate for online and virtual learning, Charlie's doctoral research delved into innovative methods to enhance connected learning in asynchronous environments. His passion for technology is not just academic; it's a practical part of his day-to-day work, as he constantly seeks and implements cutting-edge tech solutions.
At Learn Stage, Charlie brings a treasure trove of experience, an unwavering commitment to educational excellence, and an infectious enthusiasm for innovation. His leadership is a guiding light, illuminating our path to redefining the future of education.
Kate Clarkson, B.S., MBA
Director of Sales
Meet Kate Clarkson, MBA, the dynamic Director of Sales at Learn Stage, whose journey in the world of sales and education is nothing short of inspiring. With an MBA from the University of St Thomas, specializing in Transformational Change and Organization Development, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Capella University, Kate's academic achievements set the foundation for her exceptional career.
Kate's five-year tenure at Learn Stage is marked by her incredible contributions and growth. Before joining us, Kate honed her skills as a Sales Manager at Life Time, Inc., where she distinguished herself as a top performer among 600 sales team members nationwide. Her ability to drive outstanding sales performance caught the eye of the higher-ups, leading to her recruitment for training and developing talent across the company’s national staff of account managers. At Learn Stage, Kate's passion for serving our education partners and providing solutions to those in need shines through in every initiative she undertakes.
More than just a sales expert, Kate is a versatile and enthusiastic team player, deeply involved in driving continuous improvement at Learn Stage. Her collaborative efforts span various departments, contributing significantly to areas like artificial intelligence, strategy formulation, and process improvement. Always forward-looking, she keeps a keen eye on the future of education technology, ensuring that Learn Stage is at the forefront of every innovative stride.
Outside the professional sphere, Kate's life is a tapestry of varied interests and commitments. She loves spending quality time with her fiancé and dog, dedicating herself to volunteer work both locally and globally. An avid reader and traveler, Kate has explored 15 countries and continues to add to that impressive tally. Her love for staying active is evident in her regular participation in workout classes at her local gym, reflecting her dynamic approach to life and work.
At Learn Stage, Kate Clarkson is not just a director; she's a visionary, a motivator, and a pivotal part of our journey towards redefining educational excellence.
