Shawna BuShell Appointed Director-at-Large for DET/CHE Board
03/04/2026
Shawna BuShell, Ed.D., was recently appointed as a Director-at-Large on the Drivers of Educational Technology in California Higher Education (DET/CHE) Board, representing Southern California. Her appointment places Riverside Community College District (RCCD) in the center of statewide conversations shaping the future of educational technology, online learning, and digital innovation in higher education.
BuShell’s selection marks more than a professional milestone. It reflects years of leadership, collaboration, and sustained commitment to advancing online learning and educational technology across California’s higher education systems.
Founded in 1985, DET/CHE is a statewide organization that brings together professionals from California Community Colleges, California State University campuses, the University of California system, and private institutions. Its membership includes leaders in online learning, instructional design, information technology, multimedia, and academic innovation.
“DET/CHE is really made up of people who do similar work across different systems,” said Laura Rantala, Online Learning Program Manager at Long Beach City College and DET/CHE Past President. “It creates a space where we can share ideas, anticipate what’s coming next, and build relationships across higher education.”
As educational technology has evolved, so has DET/CHE. What began as a network focused on multimedia and classroom technology has grown into a forum for dialogue on online education, digital equity, artificial intelligence, and emerging instructional practices.
Each year, the organization intentionally shapes its leadership to reflect diverse regions, institutions, and professional perspectives. According to Rantala, BuShell stood out for both her expertise and engagement in the field.
“Shawna is deeply involved in online learning, Canvas, and the work happening at Riverside Community College,” Rantala said. “Her background aligns strongly with what DET/CHE does, and she brings an important Southern California perspective to the board.”
For BuShell, the role represents an opportunity to advance equity and innovation in higher education.
“Educational technology is not just about tools, it’s about connection, access, and opportunity,” BuShell said. “I’m excited to serve on the DET/CHE Board and to work alongside leaders across California to shape a more inclusive and innovative future for higher education.”
As a Director-at-Large, BuShell joins a board of volunteer leaders responsible for guiding the organization’s mission. Board members plan the statewide conference, support leadership development initiatives, mentor emerging professionals, and strengthen partnerships across California’s higher education systems.
“The board is really about service,” Rantala said. “We’re all volunteers. We’re planning conferences, leading programs, building community. It’s truly a labor of love.”
In her new role, BuShell will help expand DET/CHE’s presence in Southern California, engage regional professionals, and contribute to statewide initiatives that support innovation in teaching and learning.
Rantala expressed confidence in BuShell’s impact.
“Shawna is incredibly active and engaged in the field,” she said. “She has great energy, strong relationships across the state, and a clear understanding of the work. She’s going to be a powerful connector for DET/CHE and for the broader educational technology community.”
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications