Dr. Nicholas J. Markette serves as an Assistant Dean and the Ed.D. Program Chair for the College of Doctoral Studies (CDS) at Grand Canyon University. Previously, he led a 27-member team dedicated to serving doctoral learners in the publication of their dissertation. His role includes leadership in creating community, support, and innovation for students earning a doctorate with purpose. In addition, Markette continues to teach, chair, and serve as subject matter expert (SME) for programs/courses and other projects in the CDS including serving on the Academic Affairs Committee. Dr. Markette graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. He earned a Master of Science and a doctorate at Grand Canyon University studying high performance teams. His study was awarded the Outstanding Graduate Student Dissertation Award from the Arizona Professors of Education Administration. Dr. Markette is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society, Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society, and Alpha Chi College Honor Society. Dr. Markette began his career in finance and management in 1984. He retired from his role as the CFO and director of strategy for a technology company. His previous roles included serving as CEO for a software company, and as chairman for a publicly traded company. He still serves as Director on the board of a communications company and has served on the board of non-profit organizations. He is a frequent speaker regarding leadership at symposia, colloquia, workshops, and conferences including engagements for the Society of Research Administrators International, Court Appointed Special Advocate Association, Honor Health, Catholic Healthcare West, the Arizona Superior Court Leadership Institute, and the Arizona School Administrators Association. Finally, Dr. Markette has authored articles, hosts the Dr. Markette YouTube Chanel, and has ongoing social science research. Dr. Markette has coached soccer for over 30 years—high school, club, professional and college--and takes a daily beating in Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, and strength training He is also a church member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. His passions include his faith, family, studying Italian, Italian cooking, business, research, teaching, and soccer. Dr. Markette says, "Few things in life are as rewarding as watching your teaching make the difference in someone's life."