Spirit of Innovation (Unclassified)

Mark Anderson

Innovation. Creating a new idea. A product or service that creates value for others.

But what about a person who creates a new idea and brings value to others? That is what Mark Anderson, director of web development and strategy, does daily.

Although he has only known Anderson for six months, Nate Jorgensen, web content specialist said, “This is long enough to see that he is pushing innovation for the Wright State University website by mixing new ideas with the most effective processes available for the benefit of students, faculty and staff.”

Anderson completes thankless tasks to improve the needs of end-users of various abilities and disabilities. If it were not for his dedication and innovative risks, the university website may be less accessible for others.

Anderson also allows his co-workers to embrace new ideas while enjoying their work yet being accountable for results.

“Mark accurately measures his human and technological resources to arrive at the best solution possible,” said Jorgensen. “It is this accuracy that benefits Wright State University the most. … It is fresh. It is purposeful. And most importantly, it is contagious.”

Last winter, Anderson interviewed Apple co-founder Steve Wosniak in front of thousands at the Wright State Ervin J. Nutter Center as part of the Presidential Lecture Series. This was out of his comfort zone yet the conversation was engaging to the audience.

“Mark demonstrates courage and character in the face of the challenges inherent to innovation, while abiding by a philosophy that drives accomplishments for others,” Jorgensen says. “Courage and character come into play more than you would think in website design and management.”

Anderson displays an ability to explain technical language in a clear and detailed manner, said Linda Caron, associate dean for faculty and external affairs in the College of Liberal Arts.

“It’s both fun and useful to explore ideas with him, and he always has an innovative solution to a problem,” said Caron.