Igniting Workforce Transformation in Dallas
Leaders with the School of Business at Western Governors University (WGU) recently connected with stakeholders in Dallas to explore how key industries can collaborate with higher education to develop a future-ready workforce.
The discussion was a stop on the School of Business’ national roadshow —an ongoing effort for the school to cultivate local partnerships and relationships to shape the future of work. Each stop brings together local leaders with a shared goal: aligning education with the rapidly evolving needs of the modern labor force.
As part of this initiative, Dallas education and industry professionals joined WGU School of Business leaders for the Building a Skilled Workforce at the Speed of Business luncheon and panel discussion.
Moderated by , a local broadcast journalist, the panel featured a dynamic group of thought leaders: Mitsu Frazier, senior vice president and executive dean of the WGU School of Business; Lynn McBee, workforce development czar for the City of Dallas and president and CEO of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network (YWPN); Jarrad Toussant, senior vice president of education and workforce at the Dallas Regional Chamber; and Dr. Justin Lonon, chancellor of Dallas College.
Throughout the discussion, each panelist shared insights on employment trends, workforce gaps and innovative strategies for aligning education with the needs of today’s employers. A unifying theme emerged: the transformative role of mentorship in driving student success and workforce readiness.
As panelists addressed the systemic challenges facing students as they transition from education to employment, mentorship surfaced as a critical solution.
“WGU has built its academic model around holistic student success, ensuring that every learner is paired with a dedicated mentor—an industry-experienced professional who provides personalized support throughout their journey,” Frazier said. “This approach not only supports students academically but also equips them with the tools and confidence to thrive in the workforce.”
Real-world evidence backs this model. According to data shows that students who engage with a mentor are more likely to remain in college and complete their programs, highlighting a strong link between mentorship and higher completion rates.
As the luncheon concluded, panelists emphasized that building strong, industry-aligned education pipelines is essential—not just for Dallas, but for cities across the country working to future-proof their economies. Attendees were encouraged to champion collaboration by partnering with organizations already leading the charge in their communities.
“At WGU, we’re committed to advancing strategies that directly impact student outcomes,” Frazier said. “When education and industry come together, they can power a workforce that is not only skilled, but resilient, adaptable and ready for the future.”
When Representation Meets Mentorship
The Dallas roadshow also included a powerful demonstration of mentorship and the importance of representation. WGU School of Business leaders, along with WGU South regional vice president Linda Battles, visited the Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School for an afternoon of conversation, storytelling and inspiration with students.
As the first all-girls public school in Texas and a member of the Young Women’s Preparatory Network (YWPN), Irma Rangel serves a group of students ages 11 to 18, many of whom are girls of color and first-generation college aspirants. Frazier shared her personal journey with the students, discussing the challenges of leading in spaces where women—and particularly women of color—are still underrepresented.
As Frazier reflected on her path to executive leadership, she spoke candidly about the values that have shaped her career — resilience, mentorship and the importance of self-belief. Her message to students was clear: "You belong at the table, and your potential is limitless."
The Dallas roadshow exemplified how strategic collaboration and authentic connection can ignite real change—for both the workforce and the next generation of leaders. By bringing together education, industry and community voices, WGU is advancing workforce development and reinforcing the power of mentorship and representation in shaping what’s possible.
