Dr. Othman earned a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from United Arab Emirates University and a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Iowa, USA. He brings more than twenty-five years of experience in higher education, having held teaching and senior academic leadership roles with progressively increasing responsibility. His appointments have included faculty member, advisor, department chair, dean, and provost.

In addition to his academic leadership experience, Dr. Othman has worked as Manager of Research and Development at an educational software company and as a Research Engineer at the National Advanced Driving Simulator at the University of Iowa.

Dr. Othman has served at several private universities, including Aurora University, National Louis University, and Saint Xavier University in Chicago. These institutions serve diverse student populations, including international students, and offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and online programs across multiple campuses. Throughout his career, Dr. Othman has been a strong advocate for students, consistently making student-centered decisions. He is known for his collaborative leadership style and for working closely with faculty and staff to support students throughout their academic journey—from enrollment to graduation and career placement. He has partnered with Enrollment and Marketing to ensure academic programs align with student needs and market demand, and with Student Affairs to deliver high-quality services that promote student persistence and success.

Dr. Othman is a graduate of the Senior Leadership Academy, a year-long leadership development program offered by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). He was selected as one of forty-five mid-level administrators nationwide for the 2017–2018 cohort. The Academy prepares senior academic leaders for vice president-level roles in higher education. He has also completed professional development in enrollment management through Ruffalo Noel Levitz, conflict management training, full-day Title IX certification, and has served as a Peer Reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission.

Having lived and worked in multiple countries, Dr. Othman brings a global and multicultural perspective to higher education and a deep appreciation for diversity. He is fluent in English and Arabic and has completed a year of German language study.