Anthony Lee, Ed.D., M.B.A.

Image of Dr. Anthony M Lee President and CEO of Westcliff University

Chief Executive Officer

President

Dr. Anthony Lee has led Westcliff University, an institution known for its rapid growth in the United States, since 2008 and is holding the role of President / CEO. Westcliff University currently offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees spanning 21 areas of study with colleges dedicated to business, education, technology, computer science and engineering – and acquired Western State College of Law in 2019. Under his leadership, each of Westcliff’s colleges have experienced commendable progress as they continue to welcome some of their strongest and largest incoming classes. 

He has extensive experience launching new programs that integrate technology with traditional campus-based classes for an enhanced learning experience, as well as leading the accreditation process at the university and K-12 levels. His unwavering commitment to pioneering global education initiatives has led to remarkable success in expanding Westcliff University’s diverse student body, now represented by individuals from more than 100 countries. Notably, his profound passion for athletics has led to the establishment of an impressive program boasting 28 varsity sports and 11 academy teams competing at the NAIA level. This initiative has provided student-athletes with the unique opportunity to continue pursuing their athletic dreams while obtaining a valuable college degree.

As a distinguished leader with a demonstrated history of excellence, Dr. Lee is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education. His visionary outlook has been significantly influenced by his outstanding educational background: He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership specializing in higher education administration from the prestigious University of Southern California Rossier School of Education. Additionally, he possesses a Master of Business Administration from the University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management, where he focused on strategy and entrepreneurship. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in economics from the University of California, Irvine.

Dr. Lee is in high demand as a speaker at conferences and seminars across the nation and is a two-time nominee for the esteemed Orange County Business Journal Innovator of the Year award.

His leadership has made a profound impact on students and faculty around the world, solidifying Westcliff’s status as a global higher education leader. His unwavering commitment to fostering equitable access to education for all exemplifies his philanthropic spirit and deep dedication to community engagement.