John Lane joined SHEEO in 2021 as the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Equity Initiatives. In this role, Dr. Lane leads policy and project development in educational equity, academic programs, and student success. Dr. Lane also facilitates the work of SHEEO’s Equity Advisory Committee and collaborates with SHEEO staff to explore and develop the equity implications of academic affairs, data, research, and finance projects by identifying and promoting best policies and practices related to closing equity gaps.

Before joining SHEEO, Dr. Lane served in a variety of roles, most recently as the Director of Academic Affairs for the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. Dr. Lane also served as the Chair of music theory at Wheaton College and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Allen University. At the Commission, he was responsible for academic statutory and regulatory policy development (including transfer, dual enrollment, and institutional missions), and program development and assessment for state public and nonpublic institutions. He provided oversight for initiatives in research, innovation, and economic development (SmartState); educator preparation; workforce development; adult and military postsecondary population development; and interstate reciprocities.

Dr. Lane holds a doctorate in musical arts in composition from the University of South Carolina, a master of divinity in scripture and interpretation from Harvard University, and a bachelor of music in music education from the University of South Carolina.