Fremont, Calif. — January 7, 2026 — San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) has announced a new strategic global partnership with Nexford University (NXU), designed to expand affordable academic access, strengthen faculty innovation, and accelerate cross-border learning through digital-first education models. This partnership advances SFBU’s mission to provide inclusive, innovative, and globally connected higher education opportunities.
The multi-year agreement connects two mission-aligned institutions committed to broadening access to high-quality higher education and preparing learners for success in an increasingly interconnected world. Together, SFBU and Nexford will develop co-learning opportunities, research collaborations, and flexible international pathways that empower students with industry-relevant skills and global perspectives.
“This partnership reimagines what accessible, globally connected education can look like,” said Dr. Nicholas Ladany, President of San Francisco Bay University. “By combining SFBU’s commitment to inclusive excellence with Nexford’s digital innovation, we are creating pathways that prepare learners—not just for today’s workforce, but for tomorrow’s world.”
“Together, we’re expanding what is possible for learners around the world,” said Dr. Ann Larson, Chief Academic Officer at Nexford University. “Our institutions share a belief that high-quality education should be flexible, affordable, and globally relevant. This collaboration brings that mission to life and opens new avenues for innovation in teaching, learning, and global engagement.”
Key Areas of Collaboration
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Global Academic Access: Develop joint online modules, pathways, and exchange programs that enhance mobility and career readiness.
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Faculty Innovation: Build shared communities of practice focused on pedagogy, research collaboration, and mentorship.
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Digital Learning Innovation: Host webinars, seminars, and applied research showcasing technology-driven education models.
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Student Development: Offer programs that foster leadership, intercultural competence, communication skills, and global awareness—directly supporting SFBU’s five core student identities.
The partnership advances SFBU’s institutional goals across inclusive education, teaching excellence, access and affordability, whole-student development, and innovation in technology-enhanced learning.
Reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable, mission-driven growth, SFBU and Nexford will collaborate under a renewable five-year agreement focused on building scalable, globally relevant educational opportunities. The SFBU × Nexford partnership marks a major step toward a more connected, agile, and globally accessible model of higher education.
Media Contact
SFBU: Irene Valdes | Chief of Staff and Vice President of Presidential Initiatives and Community Impact | San Francisco Bay University | pr@sfbu.edu
Nexford University: Ragen Dodson | Head of Marketing | pr@nexford.edu
About San Francisco Bay University
San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) is a WASC/WSCUC-accredited, private nonprofit university located in the San Francisco Bay Area/Silicon Valley. Dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality, and career-focused education, SFBU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, computer science, and engineering. Founded on the belief that higher education should empower students to achieve personal and professional success, SFBU integrates cutting-edge technology, real-world learning experiences, and personalized support to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly changing world. Learn more at www.sfbu.edu.
About Nexford University
Nexford University (NXU) is an accredited online university built to make higher education more affordable, flexible, and career-relevant for working adults worldwide. NXU offers competency-based programs designed in collaboration with industry to help learners build practical skills and advance professionally—without putting life on pause. Learn more at www.nexford.edu.
