Zayd Abukar

Zayd Abukar, Ed.D. is an Associate Director at EAB’s Research Advisory Services, where he partners with college and university leaders to tackle challenges related to student success, institutional strategy, and operational effectiveness. In this role, he draws on a deep background in academic administration and student affairs to deliver insights that drive meaningful, lasting impact.

Prior to joining EAB, Zayd spent over 16 years in higher education, most recently serving as Director of Academic Services for the Department of Teaching and Learning at The Ohio State University. There, he oversaw enrollment, orientation, fellowships, curriculum management, course scheduling, and other core functions for all graduate, licensure, and certificate programs. His campus experience spans a wide range of areas—including undergraduate academic advising, oversight of academic support services, student conduct, and residence life—providing him with a holistic understanding of both student needs and institutional operations.

Zayd earned his Ed.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from The Ohio State University, where he also completed a graduate minor in Public Policy and Management and graduated summa cum laude. He previously earned his M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Ohio State, where he received the Robert F. Rodgers Award for most outstanding graduate student. He holds a B.A. in Communication with a minor in Sociology from the University of Louisville, graduating cum laude.

A scholar-practitioner at heart, Zayd has published and presented nationally and serves on the editorial board for the NASPA Journal of First-generation Student Success. He lives in Columbus, Ohio, and enjoys long-distance running, playing and watching basketball, and spending time with his wife, Jasmine, and their dog, Rico.