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Education Technology Education Network Appoints New Leadership

The appointment of Chris Lohse comes after longtime education veteran Karen Billings announced her retirement as vice president of ETIN.

• By Sri Ravipati
• 08/12/16

After 14 years of leadership at the Education Technology Industry Network (ETIN) of SIIA, Karen Billings is retiring from the organization and another education veteran is stepping in. ETIN has appointed Chris Lohse as senior vice president and managing director, who brings 15 years of experience in education to the role.

Lohse previously held positions at Renaissance Learning and Pearson. He began a career in education as a chemistry, biology and physics educator and later worked in research and strategic partnerships in the education technology sector.

“We are thrilled to have Chris Lohse join the SIIA family as Senior Vice President and Managing Director of ETIN,” said Ken Wasch, president of SIIA, in a statement. “Chris is a true thought leader on the role of technology in propelling student achievement.”

Lohse and ETIN are quick to recognize the leadership of former VP Karen Billings, who “holds more than 40 years of experience in the education technology industry, including positions in management, development, marketing, sales and classroom teaching,” according to a statement from ETIN.

"Karen Billings' legacy in building support, resources, and camaraderie for a diverse network of education companies represents an enduring and significant contribution to education,” Lohse said in a statement. “I'm humbled by the opportunity to further her aspirations and ambitions for what's next for our industry sector as a whole, and for each company comprising [ETIN’s] impressive portfolio of member firms."

ETIN represents and supports developers of educational software applications, digital content and online learning.

Further information is available on the ETIN site.