Faculty FrontDoor

Dr. Melissa K. Jones

As an advocate for the power of online learning, I work to bring innovative technology solutions, mindful practices, and design thinking to online teaching. Part-time, I continue to teach composition and literature courses and believe that being called “obnoxiously excited about English” on a student evaluation is the greatest feedback I've ever received.

I am committed to higher education and have worked in colleges and universities across Central Florida since 2007. I have held a variety of positions, including English faculty lead, teaching and learning specialist, associate dean, and in my current full-time position, I serve as the Assistant Director of Employee Development on our Valencia ODHR team.

My work across various departments continues to influence my classroom teaching, and I approach my work with students with a focus on holistic practices. My goal is not only to offer my students an opportunity to excel in composition studies, but also to help them become active, engaged members of the College community.

I hold a BA and MA in English Literature from FSU and USF, respectively, and an EdD in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies from FSU. Most of my own research and writing examines online learning, student belonging, identity in virtual environments, and LGBTQ+ communities in higher education.