I am an Instructional Designer and E-Learning Developer from Western Pennsylvania. I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with my Bachelor of Science in Education in 2007 and a Master of Arts in Education, Training in December 2023.
After working for several years as a public school teacher I transitioned from teaching to Music Ministry after my family relocated to Pennsylvania. As Director of Music Ministries, I use my teaching skills, knowledge, and technical skills to keep the music ministry at Dutilh Church vibrant and growing, it has become one of the most dynamic in the region.
In 2024 I began the next step of my career as an Instructional Designer at Varner Miller, where we focus on creating learning content for in-person, hybrid, and digital platforms. We also care deeply that our content is accessible to anyone and specialize in making content 508 compliant.
Why the Change?
The pandemic presented me with the opportunity to learn new skills and allowed me to discover where I wanted my career to go. I have always been an educator and enjoy seeing others learn new things. The new skills I have learner, combined with my creativity and extensive experience, allowing me to help people learn anywhere at anytime.
My ID View
When creating courses or content, I love to work backwards, Backwards Design is one way I like to put information together. This helps me to always have the end goal in mind and allows me to make sure information is covered with that goal in mind. ADDIE is another way I like to design content and courses, constantly evaluating is important to create cohesive designs that cover all of the information learners need. Utilizing both methods when creating courses and content helps my courses to be effective and clear for all learners.
What I Bring to the Table
If you are looking for creativity, a fresh perspective, and dedication, look no further. I am a classically trained pianist who brings the beauty and creativity of playing music to every design. For years I have been organizing and planning large performances, the experience I have putting together programs cannot be learned in a classroom, only through experience.
I have considerable experience in teaching and working with adult learners. I have been creating online content for several years and enjoy learning how I can make it even better content as new technologies become available. I have an enthusiasm for learning and enjoy how evolving technology always gives me something new to learn.
Who Am I?
I am a Mom of 2 wonderful children and 2 crazy Cavapoo dogs (that's Comet, Cody doesn't like pictures!). My husband is an IT professional and we enjoy hiking and playing games together. I am a professional pianist playing for churches, schools, and other facilities in the area, and I also play many other instruments. I am a former marathon runner, until my back decided that I could no longer run, and I love spinning (indoor bike) now that I cannot run.
Instructional Designer II February 2024 - current
Varner Miller
Instructional Design Intern July 2023 - January 2024
Minitab
Learning Experience Design Intern June 2023 - August 2023
The Upper New Review
Master of Arts in Education, Training, and Instructional Technology.
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
July 2022 - December 2024Bachelor of Science in Education - Music K-12
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
August 2002 - May 2007