About Melissa
Background
A higher education executive with extensive experience in traditional education, e-learning, tech ed, microcredentials, administration, student success, retention, persistence and completion. An active researcher and online learning practitioner with experience developing courses using AR. Experience building strong collaborations, partnerships with regional stakeholders; industry; community college, universities, school administration; students and teachers; and managing college faculty and researchers in a collective bargaining environment. My personal passion for education has driven me to pursue a PhD in Engineering, where I focused my research on ADHD teen drivers to inform and develop a specialized e-learning driver training program using learning science to address neurodivergent learning needs. I am passionate about increasing educational opportunities for historically marginalized and underserved populations in STEM.
Research Interests
My research in the Arbella Human Performance Lab at UMass Amherst is at the intersection of transportation engineering, human factors and learning science. My work is focused on developing learning tools that specifically focuses effective learning needs of neurodiverse learners. My product, DrivingMyADHD is an e-learning program that incorporates, game-based technology with AR to enhance learning and skill development. Using a gaming interface that reduces cognitive load and increases intrinsic motivation for new drivers, to make learning fun while also supporting communication between teens and parents that reinforces skill development. Grinspoon Award for Concept, 2019; Innovation Challenge Finalist 2019; Association of Women in Science; STEM-2-Market Cohort funded by Kaufman Foundation 2018/19, Jumpstart 2023
Consulting
As a higher education consultant, I work to align strategic vision with data driven initiatives from concept to deployment. Working closely with leadership, I utilize a design and systems lens to streamline processes and increase efficiencies. Previous work with the University of Massachusetts has included curriculum development and alignment, strengthening transfer pathways, developing student pathways and support. recruitment for scholarships, REU's and faciliating agreements to support strategic grant proposals. I work closely with leadership to determine opportunities for faculty development and offer workshops on increasing diversity in STEM, supporting Cultural Responsive Pedagogy practices, developing peer-to-peer mentoring programs, incorporating AI into programs and practice, teaching and supporting diverse learners and incorporating high-impact practices. Put my experience in higher education, student development and assessment to work for you.