Keeta Holmes was featured in Converge magazine this fall in the top 30 technologists, transformers and trailblazers issue. (Photo by August Jennewein)
Keeta Holmes, director of faculty development for the Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, was named one of the top technologists, transformers and trailblazers by the Center for Digital Education.
The 30 winners were announced in the fall issue of Converge magazine. The annual award recognizes people and organizations in K-12 or higher education that ensure “today’s students are armed with the necessary tools for learning.”
“This award is definitely an award for everyone with whom I work in the Center for Teaching and Learning, Gateway for Online and Adult Learners, Faculty Resource Center and UMSL faculty,” Holmes said. “The highlights shared from the Center for Digital Education interview feature the products of that collaborative work.”
One of the highlights is her involvement in the development of a nine-week course, Online in 9, which has assisted nearly 400 faculty in designing online courses. Holmes was also instrumental in the growth and restructuring of the annual Focus on Teaching and Technology Conference.
“These partnerships are priceless to me, and I’m thrilled to witness the impact of our decisions on improved student performance, student retention and the bonds that result from the learning community we could build,” Holmes said. “I hope that this national platform gives our work and UMSL the attention and opportunity to share all the great things we’re doing at UMSL to help students enjoy learning and be successful.”
Olena Zhadko, a former graduate assistant in the CTL and now director of online education at Lehman College, nominated Holmes for the award. The pair has stayed in touch over the years and collaborates frequently on strategies and program ideas to support online faculty.
“I am completely surprised and humbled by this award,” Holmes said. “I am honored that a UMSL alumna with whom I’ve stayed in contact took time to nominate me. I’ve read the Converge magazine for many years and have been inspired to learn about all the great things we can do with technology to support students and faculty to be innovative and creative in the classroom and online. I can’t believe I’m in that magazine now.”
The full Converge profile can be found on the Center for Digital Education’s website.
