Dean of our institution honored with USDLA Award for exceptional leadership in the realm of distance education
Dr. Meryl Epstein, a renowned figure in the field of design and education, is set to receive the prestigious USDLA Leadership Award in Distance Education in Higher Education. The award, given by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to distance education at the higher education level.
Dr. Epstein, who joined the institution in February 2019 as a veteran arts educator, has an impressive academic background. She holds a BFA in Graphic Design, an MFA in Fine Arts (Photography), and an EdD in Educational Leadership. Her professional journey spans a wide range of design clients and serving as design director for three different Phoenix area museums.
In addition to her work in the design sector, Dr. Epstein has also made significant strides in academia. She personally developed three advanced courses which she continues to teach. Moreover, she trained Doctoral Development Faculty at the University of Phoenix for three years and served as Dean of Academic Affairs for the Art Institute of Phoenix for eight years.
One of her most notable achievements is the development, accreditation, and launch of the institution's first ever Bachelor's level programs in Graphic Design, Illustration, and Digital Photography. Her representation of the institution is perceived as embodying what education should be about, making the speaker extremely proud.
Dr. Epstein will receive the honor from the USDLA in person at the USDLA National Conference in Orlando, Florida, in July. The conference, scheduled to take place in Orlando, Florida, is a platform for the USDLA, established in 1987, to meet the burgeoning education and training needs of learning communities via the fusion of communication technologies with learning in broad multidiscipline applications.
The USDLA, the first nonprofit distance learning association in the United States, operates outside the traditional regulatory framework created by schools and colleges, accreditors, and federal and state agencies, promoting quality in distance education. The Advisory Board of the institution has experienced a renaissance, gathering feedback from industry experts to ensure programs keep pace with the industry.
As the institution's President notes, Dr. Epstein's skills in mentoring, sharing, and collaboration have enabled the development of new programs to support and engage faculty inside and outside the classroom. The speaker encourages readers to join in congratulating Dr. Meryl Epstein on her richly deserved award.
Dr. Meryl Epstein, in her role as a veteran arts educator and experienced graphic designer, has also contributed significantly to online education by developing and teaching advanced courses and training faculty at the University of Phoenix. Her passion for education and self-development, as evident in her commendable achievements in both graphic design and educational leadership, aligns well with the principles of online education and learning.
