New Hire: Kaitlin Dotson joins the Office of Adult and Online Learning
Georgia Southern University’s Office of Adult and Online Learning has hired a new Associate Director, Kaitlin Dotson.
In collaboration with the Assistant Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, Delana Schartner Ph.D., and other key personnel, Dotson develops comprehensive plans for introducing and promoting innovative academic offerings to meet the needs of adult and online students.
“Georgia Southern has long been nationally recognized for our online programs and programs that impact military-affiliated students. The addition of Ms. Dotson’s role is crucial to us maintaining that position and expanding our reach to all adult learners,” said Schartner.
Prior to joining Georgia Southern, Dotson was the director of Library Services at Savannah Technical College, and while there she was appointed to be the Center for Teaching and Learning Coordinator and Quality Matters Coordinator. Utilizing the skills learned from that role, Dotson provides leadership and guidance for the planning, implementation and marketing of new and existing online programs as well as programs for adult and non-traditional learners.
“We will have a new First Year Experience (FYE) course for adult learners beginning Fall 2023,” said Dotson. “We will also have a new Prior Learning Assessment online course through the Division of Continuing and Professional Education beginning Fall 2023. This course will guide participants through the process of building a portfolio, which they will submit to gain credit for prior learning, helping them complete their degree in a more timely manner and get on the fast-track to a more meaningful career.”
Dotson also manages social media for the Office of Adult and Online Learning. These pages can be found on several social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. She will represent the office at events, such as the upcoming Office of Admissions Virtual Lunch and Learn for Transfer and Adult Students on May 18 at 12 p.m.
“Kaitlin is serving as an advocate for adult learners, and helping them transition to college for the first time, or back to college after an absence. She is also working to create a community for our students who are fully online,” said Schartner. “Under her direction, the new credit for prior learning process will increase flexibility and decrease time to degree for all of our students. I am looking forward to seeing the impact that Kaitlin will make for our adult and online learners.”
Dotson holds a BA and MA in History as well as a BA in English and English Literature from the University of Georgia. She also has a Master of Library and Information Science degree from Valdosta State University.
Georgia Southern University, a public Carnegie Doctoral/R2 institution founded in 1906, offers 138 degree programs serving nearly 26,500 students through nine colleges on three campuses in Statesboro, Savannah and Hinesville and online instruction. The leading higher education institution in southeast Georgia, the University provides a diverse student population with expert faculty, world-class scholarship and hands-on learning opportunities. Georgia Southern creates lifelong learners who serve as responsible scholars, leaders and stewards in their communities. It is ranked number one for “Best Online Colleges in Georgia” by Learn.org. Visit GeorgiaSouthern.edu.
Last updated: 4/26/2023