headshot of Kent State Online's Val Kelly

Val Kelly

Associate Vice President
Kent State Online, Kent State University

Val Kelly oversees strategic innovation and provides faculty and student support for Kent State Online programs and courses

She has worked as an adjunct instructor in the User Experience Design degree program at Kent State University. She holds a Master of Science in Information Architecture and Knowledge Management and a Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication.

For nearly 20 years of working in higher education, she has been dedicated to increasing access to education by improving the online teaching and learning environment. She has experience in instructional design, multimedia development, and online program administration. Prior to that, she worked in the industry as a software help system designer, technical writer, and web developer.

More from Val Kelly
Kent State Online is proud to celebrate Associate Vice President Val Kelly for her contribution to the newly released Hallmarks of Excellence in Online Leadership, a
When Daniel Jaszczak crossed the commencement stage to earn his Master of Music in Music Education from Kent State University, he wasn’t just celebrating a graduate degree—he was becoming part of a family tradition nearly three decades in the making.
When Kendall Baldwin was recently named superintendent of the Arlee Joint School District in Montana, it marked another milestone in a career dedicated to education and student success. While every educator’s journey is unique, her appointment serves as a powerful reminder that the leadership skills developed through music education can open doors far beyond the classroom.
Education is about more than lesson plans, curriculum and policy. Every educational decision is shaped by history, culture, philosophy, politics and society. Understanding those connections is what sets leaders apart—and it is the foundation of Kent State University’s online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations.
Today’s most complex challenges don’t live neatly within one department, discipline, or profession. Whether the issue is improving student success, advancing public health outcomes, managing organizational change, or responding to community needs, meaningful progress increasingly depends on leaders who can work across boundaries.
Education is about more than lesson plans and curriculum. Every classroom, policy and learning experience is shaped by culture, history, philosophy and the communities we serve. Kent State University’s 100% online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations invites students to explore those connections while preparing them to become thoughtful educators, leaders and lifelong learners.
In leadership roles across education, healthcare, nonprofit, and community sectors, one of the biggest challenges isn’t finding knowledge — it’s applying it. Translating research into practice requires not only understanding evidence but also adapting it to real-world contexts, aligning it with organizational goals, and navigating the human side of change.
Earning a doctorate is a significant commitment — especially for professionals balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and leadership roles. For many, the question isn’t whether they want to pursue an Ed.D., but how they can realistically fit it into their lives.
Choosing a graduate program is about more than earning another credential—it’s about finding a university that supports your goals, fits your schedule, and prepares you for long-term success.
Graduate school is about more than earning a degree—it’s about developing the expertise, confidence, and professional network needed to make an impact in your field.
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