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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
Graduate school can be a transformative experience, especially for creative professionals looking to advance in the fashion industry. For many students, the right master’s program becomes a catalyst for long-term career growth and professional clarity. That was the case for Jodi Frontino, a 2024 graduate of Kent State University’s Master of Fashion Industry Studies (MFIS) program.
Each year, the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) Professional Development Conference brings together thousands of music educators, researchers, and performers who are shaping the future of the field. In 2026, Kent State University’s Glauser School of Music made a powerful impression — not just through performances, but through research, pedagogy, and leadership.
Shelley Marshall is a Senior Lecturer in Information Technology and Cybersecurity at Kent State University and serves as co-coordinator of Kent State’s online Bachelor of Science in Cybercriminology. With a career that bridges industry experience and higher education, she plays a key role in shaping a program that prepares students to navigate the complex intersection of technology, crime, and justice.
Kent State University continues to stand out for excellence in online graduate education, with several programs ranking among the top in the nation in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Online Programs rankings. This recognition highlights Kent State’s ongoing commitment to accessible, high-quality online degrees that help working professionals advance their careers without sacrificing flexibility or academic rigor.
Choosing an online degree is a big decision — and it’s not just about convenience. It’s about finding a program that fits your goals, your schedule, and your life, while still delivering the quality and support you deserve.
K–12 teachers are being asked to do more than ever, and students are carrying more than ever. Anxiety, stress, trauma, and emotional fatigue show up in classrooms every day—often before academic needs can even be addressed. Supporting student mental health is no longer optional; it’s essential. One of the most effective ways educators can respond is through Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
Join us this summer! Kent State University’s School of Music offers intensive summer electives that can be applied to Kent State Online’s 100% online Master of Music in Music Education (MMME).
Starting an online degree is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what to expect. This checklist is designed to help you move forward with confidence by breaking the process into simple, manageable steps. From choosing the right program to preparing for your first day of class, use this guide to stay organized, track your progress, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks as you begin your journey with Kent State Online.
Kent State University’s commitment to quality online education is being recognized on a national stage.
Kent State Online